The Laboratory Theater of Florida

Theater Offers Classes for Seniors, Spirituality

The winter semester of theater classes at Fort Myers' Laboratory Theater of Florida offers courses geared for theater newcomers, seniors, and those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Intro to Acting with Meisner (Feb. 10–March 17, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.): Sanford Meisner defined acting as living truthfully under imaginary circumstances. In this class you will gain tools to bring a new level of truth to your scene work and auditions through Meisner beginning techniques, such as repetition, doors and activities, and emotional preparation. Whether you've been acting for years or are just beginning your venture onto the stage, this Meisner class will move you to the next level of professionalism. The instructor will be Val White, actor, singer, and songwriter who recently moved back to Southwest Florida after living in Los Angeles for 10 years. During his time in Los Angeles, he studied the Meisner technique at Playhouse West Acting School and Studio under Tracy Aziz-Pelligrino and Mark Pellegrino. White's students can be seen on TV's Mad Men and on Broadway. The fee for this six-week course is $90 per person.

White also will be teaching a yoga class each Sunday, 11 a.m. to noon, starting Feb. 9. Cost is $15 per class or $10 per class if you pay a month in advance.

Acting for Seniors (Feb. 4–March 11, Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.): Now that you have retired, do you wish to find other creative people and try something new? Instructor Nykkie Rizley has taught Acting I and Acting II, and is a private acting and audition coach. Her enthusiasm and energy make this a fun and enlightening class for beginners. Introductory scenes will be selected. No memorization is required. Participants should wear loose clothing, as there is some movement required, based on ability. The fee for this six-week course is $80 per person.

Finding Spirituality in Text and Lyrics (Sundays, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.): Center yourself and refocus your life as a performer by exploring the spirituality that can be found in the performing arts. Whether you are an actor, singer, musician, or audience-member, join us as we benefit from the spiritual message in lyrics such as those from Into The Woods (for example), and texts such as that from Death of a Salesman. Come as often as you like, but please reserve space in advance through [email protected]. All ages are welcome; donations are requested.

February 6, 2014

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