To successfully audition for TV commercials students must achieve 2 objectives: please the sponsor by effectively relaying his sales message, and creatively compete against other competent actors of similar “type.” To this end ACTeen trains actors in public speaking techniques (vocal variety, key words, transitions etc.) but encourages a natural, and spontaneous delivery utilizing the actors own unique personality. Students learn to maximize their on-camera time through effective use of focus, point of view, and humor. While following authentic audition scenarios students learn how to handle script reading, cue cards, props, partner work, group improvs, and one-liners. This course also clarifies the business of acting: actor tools (headshots, resumes), representation (agents vs. managers, unions), and marketing and self-promotion basics. The included class textbook “Acting and Auditioning for Television Commercials” (© Rita Litton, revised 2006) elaborates audition techniques and serves as a reference, offering valuable information on getting started professionally. Course curriculum includes conduct at interviews and a guest agent or casting director holds a “mock” casting session.
* Also available: Advanced Commercials
July Academy, August Academy, Saturday Academy, Fall Program, Winter Program, and Spring Program
“I came into the commercial course thinking I knew all about commercial acting, but I learned more than I could ever imagine.”
“Being in front of a camera can be a little scary, but now I feel that I am prepared and it’s nowhere near as scary. It made me learn to love the camera!”
“Risk taking is a lot of fun. I now realize I need to think ‘outside the box’!”
“Playbacks really helped me understand what I did wrong and see it for myself. I also learned a lot about just acting better!”
“I learned to sight read much easier and to analyze scripts easier.”
“I found out tricks in getting an agent, picture, etc. I also learned how to be present on camera, and to find humor in funny commercials. And how to be realistic and believable.”
“This class was amazing and fun!! There was lots of creativity!”
“I learned to take more risks and feel more comfortable with seemingly unnatural lines.”
“I really enjoyed this course and it by far one of the best programs I’ve ever been involved in.”
“Loved that we got a textbook. It was very helpful, and it was a great tool to use. I also loved when the casting director came. It was an amazing experience and really helpful. “
“I liked how we were able to practice and re-watch our shoots. It wasn’t about note taking, the class was very active.”
“The teacher was very smart. Knows everything possible about commercial acting.”
“The teacher was very energetic, but makes the class comfortable. Easy to talk to, and to get in touch with. I like that she lets us know she’s a resource for us.”
“So fun.. provided constructive criticism, gave us many tips and ideas, and ultimately made us comfortable trying silly, new things and bettered our acting techniques.”
“Helpful and also honest without getting harsh, and not only pointed out what was wrong but also what to do better. “
“Very alive, helpful, very hands on with our critiques.”
“So bubbly and passionate about what she does. She loves teaching and she’s really great at it.”
“A great teacher and inspires me to do as much as I possibly can!”
“Rita is just awesome. I loved working with her. She’s like a mom to us. Very nice and gets us motivated.”
“Really nice! Her experience in the business and her stories make her an amazing teacher.”
“I feel so honored to work with Rita. She is such a kind person and a great actress/director.”
“Connects with us. Nice and gave great advice!!”
“The students were awesome, we grew very close. The entire class atmosphere was very positive.”
