Text Analysis Class

What it is?

A text analysis class is just one of many different types of acting classes that exist. This one will help the actors develop a process to better understand a piece of text that they have been assigned to perform. They turn their attention to the text in an attempt to break it down so that they may deliver a more believable performance of their character. The process of deconstructing text is done in order to understand it in its dramatic context, which may traditionally be simply broken down into:

WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, and WHY?

Answering these questions, the actor can figure out whether or not he is 23 or 83, whether the scene is situated in Victorian England or modern America. This is just one example of the way a text analysis class may approach a piece of writing. There is no one standard formal process, often actors learn skills in text analysis class and team that with their common sense and even guess work to guide them through the task of breaking down their text.

Text analysis classes usually cover all kinds of writing styles (poetry, prose etc) and many different playwrights Pinter, Shakespeare, Chekhov and so on. All in an attempt to better prepare an actor for whatever role he may be asked to perform.

What the benefits are and why it is necessary?

Stanislavski believed that there were as many layers in speech as there are layers in a painting, therefore a better understanding of the words you are saying (and words you are not saying) will lead to a more multi-dimensional performance. You will also be able to break your text down into what is referred to as ‘beats’ and be able to tell from the words what your character’s actions and objectives are. It is necessary for an actor to take part in a text class so that they can continue to grow their ability to look at a piece of text and be able to make sense of it for performance. These skills will get better the more they are worked upon and will add great value to an actor’s skill set.

Stella Adler’s book is one of my favorite explanations that gives insight into what a text analysis class is like and that speaks in depth about how to break down a character role.

a. The Benefits Of Studying Acting
b. Research the different acting techniques and methods that exist.
c. 23 Different Types Of Acting Classes
d. The Acting Classes You Should To Take First
f. About Choosing An Acting School!
g. The ActingCareerStartUp.com Acting School Directory
h. How Do You Know If You Are In The Right Acting Class For You?

Break a leg!

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