Introduction and history classes provide a basis for growth and development as an actor. Participants in introduction and history classes explore the history and development of theater through the ages. Topics generally include Ancient Greek Theater, English Renaissance Theater, 19th Century Realism and other important periods in theater's development. Activities in these courses typically include reading and analyzing texts, performing stage readings, watching recorded performances and attending live performances.
Participants in acting classes study both the theory and techniques of acting through scene study, improvisation and other exercises. Acting classes develop skills and resources for acting such as creativity, relaxation techniques, believability and commitment. Participants in intermediate and advanced acting courses explore period acting styles, textual analysis, different theatrical styles and techniques for critiquing performances by others.
Students in improvisation classes study the theories and techniques of improvisation. Improvisation fosters quick thinking, creativity, physical expression, listening skills, awareness, commitment, teamwork and other acting skills. Typically students gain these skills through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, exercises, games and performances.
Stage actors and film actors utilize completely different skill sets and tools. Acting on camera classes help actors understand these differences. Students examine skills such as staying in character for numerous "takes," hitting their marks, talking to a camera rather than to another actor, unrehearsed or cold script reading, character creation, improvisation for the camera, memorization, rehearsal, script analysis and performance analysis.
The voice is one of the actor's most important tools. Students in voice classes learn to communicate clearly through articulation and breath control. They study breathing, clarity, volume control, projection, speech sounds and period speech. They analyze famous speeches, interpret poems, analyze presentations from fellow students, practice speaking techniques and listen to famous performances.
Participants in a workshop class prepare experimental or new plays for a limited production. Workshop classes provide an opportunity for young playwrights to see actors and directors shape their works into a complete play. Workshop classes emphasize the collaborative nature of theater, allowing students to work on several different aspects of a production, including directing, acting, stage management, lighting and sound design.
College theater departments perform several shows each school year. Participants in production classes audition for, rehearse and perform these shows. Working on a production incorporates all of the skills learned in other classes such as scene study, memorization, team work, physicality and, if necessary, improvisation. Performance fosters public speaking, self-confidence and critical thinking.