Angels in America - an acting class

In 1991, Tony Kushner and the artists who brought Angels In America to life revolutionized theatre in America. In this class, we will read both parts 1 and 2, and work on selected scenes from the play. As we work on scenes from the play we will discuss, explore and wrestle with the themes and Big Ideas these remarkable plays lift up. Because you can’t be an effective actor without a deep understanding of the play you’re in, and anyway - a shared experience is more fun, engaging and meaningful.

I have over thirty years experience teaching acting and improvisation with an MFA from the Yale School of Drama. Over the course of my teaching career I have used Angels in America for scene study classes at universities like Princeton, Villanova, Penn State and Temple. I will bring all my years of teaching realism (as well as “magical realism” - the style this play is written in) to bear on your work as an actor in this class. You and I will find the chatacter(s) and scene(s) that really speak to you, or scare you, or excite you - and get into it. This class will cover:

  • basic realism vocabulary and technique: objective, tactic and transitions.

  • text analysis and scoring.

  • character development and creative transformation.

  • breath and body work for relaxation, focus, and creative growth.

  • work on your specific challenges and gifts.

Want to study with Ben? Send him an email - click here!

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Applied Improvisation

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Shakespeare for Actors