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MacHeath Productions
Room 1,
13 Thurloe Street
London
SW7 2SS

Tel: 00 44 (0) 207 584 2554
Fax: 00 44 (0) 207 584 2554
Mob: 07785 394214
E: Send Email

'THE ALCHEMY OF SCREEN ACTING'

1. Introduction
2. Schedule
3. Post Production
4. Enrolling
5. Workshop Director
6. Participants' Credits
7. Feedback on 'The Alchemy of Screen Acting'


Scenes from recent 'Alchemy' workshops now on YouTube
uk.youtube.com/alchemyscreenacting

1. INTRODUCTION

In it's 6th year, 'The Alchemy of Screen Acting', continues to set the professional standard in the UK for screen acting training. It has given more than 600 actors the opportunity to work in a safe, relaxed environment with experienced television drama director, Andrew Higgs, to find their feet and develop their self confidence in front of the camera. Part audition technique, part preparation for how very fast indeed TV schedules have become, the emphasis is on shooting both soap and film scenes, exploring techniques of acting in 'real' environments and the correct use of props.

Superior lighting/camera work, sound and editing continue to produce scenes shot to broadcast technical standard, so that material produced during the 5-day period can be used on a professional showreel. Groups of eight actors not only learn (and practice) powerful job-winning audition techniques but also get up to date coaching on effective marketing and networking strategies, and participants have gone on to achieve many professional screen credits in commercials, TV drama series and feature films.

Due to production, directing and writing commitments, Andrew is only able to run this acclaimed workshop occasionally. If you would like to attend but cannot make the current date/s available (see below: 4. Enrolling), please email Andrew Higgs (andrew@macheath.u-net.com) to express your interest and you will be kept up to date with future opportunities. As the eight places on each workshop fill up very quickly, early booking is advised.

PLEASE NOTE: the course is very intensive and scenes will need to be learned overnight.

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Sarah McGuinness and Francisco J Orjales-Mourente in 'American Gigolo'


Scenes from recent 'Alchemy' workshops now on YouTube
uk.youtube.com/alchemyscreenacting

2. SCHEDULE

  • DAY ONE: EARTH

    The TV business.
    The casting process from the director's point of view.
    The 'triple whammy' audition technique.
    What the camera frame reveals.
    What shot sizes tell the actor.
    How to handle soap scenes, with an emphasis on body language in relationship to character and environment.
    The need for subconscious motivations and the use of props.

  • DAY TWO: WATER

    Shoot soap scenes.
    View 'rushes' with a detailed debrief on each shot.
    The editing process and the use of reactions.

  • DAY THREE: AIR

    The film business.
    Story structure and script analysis.
    Differences between soap writing and film screenplays.
    The relevance of 'alchemy' to screen acting.
    Rehearse feature film scenes.

  • DAY FOUR: FIRE

    The entire day is spent shooting 2-hander scenes from well written film screenplays.

  • DAY FIVE: ETHER

    Review rough cut of soap scenes.
    Review feature film 'rushes' in detail, followed by the rough cut done overnight.
    Practical information and advice on how to gain further screen acting experience and put together an effective showreel.
    Feedback on CVs.

Handouts and reading list provided.

(Post workshop: Participants will receive a DVD copy of the edited version of both their soap and feature film scenes.)

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William Wolfe Hogan and Sarah Bowes in 'The Firm'


Scenes from recent 'Alchemy' workshops now on YouTube
uk.youtube.com/alchemyscreenacting

3. POST PRODUCTION

Investment in a new non-linear editing system enables the wide-screen film scenes to be cut on Final Cut Pro HD overnight, thereby uniquely offering participants the opportunity to view both the rushes and a rough cut of their work on the last day of the course. A fine cut will then be made, with music and effects tracks, and participants will each receive a DVD copy of all edited scenes.

As all material is shot on DV and edited professionally, participants may wish to include some of this material on their showreels. Therefore, mini-DV and DVCAM copies will also be made available at a special rate.

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Dwayne Simmons and Richard Goodwin in 'Casablanca'

4. ENROLLING:

LONDON

DATES:



Alchemy 76: 11-15 August 2008
Alchemy 77: 6-10 October 2008
Alchemy 78: 27-31 October 2008
Alchemy 79: 17-21 November 2008
Alchemy 80: 8-12 December 2008

VENUE:
Central London: SW7 (South Kensington)

WORKSHOP FEE:
The workshop fee is UKP 500 (inc. VAT). This covers 5 full days tuition, including 1.5 rehearsal and 2 shooting days, analysis of rushes, rough cut viewing, DVD copy of all edited scenes and copious handouts.
ENROL NOW by calling 07785 394214 to book your place and sending a cheque for the full amount (payable to 'Andrew Higgs') together with a CV and a small photograph to:

'The Alchemy of Screen Acting'
Macheath Productions
Room 1
13 Thurloe Street
London SW7 2SS
Tel: 0207 584 2554

CAPACITY
Each workshop is strictly limited to 8 actors and, due to pressure of demand, places are allocated on a 'first come, first served' basis.

REFUNDS POLICY
If a participant is unable to attend their booked workshop, then we operate a flexible policy whereby, with one full working week's notice, you can either reschedule on to another workshop or get a full refund.

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Elke de Wit and Candace Mortimer in 'The Accused'


Scenes from recent 'Alchemy' workshops now on YouTube
uk.youtube.com/alchemyscreenacting

5. WORKSHOP DIRECTOR

Andrew Higgs trained at the London International Film School, graduating with distinction having won the Fuji Scholarship Award for 'Macheath' starring John Hurt. Subsequent directing credits include 'Brookside', 'The Bill', 'Jupiter Moon' and the German police series 'Die Wache'. He recently set up Macheath Productions and is in development with a first feature film. He is also a member of the current Council of The Directors Guild of Great Britain and was recently one of only three people granted an interview by Roman Polanski to discuss his Oscar-winning film 'The Pianist' (see www.dggb.co.uk/publications/article11_100.html).

Click here for Andrew Higgs' CV

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Alex McNamara and Natalie Clayton in 'A Beautiful Mind'

6. PARTICIPANTS' CREDITS

Over recent years, many actors have benefitted from Andrew's screen acting techniques and gone on to appear in numerous commercials, network drama series and feature films. Some of their credits are as follows:

Commercials:

Spirito de Punto ("Don't Ya Want Me Baby?")
Domestos Ox
heat
PC World
Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Oat Bars
Daz
Eurostar (St Pancras)

Television:

"Doctors"
"The Bill"
"Emmerdale"
"Eastenders"
"Coronation Street"
"Dream Team"
"Casualty"
"Holby City"
"London's Burning"
"Teachers"
"Merseybeat"
"Red Cap"
"Peak Practice"
"Heartbeat"
"The Crouches"
"The Vice"
"Footballers Wives"
"Bad Girls"
"Rescue Me"
"Spooks"
"Murder"
"Silent Witness"
"The Ruth Rendell Mysteries"
"State of Play"
"Colditz"
"Malice Aforethought"
"e=mc2"
"Rosemary & Thyme"
"The Queen's Sister"
"The Line of Beauty"
"Mansfield Park"
"He Kills Coppers"
"Filth: The Mary Whitehouse Story"

Feature Films:

"The Four Feathers"
"Bend It Like Beckham"
"Gosford Park"
"Captain Corelli's Mandolin"
"Bright Young Things"
"Inside I'm Dancing"
"The Merchant of Venice"
"Beyond the Sea"
"Control"
"Kingdom of Heaven"
"Merry Christmas" ("Joyeux Noel")
"Venus"
"Elizabeth: The Golden Age"
"Rise of the Foot Soldier"
"Cassandra's Dream"
"Brideshead Revisited"
"The Duchess"

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7. FEEDBACK

"Andrew Higgs is a director with a difference. He cares passionately about his craft, naturally, but he also understands actors and acting in a way that few actors and even fewer directors ever get to do.

His workshop combines an intensely practical 'throw 'em in at the deep end' approach with a brainstorming wealth of theoretical concepts drawn from sources as varied as Aristotle, Emerson and Jung. Swept along by the momentum of the schedule - not unlike that of being thrust into middle of a film set for real - on Day One we are given a scene to learn that has to be shot on Day Two. There is no escape from the rigours of this task, but why should there be - it's page 1, chapter 1 of what being a screen actor is all about.

Only when the words are off the page can the performance begin to take shape. It's a tough and unforgiving business. As Andrew explains, you might have five weeks or more to perfect a stage performance, but five minutes may be all you get for a scene in TV soap with an actor you may never have met before. And, of course, your scene is broken down into shots, so you have to be able to switch your performance on and off as the camera lens peers ever more closely into the depths of your soul...

Tough it most certainly is - but Andrew makes it possible by making the process comprehendable. He is somehow able to be the relentless taskmaster that the director has to be and yet provide the insight - be it at a physical, emotional or spiritual level - that we need as actors, climbing our way up the week's steep, steep learning curve.

Day Four is another exhausting shooting day. At the end of it - as we all try and wind down after the intensity of acting out our roles in demanding feature film scenes - Andrew somehow manages to do an assembly edit of our efforts overnight! This is an immensely valuable bonus for us actors, who would never normally get anything resembling such rapid feedback, it's almost impossible to put a price on it.

Suffice to say that if you want to cut the mustard as a screen actor, attending an Alchemy workshop is an opportunity you definitely cannot afford to miss."
Robin Laine
robinlaine@scorpian.net

"My background is theatre. I've been performing since I was ten. After attending a New York state Performing Arts school, I then went on to study at the Eastman School of Music. My career had all the usual ups and downs, with every new location being a new beginning. I did, however, manage to successfully infiltrate numerous regional and professional fringe theatre groups in NY, California, and Texas. The idea of moving to England, and so near the heart of Theatre Land, didn't frighten me. It was exciting. I thought: Wow! How lucky am I. I can go to London and learn, and perhaps even work, in the greatest theatre city in the world!

Some artists, such as myself, have a difficult time balancing their other life with their artistic life.However, I realised that many successful women balance their careers with motherhood just fine, so I naively thought that it would be no problem. Unfortunately, life sometimes throws a curveball you just don't expect.

Shortly after we got settled here, it became increasingly apparent that our son Robert was not progressing normally. I didn't have time to think about me, so my career definitely came second. There were phone calls, letters and doctor's appointments that had to be taken care of. Robert was finally formally diagnosed with Autism, some two years later. Of course, during this time all my focus and energy was devoted to my Robert. It took over four years of work to get him into the wonderful program he is in now. Only then, after his learning needs were being fulfilled was I able to ask the question: Now that Robert is happy and progressing, what do I do about me?

There was only one answer; I wanted to get back. I wanted to be able to reclaim my artist self, but I didn't know how. I read all the appropriate publications and thought a lot about how much time I could commit and one advertisement just stood out, more than the rest. I had actually seen it the previous year and wondered, but I wasn't ready then.

Call it serendipity or whatever you like, when I finally started making real plans, I saw the familiar advert again. Something about Alchemy and Artistry just seem right. While I struggled with all my old self-esteem issues, my husband assured me that he and my son would survive a week without me and encouraged me to call.

Andrew Higgs answered the phone himself. He assured me that there was still space available for me in the upcoming course. The more he explained what the course would be like, the more I relaxed into the idea of commuting down to London for a week. It was during a mail strike so there was some question about how to get my information to Andrew, and I am not sure quite what possessed me, but as I sometimes went down to London for another weekly meeting, I suggested that I could just hand-deliver my info to his office. To my surprise, Andrew agreed to meet me so that I didn't have to go out of my way.

I was immediately put at ease with his genuine enthusiasm and respect for the arts, and his encouragement of all artistic projects - not a bad thing when you're about to hand over a rather large sum of money to a stranger!

Having previously lived near LA, I'll admit I was a bit skeptical, but Andrew's class was well worth the money and the effort. He creates a very safe and supportive environment, where actors can be open and vulnerable and learn.There is no sense of competition. He gives us tools and technique, while encouraging a sense of artistic respect and support. It is as if he were guiding us back to a place of artistic community, where people do their best work when supported by others of like-minded goals and ideals. [Oh yeah, and technical info is good too.]

Although Andrew doesn't recommend using workshop footage in your showreel, it was nonetheless good enough to convince Kevin, from Rhino Management, to take a chance on me. (I suppose it didn't hurt that Kevin was also a big Brookside fan!)

For me, Andrew's class was a journey back to my artistic self. It has been a slow process, and I still have to remember to get out of my own way sometimes, but I know that I am making progress."
Jennifer Belander
jenn_belander@yahoo.com

"This is one of the best training courses I have done in my life. Andrew's passion for this world of work can not fail to rub off on you. He is an excellent teacher who gives you room to grow as an actor, and learn from your own mistakes. He never tells you what to do, just gently points you in the right direction. Even though I have been an actor for a long time with some TV and film experience, I know I learnt a lot and I came away from this course with a warm glow of confidence. If you wish to succeed in a overcrowded market, do this course."
Tracey Briggs (Credits: 'Casualty Saved My Life' [BBC]; 'Heartbeat' [Yorkshire TV])
sovay@lycos.co.uk

"What I learnt in a week with Andrew Higgs set me up so well for the real rigours of film acting. He doesn't simply address the issues and techniques that the film actor must have; he also instills within you a tangible feeling for what it is like working in film and compounds anything you may have learnt already. You will learn a discipline with this man. I have shot five features and three shorts since working with Andrew and he's still my main reference point."
Jonathan Rhodes
www.jonathanrhodes.com

"'Alchemy of acting' is the the most appropriate title for this course as it really does give the actor a way of moulding together all his or her techniques and using them for the screen... Andrew has a unique way of making you benefit from your bad performances as well as when it goes right... The alchemy of acting really is a good way of understanding what is needed from the actor from a different angle. He really gets you to understand the business... The time I spent with Andrew really made more difference to me than the time I spent at drama school"
Ras Barker (Credits: 'The Search' [BBC Worldwide]; 'London's Burning'; Domestos Ox Commercial)
www.rasbarker.com/

"I cannot imagine anyone attempting to act 'on camera' without first attending an 'Alchemy' workshop. Andrew Higgs designed the programme to include a balance of both practical and theoretical instruction. To those seriously seeking work in this highly competitive business this course is a must!"
Rita Barrington (Credits include short films with Lighthouse Media and the University of Central England)
ritamart@supanet.com

"Andrew Higgs' alchemical theory provides an interesting philosophical background with which to approach performance. However, the aspect that I found most invaluable from the workshop was Andrew's practical approach to scene analysis, rehearsal and acting technique. Obviously Andrew's background is in screen direction but he brings with him a wealth of psychological knowledge and insight into the actor's craft that most theatre directors would struggle to match. Whilst essential for the screen, Andrew's approach can just as easily be applied to the stage whether it be classical or modern."
Adrian Fear (Film credits: 'The Fencing Master' ; 'Little David' ; 'Alkemade')
GrosvenorLodge@hotmail.com

"As a newcomer to film and TV I have gained essential techniques and knowledge which further developed my skills as an actor. Andrew is one of the most passionate and devoted directors that I have worked with. Thank you."
Wil Roettgen (TV credits include: 'Band of Brothers' and 'International Rescue Canada'. Feature film, 'Beyond the Sea' with Kevin Spacey)
wil_333@yahoo.de

"I thoroughly benefited from doing the course. One of the main advantages for me was the play back at the end of the day of everyone's scenes. (Normally you film something and rely on the director and how you felt a shoot went and then don't see it until its finally put together - or maybe never see it!) I learnt from watching others as well as myself - what worked, what did not; - where the viewer was drawn in, where he/she was not."
Scott Ainslie (Credits include: 'Much Ado About Something' [BBC/ABC Australia])
ssainslie@ntlworld.com

"Andrew Higgs' screen acting workshop was for me one of the defining moments in my comprehension of 'moment to moment' acting. It taught me to be relaxed and that less really can be more. Many acting workshops can get bogged down in endless intellectual theory work creating a very introverted and selfish style. However, the work with Andrew was so common-sense and step by step that emotion, intellect, technique and truth all fell into place."
Matt Rozier (Credits: 'Peak Practice' ; 'Doctors'; and a short film, 'Love Kills')
scarface_62@hotmail.com

"I tend to be quite sceptical about approaches to acting that involve reaching beyond 'technique', 'instinct' and 'passion', looking at underlying emotional or spiritual things, but Andrew's work cured me of my scepticism. (Or, perhaps, made me realise that I wasn't so sceptical after all). His work on the Alchemy of acting was truly mind-expanding and inspiring because it showed the way to a potential resource for acting using a more lateral approach, trying to uncover ways in which we might tap in to underlying emotional or spiritual phenomena. These may be culturally-specific to us, but nevertheless they are fascinating to explore and potentially very helpful. The great thing about Andrew is that instead of trying to force-feed you with ideas and 'methods', he dangles suggestions and ideas in front of you which, he makes you feel, are there for you to pick up and develop or discard as you see fit. He is keen to stress that nothing is obligatory, nothing is 'right 'or 'wrong', but that it is all worth a look. A fascinating exploration."
Scott Brooksbank (Recent graduate of Guildhall School of Music and Drama)
scottbrooksbank@yahoo.co.uk

"The workshop combines a very practical approach to the hands-on, nuts and bolts aspects of acting for the screen with a challenging exploration of how any actor can approach a role, and find the essence of a character with whom he, or she may have little common ground.

From the nuts and bolts aspect we were put under the intense scrutiny of the camera, our peers, and our tutor, to be made aware of how we come across on screen (strengths, and weaknesses) and how this might affect our chances of getting a role from the very outset, the casting stage. As the week progressed, we worked on scenes, picking up invaluable advice as to how best to open yourself up to the camera, physically, and psychologically, acting, and reacting, "being" and listening so that you could offer the camera your full potential, even if you only have a few lines in a scene.

As for the alchemy, Andrew gently pushes actors to dig deeper in their characterizations, to try and find that unique magic that separate a good actor from a great one. Whether it's looking at the simple power of body language, or the more complex personality traits found in Jungian theory, it's an excellent springboard for looking at fresh ways of approaching your craft...

My only negative comments are, I'm afraid, reserved for a few of my fellow actors on the course who didn't come prepared, and ended up wasting their own, and everyone else's time. It might sound like the most obvious statement in the world, but if you're gonna be an actor you have to be able to learn your lines. You can't even begin to explore the depths of your craft if you're too busy thinking about what line, or word comes next. On a course which you've paid for, a tutor has to indulge you, in the real world they do not. Show up for an audition not knowing your lines, you don't get the part. Wanna be on Eastenders? You have to be able to learn scenes over night. If you don't, or can't there's not much chance you'll be getting any work, anywhere."
Stewart Alexander (Credits: 'Control' [with Ray Liotta and Willem Dafoe], 'Slayers' and 'Risk TV')


"Doing Andrew's course gave me great confidence in my skill as a screen actor. Andrew creates a safe environment for you to learn, building up the pressure as the days progress. This course can be an excellent way to learn the basics of screen acting or for the more experienced film actor, a place to take risks. Fully recommended."
Dean Loxton
dean.loxton@btopenworld.com

"This is a life-changing course! If you are serious about the business, you cannot afford to miss it, if you're happy just complaining that you don't get the work - then don't do it!"
Sue Kimberley (Credits: Carling World cup ident; Celebrity Survivor ident)
suekimberley@cyberphile.co.uk

"I learned numerous technical terms, jargon, what to expect on a TV or film set, what to expect at an audition, continuity, the importance of working quickly and skilfully at the first go; I learned the importance of knowing lines inside out; I learned how to be big through being intense - which I love! In addition to this, Andrew spent alot of time, and imparted information to us which he had clearly not been given in a hand-out, but had compiled and learned himself, through trial and error over time. The information gave us contacts, a reading list, and a list of film schools which offer directors' courses and therefore need actors (which I have subsequently done and found very beneficial)... I have worked with a number of final year directors, four professional TV directors at Mountview and truly feel that I gained most from my time with Andrew. In a nut-shell, he gave me the trust, confidence and knowledge I needed to perform in front of a camera. I now feel that I would not be too phased by a TV audition or first day shoot. I now feel that I could ask questions without feeling like an idiot, and, in the main, would be able to get on with the job without wasting time - and that would get me re-employed."
Richard Goodwin (Recent graduate of Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts)
starfightergoodwin@hotmail.com

"The Alchemy of Screen Acting fuels or re-ignites an actor's passion for the screen. Andrew Higgs conducts an extremely well organised and constructive course. It is abundantly clear that he expends much personal energy in ensuring that this is the case, both in the build up to and execution of the course. Prospective students need not fear - they will definitely get value for money. Whether Alchemy rings your bell or not it comes adhered to a fascinating introduction to the observation of personality types. This is surely a tool essential for any actor."
Jane Dodd (Recent graduate of E15 Acting School)
jane@janedodd.co.uk

"I just want to take this opportunity to thank The Alchemy of Screen acting for a great course. It was so well grounded and positive and gave me confidence in my ability and an excitement about acting that I haven't touched for a while. This is largely due to the directness, skill, knowledge and professionalism with which the course was conducted. I mostly appreciated the generosity of skill sharing and knowledge and the encouragement and determination to help each one of us as individuals stretch ourselves in a very limited time and, most of all, the feedback was given with humanity, wisdom and honesty. The Alchemy of Screen Acting treated us like adults and not "drama students" and provided a very supportive atmosphere from day one. Thank you for running this intensive course and giving actors the opportunity to gain/improve key skills that are a must for working successfully in the business."
Paulette Brown
Pibione@yahoo.co.uk


'"The Alchemy of Screen Acting'' proved one of those random unexpected and yet extraordinarily intense moments in my life. I started out with a whole load of preconceptions one week, and by the next week my entire thought process, focus and self-appraisal had changed. Expect an emotionally intense hardworking week, and don't expect to be treated with kid gloves. The 'alchemy' was genuine and there was some pretty straightforward and unambiguous analysis of different acting styles. Andrew Higgs manages to cram a huge variety of ideas into the course, and, if you're up to the challenge, the rewards far outweigh the effort. Well worth every penny.
Tom Wontner (actor/producer)
www.wontner.com

"I learnt more about working on screen in five days than I did in three years at drama school. The learning environment is safe but astute and the critiques are constructive and honest. The technical lessons are revealed through intensive practical experience, not through preaching... and what talking there is, is more like a passionate and inspiring discourse on philosophy, humanity, the anatomy of story telling and the harsh realities of the business, than any reductionist theory of acting. It is a rigorous, intensive, fun, illuminating and deeply transformative five days and I found it essential on both a personal and professional level. Highly recommended.?
Rachel Blackman ("The Matrix Revolutions")
rachelblackman@emailacc.com

"Before deciding to enroll for ‘The Alchemy of Screen Acting’, I read through all of the outstanding feedback comments from previous participants; having done the course myself, I now understand why actors have appreciated the experience so much. The opportunity to practice acting for the camera is invaluable, but what is especially good is getting the chance to watch your own work afterwards, discuss it in a supportive atmosphere, and receive informed, sensible and constructive criticism. Andrew is a very experienced director and gives the class the benefit of this by demonstrating in detail the perspective from the other side of the casting and shooting process which as an actor you don‚t normally get the chance to see. For me, my ‘Alchemy’ week was inspirational, and I would completely recommend it. I have returned for the one-day ‘Alchemy of Audition Technique’ course, and this too was an extremely helpful experience, packed with useful practical advice and thought-provoking dramatic theory."
Julian Nest ("The Merchant of Venice")
jmvnest@yahoo.com

"The Alchemy of Screen Acting’ was possibly the most interesting and valuable course I have taken. Knowing the way the tv/film industry works, what and how the various players think (ie. producers, directors), gave me an enormous insight into exactly what was expected from me, ‘the actor’. It also put the whole puzzle into perspective and knowing where I fitted in and in what psychological frame, really makes a difference. I was concerned how much we would actually be able to cover in the five days, but from day one, Andrew Higgs (the workshop leader) hit the ground running. His wealth of knowledge has all of us (8 actors) on full alert mode, five days straight. I would not even run to the loo in case I missed a gem of information. That’s how interesting it was, and for someone who thinks she knows everything...! It was held at The Directors Guild in central London, which was a great networking opportunity. I recommend ‘The Alchemy of Screen Acting’ to any actor wanting to succeed in film and television, or to brush up on technique and increase knowledge. Rating: Five Stars!"
Sonia Davies
info@soniad.com

"Before taking part in Andrew Higgs's excellent workshop 'The Alchemy of Screen Acting', I was intrigued by its title. What had alchemy to do with it all, and how was Andrew going to link camera work to the alchemists' pursuit? Well, I think I now understand it; it's all about a Quest. Andrew is passionate about his work, which he does as expectantly as the Renaissance Alchemists looked for the magic fifth element; with dedication and professionalism, talent - immense talent, generosity and inspiration. I came to the workshop knowing next to nothing about screen acting. In five days, I learnt more about it than I could have in months, as Andrew knows how to get to the point and give you a very clear picture of the industry together with all the vocabulary you must know and the technique you absolutely have to master to work on a set. Andrew is a master at his art, there's no mistaking it! The experience was to me tough but immensely rewarding. I felt questioned, the work was difficult and the camera unforgiving. I had to reconsider all I had learnt about acting and put it into perspective. Yet never did I feel insecure or challenged in an uncomfortable way. I finished the week a wiser, more confident actress. Andrew knows how to get the best out of actors by giving them the strength to stand up for themselves. A huge lesson in self confidence in a friendly, supportive, while always extremely honest, atmosphere. I am not exaggerating when I say that the course has changed my artistic vision of acting and given me plenty to think about the human craving for story-telling. Be good to yourself, come to the workshop! I believe you'll then feel, like myself and so many 'Alchemists', immensely impressed by and grateful to Andrew's alchemical 'recipes' for success in screen acting!"
Cecilia Dorland
cecilya@btopenworld.com

"A great opportunity to work with such an experienced director and other enthisiastic actors. Andrew brings to this course a wealth of knowledge, expertise, enthusiasm and passion for the industry whilst also creating realistic situations. It was an informative, useful, inspiring and enjoyable week."
Jackie Knowles
knowlesjackie@hotmail.com

"After some ten years stage work, I fell over one of Andrew’s ads for Alchemy and immediately thought: this might be it!

And for a week in summer 2004 in an atmospherically quirky church basement in Southwark - it was. You can read all about what Alchemy actually involves on Andrew’s site, but for me the personal benefits were huge in that I finally got a chance to have a go at working with a teacher/director who will tell you the truth and guide you through the minefield. The jargon, the techniques and practices and advice on creating yourself as a product together with lots of advice for further reading and research were all explained, and the practical exercises and feedback a powerful exploration into the reality of acting on film.

I finished the week actually thinking that I could perhaps do it for real. By the end of it, I knew so much more and had confidence to get out and have a go. Several short films and a feature later, and I now understand the most important thing, the thing I’m worst at - you have to market, market, market yourself or no-one will know you exist...

Then last week it was back down the basement for the Shakespeare course, an intense week immersing ourselves in and becoming strangely infected by the language and the feelings of the characters of ‘Twelfth Night’.

We were asked to choose and learn a sonnet to perform alone, then to learn and perform a 2-hander scene from the play, all to camera. The work on the sonnets was a revelation; each one a tiny one-person play in itself, and we got some great results. By the end of the week I was exhausted but pleased with the resulting work. The camera did pick up aspects of myself which I found were uncomfortable viewing, but at the end I think I'd come a long way on my own journey. I'd also experienced how other-worldly filming can be - I think I’m still running on Illyria time! Thanks to all the other course members and to Per Tingleff, the terrific lighting cameraman, too.

Some thoughts if you are thinking of taking a course: although Andrew is very accommodating if you have to leave early or drop a day for auditions, work, etc, I really think you can only get the best out of it if you are totally committed and attend the whole course. You will receive no false praise; if you need to work on something, you will be told about it. And of course, the better and the earlier you know your lines, the sooner you can start acting! All this can only benefit everyone else on the course too. So don’t take on too much, but don’t over-rehearse and let it go stale either. Good luck!"
Philippa Hammond
philippa.hammond@discretion.studio1919.co.uk

"Alchemy was the catalyst to transform my understanding and approach to screen acting - an invaluable experience... Andrew Higgs is a special director with vast insights in to what is required to be successful screen actor - catch his course while you still can... How do you put together a show reel that offers directors the reassurance they need to hire you? - Simple, beg Andrew to do it for you... If your show reel passes the Higgs test then you have a powerful sales tool to help you succeed."
Dominic Simler
dominic@earthoxygen.com


"Attending the screen workshop has boosted my confidence in the art of screen acting - its not often you get the opportunity to analyse your work with close scrutiny and I certainly benefited from this experience. Andrew created a relaxed and open environment within the group so people could be as honest about each others’ performances as they wanted. This meant that you got people’s opinions about how you come across on screen directly which, as an actor, is invaluable. I was also impressed at how good the scenes looked on video with Andrew Higgs’s actor-friendly directing technique and Per Tingleff's lighting/camera effects. This course was well worth the money in my opinion, it has helped me realise what I need to work on and has given me some scenes that I'm currently putting on a show reel. Thank you for a truly beneficial week."
Richard Gillings
richard_gillings@yahoo.co.uk

"I deliberated over this course for months before booking a place. It seemed from the web site that it offered what I needed - an opportunity to experiment with and build on my understanding of acting for the screen, pointers on generating work and some decent showreel material - but with so many courses on offer these days I hesitated to commit my cash. I was finally won over by the feedback page, which included positive remarks by someone I knew, and so I went ahead with it.

Choosing to work with Andrew Higgs was one of the best decisions I've ever made as a professional actor. He is an outstanding teacher and one of a rare breed of directors: one who actually understands the acting process and what it takes to make it work. He enjoys actors and works with them in partnership, rather than viewing them as problems to be solved or puppets to be manipulated. Not only does he understand and appreciate acting but he cares enough to have taken the time and the trouble to explore, model and articulate the deeper layers and ramifications of the art form. I cannot tell you what a breath of fresh air this was for me. In three years of training and twelve years since, I have worked with about thirty directors and Andrew is one of the handful I would consider to be truly expert at what they do. Few can touch him for his philosophical grasp of the work.

The course is practically structured to begin with basic principles of the medium and build steadily towards a finished product and the wider considerations of taking the skills forward and marketing them. The atmosphere is collaborative, supportive and challenging. Feedback from the group is encouraged so that everyone learns from each other and can experience the breadth of opinion that their images and performances evoke. Exercises, rehearsals and shoots are interspersed with lectures on topics including the nature of the industry, the casting process, the director's perspective, the production life cycle and - the bit I've always struggled with - marketing.

This five days sharpened my performance skills, built my confidence and gave me a right kick up the arse - pointing out my weaknesses and taking away the excuse of ignorance. I came away feeling stimulated, encouraged and motivated. It was the best money I've spent on tuition since drama school and I would recommend it to anyone looking to up their game."
Guy Fearon
mail@guyfearon.com


"I can describe my Alchemy week, with Andrew Higgs, as a quantum leap for my acting skills, knowledge and confidence. I liked the learning style of the course. We built on the previous days work, each day developing our skills and having the direct feedback of viewing the day’s footage. Andrew has a wealth of knowledge and experience, which he communicates through focused group discussion and practical camera work. There is no pretence or bullshit. The course delivers a real experience of what it is like to work on a professional shoot. I found the group very supportive. I have come away from the course with many new tools for my acting tool kit and a list of achievable tasks to help me to that first screen job. We also got a copy of the edited scenes we did. I wholeheartedly recommend this course to anyone who is serious about taking their acting to a new, higher, level."
Pete Joscelyne
peter.rj@virgin.net


"Everyone wants to teach you how to act, and perhaps above all, they want you to pay them for the privilege. What few people in the business want to do, however, is share any insider knowledge they may have, or give you any practical advice on how to become successful once you have honed your acting skills to perfection (and probably parted with large sums of money). Andrew Higgs is the exception to this rule. During ‘The Alchemy of Screen Acting’ workshop, he provides the participants with a rare insight into the world of film and television, together with useful tips from the point of view of a director and casting director.

The Alchemy of Screen Acting teaches actors to perform naturally in front of the camera (haven't we all too often seen the less than satisfying results of great stage actors making the screen into a theatre!), to work in a professional manner and to make their own input into the process as well as taking direction. Furthermore, sound advice is given on audition technique, CVs & showreels, networking and other promotional activities - in short, a package of knowledge to help you go out there and grab that career that is rightfully yours! All this is done at a price that would barely allow Mr Higgs to take home any earnings for himself that week.

I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the five days I spent partaking in the course, and I especially appreciated the fact that when filming our selected scenes, we worked like one would in the real world of film and television respectively. I walked away from the workshop with a large amount of new confidence, courage and knowledge, not to mention some excellent showreel material and a few new and very talented friends who are all pursuing a similar career path to my own.

Under most circumstances, I would advise actors not to spend money and time on endless courses and workshops, but The Alchemy of Screen Acting is not an acting course in the normal sense. It could rather be seen as an intense briefing session interspersed with real work experience under expert guidance. I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone who has talent and is serious (note the key words "talent" and "serious"!) about making it as a screen actor."
Sara Rönneke
info@saraontheweb.com


"The Magic of Alchemy:

May I recommend The Alchemy of Screen Acting to you. A five day intensive course that puts you through the screen acting mill, but in a safe and nurturing environment. Great for all levels but especially for those with little experience or those needing to brush up on their screen acting skills.

Andrew Higgs tells it as it is and does not pull any punches. When filming the scenes the pressure is on to perform as a professional in a professional environment. This is not a game but a career that requires a great deal of work. If you listen to him you will learn more than you thought possible. He doesn't just spend time filming scenes but also concentrates on how to market yourself to the best of your abilities.

I learnt so much that I enrolled for two more of his courses.

Since participating in the workshop, I have been approached by Oxford Film & TV for a project due to start next month, a theatre company in Camberwell and am seeing a new agent on Friday!

Now that is Magic."
Anthony Styles
anthony@anthonystyles.com


"Thank you for such a brilliant week... Andrew Higgs is a talented director who understands actors. His method of teaching is to talk about a topic and then let you practice your skills in a supportive environment, followed by constructive feedback; and he does all of this with humour, passion and integrity. He has first hand experience of the mistakes and wrong turns that can cost actors their careers. He communicates effectively what to do and, more importantly, what not to do to get that job!"
Rachael Fagan (graduate of Birmingham School of Speech and Drama)
rachael_fagan@hotmail.com

"This course had so many fantastic testimonials written about it that I figured there must be something to it.  Either that or Andrew Higgs was into handing out bribes - either would have suited me! However, I’m pleased to say the prior proved to be true. There was no back-patting or false encouragement during the week, just a professional atmosphere giving as close as possible in a workshop setting to that of a realistic filming situation. I found it an invaluable opportunity, to safely practice what I  hope to make my craft with an excellent director and stunning cameraman/lighting technician/everything-else-man Per Tingleff.  I was also utterly impressed by the quality of the footage produced. All this, not to mention the gold-dust career advice, makes this a course that, if you really want to enter this industry, you can’t afford to miss. On a personal note, I found the psychological and philosophical discussions all added to make the experience a mind-opening, forward-looking, slap in the face, kick up the backside, wake up call.  And there’s no bribes, honest."
Sally Day
sallyday22@btinternet.com

"An inspiring, engaging and challenging course. ’The Alchemy of Screen Acting’ allows the actor to explore the practical demands of professional television and film work in a safe environment. The course really spells out the responsibility of the actor during the filming process and the precision required for truly effective acting on screen. A very valuable learning tool."
Lexy Howe
mail@lexyhowe.co.uk

"This workshop is quite simply brilliant! Furthermore, having done two other workshops with very well known directors I believe that Andrew Higgs ‘Alchemy of Screen Acting’ is in a league of its own.

From the minute I arrived Andrew made me feel welcome and he quickly puts you at ease with his unassuming blend of charisma and good humour. Both his passion and enthusiasm were apparent from the start, as were his skill as a director and incredible wealth of knowledge. It was clear to me that he genuinely enjoys working with actors and he’s a very nice bloke to boot!

I learned more about script analysis, audition technique and screen acting in five days than I did in my whole time at drama college, all previous short film projects and workshops put together.

The week was well structured and paced perfectly to meet the needs of the whole group. Andrew encourages an experiential learning environment where it feels safe to make mistakes or indeed suggestions without being concerned that the producer is checking their watch every thirty seconds. Whether you’re acting, observing or trying out your directing skills the whole experience feels just like a real shoot with the added bonus that you can watch what you’ve done at the end of each day and get constructive feedback.

Suffice to say that after seeing the quality of the two edits Andrew had produced overnight I reserved my place on another workshop to shoot additional material for my showreel. The second workshop was great too and it allowed me to consolidate what I had learned previously while picking up another couple of tips and tricks along the way.

Having since put into practice my newly acquired marketing skills, increased confidence and motivation I am currently in talks with a well known London agent. They have seen the quality showreel Andrew produced for me and I have another meeting next week. I know that none of this would have come about so soon (possibly not at all) were it not for my decision to do this amazing workshop."
Steve Buchanan
stevebuchanan@btinternet.com

"This course was full of practical advice, not a minute of the week felt wasted or padded out and the quality of the showreel material at the end really stood out. The professional approach taken with the scenes all week helped me overcome any fears of the unknown that I may have had going into TV and film work, fears that may have been holding me back from promoting myself as much as I could. Everything promised by Andrew was delivered."
Jat Sahi
jatsahi@hotmail.com

"The 5 day Alchemy of Screen Acting course has been the best and most beneficial week of training I’ve ever done, so much so that when the week was over I booked in to do another one straight away!  Andrew has a way of inspiring actors to give it their best. He is honest - allowing you to see and work through problems that arise - and motivating, through his own dedication to the art. The course is laid out in the best way I could imagine and I enjoyed every second of it. It was fantastic to work with such good direction and like-minded people and the showreel produced at the end proves the quality of the course and director. I learned an invaluable amount through my own work with Andrew, whose knowledge, talent and personality is truly genuine, and by watching and working with all the others. I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone who wants to feel confident and inspired about their screen acting career."
Zoë Daly
zoe.daly@gmail.com

"Despite having been on previous workshops for acting I had a distinct feeling that Andrew's Alchemy for Screen Acting was going to be in a class of its own - and it was. Highly illuminating, I've increased my knowledge tenfold and have a much better understanding of what it'll be like on a real film set. It certainly sets you up for it. After being on this workshop you shouldn't need to go on any others. Andrew gives you insight not only to the technical side of film, but also the practical and philosophical side and lends to a relaxed, supportive and friendly atmosphere. I can't add anything better to every positive thing said by others here. It's all been said. I've already recommended this workshop to others and they can only benefit themselves by going on it."
Jo Francis
feisty411@yahoo.com

"Thank you for a fantastic workshop! I can't use words alone to express the value of the alchemy workshop. It's a 'feeling' of being awakened and empowered. You've sparked a light within all of us with your words of wisdom. May the pennies continue to drop! "
Rebecca Aldred
vexbex@yahoo.com

"An eye opening week which helped in understanding not only the industry better but also myself.   Getting a clearer understanding of how the world sees me has led to seeing things more from other peoples point of view.  I feel very lucky and greatful to have worked with such a lovely group of people. "
Chris Bean
chrisbean22@hotmail.com

"Just wanted to say "thank you" for a fabulous week - was awesome! "
Melissa Jayne Day
melissa_day@live.co.uk

"Thanks Andrew, I had such an amazing week and really felt like I learnt more about the screen industry in 5 days than I did in a whole year at drama school! "
Nila-Louise Cotter
nikkicotter9@hotmail.com

"The five days spent with Andrew (and Dave the cameraman) were a real treat! I feel I gained a real insight into acting for camera, AND had the added benefit of filming scenes that could be put to good use on my showreel (I can't tell you how good it feels to finally have a showreel coming together)! Andrew also gave us the added bonus of practical information on how to 'move forward' to 'get seen' and make the most of yourself and the material you have. His approach is very matter of fact and woke me up to the fact that things don't have to be difficult. This really is a good course. It is rare to find someone who is willing, or interested in, letting you 'find yourself' on camera. Andrew allows you to do this. I recommend it! I am REALLY pleased i took the plunge and did it. "
Katie Matthews
bonbonkatie@yahoo.com