Well, the final class of the course mainly involved more scene delivery – particularly those scenes yet to be attempted or scrutinized in depth – including “The Savages”. The instructor even made my partner and I act out an improv tacked on to the scene. That ended up quite… interesting. More tips and quotes were also dished out towards the end. Summarizing, we were reminded that acting is a process, acting is organic and as actors we really shouldn’t be looking for approval. Most importantly we have to remember to have fun; acting is play!
I was pleasantly surprised to be told at some point by the instructor that I “have a comedian in me.” A classmate surmised it to mean I have a good sense of comedic timing, and agrees. This same friend also mentioned that I “know not to overdo a scene” and was “interesting to watch.” I was especially chuffed by her words since she is already a professional in the field (having had many years experience acting and directing shows), and her committment and acting chops were clearly evident whenever she stepped up to act. I figure she must know what she’s talking about. Thanks, Elena!
I received quite a few encouraging comments from other fellow classmates as well, which makes me seriously consider pursuing this acting thing further. Observing, getting up to act, delivering lines from scenes; the whole experience has been inspiring to say the least! Take a bow fellow classmates: Carlos, Elena, Faye, J*, Naveen, Owen, Ren Ren, Shamir, Sharon, Stefan, Stuart and Winnie. Good luck on your acting careers!
In Ed Hook’s book Acting for Animators (essential for character animators imho) he states that “The talented animator understands acting theory.” He subsribes to Stalinslavsky’s approach to acting; to really “feel something instead of pretending to do so“. I do consider this to have been the spine of the course. Acting is about fleshing out your character, experiencing emotions, being “in the moment” and revealing your humanity before the audience. It’s about keeping it real. With that in mind, I believe I’m in the position now to better appreciate Mr. Hook’s book and refine my approach to (and teaching of) character animation.
I definitely have better respect for acting and (good) actors. The end or my acting adventure? Maybe. Maybe not 
