The Acting for Film & Television Program

The Academy of Broadcasting is proud to offer it's revolutionary Acting for Film & Television Program. Written from the ground up in 2005/06 by some of Winnipeg’s most acclaimed practitioners, the program's entire focus is on developing industry-ready skills for new film and television actors. If you want to be a working actor, read on.

The program teaches the unique skills necessary to become a successful working film or television actor, from theory to audition skills, and everything in between.

Alright. Let's take a look at the curriculum.

Acting Theory

This course forms the foundation for the Acting for Film and Television curriculum. It includes a study of the history of acting, and an analysis of the predominant acting theories of the past century. Basic screenwriting theory is introduced, as is the structure of film and television scripts. The unit on directors and styles teaches students the best techniques for working with different directors. A study of film appreciation uses examples from several films of various genres to solidify the theoretical and technical concepts of this course.

Scene Study

A hands-on approach to preparing a scene for presentation, focusing on rehearsal processes through scene studies. Areas of focus include emotional recall, observation “stealing”, imagination, immediate experience, and script analysis concentrating on dramatic content. Also focuses on character objectives, values and style, being in the moment, characterization, and "scoring" a role. Timing, character relationships, and intimacy with other actors are also studied.

Acting Skills

Offers technical training in a variety of acting skills, including voiceover work, dialects, stunt performance, hosting, commercial acting, improvisation, green screen and CGI performance, and stand-up comedy. Physical training in voice, movement, and dance are included. Also presented in this course is a unit on stage acting, which culminates in a final project – the production and performance of a live play.

The Business of Acting

Outlines the jobs available to film and television actors, and discusses related work opportunities within the industry, and outside of it. Students learn how to run their careers as self-employed individuals, and how to survive in the real world, with accounting and budgeting tips, and advice for day-to-day life as an actor. Contract negotiation, working with agents and managers, and the rights and responsibilities of ACTRA membership are covered. Marketing techniques are discussed, with tips on interview skills, how to schmooze at a festival or industry event, and ultimately, how to get work. Students define their goals, define their boundaries, and learn to deal with rejection – and success.

Audition Skills

Students develop audition techniques through on-camera work. What to wear, what to bring, and other elements of preparation for an audition are analyzed. Professional, industry-standard skills are honed for film, commercial, television series, and voiceover auditions. Students are challenged with different types of auditions – from cold reads, to prepared reads, to improvised scenes. Skills in working with casting directors and directors in an audition environment are also developed, as are techniques for eliminating nervous tension.

The On-Set Experience

From the basic vocabulary spoken on set, to the roles and responsibilities of every individual on a motion picture crew, this unit prepares students to be actively involved in the overall creative process as part of a team. This course also focuses on set etiquette to help students understand their own role and responsibilities on set. The class participates in an actual shoot and is involved in all aspects of the film set experience.

The Body as an Instrument

Students demonstrate an understanding of the body’s importance to the actor by participating in class discussions, relaxation, movement, and vocal exercises. The study of nutrition, fitness, and relaxation, including stress reduction, keep the actor physically in tune. A study of movement provides additional tools for creating characters in auditions and on set. Skills in voice technique and voice work are further developed. Students have the unique opportunity to train with industry professional stylists in hair, make-up, skincare, and wardrobe to define their images. And the students’ creative freedom is enhanced with the study of inner health and well-being.

Making a Film

The complete process of making a film is experienced in this course. Students audition, book roles, rehearse, and perform on set in an independent film project. Industry professionals join the students throughout the process, offering guidance for an authentic filmmaking experience. The process culminates with a screening of the finished film, to which invited industry guests observe the students in action, at their best.

So, now you know all about the program. Give us a call at 897-2346. We'd love to show you how you can realize your dream.