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Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Acting Class: It’s Not Just for Beginners

I went back to acting class last night. And boy, did I need it!

There is a popular industry opinion that actors should always be in class, no matter what level of success they’ve achieved. I’ve heard it from producers and casting directors alike – actors need to always be working on their craft and keeping their skills sharp.

I stopped taking acting class a few years ago – mostly for financial reasons, but also because I thought I didn’t need it. “I’m on a roll,” I thought. “I can fly on my own for a while.”

But now, after not having booked a role in months, I’m heading back into the classroom with the great Doug Warhit, an incredible teacher who helped transform my acting when I first arrived in LA. Back then, he helped me go from a Boston stage actor to booking TV roles in a matter of months.

My first impression being back in Doug’s acting class? I’m old! The class was mostly filled with 20-somethings who were all dressed like hipsters. Or maybe all 20-somethings are hipsters! Who knows…

Second impression? Super fun. Getting in front of the camera, working out a scene, finding my character’s inner life – the most enjoyable work I’ve ever had in my life.

Finally, I’ve missed acting. Most of my co-star TV auditions involve 3 or 4 lines at most. It’s been a while since I’ve tried breaking down a five-page scene. My technique was rusty, so I look forward to really transforming it over the next few weeks.

What do you love about acting class?

3 comments:

  1. I might have to join you in your class! sounds like fun! I have been taking classes at Groundlings, and what I really love about being in a class environment is the lack of pressure- I am not worried about making other people happy- shoot, I paid for this so I am going to have fun and play with the people around me! It's very freeing acting in a non-work environment sometimes!
    -Jasmine

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  2. Thanks Jasmine! That's absolutely the other thing I love about class - the freedom to play. Glad you're enjoying the Groundlings! :)

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  3. Teresa...I've been meaning to stop by and say hi. I wanted to thank you so much for giving us that inside look into Hollywood. My dream is also to move to L.A. and pursue this crazy thing called acting. A quick couple of questions: Are you still studying with Doug Warhit? If so, how is it going? All the best and look forward to reading more from you! Thank you!

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