Scene Study

Starts November 23, 2026
Mondays
4 classes: November 23 and 30; December 7 and 14
Mondays, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Final presentation: Date and location TBD

Location:
Waterloo-Kitchener United Mennonite Church (WKUM), 15 George Street, Waterloo. Entrance and parking are off Allen Street.

SCENE STUDY - FROM REHEARSAL TO PERFORMANCE

This focused four-week course gives actors the time and individual attention to investigate a scene in depth. Working with a scene partner, each actor will receive detailed coaching through the full rehearsal process, from the first reading of the text to a clear, connected, performance-ready scene.

The emphasis is on making specific, playable choices while remaining responsive and alive with a partner. Students will rehearse between classes, return to the material each week, and develop the confidence to let the scene deepen rather than fixing a performance too early.

Students will work on:

- understanding the given circumstances and dramatic situation
- identifying objectives, actions, obstacles, and shifts in the scene
- listening and responding truthfully to a scene partner
- building the relationship and emotional life of the scene
- making clear physical and vocal choices
- using rehearsal discoveries without losing spontaneity
- preparing the scene for a final presentation

The course culminates in a final presentation, with the exact date and location to be announced.

This class is suited to actors who want sustained, practical coaching and the experience of carrying one scene through a complete rehearsal process.

INSTRUCTOR

The course is led by Paul Hopkins, an actor, director, and teacher with more than 30 years of professional experience in theatre, film, and television. His coaching combines practical script work, attention to the actor-partner relationship, and a supportive process that helps actors become more specific, connected, and confident.