Course Descriptions

“After studying at the Professional Performing Arts Middle School and then La Guardia Arts High School, I have been inspired by many teachers who have been integral to my development as an actor, yet without question, Rita Litton was the most prominent force in the consolidation of all those skills and theories into a meaningful application for film and television. I’ve never encountered an on-camera class that came even close to what Rita offered. They are meant for immediate professional utility with creative integrity. She has sincerely invested in me as an actor and as a person, becoming more than a teacher but a mentor that has illuminated me across my career. Rita Litton is the artistic and industrial ideal.”

This is a film acting course for students who wish to be stretched and challenged via audition training and scene study. Rita Litton teaches her honed acting method of ‘6 Core Basics” which involve prior preparation, memorization and in class process work. In this film acting class emphasis is placed on creating characters common or unique to television and film. Students are encouraged to go beyond their immediate experiences to find the character conceived by the writer. Students are directed to take risks and make unique or difficult choices. Through various acting exercises, research, observations and rehearsals, students differentiate aspects of character, status, appearance, background, speech, life experiences, and more. Students portray several contrasting roles from our extensive film/TV library.  Class discussion defines particular themes and audition problems inherent in a variety of on-camera material — feature films, indie films, episodic Television series, situation comedy, TV pilots, etc.

This film acting class is frequently taught online–a unique opportunity to improve on-camera acting technique. Rita’s online acting classes are challenging and interactive. Students are moving, hitting marks, developing strong objectives, and understanding behavior. Scenes are shot in a specific ‘box’ or frame–to better duplicate what casting directors or producers are viewing in film audition ‘self-tapes,’ (currently the industry audition submission ‘first step.’) Students learn how to thrive under that scrutiny, frequently acting in ‘close-up.’  Actors who train with Rita learn how to remember, how to listen, and how to respond.  Students view the recorded playbacks of their exercises and scenes. After honest and supportive critique and direction the student’s  work becomes richer and more spontaneous.
*** This course is offered frequently and may be continued as a work out ‘actor’s gym’ for maximum growth.

An acting course designed to provide students with the building blocks, or “foundation” necessary for truthful, creative, and spontaneous, ‘moment to moment’ acting. Designed for the beginning or intermediate level actor looking to improve skills and find an organic way to work. Through a series of exercises deeply rooted in the teachings of Sanford Meisner, cold readings, and scene work, the instructor will teach actors how to “live truthfully under imaginary circumstances.”

If you need a monologue for an industry audition, or for entrance to various performing arts conservatories and universities, this course is for you! From selection of appropriate material to fleshing out the roles, finding their contrasting dynamics and making them uniquely yours, the instructor uses her vast library and extensive experience to guide you to success.
(Private monologue coaching also available)

Commercial bookings give you tremendous exposure, income and valuable experience. Yet many actors underestimate the commercial audition, failing to rise to the challenge of coming up with vital, original and personality-enhanced choices for a 30-second scenario. Rita Litton is an industry pioneer in smart, effective commercial training and a Backstage Reader’s Choice Award Winner: “Best Commercial Class.”  If you have started to audition this is where your skills are first tested– on the spot in an agent or manager’s office. How you deliver a short commercial script often determines whether you are going to be sent out on auditions, and perhaps also given an introduction to their theatrical or film and television division! Learn the skills to relax, improvise, take direction, focus quickly and bring your best self to the audition! (Private commercial coaching is also available.)

Actors at every level benefit from exercises tailored to their specific needs and goals. More…

Learn the exciting and lucrative art of voice overs–acting with your voice. Agents and casting directors are always looking for artists young or old, who can read well and deliver professional voice over work. In this course you’ll learn how to break down, understand and master radio and television commercial copy, as well as animation scripts. In addition, you’ll learn proper audition etiquette and how to record from the comfort and safety of your own home. Yes! Voice overs are one of the few actor income sources surviving our new ‘stay safe’ environment.  Rita Litton and her staff have launched the careers of hundreds of talented and highly successful voice over artists! Taught by a top New York voice over actor, over Zoom. An industry voice over guest (agent or casting directors scouting for talent) will visit the last class.