About Arlene Schulman Expertise I have been a director, dramaturg, actor and acting coach for over twenty-five years and am happy to share my expertise in learning to act, character development, taking direction, acting styles and techniques, auditioning techniques, how to choose an audition monologue or song (but NOT specific audition songs or monologues), learning lines, script analysis, acting in musicals, dramas, comedies, farces, mysteries and even new plays in their first productions.
I am NOT a voice teacher or vocal coach. My expertise is in acting and directing, not in singing. I can not advise you on specific audition songs, vocal exercises, how to stretch your range or on solving vocal problems. For that you need an expert on singing and vocal work. And there is at least one very good one on this list.
Experience I have been a director, dramaturg, actor and acting coach in the NYC/NJ area for over twenty-four years. I have directed dramas, comedies, musicals, mysteries, thrillers and farces as well as directing original plays in staged readings, workshops, showcases and world premieres. I have worked with all level of actors from amateurs to Equity, from children to seniors.
Organizations Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers - associate member Literary Managers & Dramaturgs of America - associate member Shakespeare Association of America The Shakespeare Instititute - MA candidate - "Shakespeare & Theatre"
Expert: Arlene Schulman Date: 4/17/2008 Subject: determined to follow my dreams but chck out my situation(university ideah anyone?)
Question hi, I'm looking for a university, i want to get a degree in my dream career acting and i want to know if you have any suggestions...and him from the Turks and Caicos and the government do not give scholarships for acting do you think that its a good idea to minor in acting while i study a business subject ( but if i study a business sub. ill have to work in government in the T.C.I and i really don't want to because i want to get into my acting career)thanks in advance!
Answer Hi Diandra,
I am not familiar with any university programs in the Turks and Caicos, so I really can't be of any help if that's what you are looking for.
As for majoring in business and minoring in theatre, or, better yet, double majoring in busness and theatre... I highly recommend it. Even with the most talented actor, it can take years (or more) before you can actually earn a living by acting alone. Almost every actor I know works at a day job in order to support themselves while they pursue their dream. And a double major gives you the tools to do that. Even my daughter double majored in theatre and psychology, and now not only has her Equity card, but also has gotten an MA in Child Development and has two careers she can count on.
I can't comment on T.C.I's rules about working in the government or about their scholarship requirements, but double majoring is a good idea and there are other places to apply for scholarships than the government.
There are hundreds of good University theatre training programs in the US, though, if you are interested in looking beyond your borders. While I can't personally know the programs and advantages of all of them, I can recommend an excellent resources where you can find out exactly the kind of information you are looking for.
Check out the Directory of Theatre Training Programs. This is a wonderful book that is updated every year, and lists over 500 College, University and Conservatory theatre training programs all over the US and beyond. They are listed state by state, and each listing includes the location, size, programs, faculty, facilities, entrance and financial requirements, and more. It also includes several articles on how to chose the best program for YOU. I highly recommend it. You can find and buy the Directory online at http://theatredirectories.com/training.html
I wish you lots of luck in your search for the right program, Diandra.
