It’s been almost a year since life shifted. It has taken a great deal of work, in very personal ways, with loving and fortifying support from professionals, friends, a few colleagues and some wonderful people I consider family, to find solid footing again. And, the journey continues…
I am not unaware that many people were affected by the events of last summer and for that I apologize. Oddly enough it was the catalyst that sent me on a journey, as dark as it was at times, to finding joy again: in myself, in those around me and in my work. It felt as if I had lost myself and the things I held most dear for about 4 years.
I certainly don’t know everything, I am imperfect, I am a human being, I trip and fall and I get up, learn and do better-because that’s what we do. That is the resiliency of the human spirit.
I am also a perfectionist, I have a high bar for myself, for the theatre I see or create and for my students. As an actor and director I want to give the audience an experience that will move them, that will take them away; one they will remember longer than it takes for them to walk to their car. As a teacher I want my students to be ready for the opportunities that come their way.
The class I offer, Scene Study and Rehearsal Technique, is about the student finding agency in their individual process.
By encouraging them to work off of instinct with honesty, integrity and immediacy, by exploring as many options as possible before honing in on the ones that work best, and by attacking the text with visceral intent, the students find within themselves a sense of confidence and ownership of the craft.
They become or reveal a compelling artist. They also must be able to throw out everything they have rehearsed and simply work off of their scene partner; make big bold choices and activate one another.
My feedback is truthful and respectful. Students who train with me are wanting direct and frank feedback. There is no agenda in this class other than to bring out the best in each student. I believe one of the most beautiful things that happens in class is the the students raise their own bar by being inspired by what their classmates are doing.
This is not a class for everybody and that’s alright. There are many fine teachers in Portland, find one.
Training is how an actor acquires the skills to earn and learn a role. It’s how one works toward the opportunity and privilege to be on a stage where an audience has expectations of excellence.
The contemporary rehearsal process does not allow the time to learn the craft. In rehearsal you do what you know. Acting training, for the serious actor, implies a consistent, rigorous commitment, akin to athletic training, which often includes consequences for not meeting professional standards.
It is an ongoing pursuit even for professionals to refine their craft and stay relevant.
Please reach out to me if you’re interested in taking a class (or private coaching) that will provide community, challenge you, inspire you and give you the agency to be the best actor you can be.
michael@mvmendelson.com
More posts to come…
