Acting at its best is a creative art. A solid craft is needed for the actor to have a mastery of their acting instrument. I have crafted a nurturing home for artists to sharpen their skills and solidify their craft. The work at my studio is based on the Sanford Meisner Technique and my thirty year’s experience teaching this work. I have created a conservatory-based program with a faculty hand-picked by me. All of my teachers have their MFA in Acting and have been trained by me both as actors and teachers.
Actors who study the Meisner Technique are likely familiar with the term the actors instrument. Making a comparison between acting and an instrument is helpful in categorizing aspects of the acting craft and what makes a good actor. As an audience member, it becomes apparent very quickly who the good actors in a piece are (more...) 
Any actor interested in studying the Meisner technique should explore what’s known as the actors instrument. An analogy between an actor and an instrument is a good way to help define all the aspects of the acting craft and help actors take in idea, information and lines and put out high quality work. As an (more...)
Vulnerability, for example is an expression of the emotion of insecurity. Actors might work hard to develop this emotion and the complex ways it can be expressed. But, unless they have developed other aspects of their instrument, such as empathy or intelligence, the character will not be authentic. A single tear, without words can accomplish (more...) 
Any actor interested in studying the Meisner technique should explore what’s known as the actors instrument. An analogy between an actor and an instrument is a good way to help define all the aspects of the acting craft and help actors take in idea, information and lines and put out high quality work. As an (more...) 
This morning I had a very talented actor ask me this question. If you ask an L.A. actor they will defend their city in the same way that a New Yorker will go toe to toe for the big apple. Other actors, if they are unhappy in the city they are in, will long for (more...) Copyright © 2011 Meisner acting – The Maggie Flanigan Studio (917) 606-0982. All rights reserved.