Below is a sample workshop outline for executives. Please note, all workshops are tailored to the group’s needs.
Intro to Voice & Communication for Executives
with Actor/Designated Linklater Voice Teacher Sarah Weatherwax
In a short 2 to 3 hour group intro Voice Workshop for Executives participants will:
- Learn the basic theory of the Linklater Voice Method utilized by the world’s most famous actors. Sarah will also explain a few key ideas about the importance of body language, gesture & eye contact in clear communication.
- Speak a few lines of text, preferably text they may need to speak in the course of their work. Participants will register their ‘vocal starting point.’
- Learn and practice a few basic voice & body exercises that may include: spinal alignment, breath awareness, jaw massage, tongue and soft palate stretches, range and articulation exercises.
- Speak their text again to feel the difference a vocal warm-up makes.
- Experiment with different types of gestures and body language while speaking their text, to feel the differences and note what is effective.
- Learn a few quick things to do right before a high-importance speaking engagement to calm nerves, deepen the breath and enliven the speaking voice.
- Offer feedback at the close of the workshop, so the physical experience of the class and the vocal benefits of the warm-up are intellectually understood.
Within this type of structure, participants learn by doing first and then speak about what they experienced after, thereby increasing the chances of ‘repeatability’ of the successful voice & body warm-up.
Now more than ever, people are realizing the power of a free, full voice to carry thoughts, feelings and ideas farther so goals can be achieved more quickly and easily. By way of a sensitive vocal and physical awareness, and by doing the warm-ups, participants can learn how to communicate with such freedom and fullness that every breath, every word, every gesture and movement supports their intellectual intentions.