The Special Topic in Stage Acting is to (1) introduce Japanese theatre director Tadashi Suzuki, (2) discuss Suzuki's performance practice and philosophy on theatre, and (3) examine and apply the Suzuki Method into practice.

As the major figure of the post-modern theatre revolution in Japan after World War II, Suzuki has created a unique, multi-faceted method for training actors on stage that has been acclaimed by theatre directors worldwide and has been adopted by training programs and theatre companies across the world, including the Juilliard School in New York and the Moscow Art Theatre.

Following Suzuki's premise that "culture is the body", students in this course will be able to examine their own physical presence on stage through a series of exercises developed by Suzuki and members of his acting company, which includes breathing techniques for control and strength, a 'total-body voice' through the engagement of language on deep-breath, and an awakening of his/her consciousness as a professional actor/actress.

Introduction to the philosophy behind the Suzuki Method enables students to understand Suzuki method and the Japanese cultural context in which these exercises have been developed.

Students are expected to develop their ability to form judgments and enhance their understanding of the acting method through lectures, screenings, and exercises. The learning journal will be an articulation of critical analysis, personal reflection and self/peer appraisal and supervisor's advice.