Acting Basics: Character & Scene Exploration
In this 6-week online course, learners will dive into the fundamentals of acting while exploring the world of character development and scene analysis.
What's included
12 live meetings
12 in-class hoursAssignments
1 hour per week. Learners will be provided with scripts and expected to read through and eventually memorize them.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
Beginner - Intermediate Level
In this 6-week course, students will learn the essential building blocks of acting, focusing on character development, scene analysis, and performance techniques. Through hands-on activities, students will discover how to create believable characters, break down scenes, and deliver authentic performances. What topics will you cover? Character Development: Creating detailed character profiles, understanding objectives and motivations, and bringing characters to life through physicality and voice. Scene Analysis: Breaking down scenes to understand objectives, conflicts, relationships, and tactics. Performance Skills: Developing vocal and physical expressiveness, blocking and staging, and refining scenes for performance. How is your class structured? This class is organized into two lessons per week, each focusing on different aspects of acting. The first lesson of the week introduces new concepts and techniques, while the second lesson builds on those skills through practical exercises and scene work. The course culminates in a final showcase where students perform a polished scene with a partner. How will you teach? I use a dynamic, student-centered approach that combines short lectures, visual aids, and interactive exercises. Each lesson includes warm-ups, group discussions, games, and partner activities that allow students to apply what they’ve learned. We’ll also watch video clips of famous scenes to analyze acting techniques in action. What's your teaching style? My teaching style is engaging, supportive, and focused on exploration. I encourage students to take creative risks while providing clear guidance and constructive feedback. Lessons are designed to be interactive and fun, with an emphasis on helping each student find their unique voice as an actor. How much will learners get to interact with you? Students will have plenty of opportunities to interact with me and their peers throughout the course. Here’s what they can expect: Lectures & Demonstrations: Short, focused presentations with examples. Games & Exercises: Creative activities to explore new concepts in a playful way. Slides & Video Clips: Visual aids to reinforce learning. Discussions & Group Feedback: Open forums for sharing thoughts, ideas, and constructive critiques. Partner Work & Rehearsals: Regular scene practice with one-on-one guidance from me. By the end of this course, students will have a solid foundation in acting and will have grown in confidence, creativity, and communication skills.
Learning Goals
Develop Character Building Skills: Learners will learn how to create believable and engaging characters by exploring different traits, motivations, and emotions, allowing them to bring their roles to life with authenticity.
Enhance Scene Analysis Abilities: Learners will understand how to break down a scene, identifying key elements like objectives, conflicts, and relationships, and how these drive the characters’ actions and decisions.
Syllabus
12 Lessons
over 6 WeeksLesson 1:
What is Acting?
Introduction and the basics of acting
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Understanding Character Development
How to build believable characters from the ground up.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Body Language & Movement
How to use body language and movement to express their characters.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Facial Expressions & Emotion Work
How to use facial expressions to convey emotion and character.
60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am an arts educator by education and trade. I hold a Masters of Arts in Theatre, Performance & Practice as well as a Masters of Education. I am also a professional actor and have worked in New York City and Chicago. Additionally, I have trained at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$20
weekly or $120 for 12 classes2x per week, 6 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
2-10 learners per class