Sanford Meisner said that his approach to training “is based on bringing the actor back to his emotional impulses and to acting that is firmly rooted in the instinctive. It is based on the fact that all good acting comes from the heart.”

This April, certified Meisner instructor and Theatre Outré Artistic Director Jay Whitehead offers a week-long Meisner Intensive at Club Didi in Lethbridge, Alberta. Participants will learn the basics of the Meisner technique including repetition exercises, emotional preparation and connecting with scene partners. The fee to participate in the workshop is $300 for the week and does not include travel and accommodations, though efforts to find billeting opportunities for out-of-town participants may be possible upon request.

Here’s what past students have said about their experience:

“Exploring the Meisner technique helped me gain new perspective, not only through my performance work, but in my general day to day life.” – Grayson Ogle, Calgary

“this workshop pushed me to explore many different avenues to tap into emotions onstage – both from within myself and through a scene partner.” – Carolyn Ruether, Calgary

“the exercises Jay taught are the actor version of ‘scales’ and that kind of emotional and creative workout is invaluable to any performer trying to maintain active listening or a sense of vulnerability.” – Michael Rolfe, Calgary

“This course broke me down and built me back up into a better human and a stronger performer”
– Alli Price, Lethbridge

“Jay’s focus and drive gave me actual TOOLS to establish truthful relationships on stage. The Meisner technique works, and Jay’s approach to teaching it is clear, precise, and functional.“
– Peter Sarty, Halifax