“Introduction to Acting” Class Three.
On Monday, we looked at subtext again (it was one of the topics covered in the class I missed), were enlightened about the spine of a character, and knowing his/her objective/s in the story and specific scene. This was after we became animals for awhile and did animal things. Amongst the menagerie were quite a few cats, a couple of bears and lionesses, a ground bird and a monkey. I was a peregrine falcon. Obviously. Movies mentioned for acting tips: “On the Waterfront”, “Godfather” and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”.
So far, the main message emphasized throughout the lessons is: “Be observant!” Be aware of your surroundings. Of your feelings. Visualize. Listen. Pretty straightforward and common sense really, but it’s good to be reminded time and again. Unsurprisingly, it’s a vital component in character animation too.
Each of us were given a scene to read as homework and deliver in the next class. We have to take into account the objective the character wants to achieve and the subtext beneath the words. I got a 4-page scene from “Swingers”. At least we don’t have to fully memorize it by Wednesday.
To make it extra challenging, in between attending acting classes I have a 5-day 2d animation workshop to conduct and modules to prepare before the start of the new academic semester. And I thought this break would be R&R time for me! 
