IMPROV + COMMERCIAL TRAINING PROGRAM
Many agents and managers have told us that training is the number one factor when considering taking on an actor or bringing them in for an audition. The goal of the Improv + Commercial Training Program is to equip young actors with the skills and information necessary to gain the confidence to succeed. By combining improv for commercials with commercial training, the young actor is best prepared to handle what is asked of them in today’s market . In addition to learning valuable acting skills, the program also focuses on building self esteem and confidence.
PROGRAM FOR KIDS & TWEENS (AGES 7–12)
COMBINED IMPROV + COMMERCIAL TRAINING: This 8 week program is specifically designed to nurture, challenge and encourage creativity in a structured format. It also focuses on bringing out each individual’s unique quality. What distinguishes this program is its design. Each 2 hour class includes improvisation for commercials, where the student, through the use of improv games, exercises and learning to create from circumstances, will find their path to creativity and structured play. The remainder of each class is on-camera commercial training, which will take what the student has learned in improv and put it into the form of a taped commercial. The student will learn the basics of slating, hitting their mark, and working with props and commercial copy. Beyond those basics, they will learn how to work specifically with actions, dialogue and reactions – the essential elements of commercial auditions. They will also be taught how to listen and take direction. Classes are done in a non-competitive, supportive atmosphere, which helps build self-esteem and confidence. $325/8 weeks.
PROGRAM FOR TEENS (AGES 13–17)
COMMERCIAL TRAINING: Each 2 hour class in this 8 week program includes a maximum amount of on-camera time.. This time is used to apply the information given and to develop new skills. It incorporates the basics of relaxation, how to use the slate as a springboard into the audition, cue cards and props, while focusing on defining and incorporating the actor’s quality into various types of commercial copy. Other techniques covered include using the camera to pull focus, identifying the various types of commercials and their goals, breaking down copy so the spot works, finding “obligations,” and making the dialogue real. In the second half of the 8 week session, the actor will learn how to integrate action and dialogue, as well as work with longer copy. Special emphasis is given to one of the most difficult and misunderstood audition types: the reaction spot. Through John’s specially developed techniques, the actor will learn to master this type of audition and gain a competitive edge. $325/8 weeks.
IMPROVISATION: This four week class (2 hours/class) has been designed to teach the young actor improvisational skills, so he or she can better handle improvisational auditions. Through specially designed games and exercises, actors will learn how to create and execute what’s being asked of them in a moment’s notice. $150/month or $100/month if taken in conjunction with Commercial Training.
The Online Showcase features students who have participated in a minimum of the 8 week training program. For each actor, a 30- 45-second commercial is selected that best highlights his or her type and quality. The spot is directed, rehearsed, and taped, and the actor’s best work is posted on our Talent Connection site, along with headshots and resume. Please note that although the Online Showcase is seen by some of the top agents and managers in the business and many of our showcase students have signed with agencies, participation does not guarantee representation.
FUTURE CLASSES
ADVANCED COMMERCIAL TRAINING
For teens that have completed the 8 week training program, this weekly 3 hour class will keep skills sharp and further develop audition techniques and commercial preparation.
PERFORMANCE IMPROVISATION
This 3 month performance program is designed to advance the improvisational skills of young actors who want to perform. In each 3 hour class, the actor will learn short-form and long-form improvisation. At the end of the 3 months, an improvisation show will be performed for invited guests.
THEATRICAL TRAINING PROGRAM
Our theatrical program will focus on techniques for making television and film auditions dynamic. Actors will be given sides prior to class, and come prepared as if they were going on an audition. Students will be given the tools to learn how to break down the scene, find and execute the ‘truth,’ and make the most exciting choices for their auditions.
CASTING DIRECTOR SHOWCASE
Once per month, a casting director will be brought in to view a class demo reel, which consists of actors’ existing professional work and/or scenes that have been produced for the showcase. Casting directors will offer feedback and information regarding their office and the business. To audition for the showcase, you must be a student in the Theatrical Training program.
OTHER SUPPORT
‘KID IN THE BIZ’ COACHING CLASS FOR PARENTS
This class will offer insight and guidance for parents who have children in the business. Parents will be given the tools to support and coach their child for commercial auditions. Focus will be on understanding how to break down copy, actions, dialog and reactions. Parents can choose to have the experience of being put on camera or simply taking notes.
PRIVATE COUNSELING and AUDITION COACHING
One-on-one coaching is available for solving acting problems, practicing cold readings, as well as preparing for auditions. Each session is tailored to the actor's specific needs and many are done on-camera. John also offers parent consultations to give support and guidance for the young actor’s career.
$50/half hour session or $90/hour..
