Drama Classes

In these drama classes, students will learn solid acting skills that will increase their ability to express themselves dynamically, whether they’re onstage and using the knowledge to improve the emotion of their dance, in the theater in a play production, or at the podium in a classroom presentation. They’ll learn that acting is not about faking or pretending, but rather the ability to respond genuinely in the moment.

Through simple and fun acting exercises students will learn:

Script Analysis

• Dissecting a plot
• Understanding the personalities and relationships of characters
• How to read a script naturally so that acting is genuine

Technique through Scene Work

• The “Methods”
• Developing a character
• Trusting instincts
• Movement and blocking
• How to make strong and comfortable connections with acting partners

Improvisational Work

• Moving spontaneously around the stage
• Responding naturally to staged situations
• Using props and objects to stay in the moment
• Comedic timing

Auditioning and the Monologue

• What makes a good audition great
• How to choose an appropriate monologue
• Cold reading a script for authenticity
• Presenting yourself in the best light possible

The class will culminate in a short, one act showcase performance for friends and family at the end of the session.

Meet the Instructor

Maria Randall attended BYU where she minored in Theater Arts Education and Modern Dance. After graduation she appeared in plays with the prestigious Shakespeare Santa Cruz and San Jose Repertory Theater before relocating to the Vancouver area and raising two children. A member of the Portland Area Theater Alliance since it’s inception in 2005, she has extensive training in various acting methods, as well as voice, movement, dance, gymnastics, stage combat, costuming, comedy improvisation, and has worked in stage, film, and television.

Class starts October 6 th
Cost: $65 per month