Return to Truth: A Six-Week Acting Intensive
Designed for actors who feel stuck in their heads or caught over-performing, this class uses Meisner-based training to break those habits at the root. Over six weeks, you'll build reliable tools for trusting your impulses, staying present, and responding truthfully in the moment. Whether preparing for auditions or deepening your craft, you'll leave with concrete techniques for authentic, grounded work.
IMPORTANT DETAILS:
Mondays, 6pm–9pm (6 weeks)
Class size: limited to 12 students • Cost: $275 (Scholarships may be available so please reach out if cost presents an issue)
21ten’s Theatre
2110 SE 10th Ave
Portland, OR
MORE ABOUT THE CLASS:
Do you find yourself "acting" instead of simply being, watching your own performance instead of living in the scene? If you're stuck in your head, over-monitoring your choices, or struggling to trust your instincts, this class is for you.
Over six weeks, we'll use Meisner-based exercises to quiet the inner critic, break habits of over-performing, and build reliable tools for staying grounded in a script's imaginary circumstances. You'll develop concrete techniques for:
- Quieting self-judgment and the inner critic
- Building genuine, moment-to-moment responsiveness
- Trusting impulses instead of monitoring them
- Creating authentic emotional availability
This class is for actors ready to start living in the moment, whether you're preparing for auditions, roles, or simply want to deepen your craft.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR:
Chris Harder (AEA, SAG/AFTRA) is an actor, director, and certified coach with over 25 years of experience in theatre, film, and television. He was an original member of the Sowelu Theater Ensemble for seven years, training in Meisner Technique with Barry Hunt (via William Esper). He went on to serve eight years as a Resident Artist with Artists Repertory Theatre and has performed in over 60 professional productions. Chris taught at The Actors Conservatory for 11 years, an accredited two-year professional training program, and he leads classes and workshops throughout Portland for actors, creative teams, and theatre communities. His teaching is grounded in Meisner technique, physical theatre practices, and a deep commitment to embodiment, presence, and authentic connection.