I was (and still am) a student before I was a teacher. I enjoy taking acting classes. It's a great place to work on your craft, learn something new, and connect with other Actors. Here are a breakdown of why I love acting classes.
1. Specific Topics. There are a variety of acting classes out there. Taking a class puts you in a container to learn and focus on a new skill or technique you can take with you on your acting journey.
2. Working with Other Actors. In acting class you get an opportunity to work with Actors you may not be able to in productions.
3. Teacher and Peer Feedback. You get more than one bite of the apple by receiving feedback from your acting teacher and peers.
I've always had mixed feelings about receiving feedback from my peers, but I remind myself that we have different viewpoints. The praise from our peers feels amazing. The constructive criticism doesn't always feel constructive. Take the feedback you receive with a grain of salt. Be open to listening because sometimes you may get something helpful to you.
4. Networking Opportunity. Actors LOVE to talk. They're more than happy to tell you the good, the bad and the ugly. They're also a good resource for learning about the acting scene in your area. Learn who you may want and not want to work with.
5. An Opportunity to Act. Acting is no fun without an audience. This is class, but it's still a chance to act. It's a moment to perform without the pressures Actors may feel for a production. You can just be.
What's been your favorite acting class? What was it that made it memorable? Hit reply and let me know.