» Film Acting Classes in Vancouver, BC :: Conservatory Diploma Year I

Curriculum

TEXT ANALYSIS

84 HOURS/ 5 CREDITS

Text analysis is the in-depth study of script and story line to discover the significance and meaning behind the words. This course takes actors through a step-by-step process of breaking down text until there is a complete understanding of information available.

The student will learn to break down the script into workable units, describe the story in a sentence and pinpoint specific actions. The results of the text analysis should lead you, the actor, towards action! You’ll bring the script to life and find the hidden treasure of information within the text. Soon will come an understanding of dramatic structure, rhythm, form, contrast, variation and pace.

MOVEMENT, VOICE & SPEECH

63 HOURS/ 6 CREDITS/ 5 QUIZZES/ 2 EXAMS/ 1 PROJECT

Movement, Voice and Speech is designed to introduce you to the physicality of acting and the power of the voice, starting with relaxation and breathing as a means of exploring the body. You will explore phonetic movement (ex. sound and movement), develop awareness of rhythm and flexibility, improve balance, posture and body alignment. An introduction to the basics of vocal training is included, consisting of relaxation, breathing technique, body opening, connection to sound and image, alignment resonating areas, tone and range, speech sound, emotional connection to text, and more.

Upon completion of this course, you’ll have a variety of ways to physically prepare your body’s internal and external tempo, as well as assess the strength, weakness and flexibility of your own body. You’ll work with classmates in creative ways through physical demonstrations, follow physical impulses to full improvisational expression, and dissolve tension through deep relaxation. You’ll be able to perform proper breathing, and connect your breathing and sounds to image, text and emotion. You’ll explore methods of safely creating large and small vocal sounds, establish a warm-up routine, and explore the practical connections of your physicality to the text.

SCENE STUDY

210 HOURS/ 15 CREDITS/ 1 EVALUATION

This course will introduce you to the basics of acting and practical knowledge of the film and television industries. You’ll learn the basics of role preparation, physical scene structure, professionalism and punctuality.

You’ll learn how to memorize text, be punctual and prepared and work independently on role preparation. You’ll understand the use of props, wardrobe and set, break a script down into units, focus on a partner and give and take focus. Students must present, concentrate, and receive critique and instructor feedback, and apply actor safety protocols to rehearsals and scene work.

The student will learn about workable units, acting / stage jargon and how to read a script. You will deal with memorization, subtext, physical truth, relaxation, creative visualization, understand impulse, intuition, behavior and how to apply it. You’ll understand stage mechanics, industry terminology and proper methods of applying them to your performance.

ON-CAMERA ACTING

112 HOURS / 4 CREDITS / 1 EVALUATION

The student will understand basic on-set etiquette, terminology including key crew positions, perform basic script analysis, receive and apply constructive criticism, understand and execute blocking with marks while doing scene work and finding ease in front of the camera.

The On-Camera Acting class is designed to take all the skills, ideas and concepts that one learns in the Text Analysis, Movement, Voice and Scene Study classes and adapts them for the camera. Other elements included are the technical elements of film acting, understanding lens sizes, marks, blocking for the camera and more.

THEATRE ONE

126 HOURS/ 25 CREDITS/ 10 CREDITS/ 1 EVALUATION/ 1 PROJECT

This class exposes the students to the group experience of a short drama project in order to explore structure and dramaturgy. You’ll help develop a communal work environment and unity of ethics and purpose. There will be theatrical productions that will showcase your unique abilities and creative outlook on acting. With class time to rehearse, you will present your parts to a live audience. Further expanding and improving on your current acting techniques, the student will understand dramatic structure, negotiate the authorial intent with your creative expression, understand how to follow direction, and sustain a genuine theatrical performance.

ACTION FOR ACTORS

56 HOURS/ 5 CREDITS/ 1 EVALUATION

This is an introductory course to stunt performing for students interested in learning how to develop skills and security while executing various stunts and fighting techniques. During this course, students will be given the opportunity to learn about safety procedures and equipment while working with weapons such as guns and knives, fighting styles, falling and even wire-work exercises. You’ll learn how to work with fear to find physical ease and security to tell a story which will be rehearsed and filmed.

ON-CAMERA GRADUATION PROJECT

80 HOURS/ 15 CREDITS/ 1 EVALUATION/ 2 PROJECTS

This is a continuation of the third semester program. This class allows the actor to develop a screen presence through use of camera and lighting with precision. You’ll refine your skills via critique and guidance from the director. The result is a confidence only learned by on-set experience! You’ll become proactive in your career by creating and producing your own short film. This film will be professionally directed, shot and edited by New Image staff. The final project will be screened at your graduation. Our short film program highlights the talent of our first year acting students, and the finished film will contribute to your final film portfolio.

CAMERA PROJECT

84 HOURS/ 15 CREDITS/ 1 EVALUATION/ 1 PROJECT

This class explores in-depth decision-making for film, and will test the actor’s ability to commit truthfully to the script, their acting colleagues and their own performance choices. This includes all aspects of the actor’s relationship to the camera, including how to calibrate your performance according to frame size, camera angles and camera movement. The student will work with a camera dolly, learn how to execute blocking and hit marks naturally with confidence.

You’ll come to understand on-set etiquette, terminology used by a director and camera crews, and key crew positions and their roles. You’ll learn to break down a film script into units and beats and organize it for the demands of a film shoot. Ultimately, you’ll learn how to merge the many technical demands of the media with the emotional demands, and you’ll learn to shape, refine and define that energy into a winning performance for film.

STUDY BREAKS

40 HOURS/ 0 CREDITS

During this time, you’ll review all material up to this break. You’ll be given the chance research the industry and keep abreast of current trends and events in order to better find your acting niche as a professional. These are two single-week study breaks that will usually occur during week 15 and week 30 of the program. However, please note that there may be variances in this schedule.

Year 1 Requirements

Applicants must display a high level of interest in learning the skills used in the areas of performing arts.

When submitting an application, you must attach an application assessment essay (500 words) about you and your dream of becoming a professional actor. Please note that this essay will be an essential factor when assessing your application.

Applicants residing in Vancouver must complete a successful audition/interview at the New Image College of Fine Arts campus while out-of-town or international applicants must prepare a phone/online audition or interview.

Applicants must meet the general requirements and English language requirements. No past experience is required.

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