Christopher Aruffo, MFA, MBA, MSc
Student Response to Acting Instruction
He used his own techniques to teach us that we are who we are. We can't change our thinking process, but instead modify it in order to achieve a character. This was an amazing course. In my three years down here, I have never had as much fun in a class as I did here. We did work and it was actually fun. I've come out from this class with more knowledge and wisdom than I have ever gotten in any other class.
The audience was receptive to what was going on and to see the story we were trying to convey click in their minds and I was shocked to find that I just appreciated that so much. I don't remember wanting so bad to make something GOOD and I'll have nothing but good thoughts when I think back on how fun it was to have this opportunity. It was an absolute joy to be in this class and I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
I liked his willingness to tailor his teaching to his students. I don't feel as if I'm being "taught," so to speak, but that he's just tapped my dormant potential. It was fun and enlightening. It opened a love of acting I didn't know I had. Chris was my favorite teacher this semester.
He is so enthusiastic and cares so much about the success of his students. His ability to bring out our abilities and feed off our own knowledge instead of a boring lecture helps us learn so much more.
Chris' greatest attribute is that he trusts his students and respects us to do our best, which really fosters an environment of respect. This course was amazing.
You have taught me so very much! I truly have begun to understand a lot not only about acting, but life in general.
I enjoyed this course immensely! As an Econ major I thought his course was a nice retreat from the stress of conventional classes. I felt I learned more about human relations than I did theater, and look! We ended up with an astounding play!
Chris is awesome; the plays we do really depict how acting should really be learned and also what actors really do. Although acting is subjective and Chris only grades on effort, he inspires students to reach their full potential in a very accepting and nurturing environment.
I absolutely loved this course. It was challenging and insightful. I took this course because I'm shy and I'm glad I really showed myself what I can be capable of.
I loved the course. I loved doing the one-acts because it helped me work with others better. I love acting now and am no longer afraid of performing in front of others.
Chris helped me break my fear of stage fright. Best teacher and class ever!
Chris's eccentricity makes the class enjoyable to come to. I left class every day with a smile on my face. Kudos Chris— wish I could take the class again!
I could write four more pages about our play. I could write about how I thought it would never come together and finally did. I could write about how each of the cast members really learned something about themselves as an actress during this semester. I could write about how close the cast members became. I could even write about how proud and anxious they were to perform together. But, like I said, it would probably take four more pages, and, if anyone reading this saw the performance, they could probably figure it all out for themselves.