Directing Actors
| Code | Completion | Credits | Range | Language Instruction | Semester |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 311DIAC | ZK | 2 | 20 hours (45 min) of instruction per semester, 35 to 45 hours of self-study | English | winter |
Subject guarantor
Name of lecturer(s)
Mary Carmel ANGIOLILLO
Learning outcomes of the course unit
- To learn tools for breaking down a script into acting units
- To learn tools for getting actors to connect to their roles and to each other;
- To practice communicating productively through verbs, images, questions and events;
- To practice using improvisation techniques for developing rich characters, and for integrating the characters into the space and situation of the story.
Mode of study
The course is interactive, using exercises to illustrate principles underlying the acting process. Students are expected to keep up with readings/homework and come to each class prepared. Readings are related to practical aspects of acting and directing. Learning will take place through scenework, improvised situations, practice with blocking and directing for character. Students will need to act for each other, which should help them to work with both actors and non-actors in the future. Attention is also paid on the casting process and students are expected to attend the open casting session held early in the semester.
Prerequisites and co-requisites
This course is offered only to APP students in the directing track.
Course contents
Students come to understand the film actor's process, in order to better work with them as directors. They learn to avoid result-oriented directing and replace it with actions, imagery, improvisations, as-if situations, and directing character rather than the actor.
Recommended or required reading
Required readings:
Bruder, M. et al. (1986). A Practical Handbook for the Actor. NY: Vintage.
Cohen, R. (2007, 5th edition). Acting One. McGraw Hill.
Weston, J. (2014, updated 2021). Directing Actors. LA: Michael Weise Productions.
Recommended readings:
Travis, M. (2002). Directing Feature Films. LA: Michael Weise Productions.
DeKoven, L. (2006). Changing Direction. NY: Focal Press.
Meisner, S. (1987). Sanford Meisner on Acting. NY: Random House.
Assessment methods and criteria
Two tests on readings and concepts (each 15% of final grade x2 =30%)
Two Scene breakdowns using 3-steps from Practical Handbook (each 10% of the grade x2 = 20%)
One detailed written rehearsal plan (20% of final grade)
Attendance and Participation in exercises (30% of the grade)
Note
Note on course content: At times, because the course focuses on working with actors who play characters in a variety of dramatic situations, material presented in an exercise may evoke emotional responses if/when the directing students relate to characters in potentially traumatic situations.
Students for whom exercises may trigger stressful or painful responses are invited to pass on participating in such exercises.
Schedule for winter semester 2022/2023:
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06:00–08:0008:00–10:0010:00–12:0012:00–14:0014:00–16:0016:00–18:0018:00–20:0020:00–22:0022:00–24:00
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| Date | Day | Time | Tutor | Location | Notes | No. of paralel |
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| Thu | 10:40–12:15 | Mary Carmel ANGIOLILLO | Room No. 1 Lažanský palác |
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Schedule for summer semester 2022/2023:
The schedule has not yet been prepared
The subject is a part of the following study plans
- Academy Preparation Program - Directing (required subject with the possibility of repeat registration)