ALAN ARKIN’S IMPROV WORKSHOP Taught by 40-year veteran of stage, screen and television, Alan Arkin. Billie invites anyone who wants to experiment, share, play and grow while practicing the spontaneous art of improvisational theatre to this special workshop. Academy Award winner for "Little Miss Sunshine", Alan is a founding member of the famed Second City improvisational troupe, where a performing arts method now used by acting programs nationwide was initially developed.

The relaxed, supportive atmosphere he creates gives you the freedom to recapture and explore the rich, full imaginative life we all had as children. According to Alan, “It's not about being clever or amusing," he says, "it's about making a deeper connection with your creative force, surprising yourself, and letting go." Actors and people who are simply interested in deepening their intuitive selves are welcome. Reservations are being accepted now.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS ACTORS TRAINING  Taught by Billie Shepard. In a series of ongoing classes, Billie provides all-in-one on-camera and stage training, using monologue and scene study along with improvisation exercises. You'll learn commercial and audition techniques and gain the confidence and know-how to take risks, make strong choices and perform truthfully in any arena. This class is held in the San Jose Repertory Theatre's expansive Studio Theatre.

ACTING FUNDAMENTALS  This six week class will start with the fundamentals of physical improvisation, building upon them to give students a grasp of how to communicate effectively to an audience with or without words. Meanwhile, the same process will develop the student's understanding of the basic building blocks of scene and monologue work that lead into the development of character. In addition to developing a strong understanding of the fundamental components of acting, students will learn how to develop improvisational pieces of their own.

MONOLOGUE TECHNIQUE  Need an agent? Need two contrasting monologues to get a role? Need guidance discovering your unique qualities and talents and how to express them successfully at an audition? How to begin and end the monologue? Efficiently, quickly, Billie gives you the most effective monologue techniques to make your monologue a “play” for your auditors to enjoy.

CAREER COUNSELING  You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Learn the ins and outs of the business. It’s easier to get from A to B if you have a map. How to start, from your first play, headshot, getting an agent, booking a commercial…

AUDITIONING  Verb: to give a trial performance. The key word is performance. Learn techniques to make your auditions more “performance” than "trial". Learn to talk to other people not at them when auditioning. Learn to use yourself without putting limitations on who you are.

ON LOCATION  Each project has its challenges and dilemmas; no matter what the location. Billie brings her coaching to you - helping you with your choices and understanding, providing timely support, guidance, encouragement, and assistance, easing your stress so you can co your best work.

CONTACT US
650.967.8152

Back to top