Welcome to Trans Meisner! A one-off introductory workshop to the Meisner Technique for trans and gender-non-conforming people.
The Meisner technique is an approach to acting grounded in honest observations and impulsive responses. It's explorations of what it means to “live truthfully” and exist purely in the moment make it a fascinating compliment to explorations of gender.
As an acting technique, it forms the bedrock of the practice of many influential actors, including Sean Astin (LoTR), Sebastian Stan (Captain America), Carrie-Ann Moss (The Matrix), Jeff Goldblum (You know who he is) and more, as well as being used as a fundimental part of training at drama schools such as RADA.
About the teacher:
Hi! My name is Matthew Gilpin, and I'm a non-binary actor and filmmaker. I've been acting since I was a child, and making films since I was a teenager. I've been studying the Meisner Technique for 7 years, and it's become a key cornerstone not only of how I act and make films, but also how I live my life. As an awkward, directionless 22 year old, it gave me new confidence, and new abilities to express myself.
More recently I've studied for an MA in Film Directing from MetFilm School, where I deepened my work with actors from all different ability levels and disciplines, and received a Distinction for my work.
Structure of the day:
The day is meant to be a fun and flexible introduction to this technique. If you cannot come for the whole day, that's entirely fine.
10am - Introductions and session start. Starting with casual introductions, simple exercises, and discussions about acting theory, before moving into Repetition work, the backbone of the Meisner technique.
1pm - Lunch break
2pm - Afternoon class starts, continuing with and building on Repetition exercises. Feel free to join at this stage if you can't make the morning, although be aware that you may have to do some catching up on things missed in the first half of the day!
5pm - Day ends. Either everyone goes home, or we find a place to grab a drink nearby!