Performing Arts-Acting
Our acting school isn’t for everyone; it’s for people – like you – who are really serious about their acting careers. As any working actor will tell you, practice and training are essential to make you stand out from the thousands of others trying to start careers acting.
In the Certificate Program, you will learn acting for film and television, as well as the basics of voice, movement, improvisation, the history of acting, and more.
Throughout the 22 week program (two 11-week terms) you will have opportunities to appear in IAFT student films, making our acting program a coveted opportunity for serious acting students.
Program Description:
The program offers a comprehensive approach to acting, movement and voice. Each term, students are assigned material from both the film world and the stage to rehearse and then present to a live audience. Additionally, acting students will be eligible to perform in student films produced in the IAFT Filmmaking Program, creating a dynamic synergy between the two programs. The Certificate Program in Performing Arts—Acting is comprised of two 10-week terms. Students attend class four days a week with an additional average 8½-hour on-campus lab period per week. The IAFT Acting Program is unique because students pursue their training observing the best-practice principles of stage and especially acting for the camera. And, significantly, it offers the opportunity for the student to perform frequently in both mediums. The maximum students-to-teacher ratio in a classroom or lab session is 12:1.
Program Objectives:
The program provides theoretical perspectives and weekly practice of relevant, functional actor techniques (Stanislavsky, Meisner, Second City). A prominent feature of our program is frequent performance as a conditioning tool to prepare the actor to work in a professional setting. The intent is to train students for work in film, television, theater, or any of the wide variety of commercial and specialized niches in the media industry (instructional or corporate film, voice-over artist, etc.). For students who already have some training and performance experience, IAFT offers an opportunity to enter a workshop-intensive environment to polish your technique and flex your performance muscle.
Students will learn to:
- Interpret contemporary film and stage material—pursuing character and story analysis to feed the actor’s imagination so as to make the best choices possible.
- Engage weekly in structured presentations, practicing in collaboration with directors, other actors, and writers—all designed to lead you toward an interpretation of the role best suited to the story.
- Investigate and utilize improvisation and technique exercises toward building spontaneity, specificity, and the ability to work with—and off—another actor’s behavior.
- Improvise solo and with one or more actors, in non-scripted scenarios, exploring an open, relaxed, and spontaneous approach to all performance work.
- Discuss and examine the architecture of auditions and casting calls in various markets: also, prepare and try out audition material under mock audition scenarios—additionally, you will have numerous opportunities to audition for actual projects.
- Observe the signature techniques of acting for film, experimenting with speech, language, gesture, pacing, physical blocking, objectives and levels—all this to get a clear and specific sense of your relationship to the camera, developing a distinct grasp of the difference between film and stage—and what the two disciplines share.
- Understand and appreciate the role of crewmembers responsible for production, camera, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, props, and set design.
- Develop a sense of professional etiquette to facilitate a consistently successful, harmonious approach to working with fellow actors, crew, directors, and producers.
CLOCK HOURS:
450 HOURS —280 hours of the program are classroom hours consisting of theory or new principles, coupled with extensive exercises and rehearsals. The remaining 170 hours are on-campus laboratory hours consisting of supervised student practice of a previously introduced theory/principle during which practical skills and knowledge are developed and reinforced.
CEBU – 360 HOURS – Due to our TESDA accreditation, our program differs slightly from other campuses. 240 hours of the program are classroom hours consisting of theory or new principles, coupled with extensive exercises and rehearsals. The remaining 120 hours are on-campus laboratory hours consisting of supervised student practice of a previously introduced theory/principle during which practical skills and knowledge are developed and reinforced.
| Term 1 | Hours |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hour lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) This course is an introduction to the history of theater acting from the Greeks to the modern day. Students will study the different methods and techniques of European and American icons of acting. They will examine how history reflects the assumptions of a culture and how artists use their medium to express their style of acting. (Prerequisite: None) |
22.5 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Through expression, articulation and adjustment, students will learn the importance of vocal training. Using a combination of breaking habits, breath work, exercising various muscles and resonance, students will learn how to nurture their vocal instruments. Comedic and dramatic monologues from realistic/naturalistic film and theatre texts will give students the opportunity to focus specifically on the strength and quality of their vocal performances. (Prerequisite: None) |
39.5 |
|
(35 hours classroom, 21 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course is an introduction to the fundamentals of acting. Through lecture and various exercises, students will gain a practical understanding of the basic techniques or acting. Emphasis is placed on listening and responding, which form the foundation of the craft. (Prerequisite: None) |
56 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Students develop an awareness of the body as an instrument of communication so that it will be properly tuned and trained. The focus is on flexibility and breaking down physical inhibitions. The course will include exercises and explorations in movement based on a variety of techniques for developing body and spatial awareness. (Prerequisite: None) |
39.5 |
|
(28 hours classroom, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) This class will focus on the foundation of truthfulness, relaxation, and focus that is required to behave realistically under the microscope that is the camera. Scripted material and objective-specific exercises are utilized to sharpen awareness, and then to establish a student’s working knowledge of the technical requirements of acting for the camera. (Prerequisite: None) |
45 |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) When it comes to acting on camera, there is usually little time to rehearse. Therefore, the ability to improvise becomes a very important tool for the actor. Through various theatre games and exercises, actors will learn the importance of storytelling, listening and staying in the moment. By freeing their inhibitions, actors will develop tools to both trust their impulses and gain the trust of fellow actors. (Prerequisite: None) |
22.5 |
| Classroom Hours | 140 |
| Lab Hours | 85 |
| Term 2 | Hours |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course will explore the evolution of the craft of performance in front of a motion picture camera. The course will demonstrate how the camera’s ability to move and frame the performer in wide, medium, and close-up perspectives, and record multiple takes create acting experiences unique from theater. The course will highlight films from the silent period to the present day. (Prerequisite: Acting History 101) |
22.5 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course provides advanced study of speech designed to help develop the skills for performing classics and modern dramatic literature, with an emphasis on freeing the natural voice. Particular emphasis is placed on the variety of accents that can define and enhance the actor’s performance and identity. (Prerequisite: Voice 101) |
39.5 |
|
(35 hours classroom, 21 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Acting 202 builds on the theoretical and practical foundation established in Acting 101. The course is devoted to advancing students in the basic principles of acting in technique and its artistry. Class sessions will concentrate on student monologs and group scene performances with exercises to deepen students’ acting technique and encourage their appreciation of the acting craft. (Prerequisite: Acting 101) |
56 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) An advanced study of movement in both theater and film. Students explore a variety of relaxation, centering, stylizing and imagery exercises designed to increase body awareness and expressiveness. Performance skills are developed in mime, dance, mask and physical disabilities. (Prerequisite: Movement 101) |
39.5 |
|
(28 hours classroom, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course will continue the focus on acting techniques for the camera in a workshop/performance format. Students will explore further how to work on a role, to utilize inner resources, and communicate using correct terminology of the craft. Practical aspects of the TV and film industries will also be studied. Working in conjunction with the filmmaking program, students will be required to audition for and act in student film projects. (Prerequisite: Acting for TV & Film 101) |
45 |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Students gain further understanding of improvisational acting and develop a stronger improvisational perspective essential in scripted work. Through participation in improvisational scenes, students will learn to trust in their own impulses and be more generous with their fellow actors. (Prerequisite: Improvisation 101) |
22.5 |
| Classroom Hours | 140 |
| Lab Hours | 85 |
This intensive program will help you to develop all of the talents and abilities that you will need to start your career acting.
Over the 12-month program you will study every step of acting technique, voice training, movement, film and television acting, improvisation, scene study, script analysis, monologue techniques, and more. At the end of the program you’ll receive your diploma for Performing Arts and Acting and will have built the basic elements for a show reel.
Throughout the program (four 11-week terms) you will have opportunities to appear in IAFT student films. Most importantly, our acting program will give you the background, experience and confidence to get out there and make an impact in the acting arena.
Program Description:
Building on the foundational Certificate Program in Performing Arts—Acting, the Diploma Program in Performing Arts—Acting places a special emphasis on individual work and audition pieces. Diploma students will be encouraged to take on more variety and complexity in your performance work. The program offers an all-inclusive, practical approach to acting, movement, and voice. Each term, students are assigned material from both the film world and the stage to rehearse and present to a live audience. Additionally, acting students will be eligible to perform in student films produced in the IAFT Filmmaking Program, creating a dynamic synergy between the two programs. A central element of the actor training at IAFT is a series of performance projects from the outset of the program through to the finish. The Diploma Program in Performing Arts—Acting is comprised of four 10-week terms. Students attend class for a minimum of four days a week with an additional 8½ on-campus lab/rehearsal hours assigned each week. The Diploma Program in Performing Arts—Acting at IAFT is unique because students pursue their training while exploring the best-practice principles of film and stage performance, giving students an opportunity to work out frequently in both mediums. The maximum students-to-teacher ratio in a classroom or lab session is 12:1.
Program Objectives:
The program carries concepts and procedures forward from the Certificate Program in Performing Arts—Acting, involving workshop-style classes such as what you’d find in New York or London. This approach provides a variety of theoretical perspectives, plus daily practice of functional actor techniques (Stanislavsky, Meisner, the Practical Aesthetics of Mamet & Macy). The methodologies reviewed are just a part of a dynamic approach in pursuit of reliable rehearsal skills for the stage and the camera, blocking and staging technique, and continued, frequent performance opportunities. The program seeks to find out what works best for you, and then prepare you for work in film, television, theater, or any of the wide variety of commercial and specialized niches in the media industry (presenter, narrator, industrial film, etc.).
- Analyze film and stage material—pursuing story and character interpretations to feed the actor’s imagination as much as possible so as to make the best acting choices.
- Engage weekly in structured presentations, practicing in collaboration with directors, other actors, and writers—all designed to lead you toward an approach to the role best suited to the story.
- Investigate and utilize improvisation and technique exercises toward building spontaneity, specificity, and the ability to work with—and off—the other actors.
- Improvising solo and with one or more actors, in non-scripted scenarios, exploring an open, relaxed, and spontaneous approach to all performance work.
- Discuss and examine the architecture of auditions and casting calls in various markets: also, prepare and try out audition material under mock audition scenarios—additionally, you will have numerous opportunities to audition for actual projects.
- Observe the signature techniques of acting for film, experimenting with speech, language, gesture, pacing, physical blocking, objectives and levels—all this to get a clear and specific sense of your relationship to the camera, developing a distinct grasp of the difference between film and stage—and what the two disciplines share.
- Understand and appreciate the role of crewmembers responsible for production, camera, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, props, and set design.
- Develop a sense of professional etiquette to facilitate a consistently successful, harmonious approach to working with fellow actors, crew, directors, and producers.
- Students participate in live presentations each term and have the opportunity to perform in IAFT student film projects produced in the IAFT Filmmaking Program.
- The Diploma Program in Performing Arts—Acting is comprised of four 11-week terms. Students attend class four times a week with an additional average 8½-hour on-campus lab/rehearsal period each week.
CLOCK HOURS:
900 HOURS —560 hours of the program are classroom hours consisting of theory or new principles, coupled with extensive exercises and rehearsals. The remaining 340 hours are on-campus laboratory hours consisting of supervised student practice of a previously introduced theory/principle during which practical skills and knowledge are developed and reinforced.
CEBU – 660 HOURS – Due to our TESDA accreditation, our program differs slightly from other campuses. 440 hours of the program are classroom hours consisting of theory or new principles, coupled with extensive exercises and rehearsals. The remaining 220 hours are on-campus laboratory hours consisting of supervised student practice of a previously introduced theory/principle during which practical skills and knowledge are developed and reinforced.
| Term 1 | Hours |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hour lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) This course is an introduction to the history of theater acting from the Greeks to the modern day. Students will study the different methods and techniques of European and American icons of acting. They will examine how history reflects the assumptions of a culture and how artists use their medium to express their style of acting. (Prerequisite: None) |
22.5 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Through expression, articulation and adjustment, students will learn the importance of vocal training. Using a combination of breaking habits, breath work, exercising various muscles and resonance, students will learn how to nurture their vocal instruments. Comedic and dramatic monologues from realistic/naturalistic film and theatre texts will give students the opportunity to focus specifically on the strength and quality of their vocal performances. (Prerequisite: None) |
39.5 |
|
(35 hours classroom, 21 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course is an introduction to the fundamentals of acting. Through lecture and various exercises, students will gain a practical understanding of the basic techniques or acting. Emphasis is placed on listening and responding, which form the foundation of the craft. (Prerequisite: None) |
56 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Students develop an awareness of the body as an instrument of communication so that it will be properly tuned and trained. The focus is on flexibility and breaking down physical inhibitions. The course will include exercises and explorations in movement based on a variety of techniques for developing body and spatial awareness. (Prerequisite: None) |
39.5 |
|
(28 hours classroom, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) This class will focus on the foundation of truthfulness, relaxation, and focus that is required to behave realistically under the microscope that is the camera. Scripted material and objective-specific exercises are utilized to sharpen awareness, and then to establish a student’s working knowledge of the technical requirements of acting for the camera. (Prerequisite: None) |
45 |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) When it comes to acting on camera, there is usually little time to rehearse. Therefore, the ability to improvise becomes a very important tool for the actor. Through various theatre games and exercises, actors will learn the importance of storytelling, listening and staying in the moment. By freeing their inhibitions, actors will develop tools to both trust their impulses and gain the trust of fellow actors. (Prerequisite: None) |
22.5 |
| Classroom Hours | 140 |
| Lab Hours | 85 |
| Term 2 | Hours |
|
(21 hours classroom, 12.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 24 hours classroom) (14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course will explore the evolution of the craft of performance in front of a motion picture camera. The course will demonstrate how the camera’s ability to move and frame the performer in wide, medium, and close-up perspectives, and record multiple takes create acting experiences unique from theater. The course will highlight films from the silent period to the present day. (Prerequisite: Acting History 101) |
22.5 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course provides advanced study of speech designed to help develop the skills for performing classics and modern dramatic literature, with an emphasis on freeing the natural voice. Particular emphasis is placed on the variety of accents that can define and enhance the actor’s performance and identity. (Prerequisite: Voice 101) |
39.5 |
|
(35 hours classroom, 21 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Acting 202 builds on the theoretical and practical foundation established in Acting 101. The course is devoted to advancing students in the basic principles of acting in technique and its artistry. Class sessions will concentrate on student monologs and group scene performances with exercises to deepen students’ acting technique and encourage their appreciation of the acting craft. (Prerequisite: Acting 101) |
56 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) An advanced study of movement in both theater and film. Students explore a variety of relaxation, centering, stylizing and imagery exercises designed to increase body awareness and expressiveness. Performance skills are developed in mime, dance, mask and physical disabilities. (Prerequisite: Movement 101) |
39.5 |
|
(28 hours classroom, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course will continue the focus on acting techniques for the camera in a workshop/performance format. Students will explore further how to work on a role, to utilize inner resources, and communicate using correct terminology of the craft. Practical aspects of the TV and film industries will also be studied. Working in conjunction with the filmmaking program, students will be required to audition for and act in student film projects. (Prerequisite: Acting for TV & Film 101) |
45 |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Students gain further understanding of improvisational acting and develop a stronger improvisational perspective essential in scripted work. Through participation in improvisational scenes, students will learn to trust in their own impulses and be more generous with their fellow actors. (Prerequisite: Improvisation 101) |
22.5 |
| Classroom Hours | 140 |
| Lab Hours | 85 |
| Term 3 | Hours |
|
(17.5 hours classroom, 10.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Students will study scenes from published plays and screenplays, allowing them to learn the basic concepts of approaching a scene—breaking scenes into beats, defining and pursuing objectives, understanding the arc, playing actions and overcoming obstacles. (Prerequisite: Acting 202) |
28 |
|
(17.5 hours classroom, 10.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 24 hours classroom) (21 hours classroom, 12.5 hours lab) An advanced course where movement and voice come together as students learn how to implement voice and movement training in relation to specific performances, to maximize the effect of a role with vocal and physical choices. (Prerequisite: Movement 202, Voice 202) |
33.5 |
|
(21 hours classroom, 12.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Through the study of select plays and scripts, students learn techniques for analyzing, interpreting and conceptualizing structure, in a tactic vital to all actors and directors. (Prerequisite: Acting 202) |
33.5 |
|
(35 hours classroom, 22 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Rehearsal Project: Students plan and prepare for their final projects. In pre-production for their one-act plays and demo reels, students will work one-on-one with a mentor to pick the right material. (Prerequisite: Acting 202) |
57 |
|
(28 hours classroom, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) As a continuing effort to build their reels and develop versatility, students will once again be asked to audition for and act in a student-produced project in the filmmaking curriculum. (Prerequisite: Acting for TV & Film 202) |
45 |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 24 hours classroom) This course introduces students to the practice of New Media Production. Students will integrate ?their filmmaking skills with foundational skills in multimedia authoring on multiple platforms. Emphasis will be placed on creating easy to navigate and professional level interfaces for a variety of applications and on successfully deploying those applications across the chosen distribution method. ?The design process and the production flow in new media development and distribution will be explored in depth. (Prerequisite: Screenwriting 303) |
22.5 |
|
(17.5 hours classroom, 10.5 hours lab) Continuing to work on scenes from plays and screenplays, allowing students to thoroughly practice the techniques developed from previous acting and scene study classes. (Prerequisite: Scene Study 301) |
28 |
|
(10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) You will learn to create the perfect staging for your monologues – as they are a big part of audition process. You will learn and utilize techniques to help you be in the moment while acting alone. (Prerequisite: none) |
20 |
| Classroom Hours | 140 |
| Lab Hours | 85 |
| Term 4 | Hours |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 14.5 hours lab) Further scene work, enriching the techniques developed from previous acting and scene study classes. (Prerequisite: Scene Study 302) |
39 |
|
(28 hours classroom, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) A final chance for students to add to their reels and get comfortable in front of a camera by auditioning for and acting in another student-produced film. (Prerequisite: Acting for TV & Film 303) |
45 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 14.5 hours lab) Students will complete scene work from plays and screenplays and practice the techniques developed from previous classes. (Prerequisite: Scene Study 403) |
39 |
|
(35 hours classroom, 22 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Performing Project: The final Thesis Project for students in the Diploma Program in Acting. Students are expected to have an acting demo reel edited by a filmmaking student. Actors will also be required to rehearse and perform a two- or three-character play in front of a live audience. (Prerequisite: Acting 303) |
57 |
|
(30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Elective courses offered vary from term to term. |
40 |
|
(28 hours lecture, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Focusing each student on finding the right monologue and developing it into a professional-level performance. (Prerequisite: Movement & Voice 301) |
20 |
| Classroom Hours | 140 |
| Lab Hours | 85 |
Program Description:
The sessions are designed to study contemporary, common sense acting techniques in general, and they specifically experiment with acting techniques for the camera. For each session there are voice, movement, and improvisational components. The workshop immediately gives students monologues, scenes and on- camera exercises.
NO. OF WEEKS: 10
The program consists of lecture hours consisting of theory or new principles, and on-campus laboratory hours consisting of supervised student practice of a previously introduced theory/principle during which practical skills and knowledge are developed and reinforced.
| Term 1 | Hours |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hour lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) This course is an introduction to the history of theater acting from the Greeks to the modern day. Students will study the different methods and techniques of European and American icons of acting. They will examine how history reflects the assumptions of a culture and how artists use their medium to express their style of acting. (Prerequisite: None) |
22.5 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Through expression, articulation and adjustment, students will learn the importance of vocal training. Using a combination of breaking habits, breath work, exercising various muscles and resonance, students will learn how to nurture their vocal instruments. Comedic and dramatic monologues from realistic/naturalistic film and theatre texts will give students the opportunity to focus specifically on the strength and quality of their vocal performances. (Prerequisite: None) |
39.5 |
|
(35 hours classroom, 21 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) The course is an introduction to the fundamentals of acting. Through lecture and various exercises, students will gain a practical understanding of the basic techniques or acting. Emphasis is placed on listening and responding, which form the foundation of the craft. (Prerequisite: None) |
56 |
|
(24.5 hours classroom, 15 hours lab) (CEBU – 10 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) Students develop an awareness of the body as an instrument of communication so that it will be properly tuned and trained. The focus is on flexibility and breaking down physical inhibitions. The course will include exercises and explorations in movement based on a variety of techniques for developing body and spatial awareness. (Prerequisite: None) |
39.5 |
|
(14 hours classroom, 8.5 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) When it comes to acting on camera, there is usually little time to rehearse. Therefore, the ability to improvise becomes a very important tool for the actor. Through various theatre games and exercises, actors will learn the importance of storytelling, listening and staying in the moment. By freeing their inhibitions, actors will develop tools to both trust their impulses and gain the trust of fellow actors. (Prerequisite: None) |
45 |
|
(28 hours classroom, 17 hours lab) (CEBU – 30 hours classroom, 10 hours lab) This class will focus on the foundation of truthfulness, relaxation, and focus that is required to behave realistically under the microscope that is the camera. Scripted material and objective-specific exercises are utilized to sharpen awareness, and then to establish a student’s working knowledge of the technical requirements of acting for the camera. (Prerequisite: None) |
22.5 |