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Improvisation for Film and TV

Two folding chairs on a stage.
Mar 05, 2025 - 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST

Where: SAG-AFTRA - Conservatory Studio, 1900 Broadway, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10023 (between 63rd and 64th Streets)

Weekly

Teacher: Jon Freda

Exercises for playing the purpose of a scene by focusing on choices in scripted and unscripted scenarios.

RSVP: The registration form for this class will open below on Monday, Feb. 24. 

Please bring your SAG-AFTRA member ID card, or digital card in the Member App for admittance. 

If you have questions about the class or need to request an accommodation please email us at ny.conservatory@sagaftra.org

This workshop is not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. Unless otherwise stated, the views expressed are those of the individual guests, not of SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through the workshop is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for applicable professional advice. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

This event is only open to SAG-AFTRA NY Conservatory Members.

 



Acting on Camera

Actors being filmed on camera.
Mar 04, 2025 - 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM EST

Where: SAG-AFTRA - Conservatory Studio, 1900 Broadway, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10023 (between 63rd and 64th Streets)

Weekly

Teacher: Robert Goodman

Via mainstream acting theories and techniques, proven exercises and improvisation, students are exposed to the stylish and technical demands of camera performance. With emphasis on the ensemble and exposure, today’s audition obligations, to understanding how multi-media training relates to a 21st century actor, we will explore, challenge, and apply the vernacular, etiquette, discipline, and nuance of acting, and note how the process of storytelling applies to the actor. 

RSVP: The registration form for this class will open below on Monday, Feb. 24. 

Please bring your SAG-AFTRA member ID card, or digital card in the Member App for admittance. 

If you have questions about the class or need to request an accommodation please email us at ny.conservatory@sagaftra.org

This workshop is not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. Unless otherwise stated, the views expressed are those of the individual guests, not of SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through the workshop is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for applicable professional advice. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

This event is only open to SAG-AFTRA NY Conservatory Members.

 



Introduction to Screenwriting

An image of the words 'Fade In' typed on a typewriter.
Mar 04, 2025 - 12:15 PM to 2:15 PM EST

Where: SAG-AFTRA - Conference Room B, 1900 Broadway, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10023 (between 63rd and 64th Streets)

Tuesdays Bi-weekly

Teacher: Marc Baron

Discussion will include story, structure, character development, formatting, software, festivals and more.
 

RSVP: The registration form for this class will open on Monday, Feb. 24. Please bring your SAG-AFTRA member ID card, or digital card in the Member App for admittance. 

If you have questions about the class or need to request an accommodation please email us at ny.conservatory@sagaftra.org

This workshop is not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. Unless otherwise stated, the views expressed are those of the individual guests, not of SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through the workshop is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for applicable professional advice. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

This event is only open to SAG-AFTRA NY Conservatory Members.

 



IN PERSON: Stunts 101

SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory Logo  with a black figure and its upraised right arm to the left of "SAG-AFTRA" with "Los Angeles Conservatory" underneath. All text and image in black with white background.
Mar 24, 2025 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM PDT

Where: Cagney Boardroom

** Registration for this event will open on Monday, Mar. 10 at 10 AM **

Deadline to RSVP is Mar. 24 at 8 AM PT.

Location: SAG-AFTRA Plaza, Cagney Boardroom 
           5757 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Instructor: Banzai Vitale

Description:

Join the SAG-AFTRA LA Conservatory for Stunts 101!

In this lecture, you will learn an in-depth exploration of the key responsibilities and expectations for both stunt performers and actors on set, with a particular focus on how these roles intersect in the context of safety and performance.

The lecture will also address the specific expectations that stunt coordinators have for both classifications of SAG/AFTRA performers in terms of preparation and on-set behavior.

Learn not only how to “get” the job but how to “keep” the job and get “hired” back again.

Please note this is a beginners lecture course.

Directions:
Attendees are welcome to bring materials to take notes.

Questions? Email conservatory@sagaftra.org

These workshops are only open to paid-up SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members in good standing, no guests allowed. All performers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. These workshops are not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through these workshops is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for the advice of other industry professionals. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

ADA requests must be received 72 business hours before the start of the event. 
 



VIRTUAL: Podcasting: Kicking and Screaming into the 21st Century

SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory Logo  with a black figure and its upraised right arm to the left of "SAG-AFTRA" with "Los Angeles Conservatory" underneath. All text and image in black with white background.
Mar 26, 2025 - 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM PDT

Where: Online

** Registration for this event will open on Wednesday, Mar. 12 at 10 AM **

Deadline to RSVP is Mar. 24 at 12 noon PT.

Location: Online via Zoom

Instructor: Josh Horowitz

Description:


Join the SAG-AFTRA LA Conservatory for Podcasting: Kicking and Screaming into the 21st Century with Josh Horowitz.


Ready to take your performance skills to the next level? Be part of the growing medium of podcasting! Learn about podcasts and why they are relevant, how to work under SAG-AFTRA contracts, how to perform on someone's podcast, and how to start your own podcast. This class includes bonus tips on finding an audience, monetization, and giving your best performance.


Please note this is a beginners introduction course.

Please note: You will receive your Zoom information the day before the meeting from SAG AFTRA LA Local. If you have trouble joining the Zoom meeting, please email conservatory@sagaftra.org.

Members must have a registered Zoom account in order to participate and will receive a Zoom link that is not transferable. You must use a Zoom account with the same email address that was submitted with the RSVP.

Members will be expected to engage with professionalism and courtesy.

Questions? Email conservatory@sagaftra.org

These workshops are only open to paid-up SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members in good standing, no guests allowed. All performers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. These workshops are not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through these workshops is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for the advice of other industry professionals. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

ADA requests must be received 72 business hours before the start of the event. 
 



RESCHEDULED - IN PERSON: Script Analysis: The Key to Understanding the Craft of Acting and the Actors Role

SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory Logo  with a black figure and its upraised right arm to the left of "SAG-AFTRA" with "Los Angeles Conservatory" underneath. All text and image in black with white background.
Apr 03, 2025 - 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM PDT

Where: Maxwell

This event has been rescheduled to take place on April 3rd.

** Registration for this event will now open on Thursday, Mar. 20 at 10 AM **

Deadline to RSVP is Apr. 1 at 12 noon PT.

Location: SAG-AFTRA Plaza, Maxwell 
           5757 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Instructor: Joshua Beren

Description:

Join the SAG-AFTRA LA Conservatory for Script Analysis: The Key to Understanding the Craft of Acting and the Actors Role with Joshua Beren!

Attendees will get a clear and dynamic understanding of a script analysis system used by professional actors of every level and applicable to everything from a commercial audition to multiple seasons of television work or a full feature film.

The course will cover core script analysis concepts including "what we owe vs what can we create", "the power of discoveries and decisions instead of beats", "understanding the notecard on the writing room wall", and more...

Attendees will explore the benefits and support of auditioning, prepping booked work, and performing finished work with sound script analysis as the key tool for unlocking their potential, creating an intimate understanding of their character, the moment, and fully realizing their unique and specific role in the creative storytelling process.

Directions:
Attendees must bring a notebook or laptop for note taking, a printed out copy of a scene that has proven challenging from a previous audition or completed project, and are recommended to wear comfortable clothing for learning and some light grounding movement.

Questions? Email conservatory@sagaftra.org

These workshops are only open to paid-up SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members in good standing, no guests allowed. All performers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. These workshops are not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through these workshops is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for the advice of other industry professionals. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

ADA requests must be received 72 business hours before the start of the event.
 



IN PERSON: Owning the Frame

SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory Logo  with a black figure and its upraised right arm to the left of "SAG-AFTRA" with "Los Angeles Conservatory" underneath. All text and image in black with white background.
Mar 20, 2025 - 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM PDT

Where: Cagney Boardroom

** Registration for this event will open on Thursday, Mar. 6 at 10 AM **

Deadline to RSVP is Mar. 18 at 12 noon PT.

Location: SAG-AFTRA Plaza, Cagney Boardroom 
           5757 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Instructor: Karen Austin

Description:

Given the opportunity to express yourself, where do you stop and what do you stop yourself with? Award winning actor Karen Austin unpacks self-sabotage, your discomfort zone, the leap into strong choices, and practical techniques for delivering your best. The opposite of fear is work. There may be group exercises and a few participants may perform on-camera, time permitting.

Best for performers over the age of 18.

About Karen Austin

Her career includes decades of lead roles on film, stage & TV,  LA Drama Critics Circle & Dramalogue Awards, an M.A. from Northwestern University and election to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. She has taught at Stanford, the NY Actors Institute and the LA SAG-AFTRA Conservatory. She co-leads the Mastery of Creativity Workshop, and holds a weekly studio scene study class.

Directions:
Attendees are welcome to bring materials to take notes.

Questions? Email conservatory@sagaftra.org

These workshops are only open to paid-up SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members in good standing, no guests allowed. All performers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. These workshops are not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through these workshops is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for the advice of other industry professionals. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

ADA requests must be received 72 business hours before the start of the event. 
 



CANCELED - IN PERSON: Headshot Photography and Evaluation

SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory Logo  with a black figure and its upraised right arm to the left of "SAG-AFTRA" with "Los Angeles Conservatory" underneath. All text and image in black with white background.
Mar 20, 2025 - 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM PDT

Where: Cagney Boardroom

** Registration for this event will open on Thursday, Mar. 6 at 10 AM  **

Deadline to RSVP is Mar. 18 at 12 noon PT.

Location: SAG-AFTRA Plaza, Cagney Boardroom 
           5757 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Instructor: Theo & Juliet Wolf

Description:
Join the SAG-AFTRA LA Conservatory for Headshot Photography and Evaluation with Theo & Juliet!

In this class you'll learn: 

  • Technical basics of headshot photography.  (e.g. Focus, lighting, etc.)
  • The importance of Actor Tech (e.g. formatting)
  • General Headshot Details Discussion (e.g. wardrobe, hair and make-up)
  • Sample Evaluation of materials (e.g. a live evaluation of one man and one woman’s current headshots projected on a screen for the room to see.)
  • Difference between Headshot photography, Editorial Photography and PR Photography
  • Current world of Social Media and how it pertains to photography.
  • Followed by a Q&A

The last two hours of this course will be an optional evaluation for those who want their individual materials reviewed by Theo & Juliet in front of a class in order to be able to make improvements to their promotional image materials in the future.

Directions:
If you are interested in submitting your headshots for an optional evaluation please submit them via the following google form by Mar. 19.

Questions? Email conservatory@sagaftra.org

These workshops are only open to paid-up SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members in good standing, no guests allowed. All performers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. These workshops are not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through these workshops is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for the advice of other industry professionals. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

ADA requests must be received 72 business hours before the start of the event. 



VIRTUAL: Audiobook Narration - A Basic Overview for Voice Actors

SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory Logo  with a black figure and its upraised right arm to the left of "SAG-AFTRA" with "Los Angeles Conservatory" underneath. All text and image in black with white background.
Mar 19, 2025 - 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM PDT

Where: Online

** Registration for this event will open on Wednesday, Mar. 5 at 10 AM **

Deadline to RSVP is Mar. 17 at 12 noon PT.

Location: Online via Zoom

Instructor: Josh Horowitz

Description:
Join the SAG-AFTRA LA Conservatory for Audiobook Narration - A Basic Overview for Voice Actors with Josh Horowitz.


You've done voiceover spots... but how would you like to be the equivalent of a marathon runner by narrating audiobooks? Learn about the skills, equipment, creativity, and mindset needed for audiobook work, and discover resources for gaining experience and finding jobs as a long-form storyteller.


Please note this is a beginners introduction course.

Please note: You will receive your Zoom information the day before the meeting from SAG AFTRA LA Local. If you have trouble joining the Zoom meeting, please email conservatory@sagaftra.org.

Members must have a registered Zoom account in order to participate and will receive a Zoom link that is not transferable. You must use a Zoom account with the same email address that was submitted with the RSVP.

Members will be expected to engage with professionalism and courtesy.

Questions? Email conservatory@sagaftra.org

These workshops are only open to paid-up SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members in good standing, no guests allowed. All performers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. These workshops are not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through these workshops is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for the advice of other industry professionals. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

ADA requests must be received 72 business hours before the start of the event. 
 



IN PERSON: Acting In Commercials #4

SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory Logo  with a black figure and its upraised right arm to the left of "SAG-AFTRA" with "Los Angeles Conservatory" underneath. All text and image in black with white background.
Apr 04, 2025 - 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM PDT

Where: 2nd Floor Classroom

This is a four week intensive course.

You must have already taken Acting In Commercials #1 to take this course.

Once you are registered for this initial course on March 14, you were automatically registered for this class. 

Location: SAG-AFTRA Plaza, 2nd Floor Classroom 
           5757 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 220 Los Angeles, CA 90036

Instructor: Kevin McCorkle

Description:
Join the SAG-AFTRA LA Conservatory for Acting In Commercials!


This class will incorporate simulated audition exercises as well as discussion of the approach, technique and preparation for the audition process. Lecture covering the key aspects of a commercial career including; agent representation, union affiliation, the casting process, set etiquette, financial formulas as well as actor interaction and communication with the director. Other lecture topics will be covered. Guest speakers (seasoned professionals) offering insight regarding may attend live or on zoom when available.  Specific aspects of commercial acting or production will be utilized, giving students first hand exposure to the process. 
 

Students in this course should be advanced. They should have prior experience, knowledge of general acting theory and technique. 


This course will incorporate lecture, discussion, simulated auditions and video exercise, required reading, and outside exercises. 


Directions: 
The L.A. SAG-AFTRA CONSERVATORY ACTING IN COMMERCIALS WORKBOOK will be used throughout the duration of this course, please keep this workbook on hand. 
 

Questions? Please email conservatory@sagaftra.org.

These workshops are only open to paid-up SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members in good standing, no guests allowed. All performers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. These workshops are not intended to imply an endorsement of any individual or company by SAG-AFTRA. The information provided through these workshops is given for informational purposes and may not be a suitable substitute for the advice of other industry professionals. You should always use good judgment in these matters and should not act or refrain from acting based solely on information provided through the workshop.

Please note that ADA requests must be received 48 business hours before the start of the event. 

 



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