Introduction
When discussing successful actors and their contributions to the arts, Jon Tenney is a name that is often overlooked. However, his extensive acting career and diverse range of roles make him an important figure for students to study. This article aims to provide educators with valuable tips and ideas on how to teach students about Jon Tenney, shedding light on the achievements of this remarkable actor.
Biography
Before diving into his career highlights, it is crucial to provide students with a brief overview of Jon Tenney’s background. Born in Princeton, New Jersey in 1961, Jonathan F. W. Tenney attended Vassar College before pursuing his acting career at the prestigious Juilliard School. His early appearances in theatre productions paved the way for his entry into film and television.
Wide-ranging Acting Career
Jon Tenney’s versatile acting skills have allowed him to tackle an array of characters across different genres and disciplines. To help students appreciate his dynamic range, educators can start by exploring the following aspects:
1. Television Drama: Introduce students to Tenney’s notable work in TV dramas, such as his lead role as Fritz Howard in TNT’s “The Closer” (2005-2012) and its spin-off series “Major Crimes” (2012-2018). Encourage discussions about character development in long-running series.
2. Comedy: Display Tenney’s ability to adapt to different styles by showcasing his comedic work, including guest appearances on hit shows like “Will & Grace,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “Murphy Brown.” Encourage students to analyze how comedy acting differs from dramatic roles.
3. Theatre: Educate students on Jon Tenney’s foundation as a stage actor with performances in various plays like “The Substance of Fire” (1991), “Sweet Adeline” (1997), or Tennessee Williams’ one-acts “A Recluse and His Guest” and “Lady of Larkspur Lotion” (1994).
4. Films: No study about Jon Tenney would be complete without a foray into his film work, where he starred in well-known movies like “Tombstone” (1993), “Fools Rush In” (1997), “Watchmen” (2009), and more recently, “The Seagull” (2018).
Discussing Technique and Artistry
Invite students into deeper discussion by focusing on the nuances of Tenney’s acting techniques. Encourage them to watch selected scenes and assess his recurring themes, delivery styles, and character evolution. Identify common patterns or archetypes in Tenney’s roles.
In-Class Activities
1. Mock Auditions – Have students prepare and perform monologues from a play or film in which Jon Tenney starred. This exercise helps students intimately understand his roles while developing their acting skills.
2. Character analysis – Divide the class into small groups where they can analyze one of Tenney’s characters in depth. Guide them to break down the character’s idiosyncrasies, motivations, emotions, and growth.
3. Film screenings – Host screenings of several Jon Tenney films or television episodes. Provide students with a worksheet to take notes during the screenings and organize follow-up discussions regarding technique, style, or storylines.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Jon Tenney not only provides them insight into the life and career of an accomplished actor but also introduces important topics related to acting technique, character evolution, and adaptation across different genres. By engaging with his work through guided activities and discussions, educators can foster a greater appreciation for this talented actor as well as inspire young performers to hone their craft.
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When discussing successful actors and their contributions to the arts, Jon Tenney is a name that is often overlooked. However, his extensive acting career and diverse range of roles make him an important figure for students to study. This article aims to provide educators with valuable tips and ideas on how to teach students about Jon Tenney, shedding light on the achievements of this remarkable actor.
Biography
Before diving into his career highlights, it is crucial to provide students with a brief overview of Jon Tenney’s background. Born in Princeton, New Jersey in 1961, Jonathan F. W. Tenney attended Vassar College before pursuing his acting career at the prestigious Juilliard School. His early appearances in theatre productions paved the way for his entry into film and television.
Wide-ranging Acting Career
Jon Tenney’s versatile acting skills have allowed him to tackle an array of characters across different genres and disciplines. To help students appreciate his dynamic range, educators can start by exploring the following aspects:
1. Television Drama: Introduce students to Tenney’s notable work in TV dramas, such as his lead role as Fritz Howard in TNT’s “The Closer” (2005-2012) and its spin-off series “Major Crimes” (2012-2018). Encourage discussions about character development in long-running series.
2. Comedy: Display Tenney’s ability to adapt to different styles by showcasing his comedic work, including guest appearances on hit shows like “Will & Grace,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “Murphy Brown.” Encourage students to analyze how comedy acting differs from dramatic roles.
3. Theatre: Educate students on Jon Tenney’s foundation as a stage actor with performances in various plays like “The Substance of Fire” (1991), “Sweet Adeline” (1997), or Tennessee Williams’ one-acts “A Recluse and His Guest” and “Lady of Larkspur Lotion” (1994).
4. Films: No study about Jon Tenney would be complete without a foray into his film work, where he starred in well-known movies like “Tombstone” (1993), “Fools Rush In” (1997), “Watchmen” (2009), and more recently, “The Seagull” (2018).
Discussing Technique and Artistry
Invite students into deeper discussion by focusing on the nuances of Tenney’s acting techniques. Encourage them to watch selected scenes and assess his recurring themes, delivery styles, and character evolution. Identify common patterns or archetypes in Tenney’s roles.
In-Class Activities
1. Mock Auditions – Have students prepare and perform monologues from a play or film in which Jon Tenney starred. This exercise helps students intimately understand his roles while developing their acting skills.
2. Character analysis – Divide the class into small groups where they can analyze one of Tenney’s characters in depth. Guide them to break down the character’s idiosyncrasies, motivations, emotions, and growth.
3. Film screenings – Host screenings of several Jon Tenney films or television episodes. Provide students with a worksheet to take notes during the screenings and organize follow-up discussions regarding technique, style, or storylines.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Jon Tenney not only provides them insight into the life and career of an accomplished actor but also introduces important topics related to acting technique, character evolution, and adaptation across different genres. By engaging with his work through guided activities and discussions, educators can foster a greater appreciation for this talented actor as well as inspire young performers to hone their craft.
The post appeared first on .