Please see the full Fall 2010 class descriptions and schedules below. Courses range from Directing - Anton Chekhov to Introduction to Independent Filmmaking.
Directing is in equal parts academic and abstract, fluid and process-driven, and almost devoid of rules. In this course, we’ll take you through the entire journey, using a ten-minute play as your artistic playground. You will focus on script analysis, ground plan, casting, rehearsal and performance, and the techniques to help you achieve your personal vision. Students should be prepared to rehearse outside of class, work with actors and learn to use directorial language that elicits results. Stepping into a leadership role and embracing the challenges of directing will not only benefit you in any craft, it may also awaken your newest passion.
InstructorCarl Forsman (Artistic Director, Keen Company)
Mondays from 6:30pm – 9:30pm Begins Monday, September 20
September 20, 27, October 4, 18, 25
Final class presentation on Saturday, December 5 at 6:00pm
The abstract and intuitive role of director is perhaps never more challenging than when approaching the work of a definitive playwright like Anton Chekhov. Capturing the subtleties of his satire and maneuvering his tragic overtones requires refined skills and specific vision. This course will approach Chekhov’s work with analysis of theme, character, and opposition, affording you the knowledge and technique to properly guide your actors through the rehearsal process. Students should be prepared to rehearse outside of class and utilize the nuance of directorial language in working with the actors.
Instructor Daniel Talbott (Artistic Director, Rising Phoenix Rep)
Sundays from 2:00pm – 5:00pm Begins Sunday, September 19
September 19, 26, October 3, 17, 24, 31, November 7, 14, 21, December 5
Directing requires technical aptitude, heightened awareness of reality versus abstraction, and a willingness to defy theatrical convention. These challenges are only magnified when approaching a text with the emotional depth and structural complexity of Edward Albee’s plays. Through script analysis and class discussions, you will examine Albee’s distinct voice and experimental techniques, ultimately allowing you to fine-tune your vision through scene work with actors. Students should be prepared to rehearse outside of class, work with actors and develop their use of directorial language that elicits results. By exploring the powerful authority of this modern giant, you will ultimately develop as a leader and, consequently, a director.
Instructor Jackson Gay (Scarcity, The Intelligent Design of Jenny Chow)
Saturdays from 11:00am – 2:00pm Begins Saturday, September 25
September 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, November 6, 13, 20, December 4
This course is designed for the aspiring film maker hungry to learn the entire process of creating a short film. Equipped with nothing but your wildest ideas, you will be guided through writing, camera work and shooting format, delegating essential roles on-set and on-location shooting, all while overcoming the tests and challenges you will face as a first-time filmmaker. While acting primarily as director on your project, you will also fill the role of actor, camera operator, audio, associate director and UPM for your classmates. This course aims to provide you not only with a comprehensive foundation in all elements of filmmaking, but also the tools to distribute your final product to film festivals and take that next step toward Sundance.
Instructor Adam Reist (Principle Director, “Guiding Light”)
Wednesday from 6:30pm - 9:30pm Begins Wednesday, September 15
September 15, 22, 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17
Check out the final project from the Summer 2010 Intro to Independent Film Making students.
For more information or to register, contact
Tessa LaNeve at 212.840.9705 x212 or espa@primarystages.org
