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Summer Acting Program – Dunstan Wallace Interview
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The summer acting program at the Maggie Flanigan Studio introduces actors to the Meisner Technique and professional actor training. In this interview with Katie, Dunstan Wallace discusses the acting program and some of the ways he changed during the six week program.
Best Summer Acting Program – Dunstan Wallace – Call (917) 794-3878
Summer Acting Program Interview: Dunstan Wallace
Q: What did you think training was before you started the six weeks summer intensive?
Well, I really had no idea what it was to train as an actor because my prior experience would be, the teacher would just pair us up, same partners and then just give us a scene, you rehearse it, you put it up on the front of the class and he gives us feedback, that was it. I was thinking I wasn’t really getting what I thought I was getting. I felt like I was saying lines and just line reading and not really getting into the character. Yes, I really had no idea what it was to train as an actor.
Q: What happened to you during the six weeks that changed your perspective on acting?
Everything changed. The approach that Charlie instilled in us, the work ethic, the commitment, a lot of sacrifices, you can’t just go to a studio and expect the teachers to sprinkle magic fairy dust on you and think that you just going to be this person. They really tell you, they really teach you, they’re very nurturing, they care, but at the same time, you have to do the work. It’s the work ethic, pretty much that I’ve got from the six weeks program, the work ethic, like really setting the bar for yourself and really taking a pride in your work. That was something that really stuck with me.
Q: What did you learn about yourself that was a surprise during the six weeks program?
I think the biggest thing I learned was how sensitive I was. It was very endearing and lining at the same time scary because as a man, it’s not really popular to be that sensitive. I had to really fight that and Charlie was so nurturing. He said, “Look, it’s safe here. You can express how you feel. You don’t have to worry about that.” That’s something that it was a cultural thing for me. I had to really break that and really fight that obstacle. I think being here and working with Charlie– He really helped me to just embrace being who I am.
Q: How would you describe Charlie Sandlan as an acting teacher?
Charlie is amazing. He doesn’t BS you at all. He tells you straight up how it is and that’s something I admire about him. He sets the bar so high that as an artist yourself, you go out and you want to challenge yourself as an artist. He really puts a lot of wisdom into you as an artist. He tells you to question your artistry and to question your contribution to this industry. That’s something I really took from Charlie.
He was very passionate about his work. He cares, which is important. He’s nurturing, he wants you to do well, but at the same time, he instills so much work. He says, “Know the work ethics. It’s about the work. It’s about the work ethics.” That’s something that I loved about him. I embrace that, yes.
Meisner Summer Acting Program – Meisner Summer Intensive
Summer Acting Program Dunstan Wallace – Maggie Flanigan Studio
Learn more about the acing program and the Meisner Summer Intensive at the Maggie Flanigan Studio by visiting the studio website acting programs page (https://www.maggieflaniganstudio.com/) or by calling (917) 794-3878 during normal studio hours.
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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.”
