Acting Consultation
Piero Dusa exclusively and by referral only offers private coaching to individuals and very small groups, either in person or via Skype. Twenty-five years of professional experience allows Dusa to assess each client's unique needs. A consultation starts with the design of a syllabus tailored specifically to the individual's needs, maximizes the student's skill-set and incorporates specific goals. The client learns at their own pace, as opposed to the pace of a large class, and benefits by having Piero’s focused attention.
On-Camera:
In addition to the Actors Preference℠, Actors Expression℠ and Destructive Preference℠ educational service workshops, Dusa offers On-Camera coaching, essential for any student training to be in film or T.V. Students learn how to relax in front of the camera and concentrate on shifting into character and losing self-awareness. For example:
- Where to establish the point of focus of the actor’s eyes in reference to the camera
- How to set up place and previous moment.
- How to be camera savvy and use the camera to one’s full advantage
Auditions & Call-Backs for Film & TV:
It's true that "you don't get a second chance to make a first impression," and, for any actor, their audition might be the first and only chance. For an audition or call-back, Dusa uses a practical approach to maximize the student's effectiveness in this critical situation; how to use the actual script the actor is holding to their advantage, how to use the space in the audition, how to pick up the next line from the page and how to break down the script. Going into these key hiring moments, students utilizing Dusa's instruction will know how to play the preference of the character instead of falling back on their own. The actor will use phrasing to break down the dialogue in the script and making it character-specific. The actor learns the speed and rhythm required for a sit-com audition as opposed to an audition for a drama. Students are taped in High-Definition so the actor can see their choices in detail, recording the specificity of their choices in multiple takes allows the actor to understand their performance and implement the experience and knowledge gained on each subsequent take.
The Unique Process to Commercials
Commercials are a totally different process than Film and T.V. There is a specific technique to booking commercials.
Here, the student learns how to use product placement, props (imaginary or real), script breakdown, line delivery from a cue card and how to improv. Dusa also emphasizes the importance of how to “slate” in-character and in-action, how to start the audition as if the character were coming from a unique script-appropriate place, and how to close the frame when the audition is over.
The Screen Test:
Learning how to embody the character and make chemistry happen with the other actor(s) is the focus of a Screen Test. Here's a dirty little secret, not every director or executive can spot a good performance, originality, or potential within a new actor. But, one thing ALWAYS stands out plainly for all to see, whether there is chemistry between the performers on-screen. Good actors must know how to make character-specific choices that are meticulous and strong and know how to be flexible in the moment based on the other actor(s) in the scene.
On set:
Totally schedule-dependent, Dusa can be retained for on-set coaching for specific projects.
Seeking Representation:
In the digital age, networking is more important than ever when it comes to finding an agent or manager. But, when the opportunity arises, it is crucial for the actor to appeal to the agent/manager's preference. He can accomplish this by being diligent and prepared. Dusa assists the actor in selecting and preparing contrasting monologues or a scene that best portrays the essence of the actor. He works on improving the actor’s cold reading skills and also provides the following services:
- Resume service
- Cover Letter
- Head shot selection
- Demo Reels
-Discover what is missing from your reel
-Decide on what new footage needs to be added
-Create a teaser in line with your goals and individuality, image
-Add a photo gallery with diverse photos and reviews
-Create a personalized DVD
College Admission Preparation:
Dusa also works with students to select and prepare contrasting classic and contemporary monologues or scenes for college auditions.
Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned professional and want the best practical learning experience with a tailor-made syllabus to help you quickly improve your audition skills, call-backs, booking, marketing yourself and how to go about getting representation, contact us at info@pierodusa.com