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James Palm
Are you curious about the world of acting? On our ‘Discover Acting’ course, you will be guided through some of the basics of actor training and explore how these could unlock the talent and potential within you.
If you want to learn about how actors work through getting up and giving it a go then this course is for you. This course places you at the centre of the learning experience through engagement with a range of practical exercises, workbook activities and video content. Discover Acting is perfect for anyone wanting to take that first step in acting.
Read more
Are you curious about the world of acting? On our ‘Discover Acting’ course, you will be guided through some of the basics of actor training and explore how these could unlock the talent and potential within you.
If you want to learn about how actors work through getting up and giving it a go then this course is for you. This course places you at the centre of the learning experience through engagement with a range of practical exercises, workbook activities and video content. Discover Acting is perfect for anyone wanting to take that first step in acting.
Read more
Are you curious about the world of acting? On our ‘Discover Acting’ course, you will be guided through some of the basics of actor training and explore how these could unlock the talent and potential within you.
If you want to learn about how actors work through getting up and giving it a go then this course is for you. This course places you at the centre of the learning experience through engagement with a range of practical exercises, workbook activities and video content. Discover Acting is perfect for anyone wanting to take that first step in acting.
This is an introductory course. You don’t need any previous experience or prior knowledge. You should have curiosity and enthusiasm, an interest in acting and a desire to gain a deeper understanding of the acting process. As the course is practical in nature, the deepest learning will occur in those that physically engage with the exercises introduced in the videos.
This course has been developed and is led by practitioners from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/1pn33h/discover
What's inside
Syllabus
Who am I, what is an actor and what is acting?
In week one we’ll focus on the key concepts of the course: What is an actor? What is acting? What do you offer that’s unique as an actor? We will also explore the notion of subjectivity and what makes certain acting choices effective. We'll look at the relationship between body, voice and imagination. In these early stages of the course you'll be invited to watch, listen and read about acting; before we act, we need to think about acting. As the course progresses you'll develop a technique that enables you to experiment with these ideas in practice.
Read more
Syllabus
Who am I, what is an actor and what is acting?
In week one we’ll focus on the key concepts of the course: What is an actor? What is acting? What do you offer that’s unique as an actor? We will also explore the notion of subjectivity and what makes certain acting choices effective. We'll look at the relationship between body, voice and imagination. In these early stages of the course you'll be invited to watch, listen and read about acting; before we act, we need to think about acting. As the course progresses you'll develop a technique that enables you to experiment with these ideas in practice.
Read more
Using your instrument as a tool for performance; integrating your mind, body, voice and imagination
Key concepts: The interconnected role of the actor’s instrument: body, voice and mind. Building awareness of your own body, physical & vocal habits, and how this is affected by internal and external factors. Start to develop an awareness of the relationship between physical release, alignment, breath and why that is important for the actor. Questions to ask in order to establish the given circumstance and how changing the answer changes the playing.
Exploring the text
Key concepts: Text analysis/diagnostic, given circumstances, objectives, caps, tactics, physical externals.
Adding detail to your performance
Key concepts: Practical preparation for a performance. Performing and reflecting effectively on your performance. Reflect on the learning so far and next steps.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Developed by the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, a renowned drama school
Focuses on foundational acting skills, making it suitable for beginners
Utilizes practical exercises, workbook activities, and video content for immersive learning
Taught by James Palm, experienced actor and Royal Central School of Speech and Drama instructor
Course is self-paced and allows for flexible learning
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of acting
Save this course
Save Discover Acting to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Discover Acting with these
activities:
Self-Reflection on Acting Skills
Show steps
Reflecting on your own acting skills can help you identify areas for growth and improvement before starting the course.
Show steps
-
Write down your current acting skills and experiences.
-
Identify areas where you feel confident.
-
Identify areas where you would like to improve.
Read 'Audition' by Michael Shurtleff
Show steps
This book provides valuable insights into the audition process and can help you prepare for upcoming auditions during the course.
View
Audition
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book carefully and take notes on key points.
-
Identify the most important concepts and techniques.
-
Apply the techniques to your own audition preparation.
Join an Acting Workshop or Class
Show steps
Participating in a workshop or class can provide you with hands-on experience and feedback from others.
Show steps
-
Research different acting workshops or classes in your area.
-
Choose a workshop or class that aligns with your interests and goals.
-
Attend the workshop or class regularly and participate actively.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Create a Personal Acting Portfolio
Show steps
Developing a portfolio can showcase your skills and help you secure acting opportunities.
Show steps
-
Gather your best acting work, including monologues, scenes, and short films.
-
Create a website or online portfolio to display your work.
-
Share your portfolio with potential employers and casting directors.
Volunteer at a Local Theater
Show steps
Volunteering can provide you with practical experience and networking opportunities in the acting industry.
Show steps
-
Research local theaters that offer volunteer opportunities.
-
Contact the theater and inquire about volunteer positions.
-
Attend volunteer orientations and training sessions.
Organize and Review Course Materials
Show steps
Reviewing course materials can help you better understand the concepts and techniques covered in the course.
Show steps
-
Gather all course materials, including lecture notes, handouts, and assignments.
-
Organize the materials into a logical order.
-
Review the materials regularly to reinforce your learning.
Self-Reflection on Acting Skills
Show steps
Reflecting on your own acting skills can help you identify areas for growth and improvement before starting the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Write down your current acting skills and experiences.
- Identify areas where you feel confident.
- Identify areas where you would like to improve.
Read 'Audition' by Michael Shurtleff
Show steps
This book provides valuable insights into the audition process and can help you prepare for upcoming auditions during the course.
View
Audition
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book carefully and take notes on key points.
- Identify the most important concepts and techniques.
- Apply the techniques to your own audition preparation.
Join an Acting Workshop or Class
Show steps
Participating in a workshop or class can provide you with hands-on experience and feedback from others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different acting workshops or classes in your area.
- Choose a workshop or class that aligns with your interests and goals.
- Attend the workshop or class regularly and participate actively.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Create a Personal Acting Portfolio
Show steps
Developing a portfolio can showcase your skills and help you secure acting opportunities.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your best acting work, including monologues, scenes, and short films.
- Create a website or online portfolio to display your work.
- Share your portfolio with potential employers and casting directors.
Volunteer at a Local Theater
Show steps
Volunteering can provide you with practical experience and networking opportunities in the acting industry.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research local theaters that offer volunteer opportunities.
- Contact the theater and inquire about volunteer positions.
- Attend volunteer orientations and training sessions.
Organize and Review Course Materials
Show steps
Reviewing course materials can help you better understand the concepts and techniques covered in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all course materials, including lecture notes, handouts, and assignments.
- Organize the materials into a logical order.
- Review the materials regularly to reinforce your learning.
Career center
Learners who complete Discover Acting will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Actor
Actor
As an Actor, you bring characters to life on stage or screen. The skills you learn in the Discover Acting course, such as embodying characters, interpreting scripts, and using your instrument as a tool for performance, will serve you well in this career. The course's focus on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you develop the skills necessary to create believable and engaging portrayals.
Drama Teacher
Drama Teacher
As a Drama Teacher, you inspire and guide students in the art of acting. The Discover Acting course will provide you with valuable insights into the fundamentals of actor training, which you can share with your students. The course's emphasis on practical exercises and workbook activities will give you a wealth of teaching materials to utilize in your classroom. Additionally, the course's exploration of the relationship between body, voice, and imagination will help you understand how to effectively teach students to use their instruments as tools for performance.
Acting Coach
Acting Coach
As an Acting Coach, you help actors develop their skills and prepare for roles. The Discover Acting course will give you a solid foundation in the principles of actor training, which you can use to guide your clients. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you teach actors how to create nuanced and believable characters.
Casting Director
Casting Director
As a Casting Director, you are responsible for finding the right actors for roles in films, television shows, and plays. The Discover Acting course will help you develop a discerning eye for talent and an understanding of what makes a great performance. The course's emphasis on practical exercises and workbook activities will give you the opportunity to assess actors' skills and potential.
Television Director
Television Director
As a Television Director, you create compelling content for the small screen. The Discover Acting course will provide you with a solid understanding of the actor's craft, which will inform your work as a director. The course's emphasis on using your instrument as a tool for performance will help you guide actors to give memorable and engaging performances.
Theatre Director
Theatre Director
As a Theatre Director, you bring plays to life on stage. The Discover Acting course will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the actor's craft, which will inform your work as a director. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you create productions that are both engaging and meaningful.
Film Director
Film Director
As a Film Director, you translate scripts into engaging and visually compelling films. The Discover Acting course will help you develop a deep understanding of the actor's process, which will inform your work as a director. The course's emphasis on using your instrument as a tool for performance will help you guide actors to give powerful and nuanced performances.
Screenwriter
Screenwriter
As a Screenwriter, you create the stories and characters that come to life on screen. The Discover Acting course will help you develop a deep understanding of the actor's process, which will inform your writing. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you create characters that are both believable and engaging.
Playwright
Playwright
As a Playwright, you create the stories and characters that come to life on stage. The Discover Acting course will help you develop a deep understanding of the actor's process, which will inform your writing. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you create characters that are both believable and engaging.
Novelist
Novelist
As a Novelist, you create fictional worlds and characters that captivate readers. The Discover Acting course may be useful in helping you develop a deeper understanding of human nature and motivation, which can inform your writing. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you create characters that are both believable and engaging.
Psychologist
Psychologist
As a Psychologist, you help people understand and cope with mental health issues. The Discover Acting course may be useful in helping you develop a deeper understanding of human behavior and emotions, which can inform your work as a psychologist. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you communicate effectively with clients and build rapport.
Teacher
Teacher
As a Teacher, you educate and inspire students in a variety of subjects. The Discover Acting course may be useful in helping you develop a deeper understanding of how people learn and communicate, which can inform your teaching methods. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you create engaging and memorable lessons.
Journalist
Journalist
As a Journalist, you gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. The Discover Acting course may be useful in helping you develop a deeper understanding of human behavior and motivations, which can inform your reporting. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you communicate effectively with sources and audiences.
Politician
Politician
As a Politician, you represent the interests of your constituents and make decisions that affect the lives of many. The Discover Acting course may be useful in helping you develop a deeper understanding of human behavior and motivations, which can inform your decision-making. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you communicate effectively with constituents and build support for your policies.
Social Worker
Social Worker
As a Social Worker, you help people navigate challenges and improve their well-being. The Discover Acting course may be useful in helping you develop a deeper understanding of human behavior and emotions, which can inform your work as a social worker. The course's emphasis on exploring the text and adding detail to your performance will help you communicate effectively with clients and build rapport.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1pn33h/discover
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Discover Acting.
Save
This classic text provides a comprehensive introduction to the Stanislavski system of acting, which is an essential foundation for any actor. It covers everything from the basics of creating a character to the techniques of improvisation and rehearsal.
Save
Is an in-depth exploration of the Stanislavski system of acting. It provides a detailed analysis of the actor's creative process, and it offers practical exercises to help actors develop their skills.
Save
Passionate and inspiring guide to the craft of acting. It covers everything from the actor's preparation to the performance itself, and it offers valuable insights into the creative process.
Practical guide to acting that offers a step-by-step approach to developing your skills. It covers everything from finding your voice to creating believable characters.
Practical guide to acting that offers a step-by-step approach to developing your skills. It covers everything from finding your voice to creating believable characters.
Collection of essays by Michael Caine, one of the most successful actors in the world. It provides valuable insights into the craft of acting, and it offers practical advice on how to succeed in the industry.
Save
Memoir by Bryan Cranston, one of the most successful actors in the world. It provides valuable insights into his creative process, and it offers practical advice on how to succeed in the industry.
Comprehensive guide to acting that offers a step-by-step approach to developing your skills. It covers everything from finding your voice to creating believable characters.
This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of the field of acting. It covers everything from the history of acting to the latest developments in the field.
Classic text on the art of acting. It provides a comprehensive overview of the Stanislavski system of acting, and it offers valuable insights into the creative process.
Classic text on the Meisner system of acting. It provides a comprehensive overview of the Meisner system, and it offers valuable insights into the creative process.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1pn33h/discover
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Effort
The course involves a total of twelve taught hours, and the sourcing and learning of a monologue.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of London
Instructor
James Palm
Language
English
Transcripts
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Good to know
Developed by the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, a renowned drama school
Focuses on foundational acting skills, making it suitable for beginners
Utilizes practical exercises, workbook activities, and video content for immersive learning
Taught by James Palm, experienced actor and Royal Central School of Speech and Drama instructor
Course is self-paced and allows for flexible learning
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of acting
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