Accents and Dialects for the Improviser
(delivered online)
NOT CURRENTLY OFFERED
top ‘o the morning to you
Taught by Josh Hepler and Yolanda G. Waddell
Improvisers have long used accents and dialects to enrich their characters. This class will provide an introduction to two accents that are widely used on the improv stage: the British accent and the American Southern accent. We’ll also explore how variations in speech can help you create an endless array of unique characters.
Regardless of whether imitating an accent is easy or difficult for you, this class has something for everyone. Experienced performers can learn new types of accents and dialects, or work to improve their consistency. Performers who are new to accents will get the tips, tricks, and techniques they need to make those “impossible” accents doable.
Outside of class, you’ll complete short, weekly homework assignments to support in-class learning. You’ll also research an accent of your choice to perform on Zoom during the final class.
CLASS OBJECTIVES
1. Learn and practice the fundamentals of the British accent.
2. Learn and practice the fundamentals of the American Southern accent.
3. Explore a variety of accents and dialects beyond British and American Southern including those significant to the United Kingdom and the United States.
4. Learn a variety of speech techniques for performing accents onstage.
5. Use those techniques to “specialize” in a chosen accent or dialect.
Requirements: You must have completed two improv classes at Westside or another theater. For questions about eligibility, please contact Yolanda at ygamazon@gmail.com or Josh at josh.hepler@gmail.com
Price for this class: $250