The Meisner Acting Intensives 2008
Current class is full and in progress.
Next class planned for Fall 2008.

LEARN acting in a supportive and healthy atmosphere...

DEVELOP your truest self on stage and in life through this powerful, non-intellectual approach to performance...

DISCOVER how spontaneous, grounded, and emotionally alive you can be!

Wednesdays from 7-10 PM and
Sundays from 6-9 PM


Instructor: J. Chachula

What is it?
A twelve-week program of acting training based on the work of Sanford Meisner and Larry Silverberg. Students are taken step by step through a unique, improvisational exercise that trains them to be thoroughly and truthfully responsive, emotionally alive and grounded in deep, personal meaning, and passionately engaged in action. Make no mistake: students are not simply told what's missing in their work, they are guided through the work. It is absolutely practicable: a technique designed to keep you out of your head on stage.

What are the classes like?
The atmosphere is fun, supportive, and healthy. You can also expect to be surrounded by other committed students, since I'll be doing everything I can to ensure the integrity of the group. Class size will be limited in order for each student to participate fully. If you've taken classes from Flying Machine in the past, you're already familiar with our teaching style. We are sensitive, caring, goofy people dedicated to adding something wonderful to the world. The Meisner classes are fun but intense. You can expect the experience to be thrilling and frustrating and liberating and scary. It's one of those experiences that defy labeling.

What kind of time commitment is required?
There are two three-hour clases per week. In addition, students will be required to work with partners outside of class two or three times per week.

When does it start?
TBA

What's the application procedure? Do I have to audition?
There is no audition. There is a simple registration form to fill out and an interview, which can be done over the phone. You can also obtain a registration form by emailing J. Chachula at j@theflyingmachine.net. The purpose of the interview is to determine if this is the right class for you. It's not for everyone. If I know of a class better suited to you I will be happy to refer you. If we agree to begin work together, a deposit will be required to hold your place in class, since space is limited.

Alright, how much?
Tuition is $325. A deposit of $100 holds your place in the class and leaves a balance of $225 due when the course begins.

Are grants or financial aid available?
What we offer is a discount for teachers (25%) since we believe the work has enormous potential in the classroom (and out!). This incentive is available to non-arts teachers as well. Also, if you have a skill or can offer a service that might benefit Flying Machine, we could possibly barter towards the cost of the class.

Where is the class held?
Raleigh Charter High School
1100 Haynes St
Raleigh, NC 27604

*Other things you may be wondering:

The course sounds intense. But I've never acted before and I have no idea if I have any talent.
It is intense, hard work. And that's what makes real growth possible. It's a serious program for the serious student. But whether you have years of experience or have never stepped onto a stage before is irrelevant. What matters is that you have a deep, unanswered need for self expression and the will to answer that need. That's an artist waiting to be born.

What if I have to miss a class?
Most students will have to miss a few; that's just life. But there will be a limit to the amount of classes you can miss and still remain in the program. Too many absences compromise your experience and growth as well as that of the partners who will depend on you. It's as if you're committing to doing a play. You can't just casually skip a rehearsal or a performance, and the same is true here.

Is the class appropriate for teenagers?
The class demands a certain level of maturity. You must be at least 17 years old to take the class, or a graduating high school senior.

Is the class appropriate for older students?
If you're serious and willing to work, we welcome students in their 50's, 60's, and beyond!

I appreciate your interest and look forward to working with you!

J. Chachula
Instructor and Artistic Director
Flying Machine Theatre Company