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Summer Intensive Interview: Pedro Souza
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The Maggie Flanigan Studio is one of the most recognized acting studios in the United States for professional actor training based on the principles of the Meisner technique and Sanford Meisner. Pedro Souza discusses the summer acting program at the studio and what Meisner actor training has been like at the studio.
Summer Acting Program – Pedro Souza Interview – Maggie Flanigan Studio
Summer Intensive Interview with Pedro Souza
What did you think it meant to train as an actor before you started the six-week summer intensive?
I grew up watching American movies. I always compared the American actors with Brazilian actors, and I still felt that something was missing there. I think in Brazil, everybody thinks being an actor is just being natural. Here, I realized how much deeper you can go and how much work you have to put into it.
What happened during the six-week summer intensive that changed your perspective, that made you realize you could go so much deeper than what you learned in Brazil? Was there a specific part of the class or was there something Charlie said that changed your idea of what it meant to be an actor?
It was both. I think it was the first day of class; Charlie gave a speech about behavior and all of this. During the night classes, we have a vocal reading; it’s like a stanza reading rehearsal. All the time, he came back with, “behavior, behave.” I was like, “Oh.” When I heard Charlie say that, I was like, “That’s it.” There is something connected with that. I had an experience in class too that changed everything, and I never felt so truthful in acting class. I felt like I should call my girlfriend and tell her. I was like, “I got so upset. It felt real to me, but it was in the scene. I never felt this way.” It was great.
When you’re experiencing real emotion-
Yes.
For the first time?
Without pushing or anything. Just through the contact.
What did you learn about yourself during the summer intensive that was a surprise or that changed you? Did you discover a new part of yourself or was there something that Charlie was saying that kept coming up for you that you had never realized before?
I think, there was the anger. Anger is a bad thing in life. I can always have this anger in life, and it was the first time Charlie said, “Oh, no. You’re okay with that.” Just follow through with that. After that, I think, it changed me, and I don’t hold myself back that way anymore. Now, anger is natural.
How would you describe Charlie as a teacher during the summer intensive?
Charlie was a hard teacher, but that was what I needed. He is not hard actually. He’s a fair teacher. If you’re working hard, he’s fair to you, but if you’re lazy, there’s no point to be here.
Meisner Summer Acting Program – Maggie Flanigan Studio – Call (917) 794-3878
Summer Acting Programs at the Maggie Flanigan Studio
Learn more about the Maggie Flanigan Studio, the professional acting programs and acting classes at the studio by visiting the studio website (https://www.maggieflaniganstudio.com) or calling the studio during the week at (917) 794-3878.
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“I was placed in the intense reigns of Charlie Sandlan. I became a better artist, actor, friend, sibling and daughter because of the studio. Even now, I crave the studio every day. What I learned is present in my work every day. I truly believe in everything they stand for.”
“Maggie taught me that I could control my work, my acting, and to throw all of the bullshit out that I had in my head about ‘what I should be doing’ and to just listen and respond honestly, in the moment. She gave me a craft. She is, quite simply put, THE BEST.”
“Maggie Flanigan taught me the true meaning of artistry, passion, and professionalism. I am certain that I continue to work as an actress because of my training with Maggie. At every audition and every performance, her guiding voice is with me. It is a gift beyond measure.”
“Maggie Flanigan is uncompromising, her instincts as a teacher are razor sharp. She doesn’t miss a beat”
“Maggie Flanigan has been one of the most important people in my artistic life. I want to work with Maggie trained actors. As an actor myself, she is my first source. I do not say this lightly, if you are serious about acting, and willing to work very hard, then go to Maggie.”
“Maggie helped me find my sense of truth, an actors greatest asset. Maggie is an expert at instilling that vital ingredient, which allows an actor’s potential to become limitless. My work will forever be rooted in the clarity and honesty she helped me develop.”
“After working for ten years, I did the 2 year program, and now feel that I have the tools I need to become the actor I’ve always dreamed of being. Maggie Flanigan instilled in me a clear sense of truth and a standard of perfection. I am a better actor because of this studio.”
“As an actor, the core of what you have to rely on is your sense of truth and humanity. Maggie allowed me to discover and embrace mine. Trusting my sense of humanity and truth has given me the ability to take risks in my work and my career decisions.”
“Maggie Flanigan has the unique ability to get an actor to the essence of what is true in a moment. She creates a safe and caring environment in which to work.”
“Maggie Flanigan introduced me to my own spirit and my own sense of Truth. Her passion for teaching and ability to communicate are rare gifts to any actor looking for a technique to set his or her talent free. Maggie’s voice has been the one constant guide in my career.”
