The Physical Actor

Course Description:
Great storytellers use more than words—they bring characters to life through movement, posture, and presence. What makes actors like Charlie Chaplin, Bill Erwin, and Kate McKinnon so captivating? Their characters don’t just speak; they move with purpose, inhabiting every action. In scripted theater and improv, words matter, but true mastery comes from full-body storytelling.

This course explores how to embody a character from head to toe. Through physical exercises, character development, and core principles of physical comedy, we’ll enhance awareness of how movement shapes perception and storytelling. We’ll study the history of physical comedy, what makes something funny, and how to build expressive characters. Students will also learn slapstick fundamentals, comedic timing, and stage combat—all with an emphasis on safety. Whether you’re an improv artist or a scripted actor, this course will equip you with tools to create dynamic, memorable performances.

Who is this course for:

This course is designed for performers who want to enhance their physical expressiveness and comedic storytelling. Regardless of your performance type or specialty, this class will provide tools to develop characters that are fully embodied and engaging. While prior experience in acting, improv, or performance is recommended, enthusiasm and a willingness to explore outside your comfort zone are essential. If you’re ready to push your physical presence to the next level and embrace the joy of movement-driven storytelling, this course is for you.

Course Requirements:

• Enthusiasm & Energy: Be ready to move, experiment, and commit to the process.

• Performance Experience: Some background in acting, improv, or storytelling is recommended.

• Openness to Challenge: Expect to push beyond comfort zones and embrace both successes and failures.

• Physical Contact Awareness: Some exercises involve partner work and physical interaction, with clear guidelines on consent and boundaries.

• Attendance & Commitment: Each class builds on the last, so consistent participation is key.

• Adaptability: The course is physically active, but all exercises can be modified to accommodate different abilities.

We recommend the use of knee pads for this course.  If you do not have knee pads, here are a couple of options.
Knee Pads
or
Knee Pads