DIFA:DHALX04 Meisner technique - Course Information

DHALX04 Meisner technique

Extent and Intensity

0/2/0. 1 credit(s). Type of Completion: z (credit).

Teacher(s)

BcA. Lucie Rossi (lecturer)

Guaranteed by

doc. MgA. Lukáš Rieger, Ph.D.
Aleš Bergman Dramatic Acting Department – Dramatic Acting Department – Dean’s Office – Theatre Faculty – Janáček Academy of Performing Arts
Supplier department: Aleš Bergman Dramatic Acting Department – Dramatic Acting Department – Dean’s Office – Theatre Faculty – Janáček Academy of Performing Arts (50,00 %), Physical Theatre Department – Dean’s Office – Theatre Faculty – Janáček Academy of Performing Arts (50,00 %)

Timetable

Mon 18:00–19:30 A132

Course Enrolment Limitations

The course is offered to students of any study field.

Course objectives

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the fundamental principles of the Meisner Technique as an acting method focused on truthful behavior in the present moment. The course develops the ability for authentic response, emotional availability, and genuine partnership. It provides a solid foundation for further acting training and supports the development of spontaneity, concentration, and responsiveness to impulses arising from interaction with a partner.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• understand the basic principles of the Meisner Technique and their application in acting practice

• work with attention directed outward and respond to a partner without pre-planned acting effects

• participate in repetition exercises while maintaining truthfulness, continuity, and simplicity

• distinguish between “acting” emotions and authentic emotional responses arising from the present moment

• apply the basic principles of the technique in simple improvisational situations

• reflect on their own learning process and receive feedback as a natural part of artistic development

Syllabus

Introduction to the Meisner Technique – principles, context, creating a safe working environment

Work with attention and relaxation – presence in the “here and now”

Basic repetition exercise – observation and naming

Repetition without interpretation – listening and responding

Emotional availability and working with impulse

Truthfulness versus the need to be interesting

Change in repetition – responding to a partner’s behavior

Deepening concentration and maintaining continuity

Simple improvisation emerging from repetition

Introduction to independent activity – purpose and rules

Combining independent activity with partner interaction

Application of the foundations of the technique in short situations

Summary, process reflection, open class

Teaching methods

practical exercises of the Meisner Technique (primarily repetition exercises)

work in pairs and small groups

guided improvisation

observation of other students’ work

group reflection and shared discussion

brief theoretical inputs integrated into practical work

Assessment methods

• continuous verbal feedback during classes

• reflection on individual student progress

• assessment based on active participation, concentration, and willingness to engage in the process

• emphasis on the learning process rather than on performance or results

(The course is not graded; emphasis is placed on continuous development and the individual artistic process.)

Language of instruction

Czech

Teacher's information

Lucie Rossi is an actress, acting teacher, and one of the leading proponents of the Meisner Technique in the Czech Republic and internationally. She works as a lecturer and facilitator of the acting process, combining a deep understanding of the Meisner approach with a sensitive and supportive pedagogical style. Lucie leads courses, workshops, and actor training programs focused on truthful acting, partner awareness, and authentic communication — the core principles of the Meisner Technique. Her teaching emphasizes personal artistic growth, self-reflection, and practical skills applicable to theatre, film, and other performance disciplines.

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