teaching
Pat has taught theatre classes for K - grade 12 in the public school system, and was part of the team that helped the Ministry of Education to develop assessment materials for the drama and dance exemplars in their current curriculum policy. She has worked for over a decade as both a teacher and supervisor with the wonderful Arts Express program, which delivers noon-time and after-school drama classes to schools throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Giving children and teens the chance to express themselves through drama, to explore the theory and practical skills associated with acting and show production, and to engage in critical thinking and collaborative learning top the list of why Pat loves teaching theatre.
In the past few years, Pat has focused her attention on teaching adults, and specifically seniors, and has been busy as a workshop presenter at various theatre conferences. Presentations have engaged participants in Kingston, Ottawa, Baltimore, Albuquerque, New York City, New Orleans, and most recently, Atlantic City. Descriptions of some of the unique workshops for adults follow; all are available for booking – just enquire!
No More ‘Talking Heads’!
We tend to rely too much on text when we act, often forgetting that bodies are attached to our characters’ heads ... and can help tell their stories. Discovering and learning to trust our ability to communicate through bodily or expressive movement is the first step; let’s take it together in this workshop! Hands-on activities and collaborative exercises help participants prepare to make specific physical choices for their characters so they can really bring them to life on stage through these choices.
Playing Melodrama
The primary theatrical form of the 19th century is currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity. And for good reason – it’s very theatrical and fun to play! Come learn what melodrama is, where it came from, and explore some of the conventions and skills needed for playing on stage in the world of dastardly villains, noble heroes, and damsels in distress.
Breath is the Source: Breathing and Breath Control for the Actor
Breath is the source of all the actor’s energies, vocal and physical. The most common cause of inaudibility is running out of breath. Breath supports the voice; we all want to speak with a good, supported tone. We’ll demystify diaphragm and rib-reserve breathing, learn exercises to strengthen and tune the breathing apparatus, and explore phrasing and breath control. Be prepared for enhanced performance!
Psychological Gesture: What is it? What can it do for you?
Michael Chekhov’s Psychological Gesture is one of the best-kept actor’s secrets around! Used by people such as Anthony Hopkins, Jack Nicholson, and Johnny Depp, it’s a technique designed to get the actor instantly into character. Come find out how to put this powerful tool to work for you.
Working with Props
Props are the design details in the overall concept of a play. They help support the actor in characterization and bring the onstage world to life. Focusing mainly on hand props, we’ll explore how to manage such things as bottles, briefcases, teacups, and telephones … co-ordinating their use with the rhythm and meaning of the text, as well as the exact timing and movement required by the director. It’s a challenge, but one we can handle!
Using Your Acting Skills as a Professional Role-Player
Actors are being used as role-players or simulators by the police department, the justice system, in the corporate and commercial sector, the medical and legal professions, and more. They turn theory into practice for learners. Find out what is involved in using your theatre skills as a simulator, try your hand at some scripted scenarios, and explore if experience in this powerful learning environment is a good fit for you.
Going Modern by Going Ancient: Acting Lessons from the Theatre of Classical Greece
Thespis is said to have stepped out of the Greek chorus – a second character! – and the first actor, paving the way for theatre as we know it today. Studying various aspects of ancient Greek theatre offers valuable lessons for today’s performer. Participants will focus on exploring mask work as it applies to the importance of movement intelligence, and the role of the chorus as a voyage into the collective energy and ‘tuning in’ which is the backbone of theatrical excellence.