Instructor: Theresa McElwee –
Held in person (please review in-person requirements):
This workshop focuses on some of the most commonly used British dialects in the actor’s toolbox, Multicultural London English and Estuary English. In this workshop, you will explore the signature sounds and intonation patterns of these two accents.
Topics explored include research and rehearsal techniques, finding freedom and flexibility, and the challenge of accessing emotional life while speaking in an unfamiliar way. All actors will work on a monologue of their choosing, as well as very short scenes.
Texts will be drawn from the works of playwrights including Nick Payne, Kwame Kwei-Armah, debbie tucker greene, and more.
Essential for every actor, skills underlying British accents can be applied to characters and plays from around the world, reaching far beyond the UK. Due to the expanse of the colonial British empire, Standard British exerted large influence on African, Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian accents. Therefore, even today, non-native speakers of English are exposed to and learn English not with an American accent, but with a British accent — meaning, a solid foundation in British accents will equip you with skills for performing dialects from many cultures and nationalities across the globe.
Winter Term 2023: Recommended for pairing with Acting in Accent: British RP & Cockney in Winter Term Part A. Purchase both together for $15 off!