After a break, the Multilingual Acting Studio in Brno is back under the leadership of professionals from the Multicultural Center Brusinka. The studio, focusing on theatrical arts and rhetoric, welcomes everyone who wants to get involved and enhance their skills, whether they are beginners or have some experience. We spoke with instructor Elishka Houserova about what this work entails.
Eliška, can you tell us about your journey to theater and your role as an instructor at the Multicultural Center Brusinka?
I got into theater as a child through my mom, who founded an amateur puppet theater for children with her friends in our town, where I spent a lot of time. Gradually, I started doing theater with my friends until I applied to JAMU to study drama directing – and I got accepted. I’m now a graduate. Theater has always fascinated me. It wonderfully combines various elements and requires a diverse group of people – from actors to set designers to technical staff. Many different people can find their place here, eventually coming together to create a final production. It’s about dialogue with others.
In my work with amateurs (and not only with them), I’ve also seen that it’s not “just” a form of artistic expression. Theater can improve communication skills, boost confidence, foster imagination, or simply help find a group of people with whom you can create and share your interests. And most importantly, it can be fun! That’s how I ended up at the Multicultural Center Brusinka, where I’d love to share this joy of theater and dialogue with others!
What do you enjoy most about being a teacher?
I enjoy working with new people from different cultural and social backgrounds, creating a safe space where they can express themselves openly, try new things, and grow. It’s also important to me that I can share something I’m passionate about and find meaningful – theater and dialogue. Dialogue is key for me because I believe we can learn from each other. I also love the multicultural aspect of the center. I enjoy working in a rich and diverse linguistic environment. Languages have always been a passion of mine.
I’ve worked with both professionals and non-professionals in both English and Czech, which teaches you to listen and adapt the work’s pace and style to each group. The flexibility of this job allows me to test different ideas and see how they work in practice.
What experience do you have outside of teaching?
During my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work on various projects. My first major projects were Překrásná je nepotřeba nářku at Studio Marta (my master’s thesis production) and Sedmero krkavců, which was my first large-scale production after graduating from JAMU at the Zlín City Theater.
During my studies, I also worked on different projects, including Home Being, a multilingual project created as part of the Youngsters project at the Cultural Center Co.labs. We explored the boundaries of home, language, and mutual understanding across them. I also worked on two productions with Erasmus+ students at JAMU, and I’ve collaborated with teachers and students at elementary schools, helping them gain confidence in using theatrical principles and creating final productions. But there’s so much more.
Is thematic alignment important to you when collaborating with other artists?
Yes, it’s one of the factors I consider when forming collaborations. I enjoy working on projects that explore themes like identity, finding one’s place in the world, and exploring one’s roots. I believe it’s important to create spaces for dialogue between different cultures to promote mutual understanding.
What are your plans at the Multicultural Center Brusinka?
My goal is not only to teach but also to continue developing my own approach to theater and rhetoric. I see great potential in the Multicultural Center for bringing together people from different backgrounds and cultures. I’m convinced that this diversity enriches both art and personal development. I’d like to help create a space where people can not only learn but also create together and explore their interests.
What would you say to those hesitating to join the acting studio?
Don’t hesitate! Theater isn’t just about acting – it’s about improving communication, creativity, and building confidence in what you do.
Whether you're interested in acting, rhetoric, or just want to meet people who share your interests, the Multilingual Acting Studio is a place where you can grow and create in a safe and inspiring environment. We look forward to seeing you every Tuesday at 5:30 PM!
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