Acting is a physical act. We act, or use action to convey meaning. 93% of communication is non-verbal and a solid 55% is body language. Given that the body plays a vital part in how we communicate, the training locates the body firmly within the acting process. We focus on how we can use the body to convey our thoughts and emotions. We incorporate a variety of techniques at appropriate points in the three year training, including: Alexander Technique, Pilates, Release Techniques, Action Theatre and Contact Improvisation. 

The course philosophy is also influenced by the work of practitioners such as Growtowski, Boal, Laban, Lecoq and Decroux. It is a dynamic and rigorous program with two main aspects: understanding how our bodies work physiologically, and how we can use them as a tool when acting. The first develops strength, flexibility and kinaesthetic awareness; the second develops physical acting skills, emphasizing how the body communicates meaning, and the connectedness of thought and action.

Year 1
Training begins with learning the body – developing greater anatomical awareness, discovering bodily connections and habits and establishing a physical vocabulary as a point of reference. Awareness of the body is extended into awareness of space, where we consider and play with the dynamics of space experientially. Ensemble and devising skills are introduced and developed with a focus on creativity, imagination and physical intuition.  The first year nurtures and begins to develop physical, emotional and imaginative connections with and within the actor’s body, allowing the student to become more fully aware and present in both creative and performance contexts.

Year 2
This stage of the training builds on the skills introduced in the first year, placing a greater emphasis on owning skills and utilizing them in a variety of styles and contexts. Working with a higher degree of physical awareness and precision, students work to assimilate taught techniques into different theatrical contexts. A greater emphasis is placed on understanding the body in performance, individually and as a member of an ensemble.

Year 3
During this year core classes are continued, with the primary focus turning towards the actor in performance. At this point, new skills may be taught to help the actor with specific physical requirements for a production, and/or skills already taught will be re-enforced to support the actor in his/ her continued learning.

Throughout the training, students receive one-to-one tutorials and support on productions.