By Madhup. Chandigarh, 21st Aug: Four year ago, actor Anupam Kher had given Chandigarh an impetus to become a part of the Hindi film industry when he established his acting school ACTOR PREPARES in the city. Since then, many students have passed out from the institute. Today, the current batch of students showcased their broad based talents in a play Quicksand at the ‘Punjab Kala Bhawan’ which was followed by a convocation ceremony. ACTOR PREPARES, Chandigarh was initiated with the Society for Tourism and Entertainment Promotion (STEPS). On this occasion, Mr Kher and Ms Amandeep Kaur, CEO, STEPS, addressed the media.
While speaking on the occasion, Anupam Kher said “I have always been very passionate about the craft of acting and education is something that makes me feel proud. I am passionate about both the endeavours and this is the reason why I opened Actor Prepares four years ago. Today I have students who are entering the industry with lots of confidence. It definitely is a proud moment for me. Punjab and Haryana has been a great repository of talent and it has been traditionally reflected in our film industry as well. I have always said that if ever someone was to remember me, they should remember me as an educationist even if cinema is where I have made my mark.”
This acting school currently offers a three-month long intensive, full-time professional-level course in acting. Competent in-house faculty members teach the craft through practicals, theory classes, games, exercises and extensively filmed classes.
The faculty at the Chandigarh branch of ACTOR PREPARES includes Mr. Asif Khan, a graduate from the National School of Drama who has acted in, and written several plays, and Mr. Vikas Mohla who has 14 years experience in theatre and has acted in a Jahnu Barua film.
In addition, there is a roster of Bollywood celebrities, which comprises the school’s visiting faculty, who share with students their invaluable on-the-job experiences and tips to success. Preity Zinta, Om Puri, Gulshan Grover and Kirron Kher are among the celebrities who have given guest lectures. Above all, each student receives individual guidance and counseling from the country’s most successful, trained teacher-actor, Anupam Kher, throughout the programme.