Method acting.

The Method had been a sometimes controversial technique in Hollywood, despite proving successful for countless stars including Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward and James Dean.

Now, thanks to a drama seminar set up by the Cultural Affairs Department, theatre buffs and amateur actors will be able to study it. The seminar will be held by British actor Mr. David Bennett, who has appeared in plays films and TV since 1946.

The seminar is in response to a constant demand from people interested in drama, says the Department. Up to 40 students aged 17 or more not necessarily with acting experience, will be paying $120 for the intensive four-week course, starting today.

In addition, Mr. Bennett will offer free classes to high school pupils who have proved outstanding at drama.

The Method -- full name the Stanislavsky ee Strasberg Method -- defines acting as "reacting''. It uses character analysis, relaxation exercises and "sense memory'' in its technique.