Expert: John T. Aney - 8/27/2010

Question
I always have wanted to be an actor and more specifically do classical works from people like
Chekhov or Shakespeare. The thing is I really would like to be a "classically trained actor"
and I'm just a little curious as to what that really means. What the diffrance between training or technique? Also if you have and recommendations on schools or a conservatory i should look into, or even tips for a classical actor it would be great. Thank you

Answer
A "classically" trained actor is simply an actor who has taken acting courses that explore classical acting techniques.  This could be a class on acting Shakespeare, or Greek theatre, or Chekhov, etc.  This is distinct from an actor that has primarily trained with material from contemporary theatre (last 75 years or so), or an actor that is primarily trained to be a movie actor.

There is quite a bit of difference in technique, even between the different types of classical theatre training.  Shakespearean acting is quite different from acting Chekhov, for instance, and they are both different from, for instance, Restoration Comedy.  A well-trained classical actor can do Shakespeare, Greek Theatre, Restoration Comedy, Chekhov, etc as well as Arthur Miller or David Mamet.

I would recommend you check out some books about acting Shakespeare to get an idea of the difference.  John Barton's Acting Shakespeare is an excellent place to start.

In terms of where to train, most acting schools or conservatories have classical acting programs, so its really a matter of what courses you choose to focus on in your training.  Look around at training schools around the country and see what they specialize.

You didn't mention how old you are, but whatever you do, make sure you go to college first before you decide to join a conservatory.  A good liberal arts education will take you a lot further no matter what you choose to do than a narrow, conservatory training.

And finally - do it for the love of the theatre, and not for the love of fame.  Love the art in yourself, not yourself in art.

jta