ACTOR'S RETREAT:
Paratheatre, Viewpoints, & Scene Study
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FOCUS: This summer's retreat will explore a variety of movement training for actors and combining that with traditional scene study: exercises may draw from Grotowski, viewpoints, Michael Chekhov, and more.
These retreats are a unique blend of spiritual retreat and acting workshop. In this Actor's Retreat, we will rest, rejuvenate, and reconnect with a specifical emphasis on exploring a combination of Grotowski inspired paratheatrical techniques, viewpoints training, and more conventional scene study process. Each day, we start with breath and movement work that will connect us to a high quality of presence and receptivity. Then we explore embodied acting techniques as applied to scenes and monologues from great plays. Finally, we end with some goal setting exercises that will help you clarify your artistic and professional milestones for the second half of 2026 In this workshop you will develop in three ways: personally, artistically, and professionally: you will deepen your authentic self so you have more to give to the work, evolve your technical skills through targeted scene study, and refine your professional strategies to get your work into the world. You will leave with enough inspiration, warmth, and wisdom to last for months. Join us! |
SUMMER RETREAT
Berkeley, CA Finish Brotherhood Hall August 8th and 9th, 2026 Sat & Sun 11am–5pm WINTER RETREAT
Berkeley, CA Berkeley Repertory School of Theatre January 8th, 9th, and 10th, 2027 Fri 6:30–9:30pm, Sat & Sun 11am–5pm ENROLL |
YOUR FACILITATOR:
James Wagner is New York based actor who has been acting for over twenty five years and teaching for almost twenty. He is an MFA graduate of The American Conservatory Theater and did a PhD exploring the intersection of acting techniques and spiritual practices at The California Institute of Integral Studies, with funding from the Esalen Institute. www.jameslouiswagner.com
James Wagner is New York based actor who has been acting for over twenty five years and teaching for almost twenty. He is an MFA graduate of The American Conservatory Theater and did a PhD exploring the intersection of acting techniques and spiritual practices at The California Institute of Integral Studies, with funding from the Esalen Institute. www.jameslouiswagner.com