SYLLABUS                                                               

 

ACTING FOR TV/FILM -- THEATRE ARTS 007A /B/C (3 units)

   

 

 Tuesday 7:00 - 10:00 pm James Callner MA

 

Office Hours: - Please check with Instructor per semester.  Hours also posted in Fine Arts Division Office      

Office phone 741-2456 Rm TA 28

Email: james_callner@wvm.edu

Texts:                  Acting for the Camera  -- Barr - (recommended)

(Note: Text may change per semester .See Instructor at first meeting)

 

Course Description:

 

This course examines the technique of acting before a camera.  It includes development of individual potential, introduction to acting techniques, and taking new risks.  Confidence, esteem building, and overcoming the intimidation of the camera lens are crucial aspects of this class.  The course also includes introduction to "behind the scenes" activities including camera operation, control room activities, and acting as personnel in the TV studio.

 

Content Covered:                                       

 

  • Introduction to TV studio 
  • To learn "who's who" and the language of TV and film, personnel and equipment
  • Differences between stage and TV Acting
  • To learn new working environment, the medium of the TV/film acting. e.g. close-up, overplaying vs. underplaying, and
  • How to play to a TV/Film audience..

 

*  Techniques and style                           

*  To learn various techniques including direct to-camera

E.g., when and how much to use expression;

And development of a TV personality

 

*  Assignments:      

* Depending on Class size and time, 2-3 or more of the following: PSA's, Scenes, Monologues, Improv's, Stand up comedy etc...

 

Grading:

All assignments will be graded on overall performance.  The key to getting a good grade in this course is daily participation (both attendance and active involvement), completing the assignments on time, and a willingness to participate in all television production activities, and a discipline to take direction.

 

All Assignments will be graded on an equal percentage basis. No extra Credit in this Class.

 

Credit/No Credit Option.  

 

Note: Students are responsible for dropping the class. The instructor will not drop you.                                                                                                                                             

 

*It is important to keep a notebook in this course.  TV/film is a fast paced medium.  Information will come quickly with little time for repetition.  Also, rehearsal and preparation for any given assignment is part of your evaluation and grade.

 

 

Disability Statement  

 

West Valley College makes reasonable accommodations for persons with documented disabilities.  Students should notify DESP (Disability & Educational Support Program) located in the Learning Services building (408-741-5085) of any special needs.

 

Student Attendance Policy  (from the WVC Catalog, p. 181)

 

Students are expected to attend all sessions of each class.  Instructors may drop students from the class if they fail to attend the first class meeting, or when accumulated unexcused hours of absences exceed ten percent of the total number of hours the class meets during the semester.  Moreover, an instructor may drop from the class any student who fails to attend at least one class session during the first three weeks of instruction.