About the class

This course emphasizes the development of creative impulse, heightened listening, and physical expression. These skills will be supported through foundational exercises: building connection and awareness to the body, voice, and breath through warm-ups; exploring intention and commitment through games and improvisation; and approaching text and performance in a dynamic and interactive format. Working in an ensemble is at the core of this theatre practice. The participant can expect to gain confidence, develop an attitude of rigour and respect for the craft, and have fun in this process-focused course. In the last class, invited guests are welcome to observe what the participants have been working on throughout the course.

Samantha Bitonti (she/her) is an actor, creator, and instructor with a passion for embodied movement and dramaturgy. She has a BFA in Theatre Performance from Concordia University, and enjoys crafting characters through her love of clown. A sense of play, spontaneity, and risk is at the core of her work. Samantha’s artistic pursuits include introducing classical music to kids through puppetry, clown, and storytelling (Platypus); investigating heightened text and our relationship to Shakespeare in contemporary playing (Repercussion Theatre); and teaching drama at Geordie Theatre School, cultivating creativity for young people. Select credits include: How the Gimquat Found Her Song (Platypus), All Shall Be Well (Repercussion), Measure for Measure (Repercussion), The Trophy Hunt (Rabbit in a Hat). Keep in touch at www.samanthabitonti.com 

Photo credit : Emelia Hellman