WAYS INTO TEXT

An Introduction to Acting

At 16th Street, we begin with craft. Ways Into Text is an introduction to acting designed for those who are new to acting or returning after time away. This course offers a clear, practical foundation for approaching a script. You will learn how to read text, how to support it physically and how to bring it to life with clarity and specificity.

Over the course of a fortnight, you will transform your approach to performance from the ground up. By moving through weekly focuses -from the logic of a scene to the physical resonance of your voice, you will learn to build a character through specific, playable choices. Whether you are an aspiring actor, a director seeking an embodied understanding of script work or simply a curious about the craft, you will leave with a structured toolkit to speak with clarity and move with confidence.

COURSE OUTLINE

Text. Breath. Voice. Character.

  • Text
    Acting begins with understanding.

    In this first week, you will learn how to:

    • Break down a scene

    • Identify action and intention

    • Understand the given circumstances

    • Work moment to moment

  • Breath
    Breath underpins all performance.

    Through practical exercises you will:

    • Develop breath support for text

    • Release unnecessary tension

    • Connect impulse to language

    • Build presence and grounding

  • Voice
    Your voice is your primary instrument.

    This week focuses on:

    • Clarity and articulation

    • Resonance and projection

    • Vocal strength without strain

    • Speaking with precision and ease

  • Character
    Character emerges from action.

    In the final week you will:

    • Explore physical and psychological choices

    • Develop playable objectives

    • Make clear, bold decisions

    • Apply your training to a short scene or monologue

“Ways Into Text changed the way I approach acting. It gave me a practical, accessible foundation that made script work feel far less intimidating and much more exciting. The course helped me understand how to break down a scene, make clear, playable choices, and connect my voice and body to the text in a way that felt authentic. I left feeling more confident, more grounded in my craft, and genuinely inspired to keep training. I would highly recommend it to anyone beginning their acting journey or returning to the craft.”

- Samantha InksterS

ROB MAXWELL

Meet your facilitator, Rob Maxwell.

Rob Maxwell is a voice, movement and acting teacher. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Voice from the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and is a graduate of the Atlantic Acting School in New York City. Rob has taught at leading conservatoires around the world, including Yale School of Drama and Carnegie Mellon University. In Australia, he has worked with institutions such as NIDA, 16th Street Actors Studio, Actors Centre Australia, Sydney Actors School, JMC Academy, and Australian Theatre for Young People.

He is passionate about guiding actors towards a deeper psycho-physical understanding of self and character. His approach draws on a rich blend of techniques that encourage a holistic integration of movement, psychology, voice, and imagination.

“His work is both courageous and attentive, creating space for transformation with clarity and care.”

— Fay Simpson, Founder of the Lucid Body

DETAILS

  • August 17th - 18th , 24th - 25th

    Monday and Tuesday Evenings

    7:00pm - 10:00pm

  • $395 (inc. GST)

  • 16th Street’s intensives and courses provide actors with opportunities to hone their craft in celebrated techniques. We work alongside master teachers and highly trained acting specialists to deliver these unique courses to Melbourne.

    The workshop is ideal for graduates and professional actors over the age of 18.


    Apply Now. Limited Places. Early Offers Apply.

  • FAQ’s and policy information

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