As part of United Solo’s ongoing efforts to scout and foster talent, the theatre festival is providing interested practitioners the opportunity to participate in a new Master Class hosted by Academy Award‑winning actress Olympia Dukakis. For three Tuesdays, from October 29 to November 12, Ms. Dukakis will host a seminar titled “The Importance of Craft,” which will be held at a private rehearsal studio in New York City. This seminar will teach performers to draw from their own personal experiences and use them in their solo performances. According to United Solo, Ms. Dukakis will instruct her students to develop a “personal connection to thoughts, actions, circumstances and character.” Signing up for each of the three separate sessions is not mandatory, but interested students who wish to apply for all three sessions may do so at a reduced rate. Ms. Dukakis is best known for her Oscar‑winning performance in the romantic comedy film “Moonstruck” (1987), as well as her Emmy‑nominated roles on the television shows “Lucky Day” (1991), “More Tales of the City” (1998) and “Joan of Arc” (1999), but she began her career in the theatre. Her Broadway credits include “Who’s Who in Hell,” “Social Security,” and the one‑woman play “Rose.” Together with her husband Louis Zorich, she founded The Whole Theater Company in Montclair, NJ in 1971. Her extensive background as an actor and director makes her an exceptional teacher for participants with all levels of experience looking to hone their craft. The United Solo Professional Theatre Program presents Master Classes to help new and established artists develop their skills. Renowned directors, actors and playwrights are invited by United Solo to provide seminars on their areas of expertise. This past September, director and playwright Austin Pendleton taught “Scene Study and Monologues,” which focused on workshopping students’ personal monologues. Last December, British actor Allan Corduner taught “Acting & Voice Transformation.” There is more to be gained from Master Classes than professional instruction. Based on how many sessions they sign up for, attendees will be awarded other benefits, up to and including free tickets to solo performances, waived application fees when applying to perform at United Solo, and invitations to the United Solo Closing Gala at the end of the season, where the best shows and performers will be presented with awards. For more information on signing up for a Master Class, visit http://unitedsolo.org/us/uedu.
United Solo Professional Training Program THE IMPORTANCE OF CRAFT with Olympia Dukakis Master Class, duration each class: 120 min. Tuesdays: October 29, November 5, November 12, 2019 at 4:00pm Washington Sq. Park Area, New York City Photo by Todd Estrin United Solo Theatre Festival Over 130 unique productions from six continents Up to 5 shows daily September 19 – November 24, 2019 Theatre Row 410 West 42nd Street New York City
CHRISTOPHER POPPLE is a Monmouth University graduate and budding reviewer.