PEM Intensive II
Transformative Character Work

A 2-Day Advanced Acting Workshop in Physiological Character Creation

PEM Intensive II trains actors to transform into another human being on a purely physiological level—and to safely step back out again.

This advanced intensive expands character range by working directly with the intelligence of the body and nervous system, allowing actors to create characters that feel lived-in, specific, and human—without psychological strain.

Go Beyond Performance Into Embodied Character Transformation

In PEM Intensive II, actors move beyond emotional access into full character embodiment.

You will learn how to:

  • Expand character possibilities through the genius of the body
  • Enrich your emotional palette through an introduction to emotional mixtures
  • Enter and exit character safely, with clarity and control
  • Build characters whose experiences are held physiologically, not intellectually

 

This work supports depth, complexity, and sustainability in character creation for stage and screen.

Testimonial

“I sent Sarah pages from the script. Together, we talked about my character, Emberly, and which emotions would serve as anchors for exploring her. It was like my body became a map. I could simultaneously trust the emotions in my body, and was also constantly surprised by the sensations, impulses, and voice that followed. Emberly emerged quite naturally.”

Cam Frontain, Actress

More Than an Acting Class

PEM Intensive II goes beyond technique alone.
This workshop is designed to broaden your understanding of human behavior and experience, offering actors a deeper, more nuanced lens through which to approach character work.

The result is richer performances and a more embodied, sustainable creative process.

Testimonial

“PEM is an exhilarating practice. I feel more alive and awake when I practice it. It’s such a joy to watch others discover the ease and specificity of sharing their emotional life with this body – and breath – centric practice. It has the added benefit of turning a room of relative strangers into kindred spirits in a matter of moments. Can’t wait to work this way again!”

Cynthia Bassham

Professor of Teaching (Acting),
Head of Undergraduate Acting,
Associate Head of Acting, University of California, Irvine

Cynthia Bassham

Who This Workshop Is For

PEM Intensive II is designed for actors who already have a foundation in PEM and are ready to deepen their character work.

This intensive is ideal for:

Who This Workshop Is Not For

This workshop may not be the right fit if you:

Prerequisites

PEM Intensive I or equivalent private coaching is required to attend this workshop.

Ready to Deepen Your Character Work?

PEM Intensive II offers actors a clear, embodied pathway to character transformation—designed for depth, safety, and artistic integrity.

👉 Apply now to request an interview and secure your place.

FAQ:

Do I need acting experience to attend?

PEM Intensive I or equivalent private coaching is required to attend this workshop.

Yes. PEM uses a physical, body-based approach designed to avoid emotional mining or personal trauma.

The techniques taught are designed to support both subtle and intense emotional work for stage and screen.

Testimonial

“PEM has allowed me to be in a much more truthful place. I have found in my performances, I can drop intro a deeper place much more quickly. And since I started PEM, I have gotten the most compliments, that I give so much as a scene partner. It’s given me the gift to give.

Shemeka Wright

Actress | Director

Shemeka Wright