Essex Theatre Company is offering a course in the study and practice of acting taught by James Coleman. The course will investigate the actor’s process in creating dramatic characters while examining considerations of performing onstage before an audience. There are classes for adults and mature teens who want to take a look at the artistic dynamics and technical elements of acting in an approach that is informative and fun. The studio-learning environment will be positive, supportive and safe for working imaginatively. Each class will begin with warm-up exercises and improvisational games for raising spontaneous energy, focusing concentration and creating group cohesion and trust. A variety of approaches to script analysis will be introduced and explored, and students will rehearse dramatic monologues and scenes during class meetings.

The eight-class series will meet weekly on Thursday evenings 6:30 to 8:30 pm, beginning March 3 and continuing through April 21. Class meetings will be at the Lake Champlain Yoga & Wellness Center in Essex. The cost is $80 for the series. Contact Essex Theatre Company at (518) 526-4520 or James Coleman at 917-880-5826 if you are interested in joining the class.

About James Coleman

Following a career as an actor and director, dancer and choreographer, and teacher of drama for adults and children in New York City, James Coleman moved to Whallonsburg, NY. He recently directed the play LOVE AND INFORMATION at the Recovery Lounge in Upper Jay, which played to sold-out audiences in December. He just began teaching an acting class at the Lounge and will be directing plays there in the spring and the fall. He hopes to teach theater classes regularly at ETC and is preparing to direct a series of play reading performances this fall. He plays rock and roll music on his electric tenor ukulele at open mics locally. He tap dances and practices yoga. He is happy to be living in a community where the residents are so committed and curious about the performing arts.