Workshops
“If there is one thing you should do, it is this.”
— Participant, Reframing Auditions workshop 2021
I offer a variety of game-changing workshops and webinars for singers, exploring acting technique, character development, text work, audition mindset, and much, much more. I am also available to lead classes, workshops and masterclasses for conservatoires and young artist programmes.
Alongside my public workshops, I have created and led bespoke group sessions for artists through organisations such as Independent Opera, Waterperry Opera Festival, The Writing Squad and the Royal Northern College of Music, and I work regularly with young and emerging singers.
Previous public workshops include…
Getting Out Of Your Head and Into The Room
Acting for Auditions, Recordings and Recitals
“In the space Laura created, I felt safe and free to make discoveries about how to use and explore physicality, character, and work off the imaginary space of each aria. As singers, we are told so often what the product should look like or sound like, and end up working like robots... The workshop was a fantastic reminder of how to create an alive, specific, watchable performance.”
What is it?
You've put in the hours on your arias musically, vocally and textually, but you're still getting stuck in your head when it comes to performing them. Sound familiar? Through an exploration of embodiment, gesture and spacial anchoring, this practical workshop offers an essential toolkit for singers looking to take their repertoire to the next level.
How will it work?
The first half of the session will focus on the body: you will be guided through different methods with which to explore physical characterisation, and fully embody your performance in an authentic way. The second half will focus on the body in space: exploring anchoring techniques to ensure all your hard work can be successfully externalised, even when you’re performing out of the context of a staged production. You will leave not only with a new set of acting tools, but also a renewed sense of confidence in your own instincts as a performer! After the workshop you’ll receive resources to help you continue exploring the techniques and ideas introduced in the session.
What will you need?
One aria from your current repertoire to use as a foundation for some of the session’s exercises. (NB You will not be asked to sing this, but you will need to be familiar enough with it to work off-copy confidently with the text, character details, and narrative context.)
Comfortable clothes, and a little space to move around in.
A willingness to play!
Reframing Auditions
Demystifying the Audition Process and Empowering the Singer
“Reframing Auditions had a massive impact on me, and I can say with confidence that for me there is a before and an after - the ideas discussed, with kindness and authenticity, the safe space provided for our group discussion, and the tools Laura gave us to continue the work, all participated in truly transforming the way I approach the whole audition process and, to be honest, the way I treat myself as a performer.”
What is it?
Looking to transform your experience of auditions into something positive? Even... enjoyable? This workshop will cover all aspects of audition approach and mentality, working to demystify the process, reframe your perspective, and empower you to give the panel your most confident performance.
How will it work?
This interactive session will encourage you to reframe your approach to auditions and break out of limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. Topics covered will include reconsidering the purpose of an audition, what the panel are really looking for, what your repertoire says about you, what you can and can’t control, reframing ‘failure’, and ultimately how you can empower yourself by taking a radical new approach to auditions in the future. Along the way, Laura will share insights from her own experience on the other side of the table, there will be time for a Q&A at the end, and after the workshop you’ll receive resources to help you continue exploring the ideas introduced in the session.
What will you need?
A list of a five-aria package you would take to a general audition. (NB this is purely for discussion: you will not be asked to perform these)
Paper and a pen.
An open mind!
Photo: Kirsty Anderson