Curriculum

"Eloquence," replied the ancient orator, "is action, still action, and ever action. Action! What does that signify? Did he mean gesture? Voice? Attitude? Bearing? Delivery? Movement of ideas? The vivacity of the image? ... Yes, all this at once."

~Joseph Roux

Training involves physical, intellectual, emotional, and artistic elements. The body houses the voice, which, in turn, responds to changes in thought and emotion, and comprises our physical presence. The mind and the emotions work in unison, enriching our experiences with literature and language. The use of drama enhances animation and fuels expressive energy.  The voice responds to these elements, which enhance the communicator's ability to speak effectively.

Classical to contemporary literature is used as the medium through which the student explores the imagination and expression.   Exposure to a wide range of literary works increases the student's understanding of the history of literature, and its contribution to society and the arts.

Instruction in drama develops the student's ability to create or recreate a character, to take and maintain a role, and to express mood and dramatic situation. Drama work includes creative drama activities, solo scenes, monologues and duologues, and readers' theatre.

Poetry and prose are used to help the student study heightened language and storytelling. Students acquire the oral interpretive skills necessary to perform and speak these forms with understanding and artistry. Embedded in these studies is instruction in both reading comprehension and developing the ability to lift meaning from the printed text.

The student explores physical expression through the silent art form of mime . Students learn to use their faces and bodies creatively in order to communicate feeling, thought, character, and story. The study of body language, including gestures, is an important component of physical expression.

Through classroom exercises, the student develops the necessary voice production skills, including breathing, articulation, and projection. Students also develop an awareness of the vocal health and hygiene necessary to maintain a healthy vocal instrument.

Improvisation and impromptu speaking enhance the student's ability to think creatively and spontaneously.

Public speaking and effective communication exercises help the student gain confidence in speaking directly and successfully to an audience. Through exposure to a variety of speaking situations and experiences, students develop the ability to speak confidently, whether from an originally researched and prepared outline, or in the informal impromptu style.

The student practices sight reading to learn the skills necessary to read any text with accuracy, expression, and meaning.

Theory study supplements practical training, and is offered to students with two or more years of practical training who are at the Grade 6 Speech Arts level or higher. Students study voice production, techniques of effective speaking, history of literature, and oral interpretation.  Written exams are available to students who are taking practical exams at these higher levels. Theory requirements are discussed with interested students. Information on the fee schedule and deadline for examinations is outlined in our newsletters. Additional review class(es) and a mock theory exam are offered to participating students to help them prepare for exams.