An alternative model for actor training

I believe that we all learn best from doing and that the best place to learn to be an actor is in a working theatre.

My proposed model for training took place not tucked away in the college, conservatory or studio, but in an actual theatre.

It is here that they will learn the reality of making theatre.

Obviously there would be rigorous auditions but the best would be accepted and very soon, they would be performing alongside professional actors in small roles as they underwent an old-style apprenticeship.

Training institutions are safe, training theatres are false, but having to work from Day 1. That’s actually the real test.

Students would still have classes, but they’d also attend rehearsals, benefit from contact with visiting companies and artists and in final year productions. They’d be paid for their work and treated as professionals, with something solid on the CV and a chance for agents and casting directors to see real performances as part of real productions.

The theatre would gain increased revenue and decrease their costs, of course union deals may well be required but there would be ways of working it out.

Students would work box office, and get to appreciate more than just the rehearsal room and the theatre.

The first year would be mainly skills training, with small studio shows. The second year would be minor to medium roles in productions and the final year a combination of big roles in small productions, casting in major productions, opportunities outside the theatre, film, tv and radio training and preparing for showcasing.

How could all this be pushed into a year? Easily, by taking out the wasteful crap thats currently taught, focusing on practicable technique and expert skills training.

Imagine that – professionally trained actors, trained for the profession in a professional theatre.