ACTORS MUST ACT

ACTORS MUST ACT. Script Analysis & Scene Study ACTORS MUST ACT. is a three-session acting class focused on script analysis, character development, and scene study. Participants will explore how to interpret scripted material, identify character objectives, make specific acting choices, and apply those choices through performance. The class combines script analysis with practical scene work, allowing actors to explore material, receive direction, make adjustments, and develop their performances in a collaborative environment. Material Selection & Preparation Actors are welcome to bring a scene, monologue, screenplay, audition sides, or other scripted material they're interested in working on. No advance submissions are required. During the first session, we'll discuss each actor's interests, examine their material, and identify scenes or characters to explore throughout the course. Actors who don't have material in mind will receive guidance in selecting something appropriate. Participants may also choose a lead character from an existing feature film and begin working through that character's screenplay, scene by scene. Scene assignments and preparation expectations will be established during class. Actors should plan to be off book for their scheduled scene work in subsequent sessions unless otherwise directed. There is no expectation that an entire screenplay or character study will be completed during the three-session course. What We'll Study The class will explore: Script Analysis: Understanding given circumstances, relationships, conflict, and the events of a scene. Character Objectives: Identifying what a character wants, why they want it, and what stands in their way. Subtext & Playable Actions: Exploring what characters mean beyond their dialogue and how they pursue their objectives. Character Development: Examining motivations, relationships, emotional choices, and character arcs. Scene Study: Applying script analysis through rehearsal and performance with scene partners. Listening & Responding: Developing authentic reactions and remaining present within scripted scenes. Direction & Adjustments: Exploring different acting choices and observing how they affect a performance. Performance Review: Evaluating scene work through instructor feedback, discussion, and optional recordings. Class Format The first session will introduce foundational approaches to script analysis and character development, along with acting exercises, initial scene work, and material selection. The second session will focus on applying script analysis to prepared scenes, exploring character objectives, relationships, actions, and performance choices. The third session will continue scene work through performance, direction, adjustments, and feedback, with opportunities for recorded review. Each actor will have opportunities to work on their own material while also participating in the work of others. Participants may be asked to read supporting roles, providing additional opportunities to practice cold reading, listening, responding, and working with scene partners. Instruction will emphasize applying concepts through performance rather than lecture alone. Actors interested in longer-term character development may continue working through a screenplay or character study in future sessions.   Camera Work & Recording Selected scenes may be recorded during class to allow actors to review their performances, observe their acting choices, and explore adjustments. Participants should bring a charged smartphone with sufficient available storage if they would like to record their work. A tripod and phone mount will be provided. Recordings are intended for personal study and feedback. They are not professionally produced or edited and are not intended as audition reels or finished scenes. Not every exercise or performance will be filmed. Camera recording is optional. Participants may choose not to have their performances recorded. The primary focus of the class is script analysis, character development, and scene study. Camera recording serves as a supplemental learning tool.   Who Can Participate? This class is open to actors of all experience levels, including those working in film, television, theater, and improvisation, as well as individuals beginning or returning to acting. No audition or previous acting experience is required. Participants should be willing to prepare material between sessions, participate in scene work, and collaborate with fellow actors.   Fall 2026 Course Details Tuition: $150 per person (includes all three sessions) Dates: Friday, November 6, 2026 Friday, November 20, 2026 Friday, December 4, 2026 Time: 6:00–9:00 PM Total Instruction: 9 hours Instructor: Rachel Michaela Location: 1439 San Mateo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110 Class Size: Maximum 6 participants Registration: Full three-session enrollment required. No individual class drop-ins.   What to Bring A scene, monologue, screenplay, or other scripted material you'd like to explore (please contact rachel@improvnm.org if you have questions about your selection) A notebook and pen A charged smartphone with available storage if you'd like to record your work Prepared and memorized material for subsequent sessions, as assigned during class This is a Weekly Recurring Event Runs from Nov 6, 2026 to Dec 4, 2026 and happens every: Fridays: 6:00pm - 9:00pm Timezone: Mountain Time (US & Canada)