Annexure
‘CD – 01’
Course Title : Basics of Acting L T P SW/ TOTAL
Course Code : ACT101 FW CREDIT
Course Level : UG UNITS
Credit Units : 1
0 0 2 0 1
Introduction:
The aim of Amity School of Film and Drama is to offer its students a comprehensive
education and training in the craft and discipline of acting, guiding the students to achieve
both creative and professional excellence. The course is aimed to transform the learners
into confident people who have shed their inhibitions, are more adaptable and have lasting
impressions with their communication skills.
The syllabus of “Basics of Acting” is designed to initiate students in developing their
expression, speech and creativity needed to become a performer. The course will allow the
students to explore the areas of presentation, performance and projection while developing
their acting skills, cultivating creative talent in each student. With an opportunity of hands
on involvement for each student and a final performance, the course will be a game
changer for those who dare to dream big.
The course will enhance personality of a student and imbibe the qualities for success &
leadership.
Course Objectives:
1. The aim of the course is to give exposure to the basic skills of acting.
2. To instill confidence and overcome personal inhibitions.
3. To improve skills of adaptability, teamwork and collaboration.
4. To introduce various genres of Theatre.
5. To develop voice-throw and oratory skills required for acting.
Pre-requisites: Nil
Course Contents/Syllabus:
Module I: Understanding Expressions and Body Language Weightage
(%)
• Expressions
i. Facial expressions
ii. Rubber stamp technique of expression
iii. Offer and Reject technique
• Body language
25%
i. Body posture and gestures
ii. Imagine the Unimagined
iii. Theatre Space
• Imagine and Innovate: Motions, Freeze and Justify, Three word theory
Module II: Voice Studies
• Voice
i. Training in using voice as an effective tool
ii. Voice modulation
iii. Emphasis and Pauses
• Text on Stage: 15%
i. Pronunciation, Diction
Module III: Theatre Techniques and design
• Basic Introduction
i. Stage Makeup and Hair
10%
• Stage Management
i. Importance of Lights
Module IV: Different forms of Theatre
• Exposure to various genres of theatre
i. Folk Theatre: Swang and Koodiyattam 10 %
Module V: Preparing the Actor
• Improvisation
• Character Study
i. Analysis of a Historical character 40%
• Adaptations& Portrayal
Student Learning Outcomes:
(i) Students will be able to improve self-confidence.
(ii) Students will be able to exhibit oratory skills, leading to ability in
public speaking.
(iii) Students will have understanding of stage production and usage of
specific techniques in creating meaning.
(iv) Students will possess improved concentration levels.
(v) Students will display the ability for better team participation and
group collaboration.
Pedagogy for Course Delivery:
The course will be delivered through an interactive and practice based pedagogy by
national and international experts. Warm up exercises like Yoga, breathing, dancing,
body movement will be a continuous element throughout the course. They will be
encouraged to watch and experience theatrical performance and stage shows.
Module I-The understanding of emotions will be developed through workshop mode
using specific techniques. The concept of using various facial expressions and body
language will be demonstrated. Various exercises will be demonstrated to increase body
agility and understand body posture.
Module II –Voice training will involve breathing exercises to enhance clarity and
projection of voice. Reading sessions to depict and understand different usage of words
and text.
Module III –Hands on exposure in understanding the use of makeup and hair. The
aspects of lights will be explained using references of various stage plays and practical
exercise with basic lighting.
Module IV: The students will get a brief introduction to varied genres of Theatre.
Specific case studies will be presented to them with audiovisual teaching aids to
highlight the variety of techniques used for expressions, body language and stagecraft in
these forms.
Module V: The module focuses on simulated learning; it will involve learning through
role-play, group learning techniques and discussions. Each student will get a chance to
participate with hands on involvement. Range of solo and group presentation will be
staged.
List of exercises:
• Warm up exercises
• Observational exercise
• Basic Yoga exercises
• Speech correction exercise
• Physical Fitness routine
Assessment/ Examination Scheme:
Theory L/T (%) Lab/Practical/Studio (%) End Term Examination
- 100 -
Note: Continuous Evaluation process will be followed for internal assessment. External
Evaluation will be based on the Final Performance of the students, which will be an
outcome of the character study and adaptation.
Practical Assessment (L&T):
End Term
Examination
Components Role Class Originality
Attendance ETE
(Drop down) Play Participation
Weightage (%) 10 10 5 5 70
Text & References:
1. Stanislavsky, C. (1980). An actor prepares. Eyre Methuen.
ISBN: 0413461904; 9780413461902
2. Varadpande, M. L. (1987). History of Indian Theatre (Vol. 1).Abhinav
Publications. ISBN: 8170172217; 978-8170172215
3. Houseman, B. (2007). Finding your voice: a step-by-step guide for actors.
Nick Hern Books. ISBN: 1854596594; 978-1854596598
