Intro to Acting Starts September 8, 2026Tuesdays, 6:30–9:30 p.m.4 classes Location: Waterloo-Kitchener United Mennonite Church (WKUM), 15 George Street, Waterloo. Entrance and parking are off Allen Street. Course Description This welcoming introductory course explores the essential building blocks of acting for theatre, film, and television. Through practical exercises, partner work, script exploration, and guided scene work, students develop a reliable process for approaching a role with greater confidence, clarity, and truth. The training is rooted in the principles of the Meisner Technique, with an emphasis on placing attention on your scene partner, listening deeply, and responding honestly in the moment. The course explores several interconnected areas of the actor’s craft: Acting technique: developing presence, concentration, imagination, and truthful response Script analysis: identifying given circumstances, objectives, actions, and shifts within a scene Listening and connection: staying responsive to a scene partner instead of planning a performance Practical scene work: applying technique to text in an active, supportive rehearsal environment Students learn to: make clear, playable acting choices approach and analyze a script practically listen and respond truthfully in the moment work with greater confidence, curiosity, and freedom Whether you are beginning your acting journey or returning to the fundamentals, this class provides a practical foundation for more connected, specific, and believable work. Instructor The course is led by Paul Hopkins, an actor, director, and teacher with more than 30 years of professional experience in theatre, film, and television. His teaching combines rigorous craft, practical professional insight, and a supportive approach that helps actors become more present, imaginative, and responsive.