Interview with Chicago Actor & Stage To Screen Calibration Teacher: Ryan Kitley

What do you mean by Stage to Screen Calibration? What the heck is that?

Stage to screen calibration is the actor’s process of adjusting their work from a theatrical performance to an on camera performance.  In Chicago, most actors begin working in the theater and eventually pursue work in film and television.  The process of auditioning for, and working on tv/film projects requires an entirely new skill set, different from lessons learned in the theater.   This class will give you specific tools to do just that.  In the theater, actors play to the audience and their vocal and physical action needs to be projected out.  The camera is attracted to stillness, subtlety, mystery and secret.  It prefers for you to keep it very honest, simple, almost hidden.  Actors need to understand not only the difference from stage to screen, but how to execute those adjustments.  Stage to Screen is a unique class that will help you make that calibration.       

As a professional actor do you still find it difficult to make this transition?

Yes, the transition from stage to screen is very difficult.  One very important aspect of the on camera process is for actors to watch themselves as much as possible.  By observing their work on camera they will be able to pinpoint what’s effective and what’s not.  They will be able to observe the importance of subtlety.  Stage to Screen gives actors the opportunity to observe their recorded work in “playback" each week as part of the class.

I've done on camera, very little theatre, should I even take this workshop?

If you want to build upon the camera skills you already have, then yes.  

Isn't calibrating for the camera just a matter of talking quieter?

No see the answer to question 1 LOL.

Why do I have to do both? Theatre AND On Camera ?

You don’t have to do both, however, in Chicago actors need to pursue theater, film, television, print work, voice work, improv, etc. if they want to compete and experience success in this market.  Two major areas of work for Chicago actors are theater and on camera work. 

What's so darn special about ATC? Why teach there when you can teach anywhere?

ATC trains actors to work in the professional arena.  Our teachers are working professionals who are at the top of their game.  I couldn’t think of a better group of people to serve as mentors and role models for the actors at ATC.  Our students understand the business and the amount of work required to succeed.  They approach the work creatively, honestly, fearlessly.  ATC gives actors the freedom and courage to grow.  I teach at other schools in the area but ATC will always be home for me.