Speech Arts includes: story-telling, spoken word, performance poetry, and public speaking. It is the art of communicating effectively using voice and body, with authenticity, expression, and confidence.
Drama (in this context) is becoming a character who is telling a story. The story always involves some kind of conflict, small or large; with themselves, others, or the world around them. Drama as a performance art includes: monologues and scenes from plays and films, improvisation, and mime. It requires using the body and voice to create a character and tell a story --alone or with others-- with authenticity, expression and confidence.
Since the basis of both Speech Arts & Drama is communication using the voice and body, it develops many important skills for life. It is a useful endeavour for anyone who wants to communicate well. It is also excellent for the aspirating actor as it gives them a chance to focus on solo acting skills.
Speech Arts & Drama
Classes
I currently teach speech arts and drama at "The Young Actor's Conservatory", a program at Nanaimo Young People's Theatre (a registered charity)
The YAC is a performance-orientated program focused on voice and movement for the stage and screen, working with text and scripts. We use the curricula of both the Royal Conservatory of Music (Canada; Speech Arts & Drama) as well as the National Performing Arts Alliance (UK; Acting, Screen Acting, Television Reporting). As well as training the young actor/speaker, we like to encourage student goal-setting by preparing students for showcases, exams, and festivals.
Classes are divided by school grade and reading level --NOT by previous acting experience.)
Primary Level (Ages 8-10) - Fridays, 4 pm-5 pm
Junior Level (Ages 10-12) - Fridays, 5 pm - 6 pm
Intermediate Level (Teens) - Mondays, 5:45 pm - 7 pm
Registration for the above classes is available on the Nanaimo Young People's Theatre website.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are available for students of any age who wish to explore the speaking voice in the context of live (and/or on-camera) performance. Festival, exam, and audition preparation available upon request.
Lessons take place at my home in the north end of Nanaimo at a mutually-agreed upon time between teacher and student.
Private lessons are available as either:
(1) $30 each per half-hour (including trial lessons)
(2) Package of 4 half-hour lessons for $100.
Contact Zoe for more information, or call (647)667-0182.
