Back by popular demand!
The Nashville Shakespeare Festival Presents
Spolin Technique Workshops
Intro to Spolin & Advanced Level 1
Taught by Jeanmarie Collins
This weekend, we will be hosting two improvisation workshops taught by Jeanmarie Collins. Information is as follows. For questions regarding registration, please contact robert@nashvilleshakes.org.
“Jeanmarie Collins is an actor’s director. She unveils a performer’s truth in a gentle and organic manner. Her rehearsal process is endowed with respect and “safety” encouraging her actors to explore and discover without consequence.” — Former Student
Dates: Saturday, October 28th & Sunday, October 29th, 2012
Location: Nashville Public Television, 161 Rains Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203
Workshops:
(Click desired workshop to register via Paypal)
Intro to Spolin
Date: Saturday, October 27th, 2012
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 pm
Cost: $40.00
Advanced Level I Spolin Techniques
Date: Sunday, October 28th, 2012
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 pm
Cost: $30.00
You must complete Intro to Spolin prior to taking Advanced Level 1
What is Spolin?
The technique created by improvisational pioneer, Viola Spolin, focuses on teaching acting through the use of theatre games. The games instruct the new and experienced actor in versatility of character through the use of vocal and physicalization choices, concentration, listening skills, taking direction, spontaneity, and understanding the importance of the ensemble.
About the Workshop:
The Spolin workshops provide a positive experience for willing participants who leave with new skills and new perspective. Workshops initially focus on group exercises than shifts to individual scene work. Character development is crucial in the course of study. While students have a good time playing the games, the skills of the technique are learned. No materials are necessary.
Who can take the workshop?
This workshop is designed for adults and teens. Professional actors might find the workshop useful for bettering skills of communication.
Viola Spolin is often referred to as the “Grandmother of Improvisational theatre.” Her technique focuses on the ensemble and simple, but, vastly over looked skills for the actor. Her books are structured to develop a building block system for the theatre artist or anyone who must function as a part of a team for their work. Spolin’s son, Paul Sills, was the creator of The Second City in Chicago.
Jeanmarie Collins studied the technique in London with Andy Harmon, protégé to Spolin. Upon her return to the states in 1981, Spolin sent her blessings for carrying forward her work. In addition to being a master Spolin instructor, Collins is an equity actor, director, award-winning playwright, and voice-over artist. Her Spolin work is known in numerous cities in the southeast.
