FAQs About The Meisner Technique
1.) How is The Meisner Technique Different from other Acting Classes in Denver?
Lea Marlene Actors Studio is the only studio in the state of Colorado that offers the full Meisner Technique Program. This is an industry revered technique that markets such as NY, LA and Chicago respect deeply. We believe that Denver should be on the same level as those markets and talent coming out of here deserve to be just as fully equipped with the tools that have gifted many Meisner trained actors with Academy Awards.
Unlike other acting classes, The Meisner Technique is a very systematic way of developing your skill set as an actor. It trains you to get out of your head and into your heart so that you’re not just good by using some gimmick or trick. Instead you are magnificent because you listen deeply, you know how to read behavior, you know with certainty how to approach a role all the way through the process, from memorization through profound character work. Acting is a craft that deserves to be respected. A good piece of theatre, film or television can change someone’s life for the better forever. We consider the ability to impact someone’s life in that way an honor and a privilege. With that comes an obligation to really dive deep into what it is to be human, the good, the bad and the ugly, your lightness and your darkness and that takes time. Mr. Meisner said it actually takes 20 years but due to his genius he was able to develop this technique which is essentially a series of exercises that span over the course of 18 months. If you are accepted into this program you will enter into the first nine months of the program (the first year) and if you complete that you are eligible to be invited back for the second nine months; AKA the second year of the program. Our intention is that once you graduate you will have the sturdiest foundation into the craft of acting for stage, film or television. This is by far one of the highest level of trainings you could possibly have listed on your resume.
2.) I was advised that I should Audit A Class First. Do you allow audits?
No, we do not allow audits for a couple of very specific reasons: Mr. Meisner set it up that way because if people are allowed to come watch class, psychologically the students in the class feel they must ‘perform’ for the auditors but that is not what class is about. Class is not a show, class is class. If you are always putting on a production then when do you really get to learn the craft, make mistakes, grow and fail forward? You don’t. The second reason people are not allowed to come watch is that you would have no idea what we we’re doing so it wouldn’t help you make a clear choice about the class anyway. This is not an intellectual process this is an experiential process. The only way you will even begin to grasp this powerful technique and the abundant benefits you will receive from it is by actually doing it, not talking about it, not watching it, not even reading about it but actually doing it. With that being said, if you ever want to come see Meisner Technique actors in action, you are more than welcome to attend a graduation scene night, they are very entertaining and a lot of fun but they only happen a couple times per year. If interested in attending a scene night please email or call us for more information.
“Acting is the reality of doing”
Sanford Meisner
3.) Who teaches the classes?
Artistic Director and Founder Lea Marlene
Lea Marlene studied the Meisner Technique for over a decade with two of the finest Meisner certified teachers in the world, Bill Alderson of the Alderson Acting Studio in Hollywood, CA. and John Ruskin of the Ruskin School of Acting in Santa Monica, CA. Bill Alderson was the head of The Acting Department at Mr. Meisner’s Neighborhood Playhouse in NYC for 25 + years before opening his own studio. Mr. John Ruskin was Mr. Meisner’s Apprentice for many years and later received his blessing to open his own studio. At both prestigious schools Lea was invited into their Master Classes. She is grateful to have these two phenomenal master Meisner teachers her mentors. Their continued guidance and loving support of Lea in bringing these transformational teachings to Denver has been a tremendous gift to this state.
As a Substitute Teacher and Apprentice Teacher is Art Razo
Art Razo Graduated from LM Actors Studio- Meisner Technique in the spring of 2016. Art has been an Apprentice since the fall of 2016. He is very insightful, talented and has a lot of wisdom to impart to his students. To learn more about Art please visit our Team Page.
4.) What is the class size?
The maximum number of students accepted into each Meisner Technique class is sixteen.
However, due to the challenging nature of the program most classes end up graduating with 6 -10 students.
5.) How much is tuition for The Meisner Technique and how is tuition paid?
The first and second year of the lessons are each nine months long. You must pay for the first nine months upfront and then the second nine months before you enter second year should you be invited back. The total for each nine-month segment is
$2430. Tuition is due upon the execution of the contract and enables you to secure your place in class. Tuition may be paid by cash, check or credit card.
There is a no refund policy
If you are in need of a payment plan please contact the studio to discuss your options.
6.) I’ve had previous training in the Meisner Technique. Do I have to start from the beginning as well?
Our process is that we will ask you to come in for an interview so that we can evaluate where you are with your training. If you studied with a reputable teacher and your interview goes well it really depends on you. We can then discuss schedules and what may be the best fit for you.
7.) What is the ACTASANA Technique?
The ACTASANA Technique is what Lea Marlene services marked in 2013 and is the launching pad for this entire studio. It is an acting technique that incorporates yoga into the curriculum. This is as a powerful added benefit for you to get you out of your head and into your body, into your heart so you may live truthfully on stage, on camera and in life.
8.) I have never practiced yoga. Do I need previous yoga experience to be accepted into The Meisner Technique?
No, you do not need any previous yoga experience. The yoga that is incorporated is all levels friendly.
9.) Do I have to be An actor to do this?
No, you do not need any previous acting experience. This is a very different way of working and while it is designed for actors we have found that these tools can help people in many areas of their life.
10.) Why do I have to interview for enrollment?
We want to make sure that this is a right fit for you. This also provides a time to answer any questions you may have. We know that every teacher is not for every student and vice versa. We are dedicated to finding and serving those people whom we can help. If you are a student here that means we believe in you, we invest in you and we support your creative growth in the highest and best ways.
