Format: 2-day Intensive, limited to 10 actors

Description:

Integrating the principles of classical Chinese dance Shēnyùn (身韵), contemporary dance, and Asian ethnic dance traditions (e.g., Korean dance), Xueni’s method deconstructs dancer-level movement logic into an accessible physical architecture for actors—using breath initiation, weight and spinal shifts, counterforce, and gaze architecture to build body awareness and refined movement control. It transforms psychological states into somatic presence on camera and on stage, building the physical conditions in which character and emotion can naturally emerge.

The Training Focus

• Breath Work: Explore breath-initiated movement as the foundation of presence and movement, including gaze; use deliberate respiratory patterns to shift your physical state and dominate the space.

• Use of Gaze: Dissect how gaze is create from the physical perspective and explore how to create "thought" for the camera by altering physical components.

• Active Stillness and Embody conflict: How to carry the “empty moment” and keep the scene active when “nothing happens” through physical work. Move beyond "feeling" an emotion to physically manifesting it through dynamic tension and structural resistance.

• Practical Integration: Apply physical components to scene work.

“Do I need a dance background?"

Not necessary. Unlike advanced dance classes that focus on complex choreography, this workshop deconstructs movement into foundational body mechanics. It is designed specifically for actors to gain complete command over their physical instrument, regardless of prior dance experience.

Instructor Bio - Xueni Yang

Xueni Yang is a director, movement director, and performer working at the intersection of cinema and physical performance. Holds an MFA in Film Directing from FAMU in Prague and a BA from Sarah Lawrence College in New York, she bridges dancer-level movement mechanics into screen acting and visual storytelling. Her practice is rooted in Classical Chinese Dance and Asian ethnic traditions, enriched by Shen Wei Dance Arts (NYC) and European contemporary dance ecosystems.

As a director, her film ”Fir“ earned a Czech Lion nomination and festival accolades worldwide.

As an actor and movement director, her screen credits include major productions such as Blade Runner 2099 and Resident Evil (creature performance), alongside international commercial campaigns. In 2025, she received the NIPAI Assistantship Scholarship for her movement direction.

Workshop Structure

Oct. 24 Sat. 10:00 –18:00

Oct. 25 Sun. 10:00 –18:00

* Instructor remains the right to adjust the schedule based on the specific progress of the group.

Price

Standard Price: 4,800 CZK

Early Bird: 3,450 CZK (Available until Sept. 25th)

Student Rate: 2,400 CZK (Please email your valid Student ID to register)