The programme will comprise three four-day workshops, three discussion panels, and an academic seminar.

The project draws on the expertise of three distinguished contemporary performing artists—Paul Behren, Franz Pätzold, and Gael Doorneweerd-Perry—who will lead workshops for second- and third-year acting students.

The workshops will integrate stagecraft, choreography, and acting techniques, focusing on monologues, movement, emotional expression, and conscious artistic action. Conducted in an active and interactive format, the sessions will combine practical exercises, improvisation, text work, analysis of movement and stage expression, and group discussions.

Participants will have the opportunity not only to hone their acting craft but also to reflect deeply on their own working methods, the role of the actor in society, and the artist's responsibility toward the audience. Participation in the workshops will enable aspiring actors to put their newly acquired skills into practice, preparing them for work in contemporary, socially engaged theatre. An integral part of the project will be three discussion panels featuring the workshop leaders alongside teachers, alumni, and students from our School.

The panels will focus on key issues in contemporary acting and teaching practice:

1. The contemporary stage monologue and actor stamina in performance – an analysis of the psychophysical and emotional challenges involved in working on a role.
2. Sensitivity in performance – developing authentic expression and emotional awareness without didacticism.
3. Meaningful acting, work ethics, and artistic commitment in social and political theatre – reflecting on the actor’s responsibility within a social context.

Following the workshops, a seminar will be held for all faculty members of the School’s Acting Department, led by the Dean of the Department, Professor Piotr Seweryński; the session will focus on discussing the outcomes and the methods employed in working with actors.

Workshop schedule:

* September 22–25: Workshops led by Paul Behren, a German actor and choreographer and graduate of the Folkwang University and ZHdK Zurich, known for the interdisciplinary fusion of acting and choreography.

* September 28 – October 1: Workshops led by Franz Pätzold, a German stage and screen actor and graduate of the Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy University of Music and Theatre in Leipzig; he has experience working with both classical repertoire and socially and politically engaged projects.

* October 3–6: Workshops led by Gael Doorneweerd-Perry—teacher, improv actor, theatre maker, performer, educator, and artistic leader of the improv troupe Lolita.

Co-financed by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage from the Culture Promotion Fund – a state special-purpose fund.