CURRICULUM
Flying Swan is a comprehensive, acting summer camp program for teens and young adults interested in further developing their performing art skills. Our intensive theater school curriculum covers many aspects in theatrical studies including lessons in drama, musical theater, acting audition techniques, voice, improvisation and stage movement.
Compulsory Classes
Modern American Drama. Based on works by major
American playwrights of the 20th century such as
Tennessee Williams and Arthur Miller. This course includes
scene-study during which students explore the challenges
presented by major American playwrights working in
modern prose.
(4 classes per week)
Audition Technique. Students are advised on how
to choose the most suitable pieces for their auditions.
Audition selections are critiqued by distinguished
professional actors and directors.
(2 classes per week)
Voice. Exercises focus on important aspects of voice work which help students with their breathing, relaxation, articulation and projection. (3 classes per week)
Introduction to Shakespeare. A study of Shakespeare that
demystifies his work and makes it understandable. This is
done by detailed study of scenes in his plays, analysis of
the text and examination of the problems of works written
in poetry and unusual language.
(4 classes per week)
Optional Classes
Acting for the Musical Theater. This course helps students improve their musical theater audition technique and also the ability to act while singing. Students are taught how to add characterization to their performance and to enhance their audition pieces. (3 classes per week)
Physical Acting. This course helps students to become better able to perform roles that require physical dexterity which is developed by movement studies and the creation of comedy scenes including clowning. Students are assisted in creating the life of a human character or animal by observation and full use of their imagination. (3 classes per week)
Evening Classes
Improvisation. Students are given opportunity to improvise. Creating and innovation skills are required to meet specific objectives. (2 classes per week)
Movement/Dance. Students who have chosen Acting for Musical Theater may take the course in Movement/Dance. Students work on numbers selected from recent musicals. (2 classes per week)
Class Size. No class shall have more than 14 students.
Clothing. Students should bring clothes suitable for movement and voice classes.
Theater Games / Tutorials. Each Wednesday students will take part in a number of theater games. Students will also work one to one with teachers or in pairs as required by the Head of Faculty.
STUDENT LIFE
The Flying Swan Acting Program offers a rich and varied range of opportunities for life outside the classroom.
Excursions
Excursions include visits to the Williamstown Theater Festival and other leading productions depending on their availability during the program.
Cabaret Evening
The program will include a cabaret in which students may perform songs, sketches, magic, and piano or other instrumental pieces.
Open Invitation Day
On the final Saturday of the program (July 26th) students will perform scenes from the dramatic works and musical plays on which they have been working. Friends and family members are most welcome to attend this presentation which will also feature a special Guest of Honor.
Student Conduct and Supervision
Students attending the program are required to sign a Code of Conduct, which particularly emphasizes the need for student punctuality and good behavior. Students will be supervised by experienced counselors at all times throughout the program.
Accomodations and Meals
Student accommodation will be based on double occupancy on the Wesleyan campus. There are a limited number of single rooms available for special needs that will entail an additional charge. Meals will be taken in the university cafeteria and will include vegetarian options. Special-needs diets may be discussed with the dietician.
Travel Information
Travel information will be sent to students upon acceptance into the program.
