Our Acting Courses at Thespian Academy in Chicago
Welcome to Thespian Academy's comprehensive catalog of acting courses! Located in the heart of Chicago's vibrant theater district, we offer a wide range of programs designed to nurture your talent, hone your skills, and prepare you for a successful career in the performing arts. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced actor looking to refine your craft, we have a course to suit your needs.
Acting Basics 101
A foundational course for aspiring actors. Learn essential techniques in improvisation, scene study, character development, and script analysis. Develop confidence and build a strong base for further acting studies.
Course Details
Instructor: Daniel Rivers
Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Duration: 8 weeks
Price: $499
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Acting: The Actor's Toolkit |
| 2 | Improvisation Fundamentals: Spontaneity and Listening |
| 3 | Scene Study: Working with Text |
| 4 | Character Development: Creating Believable Characters |
| 5 | Voice and Movement: Expressing Yourself |
| 6 | Monologue Work: Showcasing Your Talent |
| 7 | Acting for the Camera: Introduction to On-Screen Performance |
| 8 | Final Scene Presentations |
Advanced Scene Study
Designed for experienced actors looking to delve deeper into complex scene work. Focus on subtext, motivation, emotional range, and advanced character interpretation. Refine your performance skills and elevate your stage presence.
Course Details
Instructor: Olivia Sterling
Schedule: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Prerequisites: Acting Basics 101 or equivalent experience
Duration: 10 weeks
Price: $599
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Advanced Scene Work: Analyzing Complex Scenes |
| 2 | Subtext and Motivation: Understanding Underlying Meanings |
| 3 | Emotional Range: Exploring the Full Spectrum of Emotions |
| 4 | Character Interpretation: Deepening Your Understanding |
| 5 | Relationship Dynamics: Working with Your Scene Partner |
| 6 | Blocking and Stage Movement: Using the Space Effectively |
| 7 | Advanced Text Analysis: Uncovering Layers of Meaning |
| 8 | Feedback and Refinement: Perfecting Your Performance |
| 9 | Rehearsal and Preparation: Preparing for Performance |
| 10 | Final Scene Presentations |
Voice and Diction
Enhance your vocal power, clarity, and expressiveness. Develop proper breathing techniques, improve articulation, and project your voice with confidence. Essential for stage and screen actors seeking to command attention and deliver impactful performances.
Course Details
Instructor: Evelyn Reed
Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Duration: 6 weeks
Price: $399
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Voice and Diction: The Vocal Instrument |
| 2 | Breathing Techniques: Supporting Your Voice |
| 3 | Articulation and Pronunciation: Speaking Clearly |
| 4 | Vocal Projection: Reaching the Audience |
| 5 | Vocal Variety: Adding Expression to Your Voice |
| 6 | Practice and Refinement: Perfecting Your Vocal Skills |
Improvisation for Actors
Unleash your spontaneity, creativity, and comedic timing. Learn the art of improvisation, develop quick-thinking skills, build strong ensemble work, and enhance your ability to think on your feet. A fun and challenging course for actors of all levels.
Course Details
Instructor: Marcus Cole
Schedule: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Duration: 8 weeks
Price: $449
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Improvisation: The Core Principles |
| 2 | "Yes, And...": Building on Ideas |
| 3 | Character Creation: Improvised Characters |
| 4 | Scene Work: Improvised Scenes |
| 5 | Game Structures: Common Improv Games |
| 6 | Long-Form Improvisation: Creating Longer Stories |
| 7 | Comedic Timing: Finding the Humor |
| 8 | Performance and Review |
Acting for Film
Learn the essential techniques for performing on camera. This course covers on-set etiquette, auditioning for film, working with directors, and delivering natural performances in front of the lens. Suitable for both stage actors and those new to the world of film acting.
Course Details
Instructor: Isabella Rossi
Schedule: Wednesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Duration: 10 weeks
Price: $649
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Acting for Film: Differences from Stage Acting |
| 2 | On-Set Etiquette: Professional Behavior on Set |
| 3 | Auditioning for Film: Preparing for the Camera |
| 4 | Working with Directors: Building a Collaborative Relationship |
| 5 | Performance Techniques: Delivering Natural Performances |
| 6 | Scene Study: Film Scenes |
| 7 | Improvisation on Camera |
| 8 | Monologue Work: Camera-Specific Techniques |
| 9 | Feedback and Refinement: Perfecting Your On-Screen Presence |
| 10 | Final Scene Presentations |
At Thespian Academy, we are committed to providing a supportive and enriching learning environment for all our students. Our expert instructors bring years of professional experience to the classroom, guiding you every step of the way as you develop your skills and pursue your acting dreams. Contact us today to learn more about our courses and how to enroll. Our address is 123 Stage Door Lane, Chicago, IL 60601, you can reach us at (312) 555-ACT1 or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!