Meisner vs. Other Acting Techniques for Improvisers?

[Minderbinder]

I want to take some non-improv acting classes and I've been doing research on the web and on this forum for what I should study.

I hear a lot of good things about Meisner technique (the Artistic Home and the Black Box studio have been recommended) and I've also heard good things about the Actor's Studio which I believe has a more traditional approach to acting (or at least a non-Meisner approach).

Does it make a big difference what technique I study? I want the classes to help me become a better improviser and also a better actor when it comes to scripted stuff.

Do the different techniques produce different types of actors? Is one better than the other?

[kris]

I'm not familiar with the Actor's Studio, but I have trained in the Meisner technique (at the Sanford Meisner Center) and also at the Artistic Home.

Artistic Home is great. I worked with Kathy and Mike and they were both terrific teachers. It's not really pure Meisner technique though. (The traditional Meisner program takes two years and is a bit different)

Artistic Home is a Meisner-based program, but they definitely put their own spin on the work. Kathy worked a lot with Marilyn Fox at the Pacific Resident Theatre, who is another great teacher. Kathy's class is very intense, very challenging, and highly recommended. It's not for everybody, though. And it's much tougher than any improv class I've ever had.

PeteFitz on this board is associated with them---he can tell you more about it. Also, Pete, I don't think I ever got to tell you, but you were fantastic in Natural Affection a few years back.

There's really no "best" when it comes to acting styles. Over time, you'll develop what works for you as an individual. That said, Meisner is one of the good ones.

What I like about the Meisner technique is that it really focuses on being vulnerable, listening, being truthful, and using your imagination.

[greenshirtstudio]

Hi. My name is Andrew and I'm one of the co-founders of Green Shirt Studio a training center specializing in the Meisner Approach. You can find out more about our background/credentials and classes here: www.greenshirtstudio.com

Without going into it too much, Meisner work is improvisational in nature so it's a natural match for improvisers looking to get better at acting.

If you're interested in learning more about us or Meisner work, we have a free workshop coming up on Saturday, January 2nd that has a few spots left in it. It might be a good way for you to see what the work is like and what we're like as teachers.

You can sign up by calling 773.944.0611 or emailing us at signup@greenshirtstudio.com

[Minderbinder]

Thanks Kris, very helpful!