Directing

This class focuses on engaging with and developing the actors’ relationships to illuminate the text / narrative / story / characters. We will cover investigating the basics of directing; articulating your own directing style; leading the creative rehearsal room; and tools to coach actors. We take a peer-supportive approach wherein we learn to discuss each other’s work, addressing challenges by seeking solutions together. The theoretical work is matched with practical application as students will direct the Advanced Acting class in multiple short scenes with the guidance of the tutor. This is an intensive week and students may receive text work to complete prior to the start of school.

Prerequisite: This is an advanced class designed for older, more experienced students. Applicants should be 16+ and provide a CV of experience or a letter of recommendation.

TUTOR: Villa Junior Lemanu

Villa is a Samoan-New Zealand actor who has appeared in a number of notable New Zealand screen and stage productions. His performance as a young boy living with OCD in the acclaimed short film “My Friend Michael Jones” earned him a Best Actor Award in 2017. More recently Villa starred in television series “Far North” and “Panthers.” He has appeared in feature films “Born to Dance”, “The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith”, and “The Legend of Baron To’a.” His stage credits include “The Wholehearted” and “Rosalina.” Villa is a Bachelor of Dance Studies graduate from the University of Auckland.