Developing Character from Page to Stage

Actors and other performers seeking to bring greater depth and authenticity to their performances will have the chance to sharpen their skills in an interactive workshop at the Gualala Arts Center. On Sunday, June 29, from 2 to 4 p.m., veteran theater director and teacher Cathy Cassetta will lead Developing Character from Page to Stage, a two-hour workshop focused on creating and developing interesting three-dimensional characters.

Designed for performers of all experience levels, participants will learn techniques to unlock the depth, richness, and complexity of their characters by analyzing the text. Whether working with a full script, a scene, a monologue, a single line, movement, even a song lyric, actors will gain insights into interpreting roles with clarity, nuance and realism.

“Through exploring subtext and underlying motivations and surrounding contexts, participants will learn to interpret and embody characters authentically,” says Cassetta.  

The session will incorporate practical exercises, scene work, and discussion, helping participants to explore character development from the inside out. Attendees are encouraged to bring a pen and notepaper, as well as any material—such as a scene or song—they wish to work on.

Cassetta brings decades of experience to the workshop, having taught theater across all age groups from kindergarten to college and adult ed as well as having directed more than 100 productions, from amateur to professional. Building on her deep and rich experience in theater, in 2000, she founded The Tabard Theatre Company in Silicon Valley for which she served as the artistic director for 20 years.

The workshop is priced at $25 for Gualala Arts members and $55 for non-members interested participants can sign up at GualalaArts.org or in person at the Gualala Arts Front Desk.  No refunds for this workshop.