Setting the Stage: A New Era for the Conservatory Intensive

The L.A. Local Conservatory held its first in-person Conservatory Intensive, formerly known as the Summer Intensive, since 2019 from Sept. 27–29. Hosted at SAG-AFTRA headquarters, the weekend was packed with workshops and panels designed to enhance both the craft of acting and provide a deeper understanding of the business.

This year’s theme, “The New Normal: The Performer’s Landscape” explored emerging modes of working in the industry. Reflecting on the event, Conservatory Intensive Subcommittee Chair Lee Garlington noted, “We believe that informed actors are empowered actors. Being a successful artist requires business savvy, contract knowledge, the right mindset and talent. So we created a weekend of various topics to support development in all those areas, and it was such a delight! Our first time being together in five years, our first time doing it at SAG-AFTRA headquarters, and it could not have gone more smoothly. All thanks to our staff, our volunteers and all our marvelous teachers who give so freely of their talents.”

The structure of the Intensive mirrored the Conservatory’s year-round offerings with a few special additions. The weekend begins with an opening night reception on Friday. This year’s opening night panel featured a plethora of talented and diverse artisans who adapted and embraced “The New Normal.” The rest of the weekend featured small group classes that fostered intimate interactions between members and instructors. Attendees were able to engage in a variety of acting workshops aimed at boosting creativity, building confidence and refining their skills across different performance mediums. Improv classes, for example, encouraged spontaneity while offering techniques applicable to both comedy and drama. Meanwhile, other sessions tackled the challenges of auditioning, especially given the developments with self tapes, equipping participants with strategies to navigate common pitfalls.

Alongside acting workshops, business-oriented sessions delved into vital topics such as representation, networking and social media presence. Classes were also taught by SAG-AFTRA staff, including one on the new TV/Theatrical contract provisions as well as the relationship between agents and our members.

Complementing the educational components, the James Cagney Boardroom buzzed with activity throughout the weekend, hosting panels featuring theatrical and commercial casting directors, indie filmmakers, multi-hyphenates and animation professionals. The vibrant atmosphere was a testament to the programming organized by the SAG-AFTRA Conservatory Intensive Subcommittee, supported by over 40 enthusiastic member volunteers. Their excitement to reconnect in person was palpable, creating a welcoming environment for both new and long-standing Conservatory members.

L.A. Conservatory leadership Kevin McCorkle, Victoria Hoffman, Hilary Ward and Carrie Certa encourage members to take advantage of the Conservatory program. “Remember, just as we are the union, we are the Conservatory. Run by members for members — with support from our wonderful staff. Our active participation will continue to strengthen and diversify the tools it has to offer. Please consider joining the Conservatory for a small annual fee today, and let’s keep the momentum going toward the goal of being successful, empowered and consistent storytellers and performers. We hope to see you all in person soon.”

To learn more about the Conservatory Intensive and to enroll in the conservatory, visit the Los Angeles Local Conservatory webpage.

Top photo: From left, casting director Wendy Kurtzman, SAG-AFTRA member Melanie Mayron, Los Angeles Local President Jodi Long, Conservatory Intensive Subcommittee Chair Lee Garlington, Producer Matt Johnson, SAG-AFTRA members Diarra Kilpatrick and Lizza Monet Morales speak about the “new normal” in the industry at the opening night reception for the 2024 Conservatory Intensive.