Christian Elijah Smikle

In Performing Black Theatre, I experienced one of the most transformative periods of my artistic development. The course not only deepened my understanding of the history and cultural impact of Black theatre, but also pushed me to expand my range as both an actor and a voice actor. Through scene work, monologues, and ensemble performances, I learned to treat my voice as more than just a tool for delivering lines—it became an instrument for emotion, rhythm, and presence. I strengthened my projection, articulation, and tonal control, learning how to shape sound to convey complexity and truth. As my vocal skills grew, so did my confidence in embodying characters fully, using both physicality and voice to tell stories with authenticity and power. By the end of the course, I had not only become a stronger actor, but a more versatile performer capable of bringing characters to life on stage or through voice alone.

When I first stepped into Fundamentals of Acting, I was brand new to the craft—curious, a little unsure, but ready to learn. This course became the foundation of everything I do as a performer. I learned the essential building blocks of acting: connecting truthfully with a scene partner, grounding myself in the given circumstances, and using body and voice to shape a character. Through exercises, improvisation, and scene study, I discovered the power of listening on stage and the importance of authenticity over performance for its own sake. Many of the lessons I absorbed—about presence, vulnerability, and the courage to take risks—have stayed with me beyond the classroom. Fundamentals of Acting didn’t just teach me techniques; it instilled in me a love for the craft and the confidence to grow into the actor I am today.