Classical Meisner
The Meisner Technique is a practice designed to ground the actor in presence, truth and true active listening. It offers both a strong foundation for those beginning and a place to return for those seeking to deepen their craft. Here, you’ll expand your range, refine your instincts, and unlock the freedom to live truthfully in every moment.
Structure
We begin in simplicity, with the first exercise : word repetition. Two actors standing opposite, engaging in the act of acute observation. Full awareness shifts away from the self and onto the other thereby activating the power of listening. Here we slip into the world of the present moment. A simple observation is made verbally, and word repetition begins. The actors begins to notice not just what is being said, but how it is said through behaviour – the tone, rhythm, energy, and subtext going on beneath the dialogue. These details land, spark impact, and create honest, unforced responses. In this space, impulses emerge naturally, moment to unanticipated moment, and the actor learns to trust them, leading with instinct rather than thought. Nothing is rushed, pushed, or manufactured, and presence becomes a practice.
From this foundation, the work expands into the Second Exercise: Meisner Scene Work or Improvisation. Two actors create and step into imaginary circumstances, rooted in the given relationship, which anchors them to one another and fuels the unfolding of the scene. This connection fosters conflict, tension and subtext – listening deepens; responses flow without hesitation and audiences lean in.
This is the reality of the doing – alive, unplanned, deeply human – it is here that the craft of Meisner becomes the actor’s most powerful tool for both stage and screen.
Meisner Classes are on a workshop basis – Next Intensive TBD
Prices depend on duration
Meisner Scene Study : Crossing Into Character
The Actors bridge between technique and character.
We work with the same structure of Meisner training – connection, listening, need, relationship, stakes, and conflict – but now with a framework of a given script. Actors are paired with scripts specifically chosen for them and their partner. They dive into character, relationship, and circumstance through the lens of Meisner’s improv.
The information gleaned from the script becomes the outline and reference for your tasks, your relationships, and your character’s world, while the work stays alive and instinctive.
We explore different characters/scenes over the duration of the intensive. Scripts and partner pairings are sent in advance so you can prepare deeply and thoroughly.
This advanced intensive is a challenge for the actor in their ability to hone and apply their technique skills and is intended for actors with prior Meisner training. A basic familiarity with the exercises is required to participate.
Meisner Classes are on a workshop basis – Next intensive TBD
Prices depend on duration
Sophia Hirt - Presence Studio 