All posts by Elizabeth Mestnik

An Actor’s Audition Checklist

Acting Advice

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There are actually 2 phases of audition preparation.  The first is what you do BEFORE you get to the audition and the 2nd is what you do in the waiting room once you are AT the audition.

When Emmy winning Casting director April Webster is asked what tips she has for actors auditioning for her, her first response is “Have your preparation done.”  What does that mean?  If you don’t know… then you might not be ready to be out there auditioning with the big boys. Get into a class and develop a technique and a process.  But if you need a reminder – a process or ritual to follow for each audition – here’s a little checklist:

PHASE 1

When you get the script:

  • Read the audition sides multiple times.
  • Research the show (read the entire script (if film or theater) if possible, watch episodes of the show (if for TV) to understand the tone and genre.
  • Make any character choices that are necessary – however, most of the time the character will be pretty close to who you are – that’s why they are bringing you in. .. make sure you honor any physical, vocal or psychological differences to your own natural state.  Practice with those from the beginning! (ie: if the character is drunk – rehearse her drunk from the get-go)
  • All the basics – where are you, what’s your relationship, where are you emotionally at the top of the scene etc. This is really your opportunity to do a short performance for the Casting Director – I found that thinking of it as a performance helped with nerves.
  • Memorize as best you can, and get comfortable auditioning with the script in hand.

Night before:

  • Decide what you are going to wear – make sure it fits, it’s ironed, that you can move in it etc. Do NOT dress as the character but make sure you dress appropriately for the character.  For example, do not audition for a prisoner in a tie.
  • Find out how to get to the audition (don’t rely only on your GPS the day of – they aren’t always correct), where to park etc…
  • Pack easy snacks and plenty of water. Auditions infamously run late – and you want to sustain your energy.
  • Pack your script and extra headshots and resumes.
  • Schedule something to do right after the audition – so you can move on and not ruminate on what you could have done differently.

PHASE 2

At the Audition

      • Before you leave your home, make sure you have warmed up physically and vocally.
      • DO NOT LOOK AT YOUR PHONE. Once you are in the waiting room – don’t look at it – turn it completely off.  Screen time takes you away from being present.  There are studies that show that the auditory receptors in the brain start to disengage when all the information is being brought in through the eyes and that it can take up to 30 minutes for your listening abilities to return to normal.
      • Don’t change your crafting in the waiting room. This isn’t the time to second guess what you have worked on –  it’s the time to commit fully to your choices.
      • Don’t “chit chat” with the other actors. Be friendly but stay away from small talk.  It may be disruptive to other actors and might hurt your focus.
      • Stay loose and be present. Mindfulness is really helpful at these times!
      • While waiting, use your imagination to build the world and environment of the scene. Get emotionally available to the triggers of the scene. This is more important than running the lines in your head another 10 times. The CD wants to know that you can act – not that you can memorize.
      • If the audition is for something small– treat it as such, stay light, and relaxed – no CD wants to see someone brooding over an audition for a one liner. Just be yourself.
      • Smile and show ‘em what you got!

Elizabeth MestnikElizabeth Mestnik is an award winning, actress, director and teacher. Elizabeth founded EMAS to bring her New York style of professional actor training to the west coast. -She received her MFA in Acting from Rutgers University under the tutelage of William Esper, Sandy Meisner’s associate at the Neighborhood Playhouse for over 17 years, and New York’s leading Meisner teacher.

Now Enrolling: Summer Meisner Intensive

Acting Studio, Past Classes

2018 Meisner Intensive Class Banner

The Elizabeth Mestnik Acting Studio (EMAS) has now opened registration for our 2018 Summer Meisner Intensive Class.

Located at our Hollywood studio, the Summer Intensive offers 3 classes per week over a 5 week period to give students an immersive introduction to the philosophies and structure of Meisner-based training.

At the heart of the Meisner Technique is a tangible, step-by-step approach to acting training with each exercise building on the last. Not only does this give actors a dependable process to draw on but, ultimately, actors are taught to work truthfully, employing their genuine impulses and talent rather than working intellectually.

Our Summer Intensive course guides students through the beginning steps of the Meisner Technique in just over a month. Classes meet three days a week for three hours at a time. Sessions are scheduled both in the morning and in the evening to avoid scheduling conflicts. We’re invested in your development as an actor  and, as such, attendance is mandatory.

Summer Meisner Intensive Info:

June 25 – July 31, 2018
5 weeks/3 classes a week
Session A: Mon, Wed, Sat at 10:00AM
Session B: Tues & Thurs at 7:00PM, Sat at 2:00PM

Interviews for the Summer Intensive are ongoing. There is no deadline, however, once classes are full we will continue to hold interviews for a wait list. The earlier you interview, the more likely there will be availability for a spot in a class.

In order to schedule your interview, please apply on our registration page. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email us or call the studio at 323-528-6280.

More information about the Meisner Technique can be found on our Meisner Class Page or on our Blog.

Now Enrolling: ‘The Script’ Scene Study Acting Class

Acting Studio, Past Classes

Vanessa studyingWhether you’re just beginning or are an experienced actor, it all starts with the script. If bringing the words to life is what makes us actors, learning to convey subtext, nuance and genuine emotion is can make us great actors.

The Script is an 11 week scene study class offered at EMASLA that emphasizes the role of text in an actor’s performance. Techniques are offered that help the actor make character choices, play objectives, and relate emotionally to world created by the scene.  Furthermore,  actors are taught to understand the voice of the writer in different genres and styles, allowing them to better connect with the intentions and vision of the writer as they express their own emotions through the words of others.

Both beginning and experienced actors who wish to improve their text analysis and script reading are encouraged to apply.

All EMASLA class sizes are limited in size to ensure one-on-one interaction with instructors. Visit our registration page to reserve your place one of our two time slots for The Script.

Where:
When:
April 4th – June 14th, 2018
Wednesdays at 2:00pm
Or
Thursdays at 7pm

Winter Shakespeare Acting Class: Playing the Bard

Acting Studio

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The Elizabeth Mestnik Acting Studio (EMAS) is happy to announce open enrollment for our Winter Shakespeare acting class, Shakespeare I: Playing the Bard. 

Many of today’s most admired and celebrated actors have their roots in playing Shakespeare, proving that The Bard is more relevant than ever to today’s entertainment industry.

This 8 week class aims to introduce the core elements of playing Shakespeare to LA actors. In class, students will:

  • Investigate how Shakespeare directs actors through the structure and rhythm of his texts
  • Examine the differences between verse and prose and discover when Shakespeare chooses to write in each form
  • Explore iambic pentameter and phrasing and learn a process for analyzing Shakespeare’s texts
  • Experience how a slight change in emphasis can alter the emotions and meaning of a scene
  • Learn to link language with your physical and vocal instrument to incorporate your full body into your acting

Classes held at EMAS on Sundays at 7:00 PM. January 28th through March 18th, 2018.

Enrollment is now open!

The Instructor

diana jellinek, shakespearean actors and coachNow based in LA, Diana Jellinek is an actress and an acting coach with extensive experience on stage and screen, including The Old Globe Theatre, London’s Royal National Theatre Studio, and the Shakespeare Theatre in Washington DC.  Learn more at:
Diana Jellinek’s Website
Diana Jelinek’s IMDB Page

January 2018 On-Camera Technique Workshop

Acting Studio, Past Classes

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Pilot season is coming up quickly!

Whether this is your first or fifteenth season, it is important that you be at your best, ready when your opportunity arises!

Elizabeth Mestnik Acting Studio is now enrolling for it’s Winter 2017-2018 On-Camera Technique workshop. In addition to our focus on cold-reading and on-camera skills, this class aims to give students a clear understanding of the casting process with the goal of empowering them with the confidence to truly “own” the room with their performances.

Read more about our workshops or book your place today.

Now Enrolling: Performing the Song Musical Theatre Class

Acting Studio, Past Classes

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EMAS is happy to announce open enrollment for this Fall’s “Performing the Song” Musical Theatre class.

Beginning October 1st and running for 8 weeks, Performing the Song is taught by Tony Award-Winner, Chris Bensinger. Designed to expand the Hollywood Actor’s skillset to allow them to navigate the growing number of opportunities for song in TV, film and, of course, Musical Theatre.

The course will focus on teaching actors to realize songs they were intended by the writers – as a vehicle for expression and storytelling. A secondary focus will be on actually improving students’ vocal technique.

The trend towards musical elements in Hollywood isn’t going to be going away anytime soon. Take advantage of this opportunity to increase your skillset and work with a true professional.

Find out more here!

Chris_Bensinger_croppedA Tony Award winning theater producer, Chris Bensinger joined the EMAS faculty in 2016 to help actors hone the skills that allow them to shine in Hollywood’s growing number of Musical and “Musical TV” productions.

Now Registering: 1st Year Meisner Technique 2017-2018

Acting Studio

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The Elizabeth Mestnik Acting Studio is now scheduling interviews for our 2017 First Year Meisner Class. Beginning in September, the 1st Year Meisner Technique is a rigorous 9 month program for serious acting students who’re willing to make the commitment to do what it takes to become a better, more truthful and more spontaneous actor.

The Meisner Technique

Respected as one of the most effective acting techniques, the Meisner Technique gives actors fundamental skills that translate into deep, truthful acting in any situation. Following the syllabus designed by Sandy Meisner, EMAS’ Meisner Technique classes give students a clearly defined path to developing these essential skills.

Interviews

To schedule an interview, fill out the form on our registration page or contact the studio.

Now Registering – Acting Foundations, Fundamentals for Actors of all Levels

Acting Studio

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The Elizabeth Mestnik Acting Studio is now registering acting students for its Fall Acting Foundations class.

Beginning September 13 and running through December 13, Acting Foundations touches on the fundamentals of the actor’s craft, including character development, breaking down a script, imagination work, and the actor’s instrument (voice and body).

Acting Foundations is a mixed level class that’s designed to benefit new acting students looking for a comprehensive introduction or an experienced actor looking to hone their core skills.

Registration for Acting Foundations is open to all acting students with a desire to train professionally, no interview is required.

Visit the Registration Page to secure a place or contact EMAS for more information.

ELIZABETH MESTNIK ACTING STUDIO

11423 Moorpark St
Los Angeles, CA 91604 United States

Phone number: (323) 528-6280
Email: [email protected]

6 Netflix Shows An Aspiring Actor Should Study

Acting Studio

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Most people don’t think of “Netflix and chill” as a way to do their homework. However, most people aren’t actors who are devoted to their craft. You can binge-watch hundreds of series on Netflix. Some of the highlights are the original Netflix series, many of which feature actors showing off their chops in a unique way. Here’s what (and who) to watch if you’re an aspiring actor.

GLOW

As Ruth Wilder, Alison Brie goes beyond her usual girl-next-door role in this campy comedy-drama. Although she does play a naïve, doe-eyed actress, she delivers moments of darkness, loneliness and desperation. Brie really shines during a fantasy scene in which she is all-out fighting with her arch-nemesis Debbie, who is played by Betty Gilpin. The tiny actress becomes larger-than life in the wrestling ring.

In GLOW, Brie also shatters the image of the polished, uptight women that she typically portrays. In GLOW, Brie allows her rough edges to seep through her perfect smile. Her performance is so authentic that you can glimpse her inner fearlessness.

Gypsy

In this psychosexual drama, Naomi Watts plays Jean Holloway, a therapist who develops her own fascinations with the objects of her patients’ obsessions. A Meisner-trained actress, Watts authentically draws viewers into every moment on screen.

The camera often focuses on close-ups of Watts’ face, which reveals the expressions of a suburban housewife as easily as those of a fanatical lover and skillful liar. She seamlessly contrasts the brightest and darkest sides of her character in much the same way as she did in her breakout film, Mulholland Drive.

Orange Is The New Black

We couldn’t write an article about Netflix shows to study without mentioning OITNB. Like GLOW, the show’s characters are well-defined and rife with unexpected as well as predictable qualities. Playing these types of characters requires an ability to tap into a well of emotions.

The character who is confident on the outside often reveals her most vulnerable insecurities at the most inopportune moments. The strangest characters have the most relatable backstories. The most conventional characters have surprisingly eccentric qualities.

It takes skilled actors to effectively portray these personas. Their motivations must come off as realistic for the audience to bond with them. No matter how outlandish the storylines are, they resonate with the viewers because the actors access genuine emotions to express them.

The Office

Although Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell, is an extraordinary lead for this mockumentary-style comedy, the other actors support the comedy in genius fashion. Watch this series for a look into how to create a solid character.

This television show is about more than great writing. Each actor has developed specific mannerisms and quirks that represent his or her identity. While some of these traits are over the top, others are starkly subdued. Observe the way each actor develops his or her character alone, in contrast to and in conjunction with the other characters.

Stranger Things

If you want to be amazed by the proficiency of an ensemble of child actors, watch Stranger Things. Although the Netflix-original series deals with the more bizarre side of the supernatural, the superb acting makes the oddities seem relevant.

Even if Winona Ryder has irritated you in the past with her exaggerated portrayal of drama and despair, you’ll buy her interpretation of a worried mother agonizing over the disappearance of her son. Her agitation contrasts well with the more even-keeled nature of the children.

It’s interesting to watch these young actors portray children who are passionate about finding their friend but don’t let the mystery derail their motivations. Their performances are entrancing.

Bloodline

Is good acting enough to keep a show going? That’s the question posed by many Bloodline reviewers. The Netflix-original series features an ensemble of actors who brought depth to roles that might otherwise have been shallow.

Kyle Chandler is perhaps most well-known for playing the role of Coach in Friday Night Lights. He had to work hard to disassociate himself with that character to play the role of the “good” brother with a villainous undertone in Bloodline. He performs his role fluidly, as do his costars.

Sam Shepard plays the patriarch of the family. Shepard studied under Wynn Handman, a protégé of Sanford Meisner. Ben Mendelsohn’s performance also stands out. He has been nominated for several awards for his portrayal of Danny, and in 2016 he won the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

Sometimes, an actor’s performance can go above and beyond the writing, storyline or plot of a television show. These series, which are available to stream on Netflix, are ideal examples of this. When you watch them, you’ll get pulled into the emotion, drama, comedy and action because of the actors’ brilliant execution of the script.