ACTING FOR LAWYERS
Case 1: Ms. M.K.

Ms. M.K. was sent to us by her firm for some basic performance training. She didn't know what to expect. The following are comments from her evaluation of the class she took from us:

"This program definitely helped me understand my own capacity for effective communication. I am very pleased with my progress.

I found the exercises which were not directly related to the law (e.g. sonnets, audience participation, voice exercises) incredibly relaxing and, in the long run, probably as helpful as the work on my opening statement.

I feel I can use all of these techniques professionally. I was so grounded in a 'one note' approach to speaking. I am excited about using these methods to get my point across.

Our teacher was wonderful. She was very talented at handling a number of varying, conflicting personalities. I really credit her with drawing my softer, more compassionate side out.

Female attorneys are taught from the outset of their practice (and probably law school) that they have to be tough to compete in a male dominated profession. God forbid she should seem emotional when dealing with another attorney, a judge or a jury.

On the other hand, female attorneys who are perceived as too tough are considered 'bitchy.' There is no male equivalent to that term used to describe men who are too tough. It is no wonder I have adopted this stiff, "one note" posture through the years.

So for me, the class has been truly liberating. To have permission to actively relate to my audience/jury has been wonderful. I honestly thought, at one time - way back - I had 'it' in me, but I had certainly lost 'it' along the way.

Thanks for putting me back in touch with communicating like a human being, not just a lawyer.

I would definitely be interested in taking a more advanced course."

REVIEW CASE 2