PRICE
$720 + GST (Payment Plans Available)
DAY
Monday Nights
DATE
1st of June - 20th of July
TIME
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Verse, Language, and Classical Performance Technique
Shakespeare is the next step in TAFTA’s structured acting pathway for actors ready to tackle heightened text and classical performance. Designed for those who have completed Groundwork or have a foundational understanding of acting technique, this course focuses on unlocking Shakespeare’s language, mastering verse, and bringing complex classical characters to life with clarity and confidence.
Working within TAFTA’s term-based structure, students will train weekly with John Orcsik, developing their ability to interpret and perform Shakespearean text through detailed script analysis, vocal technique, and active character work. Actors will learn to approach heightened language with ease, transforming dense text into clear, dynamic, and emotionally connected performances.
John Orcsik as Oedipus in the greek tragedy Oedipus.
A key component of this class is developing a practical and repeatable approach to Shakespeare’s verse. Students will explore how rhythm, imagery, and structure support performance, learning to use the text as a tool for emotional access rather than an obstacle. This process enables actors to deliver complex language with authenticity, immediacy, and strong audience connection.
Actors will work on monologues and scenes from Shakespeare’s plays, building skills in clarity, intention, and responsiveness. Emphasis is placed on making bold, specific choices while remaining grounded and truthful, bridging the gap between classical text and modern performance expectations.
John Orcsik as Det. Mike Georgiou in Cop Shop.
John played Det. Mike Georgiou for 556 episodes over 6 years.
Whether working with heightened emotion, poetic imagery, or intricate character relationships, this class equips actors with the tools to navigate Shakespeare with confidence in both audition and performance settings.
Actors may continue in Shakespeare across multiple terms, progressing toward advanced classical work and performance readiness as guided by their teacher.
Key areas of focus include:
Understanding and performing Shakespearean verse (iambic pentameter)
Text analysis and unpacking heightened language
Translating classical text into clear, playable action
Vocal clarity, breath, and articulation
Character development within classical structures
Emotional connection through language and imagery
Monologue and scene work from Shakespeare’s plays
Confidence in auditions and classical performance settings
Training in presence, precision, and connection with heightened text
Creating dynamic, truthful performances from complex material
Meet John:
John Orcsik is a distinguished Australian actor, screenwriter, director, and producer whose career spans nearly six decades. He launched his screen career in 1967 on Bellbird, followed by roles on Crawford Productions series such as Homicide, Division 4, and Matlock Police. He appeared in the cult soap Number 96, both on television (1972) and in its 1973 feature film adaption.
His breakout role came in 1978 as Detective Mike Georgiou on Cop Shop, where he starred in over 550 episodes until the show's finale in 1983. Reflecting on his time on set, Orcsik shared how “It was bloody hard work, sometimes 17‑hour days, but it was also such fun”.
Following Cop Shop, he wrote scripts for Prisoner and continued acting in numerous films and series such as Petersen (1974), The Man from Hong Kong (1975), Pacific Drive, Neighbours, The Saddle Club, Stingers, The Doctor Blake Mysteries, and recent credits like Superwog and New Gold Mountain.
In 1994, Orcsik founded The Australian Film & Television Academy (TAFTA) on the Gold Coast. Under his leadership, TAFTA expanded to Sydney and Melbourne, offering nationwide workshops and classes. There, he developed a unique "Emotions" technique - a modern approach to screen acting that emphasises authenticity and quick, easy access to emotion in performance.
Although primarily known for his on-camera work, Orcsik has directed numerous theatre and television productions and written for TV. He scripted multiple episodes of Prisoner, contributed to Division 4 and Silent Number, and continues developing his own writing projects today.
A passionate industry educator, he has helped shape the careers of many now-established actors. TAFTA alumni include:
Chris Pang (Crazy Rich Asians, Charlie's Angels)
Eliza Taylor (The 100, Neighbours, Christmas Inheritance)
James Frecheville (Animal Kingdom, The Drop, The Dry)
Teressa Liane (The Vampire Diaries, Into the Badlands, Neighbours)
Ella Newton (Harrow, Neighbours)
Jesse Spencer (House, Chicago Fire, Neighbours)
Students frequently praise his mentorship: “Everything I know about acting has come from TAFTA … it’s the whole mentality and training system behind it,” and “John has been there the whole way.”
Content Notice:
Some scenes and scripts used in class may contain mature or distressing themes, including references to trauma, assault, or intense emotional states. Students are always encouraged to work at their own pace and can request alternate material if needed. This is a supportive learning environment where safety and growth are prioritised.
