ActLab for Teens and Adults
Film Acting
Class Format:
- Duration: 4 weeks
- Frequency: Weekly, 2 hour sessions
- Class Size: 14 Students (to allow partner work and individual feed back)
Class Objectives:
- Students will be trained intuitively rather than cerebrally.
- This Meisner-based film technique emphasizes rapid memorization without predetermined emotions or blocking, encouraging actors to respond intuitively to their scene partners in the present moment. The goal is to avoid acting and instead reveal authentic character truth through spontaneous interaction.
- The objective of the archer, was not so much to hit the target, as it was to hit one’s self in the target! Thus opening the door to that which could not be seen or even exist in an over rehearsed (manufactured or artificial reality) scene. –Zen in the Archery, Former student of CEC Studios.
Week 1
In the first hour, students engage in “The Actor’s Hot Seat,” an on-camera exercise that helps them explore their essence, understand their unique casting potential, and connect with classmates in a supportive, playful environment. They also perform a prepared audition scene “Off Book,” first with intentional mistakes to break the ice, followed by a genuine interpretation. The second hour centers on cold reads, where actors practice active listening and honest reaction, fostering intuitive connection. These spontaneous scenes are then developed further for performance the following week, encouraging presence, trust, and authentic collaboration.
Week 2
Each class begins with students arriving early to rehearse their cold read scenes “Italian Style”—quickly and without emotion—to solidify memorization. The first half focuses on performing these memorized scenes, with live coaching that encourages truthfulness and helps actors break through emotional blocks, often using physical cues or direct involvement from the instructor. The second half continues with cold reads, sharpening intuitive listening and response skills. New partners are assigned weekly, and these cold reads become the memorized scenes for the following class, fostering continuous growth through exploration and collaboration.
Week 3
Week 3 follows the same structure as the previous session, with memorized scenes performed first and cold reads practiced in the second half. However, unlike previous weeks, the cold reads from this class will not be performed in week 4. Instead, at the end of the class, students will receive new audition scripts to prepare for the final week’s performances.
Week 4
In the final week, students focus on On-Camera Audition Technique, applying everything they’ve learned to a simulated professional audition setting with lights, camera, and a reader. They perform prepared scenes with blocking and technical awareness, balancing precision with authentic, intuitive performance. Each actor experiences both sides of the process—auditioning and reading—gaining valuable insight into casting dynamics. Repeated scenes highlight diverse creative choices, and the class reinforces the reality that not booking a role is often unrelated to talent. This helps students develop resilience, confidence, and a healthy perspective on the audition process.
The class is designed to run continuously from month to month, allowing for ongoing growth and development. Pricing reflects the value of sustained commitment to your craft.
“Keep an eye on the future; it’s where your dreams lie. Keep your feet in the present; it’s where your dreams are created.”
-Shea Hampton