Esper vs Atlantic

[jomama]

I've narrowed down the acting schools to these two.
Have ya'll have positive/negative experiences?
What types of techniques to both places teach.
I do know that both of them are not into auditing,
so I haven't been able to sit in.

Any help is appreciated.
Thanks!
Jodi

www.esperstudio.com
www.atlantictheater.org

 

[mswarner]

Hey Jodi,

I can't speak about The Atlantic, but I studied with Bill Esper at Rutgers and can vouch for him, His wife Suzanne, and Karen Chamberlain as great acting teachers. It's pure Meisner training-Bill Esper is the leading teacher of the technique alive. I'm not sure what The Atlantic's training is like, but I really grew by studying with those guys.

Also, one of the tenets of that technique is improvising within the constructs of a scene. In my personal experience that has helped both my improv work and my "straight" acting.

Hope this helps.

Michael

 

[Ute Giddeon]

Pick up A Practical Handbook for the Actor. Evey actor should study it, and it will give you a sense of what they teach at Atlantic.

 

[Eason]

Karen Kolhass's Monologue Book actually gives a clearer idea Practical Aesthetics.

The Atlantic part-time program is good but it's restricted to script analysis and scene study -- i.e. no voice or movement work.

 

[TheGreatZamino]

I was interested in the Atlantic part-time program as well, but I opted to take two or three classes at the UCB and the PIT instead. However, I'm also keen to learn more about the schools.

A little off-topic: Do any of you think dramatic acting classes are essential to becoming a better improviser/comedic actor?

 

[alden]

I don't know much about either school first-hand, but I worked with Karen Chamberlain in college and I think she's aces. And I've heard nothing but good things about The Esper Studio.

 

[DasGoot]

I've asked a few improvisers I respect and they've all recommended Atlantic.

I'm actually thinking of taking part time classes there this Summer if you want to go it together, Jodi.