Spring 2018 - CA 150 D100
Introduction to Acting I (3)
Class Number: 12768
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Mon, Wed, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
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Instructor:
Alexander Ferguson
ferguson@sfu.ca
Office Hours: Please make an appointment to arrange a meeting.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
An approach to the elements of acting based on improvisation, with some attention to working from established texts. Focus will be placed on the development of the actor's instrument. The work will include the development of individual powers of expression - vocally, physically, intellectually, imaginatively, and emotionally. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Students with credit for FPA 150 may not take this course for further credit.
COURSE DETAILS:
Calendar Course Description
This course introduces students to basic techniques actors use to create dramatic characters and effective performances.
Course Summary
This course introduces students to physical acting techniques and improvisation exercises that actors use to create characters and scenarios. CA 150 will be primarily focused on physical approaches to performance creation. Work with text will be a secondary concern. The course may include at least one fieldtrip to see a live performance in Vancouver.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
· Undertake physical training exercises independent of the instructor;
· Understand how training exercises contribute to character and scenario development;
· Become more aware of how non-human and non-textual elements (scenographic elements such as space, lights, sound, set pieces, etc.) contribute to a performance;
· Demonstrate control over use of gestures, movement, and body language in the performance of a scenario;
· Respond to critique from self, peers, and instructor constructively, using critique to improve performance
· Contribute effectively to a creative ensemble by fulfilling the actor’s responsibilities to the rehearsal process.
About CA 150
CA 150 approaches acting training from a number of body-based, rather than text-based, exercises. You will be introduced to a number of training exercises, and a number of improvisation methods. You are expected to be mentally and physically present and alert, and open to working intensively through the exercises with fellow students. Openness and receptivity to the process are key. You will also be expected to reflect on critique from the instructor and fellow students (Student critique will be structured and monitored by the instructor). The intent of the course is to develop physical discipline and receptivity as the basis for performance creation.
Grading
NOTES:
Evaluation:
Daily class work
You will be assessed on an ongoing basis during classes. You will receive a mark roughly every quarter.
Quarterly reviews
Roughly every quarter (every 3 weeks or so) you will receive formal feedback in written or oral form from the instructor. The feedback will be based on how you have progressed in general and how well you have executed any presentations made for the class during the term so far. Note: progress is the most important factor — has your work developed since the last quarter, are you developing physical and improvisational skills, are you working well with your performance partners? Participation will factor heavily in your mark, including attending and being on time.
Participation
You are expected to arrive on time, be attentive, have done your homework, and to contribute meaningfully to discussion and critique. Lateness and absences will be noted and result in a lower grade. It is advisable to attend every single class.
Assignment weights:
Four quarterly reviews: 25% each.
General Notes and Policies:
Phones and laptops in class
You may use tablets and laptops for journaling at the end of class. Unless otherwise permitted, any personal use of the Internet (i.e. checking social media of any kind) is not allowed during class. All electronics must be silenced in class.
Late assignments and extensions
Being late on an assigned presentation will reflect negatively on your grade. If you expect you will not be able to complete an assignment on time and have a legitimate reason to ask for an extension, please speak to me as soon as possible. Workload is generally not a legitimate reason for extensions. If you miss a deadline due to illness, bereavement, or another emergency, I may require documentation in order to grant you an extension without deducting late marks. Presentations must be completed on the day they are due; make-ups will only be granted with appropriate documentation.
REQUIREMENTS:
Please wear clothing you are comfortable moving and sweating in. Bring a journal to write in. I will try to allow for 10 minutes at the end of each class for journaling. Journals will not be marked; they are for you own benefit.
Performances: Students may be assigned at least one performance to attend in the lower mainland. The cost of the performance will be incurred by the student.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Required Texts
There are no required text, but readings may be assigned and distributed during the course by the instructor.
Registrar Notes:
SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS