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Acting and Improvisation

Mime

Exploring areas of interest that we’ve never had the opportunity—or the time—or the money—or the courage (!) to do—hey, isn’t that what OLLI is all about? Or to say this in different words, by a WAY more famous writer, “We know what we are, but know not what we may be….”
Acting with words and acting without words are surely ways we can realize for ourselves the truth of the Bard’s words. This can be done in the class, ACTING AND IMPROVISATION.
Beverly Shields, who previously taught a similar class during OLLI’s winter session (“with wonderful students”), is returning this fall. She’s a multi-talented performer who has sung and acted since childhood. She has also directed many productions at the secondary school level. Her background includes doing community television for five years and she has had an award-winning career as an impressionist doing Judy Garland!
The class itself, however, Beverly describes as being “gentle.” No one is ever put on the spot or made to feel intimidated. Groups, pairs, or individuals may be doing the exercises, but the bottom line is: “It’s supposed to be fun, or why would you want to be there?”
Beverly would also like to start a company of OLLI actors who would perform at varied functions. This, then, could be a creative and enriching outlet to whatever extent you wish to participate.
There’s a lot to be said for the earlier idea that we need to stretch ourselves and get out of our comfort zones. In this class, you’ll realize it’s NOT too late for your acting or mime ambitions and it’s fun to pursue them. Don’t worry—you won’t have to get ready for any “close-ups”!

Fall 2009 Membership and
Registration Meeting

Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 9:00 AM