In this 15-class workshop, we will explore Sanford Meisner’s renowned approach to acting, learning to act moment to moment, behave truthfully, and follow impulses rather than overthinking. Through dynamic exercises and scene work, students will develop core acting skills rooted in listening, following instinct, and embracing truthful raw emotions.

On the final day of the program, we will film the scenes and students will receive edited version of their scene.

CLICK HERE for exemples of videos filmed during the class!

You’ll discover how to:

• Truly listen and respond to your scene partner

• Get out of your head and into the moment

• Trust your instincts and emotional impulses

• Bring imaginary circumstances to life with truth, simplicity and fun!

Class Roadmap

Weeks 1 : Behave Instead of Thinking

• Exercises to cultivate presence, spontaneity, and “really doing.”

Weeks 2 : Read Behaviors / Listen, Really Listen

• Group and partner exercises

• Introduction to the “Word Repetition” exercise

Weeks 3 : What’s Your Point of View?

• Deepening repetition work

• Connecting behavior to instincts, impulses and emotional point of view.

Weeks 4 : “As If” and Simple Improvisations

• Creating imaginary circumstances using Open scenes (A/B dialogues)

• Beginning improvisation work using Meisner’s tools

Week 5 : Enter the Scene Full

• Introduction to the “Door and Activity” exercise

• Emotional preparation and fully inhabited entrances

Week 6 : Pick Up on Behavior, Not Cues

• Scene assignment and first scene readings

• Focusing on behavior-driven responses

Weeks 7 – 10: Live Truthfully Under Imaginary Circumstances

• Scene work with emphasis on spontaneity and authenticity

• Exploring the imaginary circumstances Meisner’s lens (not performance-focused)

Week 11 – 14: Don’t Try to Play the Character, You Already Are

• Second Scene Assignment (depending on your progress with the first)

• Exploring characterization through physical and emotional choices

• Organic script breakdown: approaching the text through instinct, behavior, and emotional truth rather than intellectual analysis.

Week 15: On Camera

• Each student will film one scene, putting everything learned into practice in front of the camera.

Key Takeaways

By the end of the course, students will:

• Understand and practice Meisner’s core exercises

• Be more emotionally available and responsive

• Develop stronger instincts and imaginative engagement

• Approach scene work with greater depth and authenticity

“Acting is the ability to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances.” – Sanford Meisner

WHAT STUDENTS SAY ABOUT THIS CLASS