A course in acting focuses on all aspects of expression like diction, facial expressions, dance, dubbing and voice modulation. One needs to improve memory, improvise on delivering monologues and movements. Acting is practice-oriented and by attending acting schools which provide opportunities for candidates to gain real life experience it is honed.
■ National School of Drama
The National School of Drama, New Delhi, provides a three-year diploma in Dramatic Arts. Set up by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, training in the school covers every aspect of theatre in which theory is related to practice. Students are required to produce plays which are then performed before the public. The syllabus takes into account the methods of great theatre personalities who have shaped contemporary theatre. Studying and performing experience of Sanskrit drama, modern Indian drama, traditional Indian theatre forms, Asian drama and western dramatic protocols give the students a wide perspective in the art of theatre.
Visit: www.nsd.gov.in/delhi
■ Film and Television Institute of India
Film and Television Institute of India, Pune, offers a three-year postgraduate diploma in Acting. There are only 12 seats available. The FTII is regarded as a centre of excellence across the world. Notable alumni include Naseeruddin Shah, Subhash Ghai and Om Puri among others.
Visit: www.ftiindia.com/courses.html
■ Whistling Woods International, Mumbai
Whistling Woods International, Mumbai, established by acclaimed filmmaker Subhash Ghai, offers a three-year BA in Acting for Screen. The course teaches acting mainly for cinema, but also for careers in advertising, theatre and the voice over industry.
Visit: www.whistlingwoods.net/whistling/schools/actors-studio/programmes/diploma-in-acting-2-yearsv
suraksha@newindianexpress.com