Adult Studio Classes
All classes take place at the Hartford Stage Rehearsal Studios, 942 Main St, Hartford.
Introduction to Improv
Instructor: Greg Ludovici
March 20 – April 24
Mondays: 7 – 9 pm
$200
Through six weeks of collaborative play and thoughtful observation with instructor Greg Ludovici, Artistic Director of Sea Tea Comedy Theater, students will explore the boundless creativity of improv comedy. Using the foundational elements of great comedy scenes, students will craft new worlds and captivating, 3-dimensional characters and experiment with comedic writing techniques. Whether you’re an aspiring comedian, an actor looking to shake things up, or you just want to get out of your shell and laugh every Monday, this course has something for you. No previous experience necessary.
One-Day Directing Workshop
Instructor: Christopher D. Betts (JOYCE C. WILLIS FELLOW)
Wednesday, March 29: 7 – 9 pm
$35
Get a glimpse into a director’s process from Hartford Stage’s Joyce C. Willis Fellow Christopher D. Betts, director of this season’s upcoming production of Trouble in Mind. Learn about Christopher’s past projects and how he approaches a play as a director, and get a sneak peek at research and designs for Trouble in Mind.
Audition Monologues
Special Guests: Melia Bensussen, Godfrey Simmons, Christopher D. Betts, Rachel Alderman, and more.
May 1 – June 12
Mondays: 7 – 9 pm
$200
Get audition ready with advice from the experts! Receive guidance on selecting audition monologues, preparation, audition etiquette, self-taping and feedback from local industry professionals. Students will begin by choosing and preparing audition material. They will learn about self-tape best practices with Acting for the Camera instructor Liam Toner. They will then perform for and receive coaching from a number of local leaders in the field including HartBeat Ensemble Artistic Director Godfrey Simmons, Hartford Stage Artistic Director Melia Bensussen, and Joyce C. Willis Fellow Christopher D. Betts. Some experience recommended.
Introduction to Acting
Instructor: Justin Pesce
May 1 – June 12
Mondays: 7 – 9 pm
$200
This six-week course uses a psycho – physical approach to acting, focusing on ensemble building and improvisation. Students will gain experience and confidence performing, while moving their bodies and having a lot of fun! Classes will begin with physical/vocal warm ups; students will explore scenes and monologues throughout the course. No previous experience necessary.
Playwriting
Instructor: Jan Mason
May 1 – June 12
Mondays: 7 – 9 pm
$200
This six-week writing workshop will focus on the craft of playwriting, including exercises in writing monologue and dialogue, developing strong characters, creating dynamic scenes, and structuring plot and action. The course will create a safe space for writers of all experience levels to explore a love of writing for the stage in a supportive atmosphere. All experience levels welcome.
More Information
Have questions? Please contact Emely Larson at elarson@hartfordstage.org or (203) 908-1832
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Student Testimonials
“I loved exploring a new medium for theater that was really quite adaptable and easy to use. It gave me an opportunity to connect with people at a time when connection is difficult, and it reminded me that the arts and creativity can survive and often thrive in times of grief and challenge. Bravo!”
“Given that we can’t get together in person, this class and the way it was conducted did allow for some experiments with the technology and getting the ensemble feeling.”
“Loved the group of actors and it was full of great tools to use for auditions!”
“It was a new dimension to practice my acting skills. Scene Acting in “zoom” challenges you to be creative about your physicality as well as facial expressions in a tight box space.”
“Into our challenging surreal world you brought the power, solace, insight and humor of theater!”
“As a mother it was nice to take this class in the comfort of my own home, I was able to hear the teacher very clearly and I could see all the actors in the class and give them my full attention.”
“I love taking classes and being with other actors. I very much enjoyed this class, the instructor, and my classmates.”
“The class was a terrific success. You did a great job of making this work remotely. Though the class never met in person, your engaging questions to start the sessions help us to feel connected and safe. Well done.”
