Media Theatre Acting Classes Begin Sept. 8

The offers acting classes for the new fall season starting the weekend of September 8. All classes meet for eight weeks and courses are 90 minutes in length.

Taking a different route than the usual information that goes out there, let me answer a question you may have: Why study at The Media Theatre?

The answer is:

Because it's Delaware County's only professional music theatre, and happens to be--in attendance figures--Delco's most popular professional theatre. You may ask: Why does that matter?

Answer: As the only theatre in Delaware County that focuses on music theatre year-round, the staff and educators base the classes on that main core of The Media Theatre's existence. In order to be the finest singer, you must act first, as singing is really another form of communication, an art form that requires one to be a solid personality just as much as acting does.

Therefore, the instruction (even though the individual acting classes are purely 'acting' courses) is based upon each unique participant finding the truth in whatever it is that they do, so that the script or scene reaches its audience due to the unique nature of each participant. This is what (as you see below) The Sanford Meisner Technique is all about.

The basic structure of all classes is that ‘acting is living as truthfully as one can, under an imaginary circumstance.’ The premise follows renowned acting instructor Sanford Meisner’s belief that acting is really all about being who you are, with no pretending on the stage.

Allow me to expand upon the 'popular' definition of The Media Theatre. Some believe that, if a work of art (including a theatre piece, which might be a musical or play) is 'popular' it is, therefore, not really art but is--instead-- a 'dumbed down' effort to reach as many patrons or audience as possible. This is, quite honestly, simply not the case. (For instance, who would consider the exquisite musical The Sound of Music to not be a work of art because it is so popular?)

Nothing we do at The Media Theatre, including our classes and School of The Theatre, is 'dumbed down.' In fact, we pride ourselves on being steadfast in our belief that any actor--no matter what their age--MUST figure out what makes them tick as a person first and foremost before they can truly become 'an actor.' It's all about honesty and 'being who you are with no excuse or apology' in your scene work, theatre exercises, and...quite frankly...this is an approach that reaches beyond the stage and into each student's life (be it in school classrooms, at home, with friends and siblings, or--in the case of an adult--in the workplace or within relationships).

So 'popular' is a word we use proudly, as we believe in what we do and we know that thousands of patrons do as well.

If you are seeking classes that will assist you or your child, The Media Theatre will work with each student at their own pace, at their own level. There is no need to be a stage veteran and no need to feel as if you are going to be asked to 'act like a blender' or 'lift your arm when you say your next line.' We want you to be who you are, in the circumstance given within the scene itself. How would YOU react to whatever is going on? We take it from that point and move on from there.

Children’s Acting Classes meet Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. The Meisner Technique strengthens each child’s self-awareness and confidence, while fostering a focused ability to deal with peers in all situations—including school and extra-curricular activities. Proper diction, volume, and an understanding of the stage are a big part of the Children’s Acting Class. Theatre exercises are utilized to build skills and to understand the importance of working together.

Teen Acting Classes are Sundays at 6 p.m. Within the structure of the Teen Class, The Meisner Technique is utilized as students memorize and rehearse monologues, get involved with improvisation, act out scenes with partners, and focus on the truth behind each situation. The ability to listen and respond is a large part of the Teen Acting Class. The class continues the focus on developing personality and stage skills.

Adult Acting Classes are Sundays at 7:30 p.m. The course is for the beginner or those with more experience and allows development at one’s own personal level, while working together in a group setting. The class is a terrific avenue for those working in a public service career and those who wish to strengthen their skills at speaking to groups. Monologues and scenes are rehearsed with the Meisner Technique.

The Media Theatre also continues its New School, a 24-week two-semester conservatory style approach to music theatre education which focuses on acting, vocal music, music study, and dance. Artistic Director Jesse Cline and Resident Music Director Tom Fosnocht instruct the class which will meet two nights per week beginning September 17. Teens will meet during The New School’s Monday night sessions, while elementary ages will meet Thursday nights.

The choreographer for The New School is actress Victoria Mayo, who plays the lead role of Tracy Turnblad in . The class is by audition or interview only and includes two scheduled New School performances on The Media Theatre stage at the end of each semester.

For information on The Media Theatre’s Acting Classes, or its New School, call 610-891-0100 or visit mediatheatre.org.