Accent Materials for the 2025 USF Greenshow
Author: jsortore
Pronunciation Guides for the Engelstad Productions
Actor Accent Resources for the 2025 University of Michigan Production
Pronunciation Guide for the 2024 University of Michigan production
Accent Resources for the 2024 University of Michigan Production
Phonetics Practice Pages
For this exercise, you’ll need a straw. Stand or sit upright, sensing for a dynamic, easy head-spine relationship. Be mindful about using your arm to bring the straw up to your mouth rather than shortening through the spine to bring your head down toward the straw. Exhale an easy stream of breath and sound through […]
This is an alternative to the straw phonation exercise, for when you don’t have a straw handy. Stand or sit upright, sensing for a dynamic, easy head-spine relationship. Shape your lips around an imaginary straw, then bring your finger up to touch them, partially blocking the opening. Be mindful about bringing your finger to your […]
This exercise is based on the work of Dr. Joseph Stemple. All of the exercises should be performed at the softest possible volume that still allows for a fully-engaged sound (i.e., no breathiness). Sustain each exercise until you totally run out of air. Those last few seconds will create an isometric contraction in the intrinsic […]
Wacky-Jacks
These are like jumping jacks, but “wacky.” Nancy Houfek taught me this exercise. Start with some regular jumping jacks, and then explore different angles. Allow your exploration to be playful and fun. Try not to control your breath experience. This is designed to affect your breath, so let it! When you’re finished, take a few […]