Working Theaters...
Working Teachers...
Working Students.
Unlike most training programs in the city, all VGT classes are held in working theaters - not classrooms. Every time you present a scene, play a theater game, or break down a character you�ll be on stage. Stages graced by Julie Harris, William Peterson, Gary Cole, Fritz Weaver, John Mahoney, Sharon Gless, Dennis Zacek, Irma P. Hall... and You!
Our teachers work everywhere: theater, television, print, commercials, voice over, and film. They act, direct, write and produce, and that breadth of experience permeates their teaching. Our philosophy is that one method of training won't work for everyone, and our teachers embrace that principle. Need a Meisner brush up? Looking for Shurtleff? What are Stella Adler's questions? Let us know what you're excited to try; we've got someone who can guide you.
Classes here are filled with students dedicated to Chicago theater: our students manage theater companies, write, direct, and act in shows all over the city.
As you peruse these class offerings please keep in mind that most classes involved outside work and all classes demand the individual’s discipline to attend every class and participate fully. Most classes have a limited enrollment of 12 students.
Course offerings are divided into the following categories:
- Basic Acting Technique: Recommended for the novice interested in exploring acting technique either as an introduction to a theater career or for personal growth. These classes are for the student with few or no acting classes in their background. It is suggested to take Voice and Movement as a complement to these classes.
- Intermediate Acting Technique: Designed for the actor who is serious about growing as an artist. This level requires commitment and discipline in order for the individual to realize personal growth from actor to artist and is recommended for the student committed to professional training. Prerequisites: Acting I or Acting Basics, Acting II, Voice and Movement or Alexander Technique (at least one session) or equivalent classes from a university or professional training program.
- Advanced Acting Technique: Just as so many of us go to the gym for physical workout advanced classes are offered as a workout opportunity for actors pursuing careers in professional or semi-professional theater. There are many opportunities for fine-tuning skills or acquiring new ones. Completion of Basic and Intermediate level acting classes or the equivalent classes from a university or professional program is required. A resume is required to register in all advanced level classes.
- Vocal and Physical Technique: courses are strongly recommended to complement all classes. Actors use their voices, bodies, thoughts, and emotions to express character. Classes in technique are essential for effective performance.
- Master Classes: are designed for professional actors looking for intense focus on a specific playwright or discipline. Entry is by resume only; Class size is limited to 10 students.
- Workshops: are shorter, specialized, and interdisciplinary.
- Playwriting Classes: focus on the stage as a unique place to tell a story. As Chicago’s premiere Center for New Plays, Victory Gardens Theatre embraces a tradition focusing on playwrights and their work. The Training Center at Victory Gardens Greenhouse offers a number of opportunities for writers wishing to write for the theater, as well as for actors and other theater practitioners wishing to expand their knowledge of and experience with the craft.
New Classes are added continually, so check this web site or call the office for up to date information!
