Voice II

Catalog Description

Expands the understanding and awareness of the basic vocal philosophy and vocabulary established in Voice I, while developing a clearer connection to the demands of text. Continuation of Linklater work, Lessac and Berry study, Skinner speech work, including IPA. Includes poetic text, sonnets and monologues.

Proposed update: Continues the work of first-semester Voice and Speech. Deepens the actor's use of resonance, range, and vocal variety. Introduces detailed phonetics and identifies markers of formal versus informal speech. Greater emphasis will be placed on text work, including imaging and operative language.

Meets

TTh 11:00am - 12:50pm
WDC Studio 2

Student Learning Objectives

Through active engagement with this course, you can learn to:

1. Employ verbatim theatre techniques to analyze and embody the speech of self and others;

2. Read the International Phonetic Alphabet and use phonetic transcription;

3. Employ embodied text analysis tools to increase vocal variety, interest, and tactical effectiveness in performance;

4. Vary the level of linguistic detail in your speech according to varying performative contexts;

5. Integrate voice and speech practice in dramatic performance.

Texts & Materials Needed

• The required textbook for the speech component of this course is Experiencing Speech: A Skills-Based, Pan-Lingual Approach to Actor Training by Caban, Foh, and Parker. This title is available for download from the U-M Library.

• Rehearsal attire

  • We will be moving in class. Please come dressed in comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily for acting. Gym attire is not required, but please avoid high heels, tight pants, short skirts, and other obstacles to free movement. Please choose clothing that allows you to move freely in the shoulders, hips, and torso. 

• Yoga or exercise mat

  • Depending on the studio, there may be mats available for floor work. Otherwise, you are encouraged to bring your own yoga or exercise mat. It's important that you be able to lie on the floor for extended periods in comfort, and most people like a little cushioning.

• Writing materials

  • Please bring a journal or notebook and something to write with. There may be opportunities for written reflection during class. For many people, pen and paper can be more effective for deep learning than taking notes electronically, but all modes of note taking are welcome.

I will distribute any additional performance texts, handouts, readings, videos, etc. in class or via Canvas.

Course Content

This course will build upon the work begun in Voice I. If the first semester of the sequence is about becoming familiar with your instrument, the second semester continues the project of vocal self-authorship and begins to introduce the possibility of (self-directed) vocal transformation. The second semester also introduces analytical skills in phonetics and embodied text work.

A common misconception about voice/speech training is that it is intended to "fix" your "problems". I promise you, this training is designed to expand on your current vocal identities and the expressive brilliance you already bring into the room. It's not about erasing you in any way. You will be in charge of any transformation you choose to undertake. I am simply here to help you with that project. Your voice is welcome here.

Major Assignments

• Verbatim Performances:

  • Performance of Self: Enthusiasm Interview

  • Performance of Other

• "Poetry in the Wild": In-class text explorations culminating in an end-of-term Poem-a-Palooza

• Application of voice and speech skills to Scene Work

Community Standards

Community agreements are different from rules in that they are community-focused, aspirational, non-hierarchical, and adaptable. I'll start by offering the following community norms and we will decide as a group if we need additional agreements to support everyone's learning:

• We aspire to a consent-based learning environment. Consent is contextual, reversible, and relies on being fully informed.

• Self-care cue: If you experience a moment of heightened concern or activation, please use the word "button" (or a non-verbal double-clap). We will all pause to take a breath, allowing our nervous systems to calibrate to the moment, and then we will make space for your needs. The appropriate response to someone's "button" is a generous "What do you need?"

• We will honor people's various access needs and respect one another's boundaries (physical, professional, personal, and cultural).

• We will assume benevolence on the part of others and extend grace when possible.

• We will take care of ourselves and one another.

• We will practice skillful communication:

  • We will "speak from the 'I'" and allow ourselves and others to "speak in draft" (thank you to Nicole Brewer for this language.)

• • We will make space and take space: If you feel yourself talking a lot, try listening more. If you find yourself mostly listening, please consider sharing your thoughts.

  • We will listen to understand rather than to respond.

  • We will practice the skill of apologizing for harm that we unintentionally cause.

• In order to practice care for one another, we will communicate content disclosures before performances that may be particularly activating. 

• If we find ourselves not living up to these agreements, anyone can use "button" as a calling-in mechanism for community accountability.

 Additions and Edits 2023-2024: