Student Blog

"...Comedy Gold..."

06/24/2011 18:41:00

Myra wrote on August 1st 2011...

The last two classes of term involved a lot of team effort and self belief. Covering the genre of comedy we were once again invited to laugh at ourselves before we laughed at the script. In fact what I find the most fascinating about learning the art of comedy is more often than not the scripts, as written, are not always obviously funny. It is more the delivery, timing, pacing and sheer talent of the actor involved that brings the whole thing to an infectious giggle or laugh out loud conclusion.

As each pair of actors took up the mantle and showed our acting coach what we could do with the said piece, a pattern began to form. What we thought was quite funny and caused a few guffaws was just the beginning of what David was teaching and encouraging us to do. Although we still had to be aware of camera technique, we could afford to take a bigger and bolder decision on characterisation and quirky traits that would deem to get us a laugh.

During the playbacks of our filmed performances the floor was open for comment and suggestion of how to turn a simple gesture or innocent remark into comical delivery. Taking all of this on board my co actor and I became the guinea pigs, as we positioned ourselves on set ready to be filmed once more, but with the rest of the class watching the live feed on screen. Scary stuff but invaluable to learning what works and what doesn't. So the team effort began! With each part of the performance being broken down and analysed the group offered commentary and suggestion for improvement. The resulting performance was a very different and very funny one compared to the performances of previous weeks.

As a closing note I would like to say that the best team effort during ActUpNorth 'comedy' weeks was the rendition of Happy Birthday sung to me by the whole class at the end of the workshop. Thank you team mates, it was …. pitchy, out of tune and the timing sucked …but the main thing is... it was funny!

Myra wrote on July 15th 2011...

This weeks ActUpNorth workshop was a master-class in auditioning for television. The very lovely and talented actress Samantha Siddall was both encouraging and constructive as she led us through a scripted piece written for a well known TV Soap.

The script was originally written for 1 male and 1 female character, but as there were more women than men in the class this week I paired up with another actress. We had a real giggle, getting to grips with the 'flirtatious' lines in the middle of the piece, which was only noted by us once Samantha had pointed this fact out : inner dialoguewent something like this “eehm! didn't spot it-what were ya doin'- where were ya lookin'- focus - stop gigglin' – do it!”

Because the storyline followed a confrontation between two parents about one child bullying another, as two women my co-actress and I played the “arms folded, hands on hips, finger pointing” stereotypical cat fighting mothers : I think we were trying to give Gail Platt and Sally Webster a run for their money! ( I'm not going to say which one I thought I was but my co-actress was a brilliant Gail!)

Samantha offered invaluable advice and guidance on how to find the character 'as written'. i.e. in this instance - between a mother from one family and a father from another who, although arguing about the kids have sexual chemistry between them and potentially could become lovers. Talking us through gear changes, pacing, timing and delivery I was so glad I'd paid attention during the potty training/geometry lessons etc. (keep up - clues in previous blogs) because everything Samantha said made complete sense.

The industry professionals ActUpNorth invite in to deliver workshops for us mere mortals are giants in their own field and I feel so privileged and empowered. Determined in my pursuit of an acting career I am going to slap my thigh and climb that beanstalk, knowing there are willing and helping hands, not so much behind me but up above reaching down and pulling with all their might.

Myra wrote on July 8th 2011...

I can empathise with my Grandson, who at the ripe old age of 2yrs 5mths and 3 days is going through a significant development in his life. Because so am I. My 'acting for screen' training is akin to his potty training!

We both know what we need to do and when we need to do it, but just when we're ready to take aim and go for a shoot – you've guessed it – it becomes a bit of a hit or miss affair!

Take last weeks class for example, when I attempted to walk, shoulder to shoulder, with my co-actor towards the camera: this is a definite MISS (think three legged race and you'll get an idea of how much synchronisation this takes! I kept falling over my own feet.)

The next task was easier, because said Grandson helps me on a regular basis to turn ordinary dialogue into a drama : so this is a HIT.

And then on the final task, we had to look like we were walking through a fairground..

Just when David; actor, mentor, director and camera man, said 'action' I heard a noise, got distracted and peered through the window. OK I know,technically speaking I was being 'nosey' rather than 'acting' but it looked convincing on screen so I'm awarding myself : a Hit!

Now, going back to my Grandson, who today decided that 8, 9 ,10 precedes 1, 2, 3, I was reminded of the 'mathematical' journey we embarked on in class this week, as David introduced us to comedy. A genre not to be laughed at! (Pun intended). There are so many facets, angles and cornerstones to this funny business that the potty has been upstaged by the set square! There are no Hit or Miss options. The timing has to be perfect, the pacing just right and the characterisation spot on. As a comedy actor there is also a necessity to be able to laugh at oneself, and one of the first things I was encouraged to do, when joining ActUpNorth was to get over myself, or “get out of my own way” as Peter J Hunt our brilliant principal would say.

I fear my Grandson will have graduated before I master the art of comedic acting, but I have never been faint hearted and I have no inhibitions, so I'm ready to cover all angles and give it a shot. Hit or Miss? Who knows? But I bet I'll have a laugh finding out!

Myra wrote on June 24th 2011...

The first line of the script we worked on this week started with “ we're different people …...” and it could not have been a more appropriate opening to the workshop.

Yes we're different people, but we all had the same script and therefore the same text to work with, so what was really interesting was how all of us in the class had different interpretations of the two 'characters' in the story. As each 'pair' of actors rehearsed and then delivered the same script it was proved time and again that there is no right or wrong way to bring the character to life – but there are lots of different ways! And that's what I love about ActUpNorth sessions – we, as people and actors are allowed to be unique: I can remain true to myself, even when I'm being someone else.

There was another difference to this week’s class as well. Not one, but two acting coaches : So I had David, in one ear reminding me about the artistry and creativity of a piece of drama : Peter, in the other ear re-iterating the skills and techniques required for acting on camera. And on top of that, my own running dialogue in between both ears “ I think that was the line – oops no, said it wrong, never mind , moment passed, on with next bit, now he said it wrong- how do I answer that? - ooh pausing too long – quick, phew made it!” “smile – leg it to seat and hide behind script.”

So having been informed, enlightened and encouraged to develop my own interpretation and individuality I can't wait for next week, when we film the same script but using different camera angles. Apparently I'll have to walk towards the camera whilst delivering dialogue, stop at a mark, cut, re position both (actors and camera), deliver more dialogue but this time the camera will be over my co- actors shoulder and right in my face. Agghh! I'm not sure I'm ready for a close up yet – wonder if I can request just a wide shot. “ Coward – me? No!”

Now, excuse me while I go to practise walking and talking at the same time – and don't laugh until you've tried to do it on camera – but that's a different story for next week – watch this space!

"Yeah - why the hell not!!!"

04/18/2011 11:17:00

Since I decided to pursue acting part time last year, I've grown in confidence and even more so since I joined ActUpNorth in October 2010. When Illy (TV Director) came in to see us, during a Q&A session in December, he simply said "If you want to act, why not write your own play?" and I thought "Yeah - why the hell not!!!" So that is what I decided to do!

After writing a few of the scripts myself (which I think this is an avenue I will also follow in the future) I probably didn't realise how much planning was involved with the 8 mini plays and approx 25 actors from across the North, many of whom from ActUpNorth!!! But I am thoroughly enjoying this and thank god 99% of the actors involved have been helpful and just as enthusiastic as I am.

By doing this I've met some great people, made some great contacts, and the event will be raising money for Manchesters Booth Centre (they look after homeless people in and around the city) which makes it all worth while. So if you'd like to come and see some ActUpNorth talent (I will also be acting in one of the plays myself lol!), book tickets on www.knockoutproductions.co.uk and if I decide do this again in a few months time, let me know if you want to take part!

Kristin O'Mara

'...nearly a year!!

02/11/2011 11:29:00

Well it's been nearly a year since I joined Actupnorth in Liverpool, and what a year!

I have met great tutors, guest tutors, successful actors and the most talented students.

Most of all I have thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of our classes each Thursday night.

The great thing is the classes are geared for all abilities and even if your lacking in confidence, each week and with encouragement from the tutors and other students the confidence just grows and grows.

I am now only kicking myself I didn't join earlier!

Just wanted to say thank you to Erin and Peter for the opportunity, it has been invaluable and after nearly a year I still get excited about coming to class!

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Jo's Past Blogs...

'...Mr Hunt I am ready for my close up!!

Well, what a week! After doing a few weeks of improvisation which is not a favourite of mine but had lots of fun and actually looking back made ‘fitting in’ with the class a lot easier. ( I am a relative newbie 5 weeks in) we are finally on scripts, Yay! Last week we were given a script from a film which we saw ourselves act out on camera. This week after learning the script we had another chance on camera and boy it was a close up! After viewing ourselves and having a bit of a laugh at ourselves, Peter gave us all constructive feedback. We have a great group in Liverpool and I have learned so much in these 5 weeks and I look forward to every Thursday. I find it challenging and rewarding and Peter brings the best out of us. We now have a script from an American film which I am trying to learn, and really looking forward to next week as we have a casting director working with us.Anyone thinking about joining ActUpNorth don’t just think it, do it, it’s the best thing I have done and you will gain so much confidence and gain lots of experience. Cant’ wait for next week, Mr Hunt I am ready for my close up!!

'...scripts from current t.v programmes...fantastic!'

02/10/2011 11:39:00

Since I decided to pursue acting professionally I was at a loss on how to begin and what to expect. I started attending 'ACTUPNORTH' and learnt so much class by class. From how to audition, perform on camera (which was daunting at first and now is so much easier to do), what to expect in a casting and even had mock castings with respected industry professionals. The amount of scripts we have covered which are from current t.v programmes is fantastic and learning to get them off page as soon as possible is getting easier each week. I would highly recommend these classes to any aspiring actor, they also give you a great overview of the industry and are worth every penny.

'...No jokes about Chepstow, please!'

02/04/2011 11:25:00

Well, I think it’s a good thing Libby & I are both people of the world. Or some of those lines might have caused some hesitation.

Now we get three weeks to make it thoroughly real. No jokes about Chepstow, please.

Anyone got any hints about compiling a CV?

Roger

...'It's what you don't say.'

01/26/2011 09:24:00

It's what you don't say.

We had a Casting Director from Manchester as a guest tutor tonight. Wow, what a night, full on and really enlightening. I personally learnt loads and most importantly, it's sometimes what you don't say that counts. Our eyes are drawn quite often to the person in a scene who's not saying anything. Try it on your next improv. Don't do it all the time though. We also learnt to be sheep tonight, something you should NEVER be. sorry for BLEETING on.

Cameron wrote on 8th Feb 2011...

The Giggles. These are little monsters inside you that make you laugh at the most inappropriate time or for no reason at all, but mostly when you're just about to do a scene at ActUpNorth. It happened to me tonight but you know what? there's nothing better than getting 'the giggles' for calming your nerves. Another top night at the ActUpNorth Tuesday Class ;)

Cameron wrote on 2nd Feb 2011...

I suppose it happens to us all now and again, but tonight I just blanked. Completely forgot my lines. Nothing...nada....zip. Great advice from Pete 'don't put yourself under so much pressure' - I hope Pete never has to tell you the same thing, but he will do......one day. Tonight's class rocked!

Cameron wrote on 26th Jan 2011...

I remember my first time...

Two newbies at tonight's class, Welcome aboard! Tonight we sailed through the 'Purple Rain' and 'Fireworks' with just a quick stop off at Sponge Bob Island. Class started with a random game where each pair chose a pop song title, which Pete swapped around the group. Our task to come up with improv scenes based on these hits. Nails were buffed at the 'Club Tropicana Nail Salon', and two withered out sponge's were waiting to rehydrate in 'The Flood'.

We ended tonight with more of The Stan' approach to acting using 'Round the Table analysis' to really value every word in a script.

What a night, going to bed now, with a lovely cup of hot chocolate, oh no wait I mean ...cinnamon.

Night guys 'I just can't stop loving you'

Cameron wrote on 19th Jan 2011...

Eminem wrote a song about Stanislavsky he called it Stan. Remember the one where Stanislavsky locked up some bird in the trunk of his car and drove off a bridge. More from 'Stan the Man' tonight as we watched our breathing technique scenes from last week. Pete always has constructive criticism on every student and we all take it on the chin. More filming tonight (the same scene as last week) but different camera angles. Tonight's class also had facial gurning, Pec flexing, tongue clicking, eye closing and More! (it's up to you what 'More' is). BTW Pete's mystery heavy breathing phone calls have stopped, maybe Slavsky made them before he drove off that bridge. Damn!

Cameron wrote on 11th Jan 2011...

Breathe in and don't foget to breathe out!!!'

Tonight's class at Actupnorth was the second instalment from our 12 weeks worth of the 'Stanislavsky' approach to acting (thank goodness for Google's 'did you mean'). I typed Skaniflouski ;)

Nerves can attack you at any moment so what better way to combat them than with oxygen.... We learnt to breath in 3 times in and once out repeated 3 times or 3 times out and one time in repeated 3 times. It's OK no-one fainted although one student did have an enormous coughing fit, it's OK though he's old.

Pete commented that he could see a real difference in the performances in front of the camera with the breathing exercises, he was even out of puff himself at the end of the class.

'...a whole new road of opportunities...'

01/21/2011 14:15:00

The last couple of weeks have been eventful. We have been very privileged to have a special guest teacher come and take one of our classes, no other than the talented director Philip Wood. It was thrilling to have someone who has spent his time directing Coronation Street and Emmerdale to take time out to teach us! Which is a testament to Peter Hunt really who organised for him to come. Philip was very charming and charismatic character and was brilliant at getting the best out of the whole class in front of the camera. He gave me a valuable tip on how to look thoughtful on camera which im not going to share, you would have to come to our class! The other thing he taught us was to be an "interesting" actor. We are carrying on from what we learned from Philip with the lovely Erin. This week we performed a script from the Street in front of the camera and our class. We will all get a chance to watch it back next week, learning the importance of subtext when to use it and when not to use it. Erins asked us to all to find a short monologues ready for next week to help us all with auditions. A few of us are starting to go for them now. I cant put into words how valuable I've found these lessons, Thursday night is my favourite night of the week!

Jacqui wrote on March 3rd 2011...

The last couple of lessons have passed flown by. We've done more script work and have been learning sight reading techniques. Each week, the classes have varied, and recently we had a guest teacher, the lovely Erin -who I recognised as the actress from the anti smoking adverts. We have also had a visit from a big Casting Agent where we had to do mock auditions. Last week, we got to play out scripts from Waterloo Road in front of the camera and watch them back amongst the whole class. The experiance I've gained from class has given me the confidence to apply for auditions now. I think life is what you make it, so I might as well go for it! Watch this space...

Jacqui wrote on Jan 21st 2011...

We finished our classes on impro last week, this week we moved onto filming! We had to pair up, practice our lines quickly then go into a room one pair at a time for our wide angle shot run. Each of us had to do it. Later we got a chance to watch them all back with the whole class. Our teacher gave us his tips as we went along . It was compelling viewing!! I had to try to contain my nerves and giggles about seeing myself act on tv for the first time. There were a few laugh out load moments for our whole class as a few of us didnt do too well with the tea cup! The camera man could have been soaked a few times! We dont mind laughing at ourselves in Liverpool! - I managed to drink my make-believe tea like it had "gin in it"!. Loved it though, got my lines to learn for next week

Jacqueline wrote on the 21st Jan 2011...

I've just landed a place in Liverpools ActUpNorth. I was made up to get in! My first trial class was only last week. I found we packed in more in one lesson than we packed in on all my previous lessons which were double the price! The class was fast paste, with our interaction and attention needed at all times, I found my self absorbed and engrossed. I even had to get up and do a quickly improvised three part seen and found myself slapping a class mate! Who took it well, thank god! As part of our role play. Some parts of the two hour class wizzed by at one point our teacher had us passing clicks around the room. The games where random but entertaining and enjoyable and some how, I just knew that they were very relevant to the skill set I will require to become an accomplished actress. I came home feeling like the fun had just become and a whole new road of opportunities had just opened to me...

...Last night was my 3rd class, we built on from the things we learned about Status within a scene in role play, using actions, tone and words, body language and possitions to hold power, or under play possitions as status levels within a scene. This week we learned about acceptance and blocking, and how people can over emphasise and take it too far or assit the progression of a scene naturally. What are other classes upto in other areas?

Jacqueline

'...really learning a lot about screen acting'

01/18/2011 14:37:00

I was so nervous about attending Act up North, I did not know what to expect when I got accepted in October 2010, or if I would 'fit in' or even if it would be useful to me. However everyone was in the same boat, the other students were really nice and friendly, such a variety of people. We all get on great now we are getting to know one another and David and Peter the tutors really make you feel at ease. Its great having their expert advise on hand each week, and I am really learning a lot about screen acting. I am hoping that as time goes on I can develop some really good acting skills and who knows what the future could hold for me then.....

Also the castings that come in are a really good opportunity for us all. I really look forward to my class each week and continuing to learn from my tutors and the guest tutors.

Marie Marsh

'...a light bulb moment'

01/17/2011 16:04:00

Since attending ActUpNorth classes I have learned so much. All of the classes have been very useful and informative and am now finding it easier at auditions, something I know I will never feel completely comfortable with but having the extra knowledge it great. As well as that I've also met, worked with and had some fun times with creative people who have become friends.

The class that I think had the most impact for me and was rather like a light bulb moment, was learning about objectives. I was finding it difficult to have little facial movement and still portray the feelings and emotions of the character keeping it real and lifelike. Now when presented with a script I look for key phrases or words and then try to work out from that what the character wants. It was this class that I thought was a turning point and things started to make sense. It was then further surprising to realise that I could learn up to a couple of pages of script in a few minutes. This I believe was due to learning about objectives, choosing what action was to be taken as the character and then having the ability to portray the story naturally and true to life. Making it comprehendible in this was in my mind made it much easier to learn the lines. That was a fantastic moment as this was something that I never thought I would be able to achieve and could actually see a difference on screen too!

Jan x

ActUpNorth...

01/17/2011 14:06:00

ActUpNorth have developed not only my abilities as a young actor, but have helped me gain understanding of the industry through meeting industry professionals (casting directors, directors, etc) and learning first hand from our tutor.

The past year I have learnt about the different genres and media types and how to act appropriately for them, technical devices used within T.V and Film, all the people that work behind the scenes and each of their individual roles, studying many forms of acting from method acting, sanford meisner technique etc, and also character acting.
This course provides a strong foundation for a successfull acting career by learning/developing skills and heightening knowledge.

Having been at ActUpNorth for about a year I have just signed with a good agent and have already auditioned for a lead role in Emmerdale and have an audition this week for a new BBC Drama.

If you are serious about pursuing a career in this industry ActUpNorth classes are a must!

Regards,

Wesley Thomas.