Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/184869
Back tool Scho P a Boon to Members erformers need to keep their skills sharp, and, no matter what phase of their career they are in, there's always something new to learn or polish up. Fortunately for SAG-AFTRA members, conservatories are a member benefit and available at select locations across the nation, many at little or no cost. Conservatories offer classes on subjects as diverse as acting for commercials, marketing techniques, ear prompter use, improvisation, auditions, work in independent films, how to turn a non-union job into a union job, headshots and resumes, and much more. Read on to find out about conservatories in your area. Atlanta The Muriel Moore/Danny Nelson SAG-AFTRA Conservatory features a speaker series the first Monday of every month, which has included the top directors and producers working in the marketplace and meet-and-greets with leading casting directors in the area. The workshop series on the third Monday of each month covers all aspects of acting, auditioning and voiceover work. THE DEAL: All events are announced via email and are free to Atlanta Local members in good standing. RSVPs are essential and events often fill to capacity within the first hour. For more information, email atlanta@sagaftra.org or call (404) 239-0131, ext. 11. Chicago In conjunction with the Kaufherr Members Resource Center, and led by industry pros — casting directors, agents, acting teachers, etc. — this conservatory offers a variety of workshops, seminars and special events to provide insight and training to help Chicago members on their career paths. THE DEAL: Conservatory events are free and announced in Chicago's The Activator e-newsletter and on the hotline, (312) 867-3710. To receive The Activator, make sure the union has your email address. Colorado The conservatory offers educational workshops on a quarterly basis. Future events include voiceover training, auditioning techniques and working in new media. THE DEAL: For more information, email colorado@sagaftra.org or call (720) 932-8193. Hawaii Hawaii's conservatory has welcomed wellknown directors, producers, writers, casting directors and actors to teach when they are on the islands. THE DEAL: Local members are notified of upcoming workshops via email and the cost is $15 per workshop. For more information, call (808) 596-0388 or email brenda.ching@sagaftra.org. Los Angeles This conservatory offers members opportunities to hone and develop their craft through acting classes, workshops, lectures and symposiums — with special sessions for young performers — all on the campus of the American Film Institute. Conservatory members also have the opportunity to New York Conservatory member Meredith Akins takes instruction from member Ron August, July 8. 28 SAG-AFTRA conservatory_v8.indd 28 | Summer 2013 | SAGAFTRA.org 8/28/13 2:10 PM