Jackson, MS — The JXN Film Festival is proud to announce that award-winning actress, educator, and arts advocate Dr. Tonea Stewart will lead a two-day intensive actor’s workshop on July 23rd and 24th in Jackson, Mississippi. This hands-on training will focus on the “Study of Being” technique, a transformative approach to acting developed by the legendary Frank Silvera.
Dr. Stewart, widely recognized for her powerful performances in A Time to Kill, Mississippi Burning, and her recurring role in In the Heat of the Night, is also a revered educator who spent decades training actors as the Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Alabama State University. She brings a unique blend of professional and academic experience that continues to inspire the next generation of performing artists.
This year, Dr. Stewart brings her innovative program, The American Theatre of BEing, to the JXN Film Festival. Rooted in the groundbreaking work of Frank Silvera and Vantile Whitfield, this method encourages actors to explore truth, presence, and authenticity in performance. The “Study of Being” has been used by many top professionals in stage and screen — including Dr. Stewart herself.
The American Theatre of BEing Workshop at the JXN Film Festival will provide a rare opportunity for aspiring and professional actors alike to engage with these powerful techniques in an immersive environment.
"This is more than acting — it's about truth-telling. It’s about connecting with the spirit of your character and being fully present," says Dr. Stewart. "The Study of Being helps actors strip away performance and discover presence."
Workshop Details:
📅 Dates: July 23–24, 2025
📍 Location: Tougaloo College, Jackson, MS
🎟️ Tickets & Registration:
https://jxnfilmfestival.com/festival-ticke... Don’t miss this transformative training opportunity with one of the nation’s most respected figures in Black theatre and film.
About the JXN Film Festival:
The JXN Film Festival is Mississippi’s premier celebration of film, culture, and creativity. The festival provides a platform for emerging filmmakers, industry professionals, and local talent to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the art of storytelling.
Posted By: Robert Walker
Wednesday, July 2nd 2025 at 12:34PM
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