What is Broken Mirror’s ongoing scene study?
 

Our ongoing scene study is a weekly acting class without a set end date. Instead of enrolling in a 5-, 8-, or 10-week course, when students join they are committing to on-going practice with a rotating mix of scene work, monologues, and ensemble exercises.

This model mirrors many long-term studios: it supports deeper growth, ongoing collaboration, and a steadier, more sustainable relationship to craft.

 What is the acting method used in class?

 

This course will run concurrently with training in The Non-Dominant Approach. An acting pedagogy that prioritizes a transformational approach to craft over a transactional one. Working from allowance, discovery, imagination work, and the recognition that we are more aligned with -- and therefore can more truthfully embody our characters through the acceptance and integration of our moment to moment imperfect humanity than by dominating their behavior through preconceived actions and ideas, actors will be shepherded into a revitalised relationship with craft that supports long term sustainability, agency, trauma-informed practices, and mutual respect. 

 

What does class look like?

 

We start each day with an intentional group check-in, followed by a 30-45 minute group warm up frequently consisting of tools and exercises that can be incorporated into the work. Following the warm-up we generally see four explorations of text. After each exploration there will be a recall between the performing actors and the teacher. The purpose of the recall is to instill a sense of agency, awareness, self direction, and a deepening of understanding of craft within the actor. 

 

*Note. While this will be the format for 90% of classes, occasionally we will have workshop intensive days focusing on the Brahe Mask Method - a hybrid theatrical mask work that combines traditional Balinese mask practices and Michael Chekhov technique. This work is deeply aligned with the Non-Dominant Approach and serves as an incredibly effective vessel for working from truth and embodiment.  

How does scene work function in an ongoing format?

Students generally choose the material they want to work on, and may request to be assigned something if they’re unsure or want guidance. If someone takes too long to decide, Ben may assign material so the work can stay in motion.

Scenes are usually completed over the course of three, occasionally four explorations. While we can always go deeper it is usual that that piece will then be retired and the student will pursue another work of text.

*Please Note. Not every student works every week; each class typically includes three to four explorations, and depending on group size, most students can typically expect to work every other week 

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Am I expected to rehearse outside of class?

 

Yes. It is expected that students rehearse outside of class hours. 

 

Can I rent the studio to rehearse?

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Yes. Please contact Broken Mirror at info@BrokenMirrorStudio.com to reserve your studio time. Broken Mirror students receive a discounted price of $12 an hour during weekdays and $15 an hour during weekends

What happens when new students join?

Space in class permitting, new students may be invited to join after auditing a class and a brief phone or zoom meeting with Ben.

On their first or second night, a new student is welcomed into the space by sharing a monologue of their choosing. They will typically work that monologue two to three times as they acclimate to the studio’s process, pacing, and ensemble culture.
From there, they transition into scene work or continue with a new monologue

(If multiple new students join in the same cycle, we may stagger their start nights to maintain room balance.)

What if I need to miss a class ?

Consistency matters. Your work builds from week to week, and your partner relies on you. It is expected that if you sign up for this course you will be attending every class. Please make every effort to be present. That said, life happens: illness, family emergencies, SEPTA delays, or booked work.

If you must miss class, please notify your scene partner and Ben as soon as possible so we can adjust the evening accordingly.

Exiting Class. If I take time away, can I return?

Yes. Broken Mirror has a Leave of Absence (LOA) policy that allows actors to step away for personal reasons or professional opportunities and return when ready. 

 

If you simply wish to discontinue your time in the course, we ask for at least two weeks notice so we can adjust the schedule. 

How does payment work?

Tuition is paid on a monthly basis. (though if weekly or bi-weekly installments work better we are happy to accommodate)
When you enroll, you pay your first month’s tuition upfront through our website. After that, you’ll receive a direct monthly invoice for the same amount.

Invoices are due within 7 days of receipt.
A small $10–$20 late fee (aligned with your chosen tuition tier) may be applied if payment has not been received after 7 days. A reminder will be sent after 4 days.

*Late fees can always be waived if someone is in genuine difficulty. Communication is what matters.