About the Course
Program Overview
This course is designed for adults interested in acting for personal growth, creative expression, public speaking, or pursuing theatre and on-camera work. Students develop foundational acting
techniques while building confidence in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
The course culminates in a final showcase performance featuring scenes and monologues.
Course Objectives
Students will:
● Develop confidence and presence on stage and camera
● Learn fundamental acting techniques and terminology
● Strengthen public speaking and storytelling skills
● Analyze and perform scenes and monologues
● Gain experience working with partners and taking direction
● Understand differences between theatre, film, and television acting
10-Week Class Outline
Week 1: Introduction to Acting; Overcoming Nerves & Performance Anxiety
● What acting is (and what it isn’t)
● Acting terminology and expectations
● Theatre vs. film vs. television overview
● Physical and vocal warm-ups
● Ensemble trust and ice-breaker exercises
● Understanding fear, nerves, and self-doubt
● Breath control and grounding techniques
● Relaxation and focus exercises
● Speaking with intention and clarity
Week 2: Body Awareness & Movement
● Stage presence and physical awareness
● Using the body to tell the story
● Spatial relationships and blocking basics
● Movement exercises and improvisation
Week 3: Voice & Public Speaking
● Projection, diction, and articulation
● Vocal variety (pitch, pace, volume)
● Emotional connection to spoken text
● Storytelling and presentation exercises
Week 4: Acting Technique Fundamentals; Introduction to Scene Study
● Focus, listening, and reacting truthfully
● Introduction to character development
● Playing actions and intentions
● Partner exercises
● Script breakdown basics
● Objectives, obstacles, and stakes
● Character relationships
● Assigning scenes and partners
Week 5: Scene Study – Rehearsal & Direction
● Partner rehearsals
● Taking and applying direction
● Strengthening choices
● Mid-scene feedback
Week 6: Scene Study – Performance
● Scene presentations
● Emotional authenticity and consistency
● Adjusting performance choices
● Group feedback and refinement
Week 7: Introduction to Monologues
● Choosing appropriate monologues
● Theatre vs. on-camera monologues
● Text analysis and intention
● Memorization techniques
Week 8: Monologue Coaching
● Individual coaching sessions
● Emotional connection and storytelling
● Physical and vocal refinement
● Confidence and focus
Week 9: On-Camera Acting Basics & Audition Skills
● Cold reads
● Slate introductions and Self-Tapes
● Entering and exiting a scene
● Professional behavior and mindset
Week 10: Showcase Rehearsals and Final Showcase
● Selecting showcase material
● Blocking and transitions
● Timing and pacing
● Full run-through with notes
Course Outcomes
Participants will:
● Perform confidently before an audience
● Understand core acting techniques for stage and camera
● Present a polished monologue and scene
● Gain transferable skills for auditions, presentations, interviews, and public speaking
● Leave with increased self-confidence and creative expression
Your Instructor
Donn Carl Harper
