About the Workshop
Sixty artists are invited to take part in an intensive workshop that includes hard,
physical work, theoretical research, and the generation and performance of new work
by each participant. The program’s objective is to develop courageous theater artists
who are able to integrate into their work new influences from many disciplines. The
curriculum is designed for pre-professional and professional artists. All classes
are taught in English. If English is not your first language, and you have questions
or concerns, please contact the workshop office.
Five days a week, the morning classes consist of Viewpoints and the Suzuki Method
of Actor Training. Afternoon classes alternate between Composition class and additional
aspects of creation and performance which may include Speaking in Practice, Movement,
Design and Dramaturgy, or Playwriting. Major theories from art forms such as music,
painting, and architecture are applied to the creation of new work for the stage.
This work involves cross disciplinary cooperation and the application of new ideas
and approaches. Each participant is expected to generate and perform in compositions.
The remainder of the evenings and weekends are spent in rehearsals, symposia, or specially
arranged classes with guest artists. Participants are expected to attend all classes
and be available for weekend rehearsals on campus. SITI’s training is physically challenging.
Applicants should come in good health and prepared to work hard. Those with questions
or concerns regarding participation should contact the workshop office and their own
physician.
The Suzuki Method is a rigorous, physical, and vocal discipline for actors created by internationally
acclaimed director Tadashi Suzuki and his company. Drawing on such diverse influences
as ballet, traditional Japanese and Greek theater and martial arts, the training seeks
to heighten the actor’s emotional and physical power and commitment to each moment
on the stage. Attention is on the lower body and a vocabulary of footwork, sharpening
the actor’s breath control and concentration.
Viewpoints is a technique of improvisation that grew out of the post-modern dance world and
was first articulated by choreographer Mary Overlie. She broke down the two dominant
issues with which performers deal - time and space - into six categories; hence, the
name Six Viewpoints. Since that time,Artistic Director Anne Bogart and SITI have expanded
her notions and adapted Viewpoints as a basis for actor training. Viewpoints allows
a group of actors to function together spontaneously and intuitively and to quickly
generate bold theatrical work. It develops flexibility, articulation, strength in
movement and speaking, and makes ensemble playing a reality.
The Setting
Skidmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college known for outstanding
academics, a rich cocurricular life, and challenging and caring faculty mentors. It
is a place where creative thought matters, as evidenced by its more than 60 majors;
its arts-infused, interdisciplinary focus; and the fact that half of the College’s
2,400 undergraduates carry two majors or at least one minor with a major. Workshop
classes are held in the Janet Kinghorn Bernhard Theater on campus. Program participants
who choose to live on Skidmore’s campus will be housed in one of the College’s residence
halls. Dormitory rooms are spacious and feature free Internet access and cable television.
The renovated dining hall offers a broad array of freshly made items, including ample
vegetarian options. Participants will have access to the College’s Scribner Library
and recreational options, including swimming pool, weight and fitness rooms, lighted
tennis courts, track, North Woods hiking trails and the Tang Teaching Museum and Art
Gallery.
