Seminar Info
Thrive and Survive - gives the actor tools to excel and enjoy the following:
Drama
The actor is given a scene where they are running down a hall trying to find their dying mother. How do you do that when auditioning in a small office and you are being filmed? The actor is given a scene
that has a very important kiss in the middle of the scene. Do they kiss the casting director? The actor is given a scene where there are props involved. Do they bring props with them? All this and more will be discussed.
Comedy
Auditioning for comedies on television is a bit more challenging than it used to be. Today the actor has to be aware of the tone of the show. For example -
auditioning for a Disney Channed sitcom requires a different energy level than reading for Parks and Recreation. Students will learn tips on how to evaluate material in terms of tone and how to adjust accordingly.
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Commercial Auditions
Commercial auditions are a world all their own. It all starts with "the slate". That is when an actor is just themselves and simply says their name before they begin. How do you keep that "simple"? Then you have 30 to 60 seconds to sell yourself and a product. Cue cards are a unque element in commercial auditions which the student will experience first hand. Tips and hints will be shared and the student will get an idea if commercials are an avenue they want to pursue.
Penny Peyser, The Mentalist, Castle, Criminal Minds
“Mark has been my secret weapon whenever an important audition or job has come along. He has never failed to give me many pegs to hang my character's hat on and walking into a casting session or on a set with the confidence of good preparation is priceless."
Hollywood Speaks
Details
Class size - 12 students is ideal, but can accommodate up to 15, if necessary.
Level - Perfect seminar for juniors, seniors or graduate students. Can be very beneficial for freshman and sophomores.
Material - All audition material is provided by Mark and is actual television, film or commercial copy.
Outside reading - A suggested outside reading list will be handed out. It can also be provided in advance upon request.
Equipment - Institution must provide video recording equipment and monitor for playback. Operator is ideal, but not mandatory.
Cost - Intensive seminar that meets credit-hour requirments for a one-credit course -- Institution's one credit rate plus transportation, room
and board.
- Condensed professional non-credit enrichment intensive can be sturctured to fit any schedule and fee is negotiable depending on class
hours desired.
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