Thursday, May 31, 2012

Meisner And The Physical Self - Tuning The Acting Instrument

By Maggie Flanigan


The Meisner acting technique often refers to something known as the actors instrument. While directors and actors are sometimes at odds due to creative differences, the truth is actors are the instruments, the components, that make up a successful production with a director as a conductor. Actors are the most important element of the overall "symphony" known as The Story, the instruments directors use to effectively tell that story. The actors instrument is what the actor uses to channel the vision of the writer and director, creating the most artful, interesting character they can to make the vision a reality. Actors who have worked hard to develop their actors instrument are the ones who most often enrich a story, by bringing complex, interesting characters to the vision.

Making beautiful sounds is the instrument's created purpose, while actors use not only sound but physical characteristics and other very subtle forms of expression that are uniquely human. Actors use the Meisner technique to develop as many of these forms of expression as they can, which working together make up "the instrument" an actor uses. If broken down into definable aspects, the actors instrument involves the development of Imagination, Sensory expressions, Empathy, Intelligence, and Physical expression. By mastering as many of these aspects as possible, and working hard at developing all of them, an actor has the ability to take on any role. Some of the most successful, award winning actors have mastered all six of these forms of expression.

Every actor has their own unique physical way of expressing themselves and an awareness of the physical space around them. Meisner acting in nyc helps actors to fully explore their habits of physical expression and movement, and how that differs from that of a character and how that can be used to improve your versatility in any performance setting. Movements onstage in a theatre piece are very different than movements that are right for the camera. Actors who stand out are those who can call up various forms of physical expression and alter them to create a character.

If you think about it, the world is full of actors who use a certain personality to create their roles, always using similar physical expressions to create characters. There are easily ten or fifteen actors who fall into this category that you can list without thinking too hard. Developing a charismatic personality, one that intrigues an audience is an important aspect of the instrument. Many great actors have mastered going beyond that to layer onto that charismatic personality many physical characteristics that completely alter their movement, posture, arm gestures facial expressions--they literally become the character. Think of award winners Meryl Streep, Daniel Day Lewis or Johnny Depp.

Physical expression, when mastered, has given us the likes of Jim Carrey, John Wayne and Jodie Foster. These are just some of the actors that have learned how to project characters physically, as well as emotionally. Going deeper into the craft of acting requires learning the ways you can express characters physically in subtle ways.

Expressing emotions physically is a complex thing and goes far beyond facial expression or developing a way of walking, for example. You must inhabit the created physical world of the production in a physical way that is truthful and be able to do it before there are physical crutches like sets, props, costumes and make up. A great actor is one who has not only mastered the art of physical space and expression but can use it to reflect all other aspects of the instrument. The most versatile actors have worked hard to develop this. Being attractive and/or charismatic is certainly going to get you noticed, but it won't give you a career into your sixties or seventies. Learning to create the physical aspects of a character, and using it to enrich the other elements of the actors instrument, will get you the work you desire.




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When can we Hope to See Discovery Channel's Gold Rush Alaska Television Series Crews Produce Some Real Gold?

By Sam Puttard


Specific reality TV shows have plagued our lives as a result of the so-called entertainment networks for many years now, and many viewers had simple had enough until the recent broadcast of the new Discovery's Gold Rush Alaska TV show starring Todd Hoffman, Dakota Fred, and Parker Schnavel. What differentiates this TV series from other reality TV shows is that many of the viewers share the dream of striking it rich with the cast of this hugely popular series.

Gold mining has been a respectable occupation for centuries, but the excitement, hardships, and freedom that come with it have been forgotten by the majority. When Discovery's Gold Rush suddenly brought it back, millions became instantly addicted and just couldn't get enough. There is just something about the allure of gold, getting your hands dirty, and risking it all that appeals to many, but most people just don't possess the guts to do go out and do it. Or perhaps, they possess more common sense than our beloved stars on Discovery's Gold Rush.

Gold Rush Alaska was focused on these few individuals who set out to live their dreams of mining gold in the beautiful Alaskan wilderness. As pioneers of the new age, these rookie gold miners risked it all to do something different and unrelated to the dwindling global economic health. Precious metals will always be a commodity on which one can rely, and what better way to obtain this asset than to dig it out of the ground?

When fans learned there was going to be a second season because the Hoffman crew had now liquidated all of their assets and acquired every loan possible, the enthusiasm for Discovery's Gold Rush Alaska among the tens of millions of fans was almost tangible. It seemed the crew was back in action and ready to execute a new plan based on what they had learned from their mistakes. However, their former and unwanted coworker, Dakota Fred, suddenly threw an unexpected wrench in the Hoffman's plan of mining their beloved Glory Hole.

After OSHA slowing down the Schnavel crew and Dakota Fred's crew, Dakota Fred stealing the Hoffman's claim, and torrential floods swallowing Fred's home, the shared dream of striking it rich mining gold seemed just out of reach for all of them. However, towards the end of the second season of Gold Rush Alaska reality TV show, Fred's and Todd's crew actually began to find decent amounts of gold, but Parker is still left with empty pockets and the need to graduate high school before he embarks a lifetime of mining gold.




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Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Acting Workshops Los Angeles- Facing Vulnerabilities

By Kirk Baltz


True actors are not created in one day. Instead, significant effort and training are required to form an individual skilled in his or her craft. One of the most necessary and yet difficult components of great acting is learning to rip past the facade that covers the actors themselves and the characters they create to reveal the true identities within.

Each person and character alike is multi-faceted as opposed to being one-dimensional and static. The three dimensions, in particular, that compose the human person are the tragic flaw, the public persona, and our ubiquitous lifelong insecurities and difficulties. Training with an acting coach can both aid the actor in discovering these dimensions in himself as well as allow him to utilize these personal traits to create very real characters.

Carl Jung espoused the belief that the human person creates a public persona as a means of protecting his true self from others and conveying an image of strength and security as a means for survival. Expression of this persona occurs in all areas of our lives. Like real people, characters also have public personas making it necessary for acting classes to teach actors how to use themselves to develop these facades.

It is not uncommon for public personas to be initially viewed as an individual's true identity as many are highly skilled in using this creation to mask their deeper selves. The root of a person's character is grounded in their growth and development from childhood. Acting classes are designed to instruct actors in identifying these difficulties in themselves so as to form multi-dimensional characters that audiences can relate to on a personal level.

These difficulties from our childhood remain with us to adulthood and shape the persona that we create to protect ourselves. The same is true of created characters. Covering up these vulnerabilities under a shield of stability is our means of appearing strong rather than helpless to others.

The mark of a great actor is his or her ability to dig past both their own and their character's public persona to the actual person within. The best coach will work with student actors in order to help them to remove the mask that they have spent a lifetime building.

All persons in the audience, like the actor and the character, have both a personal core as well as a public persona they have created to protect it. Although many audience members may not be aware of the fact, creating multi-faceted characters is guaranteed to form a relationship between viewer and character. All great actors must learn to succeed in this form of character creation.




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Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Acting Coaches- Finding a the Right Acting Coach in LA Can Be Difficult

By Kirk Baltz


Actors can greatly benefit from training provided by acting coaches if they are open to instruction and new concepts. The individual attention that acting coaches can provide is irreplaceable albeit difficult particularly because students often find themselves realizing that their talent and skill were nothing like they previously thought. The goal of acting coaches is to strip away the actor's exterior to the person within so as to allow the student to be better able to develop characters based upon their own identity as a human person.

Making yourself vulnerable in a large group of people is often difficult and this can be a problem in large acting classes. Great acting coaches will form an environment in which their students feel secure so that they are comfortable unveiling very private feelings and emotions. The standard view of the word "coach" leads people to think of an individual who is there to teach and train alone whereas the best acting coach in Los Angeles will also be open to what you bring to the table. The job of coach is to assess conversation and body language in order to help the actor better understand themselves.

The purpose of the acting coach is to understand the actor as a person, set improvement goals, and then construct a plan for obtaining said goals. The best methods can often seem harsh as improvement in acting often requires manipulation and a certain amount of breaking down and subsequent rebuilding on the part of the instructor. As long as the techniques are working towards the end goal of a more successful and unique actor, then even these seemingly brutal techniques are encouraged.

The first thing to look for when selecting an acting coach in Los Angeles is their assessing and listening ability. After the student shares his or her beliefs regarding their acting skills, the job of the coach is to evaluate and determine the actual possessed level of skill. Using this as the starting point, the instructor will be able to develop a plan for improvement.

An essential aspect to coaching is the bond of trust between instructor and student. At the same time, it is essential to choose a coach that will be open and honest and will provide harsh criticism if necessary. Specific techniques should be used to improve an actor's skill level. The acting profession requires constant growth and improvement. No one is ever done learning.

Lastly, coaches should be thoroughly encouraging and should remind students that they will get to their goals with a lot of hard work and determination.




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The Joy Of Acquiring The Finest Native American Artwork

By Flora Vinson


It is great to collect the best and the finest native American artwork. But, as much as this pastime can be pretty interesting, this can be tough too. Sometimes, collectors need to travel far across the country to find the most ideal add on of their collections. And not simply that, each piece can cost an arm and a leg that average commoners can never be able to get.

Consignments shops and estate sales are good places to find one. Hence, collectors could try finding any estate sales around them and then check out for some. Nevertheless, it would wise for them to start search when they already had adequate information in their hands.

Better yet, they have to do a relevant research about the possible estate sales in the area before moving into action. At some point, their hurried actions can somehow benefit them too. Collectors across the region would surely die to get inexpensive pieces, and if they have that chance, they surely go the place where they are exhibited and get them at once.

If they are not really that interested in the old ones, pieces done by the amateur painters are most wonderful. New breeds are not charged handsomely on their talent. Realistic collectors might as well try collaborating with them.

However, the antiques just have crackerjack value that new creations can never equal. No wonder, these pieces are marketed exorbitantly. Given how valuable these items are, it is just too imprudent for someone to be too abrupt in buying.

The whole acquisition process might be extremely stressful, but that joy of getting those is just far beyond compare. That is how art collectors actually feel the moment they have the pieces in their hands.

People's native american artwork collections are their solace and comfort amidst their daily tussles. These may cost too much, but having them could simply transpire real happiness to any ardent art collectors.




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Monday, May 28, 2012

Acting Coaches in Los Angeles- Being Vulnerable

By Kirk Baltz


When it comes to acting, great abilities cannot be formed overnight. Training with acting coaches or participation in acting classes can help actors to acquire much needed skills to aid them in improving in their craft. To do this, actors are required to face themselves as they truly are, vulnerabilities and strengths alike, to uncover their true selves and create lifelike characters.

Each person and character alike is multi-faceted as opposed to being one-dimensional and static. These facets include the inherent insecurities and fears that are integral in forming our personalities, the persona that we adopt to conceal these vulnerabilities, as well as the tragic flaw. Working with an acting coach has been shown to be highly effective in helping an actor to see past his own exterior and that of his character to reveal the heart of the person within and create characters that are both real and relatable.

Our public persona, according to Carl Jung, is the image that we present to the rest of society and is designed to mask our true feelings, emotions, and insecurities. This created persona presents itself in numerous ways throughout our lives. Similar to actual persons, characters develop public personas that must be unraveled and good acting workshops are designed to teach students how to accomplish just this.

It is not uncommon for public personas to be initially viewed as an individual's true identity as many are highly skilled in using this creation to mask their deeper selves. The root of a person's character is grounded in their growth and development from childhood. Acting classes are designed to instruct actors in identifying these difficulties in themselves so as to form multi-dimensional characters that audiences can relate to on a personal level.

Our childhood challenges and situations mold us as adults and remain with us for the duration of our lifetime. Both actors and the characters they create form their public personas as a means of defending themselves from these insecurities. Both actual persons and characters use this public persona to cover up their insecurities and fears so as to reduce their helplessness in the world.

The mark of a great actor is his or her ability to dig past both their own and their character's public persona to the actual person within. This is key to producing real characters for the audience.

All persons in the audience, like the actor and the character, have both a personal core as well as a public persona they have created to protect it. Regardless of whether or not they are aware of this fact, creating a dimensional character will never fail to hit a chord with the watcher. All great actors must learn to succeed in this form of character creation.




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Acting Coaches in Los Angeles- Creating Personas

By Kirk Baltz


As with any art form, acting is an ability that requires hard work and long hours. It is only through rigorous study and training that actors can reach their goals. To reach this goal, an actor must delve into his soul and discover who he truly is as a person.

Each person and character alike is multi-faceted as opposed to being one-dimensional and static. These dimensions consist of the individual or character's public persona, his or her deep-seated fears and vulnerabilities, and the tragic flaw. Training with an acting coach can both aid the actor in discovering these dimensions in himself as well as allow him to utilize these personal traits to create very real characters.

Carl Jung espoused the belief that the human person creates a public persona as a means of protecting his true self from others and conveying an image of strength and security as a means for survival. Expression of this persona occurs in all areas of our lives. Similar to actual persons, characters develop public personas that must be unraveled and good acting workshops are designed to teach students how to accomplish just this.

Although the public persona is the dimension that is the most easily recognizable and obvious in a character, it is only an exterior facade and not the core of the individual. The root of a person's character is grounded in their growth and development from childhood. Acting workshops are quite helpful in training students to come to grips with these important facets of their being, allowing them to create very real characters.

These difficulties from our childhood remain with us to adulthood and shape the persona that we create to protect ourselves. Characters on stage or on film are no different. Characters and real persons alike adopt public personas as a means of shielding their weaknesses and helplessness from the world.

In order to become an exceptional actor, a student must learn to remove the superficial exterior of both his and his character's public persona in order to uncover the true self. Quality coaches work to train actors in communicating the sacred and intimate core of a person's soul and being.

All persons in the audience, like the actor and the character, have both a personal core as well as a public persona they have created to protect it. Presenting a character of similar dimensions is sure to create a bond between the audience and the story being told. Being able to create characters such as these is what separates the average actor from the exceptional.




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Thursday, May 24, 2012

The Various Aspects Of Fantasy And Adventure Novels For Young Adults

By Melanie Duncan


In literature, fantasy and adventure novels can be understood as two different literary genres that have continued over the course of history. Most of the time, they are written in an attempt to produce epic tales or stories on a large scale. Over the years, their readers have continued to grow and now, both are considered two of the most commonly read genres on a universal scale. Currently, many novels of this type have been adopted by young adults, written by young-adult novelists.

Fantasies are novels that circulate around the theme of magic, incorporating supernaturalism into many of their stories. At the same time, they draw the reader into an imaginary world inspired by mythology. It can be said that many stories are based on medieval times, though you will often find the use of wizards, sorcerers and witchcraft.

You will often find that novels of this kind will often be compared to those in the science-fiction genre. They are similar, but the main difference is that scientific theory does not crop up in the former. In the same way, fantasies can be compared to horror novels, though do not consist of macabre themes. All three are subgenres of speculative fiction.

In contrast to this, the adventure novel mainly focuses on providing the reader with a level of danger and experience that is seldom seen in reality. The excitement emerges out of heightened levels of risk and danger, which encapsulates the reader and drives the story on. This differs from fantasy, which aims to draw the reader in with high levels of imagination, not always rich in risk and exploration.

The two genres put the protagonist in a world which the reader is not familiar with. This is a world of mythology, magic or extreme levels of experience. Each reader is thrown into a setting which he is not used to in his outside life.

Fantasy and adventure novels have been written for centuries. While they are both enjoyed for their ability to take the reader away from reality and into a new world, they most definitely have their differences. It is wise that you try out both genres and see what is best for you.




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The Unexplainable Store Review

By Ki King


You may be experiencing easy fatigue, stress, anxiety, and so many Issues in life now. You might think that no body is there to help in this time, and assist you in your down falls in life. You wish to divert your attention from it, but you don't know how. For many individuals, they have recently experienced the real joy and over refreshment feeling with unaccountable store.

Mysterious store has all that you need and got particularly if you are under pressure, low self-esteem, or either under any physical weakness condition. Unaccountable beats will certainly aid you. With mysterious store, you have got a large amount of items to choose from. Whether you would like a alleviation from your down feelings, or either get closer to God, or maybe you require the power to take control over your dream, then let unaccountable store wind them up for you.

This works by utilizing binaural beats and isochronic tones. These two systems you have got to work on listening for 20 minutes to 60 minutes. These certain beats have the capability to stimulate your cerebral cortex to do what you need to happen. The brain will then send its stimulation to the entire body system, and fortunately , you will be able to get relieved from it.

This could give you a heavy feeling, heart beat speed increase, or perhaps sedation to start with, but shortly after one or two minutes of it, you will be eased up and refreshed for that ungainly feeling you have. All for the power of your wits you can help yourself get that best feeling you have ever wanted and desired.

Because with mysterious store, all of your stress, your fears, fears, fears, anxiety, freaking frightening dreams, will be gone without even you having to take a single medication for it. Just simple meditation and focus, and you will see the difference.




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Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Science Fiction And Fantasy Books Come In Many Varieties

By Gabrielle Bacal


Science fiction and fantasy books world is like a maze. They are presented in various categories. Hence, determining which group a product falls under is not easy. The reason for this is that the ground they cover is wide in a metaphorical or literal manner. The following points can help buyers in their search.

Science fiction contains descriptions of unlikely things or happenings. These things in certain conditions could probably occur in our real world. In this type of reads there is no consent of existence of supernatural influence.

Fantasy type of reads usually provides an appearance of realism to circumstances as well as things. Within any situation, these things, perhaps, would not come about within the existent world. This genre also consents to the existence of paranormal powers. Some of the greatest movies have actually been the products of his genre.

Before making a purchase, check the ratings of many different review sites instead of just one. This is because these sites have their different approach to rating such as popular demand, top ten. Some sites have a list of honorable mentions that follows the top ten lists. This is done to accommodate the good books which might miss out on the top ten listings. This means that products in other lists following the top ten can also be excellent for you to read.

The national library association usually updates their listing of the regularly challenged reads. Their catalog will direct you on which product to purchase, as well as which not to purchase for the purpose of school libraries, for adults, teenagers and children. If the rating the products go up the ranking, it could get barred.

The science fiction and fantasy books are often disputed with good purpose, for example, protecting children from difficult info. These kinds of products often hold questionable subjects like mystical alien life forms, world and magical powers. Some of the protests from the censors regarding the products are content that include violence, anti-family, offensive language and insensitivity.




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Monday, May 14, 2012

Most Actors Focus on Feelings and Emulation - Acting Classes in NYC

By Maggie Flanigan


Actors who study the Meisner Technique are likely familiar with the term the actors instrument. An analogy between an actor and an instrument is a good way to help define all the aspects of the acting craft and help actors take in idea, information and lines and put out high quality work. As an audience member, it becomes apparent very quickly who the good actors in a piece are or who might be falling short. But, can we pinpoint what makes us feel that way? In fact, it is the actors instrument and how well rounded and how well developed it is.

There are six aspects to consider when looking at the actors instrument. Those elements include emotional expression, sensory expression, physical expression, empathy and intelligence. In the Meisner technique, all aspects of the actors instrument need to be addressed and considered and are essential to mastering the craft. It is easy even for non actors to identify professional actors who have mastered the different aspects of their "instrument." It is the true legends, the icons of stage and screen, that have mastered all six.

Take, for example, Sylvester Stallone who is know for his commanding physical presence and physical expression. Stallone is certainly able to express emotionally, but overall his most powerful tool onscreen is his physical expression. As an actor he expresses emotional in a very physical, often external way. Actors must focus and learn about all the aspects of the acting instrument, which will help them be diverse and capable of many types of roles.

Actors often focus mainly on emotional expression, thinking it to be the most important. Obsessing about how a character feels about something and how to express it is usually the primary thing actors concentrate on. One of the most important, but certainly not the only tool to master is the emotional expression aspect of the actors instrument. All six of the aspects of the instrument should be studied diligently until they are mastered.

Emotional expression gives meaning to the story. Emotional expression is they way that the internal aspects of a character's conflicts, needs, and feelings are expressed. Meisner acting in nyc is very popular, and these actors work hard to develop an emotional composite of a character, which they in turn, figure out how to express using the other aspects of the instrument. In Meisner acting students study emotions diligently, their own and those of others. They work hard to create a foundation of human emotion and way of communicating based on real people and fictional characters. When called upon to create a specific character, they dig very deep and create and imagine (another part of the instrument) what that character's emotional story is. They create and live the emotional life that the character would live so that it is instilled in them and can be called upon at will.

Vulnerability, for example is an expression of the emotion of insecurity. Actors might work hard to develop this emotion and the complex ways it can be expressed. If the actor has also worked hard to develop other aspects of the instrument, such as imagination, sensory expression and intelligence, the complexity of emotions will be there. A single tear, without words can accomplish this, but how about a sense of vulnerability shown while one is smashing a clock to pieces? There is no predictable, safe way to do this.

One common myth is that acting is pretending to have certain emotions. However, acting is not simply reciting words using certain inflections and gestures to communicate emotions. Sanford Meisner was often heard to say, "acting is DOING." Being in the moment, and opening up completely to whatever emotions the character might present to you is the secret of great acting. This may feel risky at first. Great actors do not force themselves to cry. What they feel is genuine, and the results can range from crying and screaming to sitting perfectly still to express an emotion. This process requires that an actor develop the capacity to create and feel true sensations, and then express that through all channels of their instrument. Actors must give themselves permission to feel strong emotions, and express them (or not, if the role requires it) in physical, intelligent, empathetic ways.




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The Biggest Myth of Acting - Pretending is Acting

By Maggie Flanigan


Any actor interested in studying the Meisner technique should explore what's known as the actors instrument. Making a comparison between acting and an instrument is helpful in categorizing aspects of the acting craft and what makes a good actor. Even the most inexperienced audience knows when acting is good or not, simply by how engaged they are in the material being presented. It may also just be a sense of something not coming across in the right way. They can also sense when an actors instrument is not well developed, because they don't "believe" the character portrayal.

There are six aspects to consider when looking at the actors instrument. Those elements include emotional expression, sensory expression, physical expression, empathy and intelligence. Mastering the craft of acting with the Meisner Technique requires that all six aspects of the instrument are well developed. Many actors have mastered many of the six aspects of their instrument and audiences can identify with and respond to those the most. Legendary actors are those that have mastered all six.

Take, for example, Sylvester Stallone who is know for his commanding physical presence and physical expression. This doesn't mean that he can't express himself emotionally, it just means that his physical presence is the most developed of his acting tools. Although he is practiced at developing an emotional side of his characters, those expressions are often communicated through physical means. Actors must focus and learn about all the aspects of the acting instrument, which will help them be diverse and capable of many types of roles.

Actors often focus mainly on emotional expression, thinking it to be the most important. Obsessing about how a character feels about something and how to express it is usually the primary thing actors concentrate on. One of the most important, but certainly not the only tool to master is the emotional expression aspect of the actors instrument. All six of the aspects of the instrument should be studied diligently until they are mastered.

Meaning in a story is derived mainly from the emotional expression of its characters. It clues the audience in to what the character is about, the conflicts they face, what their deepest needs are. It is common in classes teaching Meisner acting in nyc to create an emotional history of a character, imagine it in detail and then use all the aspects of the instrument to express them. Meisner acting students are masters of human emotion, the full range and complexity of the human experience. They in fact, build a library of emotions and reactions and methods for communicating them. Specific characters can be created by delving very deep into the imagination and using the "library" of human behavior they have created. This created life, its emotions and patterns of behavior, are then drawn upon moment by moment, not in rehearsed ways, but spontaneously.

Just as an example, vulnerability can express many characteristics, from innocence to deep insecurity. Actors might work hard to develop this emotion and the complex ways it can be expressed. If the actor has also worked hard to develop other aspects of the instrument, such as imagination, sensory expression and intelligence, the complexity of emotions will be there. After all, vulnerability can be expressed through tears, or smashing something to pieces or just walking through a park. This is a subjective, creative process.

The myth is that acting is simply pretending to have an emotion. Simply reciting inflections and gestures that express certain emotions is not acting. Acting is DOING, as master teacher Sanford Meisner always said. In other words acting is being in the moment and allowing any number of emotional reactions well up and take you over and turn you into the actual character. Great acting is, moment by moment, opening up to the character and allowing them to take you places you may not have imagined. The best actors do not pretend to feel something, or coach themselves to do anything while in character. They feel genuine, strong emotions and a sense of grief or loss and images makes them cry. This process requires that an actor develop the capacity to create and feel true sensations, and then express that through all channels of their instrument. Actors must give themselves permission to feel strong emotions, and express them (or not, if the role requires it) in physical, intelligent, empathetic ways.




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Sunday, May 13, 2012

Most Actors Focus on Feelings and Emulation - Acting Classes in NYC

By Maggie Flanigan


By studying the Meisner Technique, actors have a chance to explore the concept of the actors instrument. The instrument analogy can be helpful when breaking down all the various aspects that can determine how good an actor is. Audience members are quick to determine whether actors are portraying a new reality well enough to hold their attention. But, can we pinpoint what makes us feel that way? If this is the case, it is likely that the actors instrument is just not well developed.

The actors instrument is comprised of six different elements, all important. They are: physical expression, emotional expression, imagination, sensory expression, intelligence and empathy. Mastering the craft of acting with the Meisner Technique requires that all six aspects of the instrument are well developed. It is easy even for non actors to identify professional actors who have mastered the different aspects of their "instrument." Legendary actors are those that have mastered all six.

For example, an actor like Stallone is known mainly for his physical expression and presence. This doesn't mean that he can't express himself emotionally, it just means that his physical presence is the most developed of his acting tools. For Stallone, emotion is an internal process but it is reflected in a very physical way. It's very important for actors to learn and develop all aspects of their instruments, to become well-rounded performers.

Emotional expression is the most common aspect of the instrument that actors are focused on. Thinking deeply about how a character feels about something and trying to emulate it is a very common thing for up and coming actors to try and master. One one hand, it is short sighted to place too much emphasis on this particular aspect of the actors instrument, however, emotional expression is certainly a key aspect. Each of the six aspects need to be studied and mastered so that they can all work together.

Meaning in a story is derived mainly from the emotional expression of its characters. It clues the audience in to what the character is about, the conflicts they face, what their deepest needs are. Meisner acting in nyc is very popular, and these actors work hard to develop an emotional composite of a character, which they in turn, figure out how to express using the other aspects of the instrument. In Meisner acting students study emotions diligently, their own and those of others. They work hard to create a foundation of human emotion and way of communicating based on real people and fictional characters. Specific characters can be created by delving very deep into the imagination and using the "library" of human behavior they have created. They create and live the emotional life that the character would live so that it is instilled in them and can be called upon at will.

Take as an example, vulnerability which is an expression of insecurity or perhaps innocence or even strength. There are many actors who, with hard work, can learn to differentiate and express this complex emotion. But, unless they have developed other aspects of their instrument, such as empathy or intelligence, the character will not be authentic. Vulnerability might be expressed by smashing a vase to pieces, or by simply sitting still and the challenge is to use ways appropriate to the character. This is a subjective, creative process.

Acting is not pretending to have an emotion. However, acting is not simply reciting words using certain inflections and gestures to communicate emotions. Sanford Meisner was often heard to say, "acting is DOING." Being in the moment, and opening up completely to whatever emotions the character might present to you is the secret of great acting. This may feel risky at first. The best actors do not pretend to feel something, or coach themselves to do anything while in character. There are genuine emotions in their performances, often unpredictable ones that appear as they work as character. Developing a deep capacity to understand and feel the full range of human emotions and experiences is a great way to become an open, flexible acting student, the best kind of student. Give yourself permission to feel fully and strongly, and express it in ways that are physical, intelligent empathetic and real.




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Acting Classes in NYC - Intelligence and The Actors Instrument

By Maggie Flanigan


Any actor interested in studying the Meisner technique should explore what's known as the actors instrument. The instrument analogy can be helpful when breaking down all the various aspects that can determine how good an actor is. As an audience member, it becomes apparent very quickly who the good actors in a piece are or who might be falling short. But, can we pinpoint what makes us feel that way? In fact, it is the actors instrument and how well rounded and how well developed it is.

The actors instrument is comprised of six different elements, all important. The aspects of the instrument include sensory expression, emotional, empathy, intelligence and sensory and physical expression. Mastering the craft of acting with the Meisner Technique requires that all six aspects of the instrument are well developed. If you run down the categories mentioned, anyone even slightly interested in acting should be able to name successful actors who have mastered several of these aspects of expression. Rarely, the are actors that come along and become the best of the best by being gifted at them all.

Sylvester Stallone is a physical actor who commands attention simply because of his physical presence onscreen. While this does not mean the Stallone cannot express a character emotionally, he is general know for his physical expression, which is the most powerful of his acting tools. For Stallone, emotion is an internal process but it is reflected in a very physical way. It's very important for actors to learn and develop all aspects of their instruments, to become well-rounded performers.

Actors often focus mainly on emotional expression, thinking it to be the most important. Thinking deeply about how a character feels about something and trying to emulate it is a very common thing for up and coming actors to try and master. One of the most important, but certainly not the only tool to master is the emotional expression aspect of the actors instrument. All six of the aspects of the instrument should be studied diligently until they are mastered.

Of course, it is meaningful emotional expression that draws people into any character or story. Emotional expression is they way that the internal aspects of a character's conflicts, needs, and feelings are expressed. It is common in classes teaching Meisner acting in nyc to create an emotional history of a character, imagine it in detail and then use all the aspects of the instrument to express them. In Meisner acting students study emotions diligently, their own and those of others. They do this by creating a "library" of human emotion and a resource of reactions and ways of communicating based on studies of real people. When called upon to create a specific character, they dig very deep and create and imagine (another part of the instrument) what that character's emotional story is. They create and live the emotional life that the character would live so that it is instilled in them and can be called upon at will.

Just as an example, vulnerability can express many characteristics, from innocence to deep insecurity. It's one thing for an actor to understand that and work with it. But, unless they have developed other aspects of their instrument, such as empathy or intelligence, the character will not be authentic. After all, vulnerability can be expressed through tears, or smashing something to pieces or just walking through a park. These are very nuanced yet, essential things to study.

The myth is that acting is simply pretending to have an emotion. However, acting is not simply reciting words using certain inflections and gestures to communicate emotions. Sanford Meisner was often heard to say, "acting is DOING." Being in the moment, and opening up completely to whatever emotions the character might present to you is the secret of great acting. This may feel risky at first. Legendary actors do not force themselves to show emotion. They feel genuine, strong emotions and a sense of grief or loss and images makes them cry. This process requires that an actor develop the capacity to create and feel true sensations, and then express that through all channels of their instrument. As an actor you must give yourself permission to feel fully and live truthfully, whether you are in character or not.




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Saturday, May 12, 2012

Opening up to Your Character Moment by Moment - Acting Classes in NYC

By Maggie Flanigan


Actors who study the Meisner Technique are likely familiar with the term the actors instrument. Making a comparison between acting and an instrument is helpful in categorizing aspects of the acting craft and what makes a good actor. Audience members are quick to determine whether actors are portraying a new reality well enough to hold their attention. But, can we pinpoint what makes us feel that way? In fact, it is the actors instrument and how well rounded and how well developed it is.

The actors instrument is comprised of six different elements, all important. Those elements include emotional expression, sensory expression, physical expression, empathy and intelligence. Mastering the craft of acting with the Meisner Technique requires that all six aspects of the instrument are well developed. If you run down the categories mentioned, anyone even slightly interested in acting should be able to name successful actors who have mastered several of these aspects of expression. Legendary actors are those that have mastered all six.

Take, for example, Sylvester Stallone who is know for his commanding physical presence and physical expression. Stallone is certainly able to express emotionally, but overall his most powerful tool onscreen is his physical expression. As an actor he expresses emotional in a very physical, often external way. This is why actors must focus on learning about each and every aspect of the instrument, so that they can be as well rounded as possible.

Emotional expression is one of the first things most up and coming actors focus on. Thinking deeply about how a character feels about something and trying to emulate it is a very common thing for up and coming actors to try and master. One of the most important, but certainly not the only tool to master is the emotional expression aspect of the actors instrument. Each of the six aspects need to be studied and mastered so that they can all work together.

Emotional expression gives meaning to the story. Emotional expression is they way that the internal aspects of a character's conflicts, needs, and feelings are expressed. Meisner acting in nyc is very popular, and these actors work hard to develop an emotional composite of a character, which they in turn, figure out how to express using the other aspects of the instrument. In Meisner acting students study emotions diligently, their own and those of others. They work hard to create a foundation of human emotion and way of communicating based on real people and fictional characters. When a specific character needs to be presented, these then delve more deeply and specifically into imagining (another aspect of the instrument) what the character's emotions feel like. Having created a full emotional life and a foundation of behaviors, thoughts and ways of reacting, the actor can then bring the character to life, in the moment, in a spontaneous way.

Vulnerability, for example is an expression of the emotion of insecurity. There are many actors who, with hard work, can learn to differentiate and express this complex emotion. If the actor has also worked hard to develop other aspects of the instrument, such as imagination, sensory expression and intelligence, the complexity of emotions will be there. After all, vulnerability can be expressed through tears, or smashing something to pieces or just walking through a park. There is no predictable, safe way to do this.

The myth is that acting is simply pretending to have an emotion. Simply reciting inflections and gestures that express certain emotions is not acting. Acting is DOING, as master teacher Sanford Meisner always said. In other words acting is being in the moment and allowing any number of emotional reactions well up and take you over and turn you into the actual character. This may feel risky at first. Great actors do not force themselves to cry. What they feel is genuine, and the results can range from crying and screaming to sitting perfectly still to express an emotion. This process requires that an actor develop the capacity to create and feel true sensations, and then express that through all channels of their instrument. Give yourself permission to feel fully and strongly, and express it in ways that are physical, intelligent empathetic and real.




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Friday, May 11, 2012

Authentic Characters are Intelligent and Empathetic - Acting Classes in NYC

By Maggie Flanigan


By studying the Meisner Technique, actors have a chance to explore the concept of the actors instrument. An analogy between an actor and an instrument is a good way to help define all the aspects of the acting craft and help actors take in idea, information and lines and put out high quality work. Audience members are quick to determine whether actors are portraying a new reality well enough to hold their attention. But, can we pinpoint what makes us feel that way? In fact, it is the actors instrument and how well rounded and how well developed it is.

The actors instrument is comprised of six different elements, all important. They are: physical expression, emotional expression, imagination, sensory expression, intelligence and empathy. In the Meisner technique, all aspects of the actors instrument need to be addressed and considered and are essential to mastering the craft. If you run down the categories mentioned, anyone even slightly interested in acting should be able to name successful actors who have mastered several of these aspects of expression. Legendary actors are those that have mastered all six.

For example, an actor like Stallone is known mainly for his physical expression and presence. While this does not mean the Stallone cannot express a character emotionally, he is generally know for his physical expression, which is the most powerful of his acting tools. For Stallone, emotion is an internal process but it is reflected in a very physical way. This is why actors must focus on learning about each and every aspect of the instrument, so that they can be as well rounded as possible.

Actors often focus mainly on emotional expression, thinking it to be the most important. How a character feels about something and delivering lines powered by that feeling is a very common practice for newer actors. One of the most important, but certainly not the only tool to master is the emotional expression aspect of the actors instrument. All six of the aspects of the instrument should be studied diligently until they are mastered.

Emotional expression gives meaning to the story. It clues the audience in to what the character is about, the conflicts they face, what their deepest needs are. Meisner acting is very popular, and these actors work hard to develop an emotional composite of a character, which they in turn, figure out how to express using the other aspects of the instrument. Meisner acting students are masters of human emotion, the full range and complexity of the human experience. They do this by creating a "library" of human emotion and a resource of reactions and ways of communicating based on studies of real people. When called upon to create a specific character, they dig very deep and create and imagine (another part of the instrument) what that character's emotional story is. They create and live the emotional life that the character would live so that it is instilled in them and can be called upon at will.

Take as an example, vulnerability which is an expression of insecurity or perhaps innocence or even strength. There are many actors who, with hard work, can learn to differentiate and express this complex emotion. But, if they have strongly developed other aspects of their instrument, such as physical expression and empathy, they will be able to present an authentic, vulnerable character. A single tear, without words can accomplish this, but how about a sense of vulnerability shown while one is smashing a clock to pieces? There is no predictable, safe way to do this.

One common myth is that acting is pretending to have certain emotions. However, acting is not simply reciting words using certain inflections and gestures to communicate emotions. Sanford Meisner was often heard to say, "acting is doing." In other words acting is being in the moment and allowing any number of emotional reactions to well up and take you over and turn you into the actual character. It is a subtle yet, very important distinction. Legendary actors do not force themselves to show emotion. There are genuine emotions in their performances, often unpredictable ones that appear as they work as character. Developing a deep capacity to understand and feel the full range of human emotions and experiences is a great way to become an open, flexible acting student, the best kind of student. Give yourself permission to feel fully and strongly, and express it in ways that are physical, intelligent empathetic and real.




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Monday, May 7, 2012

Rome: influential Empire, Wonderful Tourist aim

By Mitchell Allums


Rome was establish as distant back 753 BC with the clone, Romulus and Remus. It grew considerably until it took over as the Roman kingdom which was ruled by an Emperor through the year 27 BC.

The Roman Empire was a political and economic center to the Western World. Its influence extending all over and it was said that "all transportation bring about Rome." This best Empire, however, fell in 476 AD. It stood a rough history following its fall. The town preserve its status because the capital of the Papal States and later on on it became a center of culture and artistic activity which it has somewhat retained to this day.

Over its restless history, the inhabitant in your community has risen and fallen based on the style of the time. In modern times, Rome appears to once again be on an upward scale regarding its enduring population.

It is just a very admired tourist destination seeing around ten million tourists through its city every year. The city is a city of contrasts. Also, tourists will find busy thoroughfares and luxuorious prices. On the other hand, it is full of small shady parks, fountains and piazzas. It is full of ancient ruins, famous monuments and fascinating museums. You can enjoy the remains of ancient times, see the fantastic architecture from the rebirth period, enjoy a gastronomical treat inside a traditional Italian restaurant or relax in the gardens of European monarchs.

As a result of huge number of tourists that visit Rome yearly there are a vast number of overnight accommodation options to choose from. From the traditional to the exclusive, visitors can choose the best place that plea to them most. Hotels can be a popular accommodation choice in Rome. They range greatly in price and quality. You can choose to stay in lavishness apartments in romel or easily find a budget hotel often in the area surrounding Termini Station.

Holiday apartments or villas are available to rent. These are an excellent choice for small groups or families while they provide more space and seclusion than the usual hotel. Bed and breakfasts are quickly popular in Rome. In the event you go for this option be prepared that they can simply be a room in some-one's house.
Whenever you think of Rome, Italy you consider a nice romantic getaway. Nevertheless, you that Rome is a beautiful city and also fun place for the entire family. Rome will be the capital of Italy which is the most popular city in the country. Rome is often a city that has excellent weather almost all of the year but the best time of the year is from May from October.

Rome has many of the most beautiful sites in the world. One of the most famous sites is St. Peter's Square as well as the Basilica. St Peter's has great history and it is also very beautiful to view. Another great site to see may be the World Famous Sistine Chapel painted from the one and only Michael Angelo.

There are guided tours that you could take around the city or explore the city on your own. Rome is filled with culture and history; you just can't help but want to take in its beauty. There are plenty of art galleries and museums including the Capitone Museum, the National Gallery of recent Art.

You will never have to worry about navigating around Rome, you can travel with the Rome Metro, the Roman Tram or obtain a car for hire. Once you've spent the day sightseeing, Rome has some terrific shopping areas that you will love. If you are intending a vacation, choose Rome, they've got the best restaurants and the best rome apartments for rent in the world. The beaches are exquisite and the scenery is just breathtaking. Get hold of your travel agent and see how you can get the very best deals.

Rome, for most people can be a vacation of a lifetime. Not only is it an excellent honeymoon destination but it is additionally a great family vacation. Your kids will appreciate the and the beauty of it all. If you have the chance, take a once in a lifetime day at the beautiful city of Rome, Italy. It'll be well worth it.




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Thursday, May 3, 2012

Interesting Aspects Of Folk Art Chimayo New Mexico

By Deena Lawson


Folk art Chimayo New Mexico is so popular that many people aren't even aware of its official name. This is the name given to traditional Navajo Indian textiles and pottery and paintings. This particular city in the American Southwest is the hub for native American art and can be found in museums and art galleries and sold commercially as well.

Historically, this city was the site of a hot spring with healing abilities that the Indians used. After the Spanish conquest brought Christianity, a saintly man by the name of Abeyta had a revelation. He saw a bright light in the foothills and went to find its source. He was prompted to dig in the sand and miraculously unearthed a crucifix.

To commemorate this event, a cathedral was erected where the cross was dug up. To this day many believers from around the world flock to this location seeking healing. Many miracles of healing have been attributed to the clay soil found there.

This art features religious paintings on wood done in primitive style. The hand woven wool blankets in typical Southwest Indian designs are also typical. These blankets can also be used as floor rugs, wall tapestries and other kinds of room decor. Vibrant colors such as earth reds, beige, and black are used in the designs.

This native art style is also typified by clay pottery in both historic and contemporary Navajo designs. The pottery ranges from clay bowls and platters glazed in earth colors to terra cotta figurines. Another feature is handmade wood carvings and bronzes.

folk art chimayo new mexico is particularly unique not only because it offers many beautiful room decor items but because it helps preserve an art form that has existed for generations. It is helping to keep alive the Navajo Indian traditions and sense of identity. Many people also enjoy having these colourful and unique designs in their homes.




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A Chronology Of Adult Science Fiction Books

By Deena Lawson


adult science fiction books have been available since the 1800s. The Golden Age, which occurred between 1938 and 1950, produced notable works that are still popular today. Other trends followed shortly after this era ended, and the genre continues to evolve as technology changes. Today, there are several categories available to avid readers.

There were many works that had science fiction elements, but the genre did not become popular until the mid-1800s, when two authors wrote stories that gained a huge commercial success. One of the novelists composed scientific romances that involved time travel. The other published a book about an alien invasion that relied more on human reaction than technology.

These successful publications inspired other writers who became famous for publishing unusual stories that focused on interplanetary war, alternate realities, colonization, space travel, alien encounters, and humanoid robots. Pulp magazines were created during the Golden Age, as well as novels. This period declined almost twenty years after it had begun, when authors began to seek other publications to publish their work. These periodicals focused mainly on the literary perspective.

The 1960s brought in the New Wave era, which introduced new authors and novels from Europe and the United States. One novelist became well-known after he wrote an intricate and far-reaching book that implicated the eco-system, politics, and religious beliefs of a barren planet. This volume became the first of a set that remains widely read. Other writers have written about sensitive topics such as overpopulation, sexuality, and the apocalypse.

Cyberpunk became popular during the 1980s, as personal computing became a prominent feature in households and business. This genre focused on the underground society of punks, whose goal was to influence the political and cultural landscapes of society. Several authors became famous during this era, when they produced novels that gained wide popularity. Japan produced numerous manga and anime works that were also popular.

Today, adult science fiction books have expanded to include the global aspects of the Internet, biotechnology, plus environmental and political issues. Readers have a wide variety of material to choose from, including the classics that were popular during previous eras. They also have access to sub-genres that involve more fantastical worlds and creatures.




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