Teaching Statement:
“An actor is like a falcon on a training tether. You will find your freedom to fly once you understand the tether, which consists of 1) your connection to the other actor and 2) the mechanics of the scene.
“So my classes are all weighted toward scene dynamics. In other words, I try to cultivate a classroom atmosphere that resembles that of a professional rehearsal room or film set, and I discuss the same concepts that a director would (I’ve worked with many great directors). What’s the conflict in the scene? What‘s your goal, what’s your reason for that goal, what’s your obstacle? When does the dynamic shift, creating sub-scenes called ‘beats.’ Why is the scene a great story? Why is it funny? Why is it moving?
“I also like to study the works of great actors and learn from them. We watch scenes together as a class, then I will ask, ‘what great choices jump out at you in this scene?’ I want my students to leave every class feeling stronger and more inspired to act.”
Bio:
Frederick Weller is probably best known for his role as Marshall Mann in the hit USA Network series In Plain Sight, which ran five seasons from 2007-2012. His many other film and T.V. credits include Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman, Steven Soderbergh’s Mosaic (HBO) and the mini-series The Beach Boys: An American Family. His extensive theater work includes eight principal roles on Broadway and twelve Off-Broadway, an Ensemble Obie Award, an Ensemble Drama Desk Award, two Drama Desk nominations and two Lucille Lortel
nominations.
