Meisner Technique????

Question

I understand what the meaning of the Meisner Technique is but can someone please give me some helpfull advice on how to practice that technique??? O and is it better to practice both Meisner and Stanislavsky or to dedicate yourself to just one Technique???

Answer 1

I think the best way to practice technique is in class with other actors and in real acting situations such as getting a rol in a production and having a character to study and build. As far as using just one technique, personally I've found it helpful to draw from all techniques... whichever helps me in any given scene or with a particular character. I don't feel that I should limit myself to one technique, but some actor's may feel that one technique suits them perfectly well. It's an individual decision so do what's best for you.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Ultimately you have to do what works for you. That being said, I had a teach once who adviced "it is always better to go to the primary source." Meisner is related to Stanislovsky, but Stanislovsky is the primary source. Most modern techniques stem from there, so he is probably a better place to start than Meisner. I would look into reading his books and theories on acting. Then your best bet is to seek a school or classroom setting that focuses on the Stanislovski Technique (or Adler Technique, since she brought Stanislovsky's ideas to American actors most directly. Meisner and Strausberg sort of took there own take on Stanislovsky, and veered from his theories.)

Don't enroll in a scene study class! It's better the find a class that is purely technique, and move slowly towards doing scenes. In New York City look into Stella Adler Studios, they have a number of Technique teachers who are wonderful. Remember, if you do a play it won't necessarily give you a chance to practice because typically every actor in a play comes from a different background (many actors don't have much training.)

Beyond that I would say look to the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York City for Meisner training. Outside of the city I would advise you to seek out teachers who actually have substance, not teachers who are just going to pat you on the back and say "good job," but teachers who will actually guide you to a better understanding of a real technique.

Many great teachers travel a lot and do workshops, so do some research and make sure you get yourself in those workshops! Best of luck to you!

Answer 3

Meisner, Stanislavsky, Adler, or for that matter Lewis (as in Jerry), are nothing more than Tools that you can reach for if you need them. As with any tool, the situation dictates the appropriate choice.

I espouse the most difficult of Techniques: Look Me In The Eye And Tell Me The Truth.

Oh, and do not bump in to the furniture.