The
goal of the program is to graduate actors who are equipped for the rigorous
demands of the contemporary stage, as well as television and film. To that end,
the final semester is focused on an effective transition into the professional
world, with classes and workshops in on-camera technique, auditioning, and
introduction to the life of a working actor.
Year 1 -
The
first year is spent exploring and mastering the fundamental concepts of
developing or further developing a background in theater, and establishing the
work ethic of the profession. Students begin intensive training in the Meisner
technique and develop a truthful and spontaneous instrument. Beginning voice,
speech, movement, Performance Ensemble, theater history, and special topic
workshops, round out the program. As is consistent in most conservatory
training, students will not perform in the first year.
Year
2 -
The
second year is spent immersed in the advanced Meisner training, focusing on
textual analysis, objectives, actions, and beginning character work. The guided
practice of speech and movement continues and is integrated into the acting
work. Other classes include scene study, global theater, and script analysis
for the actor, as well as special topic workshops in areas such as the Chekhov
Techniques, masks, Viewpoints, etc. Students are granted multiple performance
opportunities, including the Performance Ensemble production, in the second
year.
Year
3 -
The
entire junior year is spent studying abroad at Rutgers Conservatory at
Shakespeare's Globe in London. Students undertake a rigorous conservatory
training program consisting of acting, voice, and movement (based on the
Alexander Technique), speech, and period dance. There is a continuation of
textual analysis, objective, actions, and character work with particular
attention given to the classical texts and traditions. This training allows
students to capably handle a wide variety of texts with confidence. Courses in
British art and culture and Shakespeare's plays round out the program.
Year
3.5 -
During
the final semester, class time is spent in the refinement of the actor's craft,
integrating all aspects of the training program. Particular emphasis is placed
upon the "business of the business." Classes include professional development
seminars, audition techniques, acting for the camera, and meeting with agents
and casting directors. Performance opportunities include eligibility for all
departmental productions. Students are expected to balance class work
and
performance demands equally. The year culminates in the Rutgers Actor's
Presentation in New York City for invited members of the profession.
The professional transition -
Rutgers provides a comprehensive career transition during and immediately
following the 3.5 semester:
-
Free of all class obligations, this period of time allows
graduates to take immediate advantage of career opportunities.
-
New
York Actor Presentation
-
Rutgers
will actively co-produce professional projects with noted regional and
off-Broadway theaters designed to give students concrete access to the
theater profession.
