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Actor Training

Suzuki Method of Actor Training

Explore the format and philosophy of the Suzuki Method through sustained physical training over two weeks.

The Suzuki Method of Actor Training (SMAT) is a training method that requires time to settle in the mind and body of a performer. Through this two-week class, we aim to impart both the format and philosophy of the training to participants.

Participants are welcome to join subsequent drop-in practice classes to deepen their training.

This class is for beginners, and no prior experience in the method is required. It is also suitable for actors who have experienced the method and are looking to refine their training in the basics.

Details

Dates
16–28 November 2026
Duration
Two weeks
Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
7.30pm–10pm
Saturdays
10.30am–1pm
2.15pm–4.45pm
Venue
NYT Studio
28 Aliwal Street, #02-09
Aliwal Arts Centre
Singapore 199918
Instructors
Nelson Chia and Mia Chee
Course fee
$800
Conducted in
English
SkillsFuture
View this course on MySkillsFuture

Application

Application is now open.

Limited spots available.

Application deadline:
18 October 2026

Apply now

What to wear

We strongly recommend the use of traditional Japanese white tabi socks for SMAT.

Tabi can be purchased from Nine Years Theatre at $20 per pair. Participants may also purchase their own tabi from other sources.

Please ensure that the tabi are white, made from 100% cotton, have four buckles and provide a snug fit.

About the Suzuki Method

Participants will work through the six basic disciplines of the Suzuki Method of Actor Training and explore the philosophy behind the training.

The class aims to help build strength in the performer’s body and mind and develop groundedness and presence on stage.

The Suzuki Method of Actor Training is a training system created by Japanese director Tadashi Suzuki. Through a series of disciplines, or basic exercises, the method focuses on enhancing three important aspects of the actor’s art:

  • Energy production
  • Breath calibration
  • Centre of gravity

Taken together, these three aspects work towards the cultivation of the “invisible body”, the uncovering of the actor’s inner potential and the development of a creative actor.

This training requires committed physical work from the actor.

Instructors

Nelson Chia

Nelson Chia

Nelson Chia is a multiple award-winning director, actor and acting teacher with over 30 years of firsthand experience in acting.

His experience as an actor informs his directorial approach, and he is well known for his ability to help actors understand and enhance their craft in rehearsals and performances.

As an acting teacher, he has shared his knowledge with stage and screen actors at most of Singapore’s major arts colleges. Through his work as Artistic Director of Nine Years Theatre and his sustained practice and research into actor-training methodologies, he has become an important figure in the field.

Mia Chee

Mia Chee

Mia Chee is an actor, theatre producer and educator, and the Co-founder and Company Director of Nine Years Theatre.

To deepen her understanding of the actor’s craft, Mia studied the Viewpoints approach with SITI Company in New York and the Suzuki Method of Actor Training with both SITI Company and the Suzuki Company of Toga in Japan.

She has practised both methods for over a decade and regularly leads Nine Years Theatre’s actor training programmes, including ensemble jams, classes and educational workshops. She is currently an Alumni Network Ambassador of SITI Company.

From 2014 to 2021, Mia was a founding and core member of the NYT Ensemble, where sustained actor training was central to the ensemble’s practice.

What participants say

“The course exceeded my expectations. I not only learnt the Suzuki training methods, but also important attitudes towards performing. Both teachers were exceptional—serious, rigorous, positive and humorous. Their attitude towards their students and acting embodies what I look for in a teacher.”

— Carol Li

“I discovered that I can do more with my body than I thought I could. SMAT taught me to push beyond my limits, develop mastery of the body and be intentional in what I do.”

— Wei Kiat

“The class enabled me to confront myself as both a performer and a person, recognise my limitations, connect with myself and develop grit. It was liberating and healing at the same time.”

— Serene Martin

“In the struggle and stillness, I found ways to be present and visible to the audience and the fiction. I also benefited from learning about the connection between the mind and body.”

— Nur Shyartiana

“SMAT reshaped the way I relate to being an actor on stage. It is not simply about mimicking movements or doing them the ‘right way’. Through confronting oneself and working through failure, the actor gains deeper inner alignment and greater freedom on stage.”

— Esther Koh

“This course sowed the seeds of stillness in me. I am learning how disciplined training opens up the body to so much more. I was humbled by what I did not know about my body and intrigued by its potential.”

— Cheri Hu

“SMAT is a tremendous gift that returns the performer to the body. Actors can become caught up in text and intention and neglect their physical work. Suzuki is a great reset—a discipline that returns us to what acting is fundamentally about: energy.”

  • © Nine Years Theatre
    UEN No.: 201221584C

    • Find Us

  • Nine Years Theatre Ltd.
    28 Aliwal Street
    #02-09
    Aliwal Arts Centre
    SINGAPORE 199918.
  • (+65) 6443 7740
    admin@nineyearstheatre.com

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