SJP VOICE STUDIO welcomes back Ross Shenker, CSA for an incredible masterclass!
Currently Offering:
Self Tape Technique for Film, TV and Theatre
June 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th
7:00-10pm, Location TBD Manhattan
$350.00
This 4-week course will utilize scripts and sides from contemporary projects for Film, Television, and Theater that were all produced recently. We will examine tools, tips, and tricks for how to think about and craft exquisite self-tapes you can be proud of. In week 1, students will prepare a scene from film, television, or theater that is self-selected in order to familiarize the instructor with each pupil's taste and interests. In weeks 2 and 3, the instructor will select sides for each student to explore in class (1 comic and 1 dramatic). Between the 3rd and 4th classes, students will revisit 1 of these scenes on their own at home. We will then view each other's recorded work at the final class and have a discussion about best practices when it comes to the business of acting.
Enrollment maximum: 12 students
ALL SALES ARE FINAL. THERE ARE NO REFUNDS FOR ABSENCE DUE TO ILLNESS, PROFESSIONAL CONFLICTS, OR FOR ANY OTHER REASON.
About the instructor
Ross Shenker, CSA is a New York based, 3-time Artios Award Nominated Casting Director. He has worked as Associate Casting Director with Kate Geller Casting, Taylor Williams Casting, and Hopkins Ingram Casting. Select film credits include: Bob Trevino Likes It (Roadside Attractions), Idiotka (Utopia), Oh, Hi! (Sony Pictures Classics), Cora Bora (Brainstorm), The Front Room (A24), Omni Loop (Magnolia), Barron's Cove (Mandalay), Cold Wallet (Well Go USA), Drugstore June (Utopia), The Wild (Vertical), Molli & Max In The Future (Level 33), and The Good Half (Utopia). TV: The Artist (The Network), Too Romantic (Madhouse Productions). Theater: The Art Tour @ Theatre Row and Prince F***** at Playwrights/SoHo Rep. He holds a BA in Theater & Jewish Studies from Wesleyan University and an MFA in Performance Studies from the University of Louisville. He also worked at IAG (fka APA) for 3 years in their Comedy & Talent Departments. He has previously taught acting at the University of Louisville, UW-Madison, Actors Connection, One on One, The Brooklyn Center for Theater Research, SJP Voice Studio, Kimball Studios, Stone Street Studios, Adult Film NYC, and has been a guest on multiple podcasts about acting. He is a Certified Teacher with the National Michael Chekhov Association, playwright, translator/adaptor of Anton Chekhov, classically trained pianist, director, music director, and filmmaker.
Previously offered classes:
CHEKHOV ON CHEKHOV: Applications of the Michael Chekhov Acting Technique towards Anton Chekhov Scene Study
In this 4-week course, students will learn the fundamentals of the Michael Chekhov Technique and directly apply them towards scenes from contemporary plays/films/tv series. We will explore bedrock principles such as Psychological Gesture, Qualities of Movement, Radiating/Receiving, Characterization, Focal Points, Atmosphere, and many other tools on Chekhov’s “Chart of Inspired Acting.” There will also be a section on applying the technique to acting for the camera and self-taping specifically.
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What People Are Saying
“Ross is a fantastic instructor with a deep understanding of the technique. He was able to create a true introductory experience into Michael Chekhov’s work with limited time, and the progression of the course felt perfectly paced. He supports a wonderful environment of creativity and risk-taking, and shares great insights about the industry during breaks and in between exercises. This is probably one of my favorite acting classes I have ever taken outside of college! Also, thanks to his work as a Casting Director, Ross identified a role I could be right for on a major TV series and called me in for it. I wound up booking the job! “
— Mishka Yarovoy
“If you are an actor looking to get out of your head and into your body, look no further. Ross cultivates a room that encourages bold expression and curiosity (it’s also a great workout - be prepared to sweat a bit!). Highly recommend exploring the work of Michael Chekhov with Ross.”
— Max Samuels
"This workshop was an incredible introduction to the Michael Chekhov Technique and a wonderful reminder of the physical, playful essence of our work as actors. I left with an arsenal of new tools to help unlock my imagination, explore characters more deeply and connect to their emotional truth. I felt a profound sense of connection to my body and the present moment - both invaluable to an actor!"
— Marina Gasparyan
"Ross's class was one of the most fulfilling artistic experiences of my life. It was a joy to bond with a group of stellar actors under his down to earth yet in-depth guidance. It was a workout for the mind and body. I walked out of every class on a high. It was validating and educational in a way beyond what most acting classes can achieve."
— Joshua Matteo
"Ross is a knowledgeable teacher whose passion for Michael Chekhov technique is infectious! He treats each student with care and creates an environment where they are challenged to step into unknown territory."
— Rebecca Gever
"Ross Shenker’s approach to Michael Chekhov is a whirlwind of focused activities and exercises that keep you on your toes. It’s sort of like going to an acting gym, as there’s a variety of ways presented to stretch yourself as an actor. This has to be one of the finest examples of learning from watching others work and it’s done with great efficiency. Highly recommend it."
— Taylor Petracek
"Ross is as prepared and knowledgeable on this work as you can get. The workshop feels very intentional, driven, and curated along with tons of room for discussion and exploration. You are in expert hands with Ross, who is curious, playful, and direct. I felt very free to explore the technique with no judgment."