Acting for Stage Managers

Catalog description

Stage managers are the backbone of any theatrical production, and a strong understanding of the actor’s process is essential for effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving in the rehearsal room and in performance. This course provides stage managers with foundational knowledge of acting techniques, scene work, and character development to enhance their ability to support actors and directors. Through practical exercises, script analysis, and hands-on experience, students will explore key acting methodologies, including Stanislavski and Meisner. Students will learn how to interpret actor-driven needs, anticipate challenges, and develop strategies for facilitating a productive rehearsal environment. This course will also examine the relationship between actors and stage managers from the actors' point of view. There will be working Broadway actors as class guests. Special topics include managing actor-director dynamics, meeting industry guests, learning how to direct actors in understudy rehearsals and examining the actor's preparation process. This course is ideal for stage managers seeking to deepen their understanding of performance work and how that will assist them in the collaboration.