Sydney Theatre School

Hi fellow theatre lovers, I'm considering auditioning for the Sydney Theatre School acting course. Has anyone had any experience with the school before? Look forward to your comments Cheers, Libby

Libby, I am a graduate from Sydney Theatre School's 2008 Diploma of Theatre Performance class, and i can utterly say that it was the most wondeful experience i have ever had in my life. Mark Matthews (Course Director) is very thorough in his approach to acting and believes that acting through experience is the best way to gain the necessary skills for you to grow and enhance your trade. You work with three high class profile directors over the space of the year and perform in three professional shows for a public audience. In saying all of this, however, the course is strenuous and does take up alot of your time. You MUST be passionate about acting and want to succeed, otherwise you will falter. But all the teachers and Mark himself help you through those tough phases. It is a wonderful experience and you will make friendships that will last a lifetime. I highly recommend it. Break a leg, Liam

Thanks Liam, sounds great! Is there any theory involved at all? I'm reading stanislavski at the moment and really enjoying it. I wouldn't want to miss out on the relevant theory and technique involved behind the performance. Cheers Libby

Hi Libby, I'm unsure if there is any theory involved or not. I'm not an actor and haven't done the course. However, if you're reading Stanislavski and enjoying it than I know you should continue with it. You'd think there would be, though. I mean, how could there not be any theory involved? In any case, it can only contribute to making you a more rounded and skilled actress. Heck, you might even surprise your teacher in a task of his setting because of it. You never know... After all, it's not like it's "The Theatre Academy In Warsaw" - and a tradition which goes back to the early 19th century." Don't know why it was important for me to add the last bit. All the best, Daniel M.

Hey Daniel, You're right, I guess educating yourself in any way is a good thing. I was confused by your reference to the 'theatre academy in warsaw' (and being polish by origin, also intrigued), but having quickly looked it up (hooray for wiki) I understand - and I learnt something else on the way. :) Thanks!

Hi Libby, I am glad you're pleased. I agree; 'educating yourself in any way is a good thing.' So long as what you've learnt on your own, doesn't get in the way of what it is your teacher is trying to teach you. That can and does happen with some, I'm sure many would agree. I guess that's where intelligence comes into play. Ability to sort information in an effective way. I figured you had some Polish in your line. The name, for one. But also, the features in the photo. That "wiki" has a lot to answer for, I'm thinking. Cheers, Daniel M.

Libby, The only theory required is daily entry in your logbook, given to you on day one. Other than that, keep reading and doing all that stuff. I highly recommend STS Regards, Liam