Ovanes Ohanian
This approach demonstrated an understanding that cinematic acting differed significantly from traditional theatrical performance. The presence of the camera required a different relationship with facial expressions, gestures, body movements and emotional communication. Ohanian wanted his students to become familiar with these requirements and to prepare them for the emerging possibilities of motion pictures.One of the most remarkable aspects of Ohanian’s work was his determination to establish cinema education as a serious and organized activity.
In the early years of filmmaking, there were few institutions capable of providing specialized instruction in acting or film production. Most artistic training took place informally, through theatre companies, personal experience or apprenticeship. Ohanian attempted to change this situation by introducing a systematic programme of instruction. His school represented an early effort to professionalize the training of actors and to create a foundation for the development of a domestic film industry. The inclusion of international methods, particularly those associated with American cinema, was also significant.
