Acting : Thoughts on The Atlantic Theatre School or other NYC Short courses? by Alyssa Stevenson

I've completed it. It's the most intense 6 week education I have experienced and I have taken a few intensives. It's a semi-Meisner based approach to acting and by that I mean it's not a pure Meisner technique. There are not very many pure Meisner teachers around anymore; all have sort of added their own "variation" to it. I did complete a two year Meisner course with William Alderson in Hollywood. That was hardcore and straight Meisner, so I know. At Atlantic Theater Company you'll get some of the best teachers for voice, script analysis, along with a very informed take on repetition. You'll also be exposed to some other very challenging techniques that will definitely get you connected to your physical instrument; they are very stage oriented which I liked. Great moment to moment stuff too.They are very serious about commitment (a little note, if you're not 15 minutes early for class you're considered late.) You probably know that it is based out of a summer session in Vermont with William H Macy and David Mamet (who was not asked back to his second year at the Neighborhood Playhouse, Meisners' studio in NYC.) The students of that class got together and wrote a book entitled, "A Practical Handbook for The Actor" which they use. Most of the students who wrote that book were still teaching when I went. Working actors who are former students will come and give talks on Saturday mornings - usually Mamet or Macy try to show up. They will also help with accents and later in the classes will encourage that, if you're so inclined. It's very focused and the teachers are all business. In the end your class will have very strong bonds and you'll have a great community. In my opinion, there is NOTHING like being a full-time acting student in NYC. My class was about 10-20% from other countries, Australia, UK, Israel, Germany and others. You'll be doing acting pretty close to 24/7. I am also NOT associated with the school in any way other than being a former student. I'm happy to answer anymore specific questions you might have. Best to you, Bob P.S. It was challenging but ended up being in the top 7 best times of my life :)

Hi Robert! Thank you so much for your detailed response. This helped greatly! Unfortunately, I am unable to study in NYC as I do not have the funds to support myself for three years. Is there any other short courses you would recommend? Thanks, Alyssa