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Learn More About Acting Courses

What is Acting?

Acting is the art of portraying characters and telling stories through performance, typically on stage, in film, or on television. It involves embodying different personas, emotions, and experiences to bring fictional or real-life narratives to life for an audience. Actors use their voices, bodies, and imaginations to convey the thoughts, feelings, and actions of the characters they play, often working within the framework of a script or improvised scenario.

The history of acting dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of theatrical performances in Ancient Egypt and Greece. In classical Greek theater, actors wore masks and performed in large amphitheaters, laying the foundation for Western dramatic traditions. Over centuries, acting styles and techniques evolved, from the stylized performances of medieval mystery plays to the naturalistic approach popularized in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, acting encompasses a wide range of styles and methods, from classical theater to modern film techniques, and continues to be a vital form of artistic expression and storytelling across cultures.

Why Learn Acting?

Learning acting offers numerous personal and professional benefits. On a personal level, acting can significantly boost self-confidence and self-awareness. It encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones, explore different facets of their personalities, and express emotions freely. This process of self-discovery can lead to improved communication skills, enhanced empathy, and greater emotional intelligence. Additionally, acting provides a creative outlet that can be both therapeutic and enjoyable, offering a means to relieve stress and engage in self-expression.

Professionally, acting skills can be invaluable in many careers, even those outside the entertainment industry. The ability to speak confidently in public, convey ideas effectively, and read and respond to others' emotions are highly transferable skills. These can be particularly useful in fields such as sales, marketing, teaching, and leadership roles. For those interested in pursuing acting as a career or side hustle, the skills learned can open doors to opportunities in theater, film, television, voice acting, and commercial work. Even on a smaller scale, acting skills can lead to paid work in local theater productions, corporate training videos, or event entertainment.

Moreover, the collaborative nature of acting fosters teamwork and adaptability, traits highly valued in most professional settings. Learning to work closely with directors, fellow actors, and crew members enhances one's ability to function effectively in team environments. The discipline required to memorize lines, attend rehearsals, and consistently deliver performances also cultivates a strong work ethic that can benefit any professional endeavor. Whether used to enhance one's current career, pivot to a new field, or develop a creative side business, the skills gained through acting can provide a unique edge in today's competitive job market.

What You’ll Learn in an Acting Class?

In an acting class, you can expect to learn a wide range of skills and techniques essential to the craft. One of the fundamental areas you'll explore is voice and speech training. This involves learning proper breathing techniques, vocal projection, articulation, and how to use your voice effectively to convey emotion and character. You'll also likely work on accent and dialect training, which can be crucial for portraying characters from different backgrounds or time periods. These voice skills are important not only for stage performances where you need to be heard clearly by an audience but also for screen acting where subtle vocal nuances can make a significant impact.

Another key area of focus will be movement and physical expression. Acting classes often include exercises to improve body awareness, posture, and physical characterization. You may learn techniques from methods such as the Alexander Technique or Viewpoints, which help actors move more naturally and expressively on stage or in front of a camera. Additionally, you'll likely explore non-verbal communication, learning how to convey meaning and emotion through gestures, facial expressions, and body language. These physical skills are crucial for creating believable and engaging performances, regardless of the medium.

Script analysis and character development are also vital components of acting training. You'll learn how to break down a script, understand subtext, and develop a character's backstory and motivations. This often involves exercises in imagination and empathy as you work to understand and embody different personas. Improvisation is another important skill you'll likely develop, helping you to think on your feet, react authentically to unexpected situations, and create spontaneous dialogue and action. These analytical and creative skills are essential for bringing depth and authenticity to your performances.

Throughout your acting training, you'll also develop a range of soft skills that are valuable both on and off the stage. Collaboration is a key aspect of acting, so you'll learn to work effectively with directors, fellow actors, and other creative professionals. This fosters teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to give and receive constructive feedback. Public speaking skills naturally improve as you become more comfortable performing in front of others. Time management and discipline are also honed through the process of learning lines, attending rehearsals, and meeting performance deadlines. Additionally, acting classes often push you out of your comfort zone, building confidence and resilience. These soft skills are not only crucial for success in acting but are also highly transferable to many other professional and personal situations.

How Long Will It Take to Learn Acting?

The time it takes to learn acting can vary significantly depending on your goals, dedication, and the level of proficiency you aim to achieve. Introductory acting courses might last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, covering basic techniques in voice, movement, and character development. These courses provide a foundation for beginners and can help determine if acting is a pursuit you'd like to continue. Advanced training, on the other hand, can take years of dedicated study and practice. Many professional actors continue to hone their craft throughout their entire careers. Advanced courses delve deeper into various acting methods, offer more intensive scene study, and may include specialized training in areas like classical theater, film acting, or musical theater. The key difference between introductory and advanced courses lies in the depth of instruction, the complexity of the material covered, and the level of commitment required. While introductory courses focus on building confidence and basic skills, advanced training aims to refine technique, expand range, and prepare actors for professional work.

What are the Advantages of Taking an Acting Class?

Taking an acting class offers several distinct advantages over trying to learn acting skills independently. Firstly, a structured class environment provides expert guidance from experienced instructors who can offer personalized feedback and help you develop proper techniques from the start. This professional instruction can help you avoid developing bad habits that might be difficult to unlearn later. Additionally, acting classes typically provide a safe, supportive space to experiment and take risks, allowing you to push your boundaries and grow as a performer without the pressure of a public audience.

Another significant advantage of enrolling in an acting class is the opportunity for collaborative learning and networking. Acting is inherently a collaborative art form, and classes allow you to work with other aspiring actors, learning from their strengths and gaining valuable experience in ensemble work. This peer interaction not only enhances your skills but also helps build connections that could be beneficial for future projects or career opportunities. Moreover, many acting classes provide access to resources such as scripts, props, and sometimes even performance spaces, which can be difficult or expensive to obtain on your own.

Lastly, a formal acting class offers a structured curriculum that ensures you cover all essential aspects of the craft systematically. While self-study can be beneficial, it's easy to overlook crucial elements or focus too heavily on areas you're already comfortable with. An organized course will typically cover a comprehensive range of skills including voice work, movement, character analysis, and various acting techniques, providing a well-rounded foundation. This structured approach, combined with regular practice and performance opportunities within the class, accelerates your learning and skill development in a way that's challenging to replicate through self-study alone.

Best Acting Classes

The Theatrical Clown Workshop at The Barrow Group Acting School offers a unique opportunity to unlock your inner ridiculousness and embrace vulnerability through the art of theatrical clowning. Through a series of physical warm-ups and movement games, participants discover new perspectives on themselves as performers and collaborators, embarking on a transformative journey of self-expression and joy. This workshop encourages participants to embrace their unique quirks and imperfections, using openness and humor to bring their full humanity to the forefront and transform restrictive habits into freer expressions. By embodying vulnerability and resilience in playful balance, clowns learn to navigate and share life's awkward moments, joys, doubts, and celebrations with great pleasure. The workshop introduces essential clown techniques such as isolating actions, interrupting patterns, and building a relationship with the audience, which are foundational skills that can support performing artists in all aspects of their work. Utilizing the red nose as a tool for transformation, the workshop progresses through solo and group activities designed to help participants access and experience their inner clown and the world of theatrical clowning.

Jason Thinger, a top Broadway casting director, is offering a Musical Theater Masterclass through Actors Connection New York, providing a rare opportunity for advanced performers to refine their skills and receive industry-level feedback. The masterclass, limited to 14 participants of all types and ages over 18, allows actors to showcase and improve their audition material under the guidance of a professional with extensive Broadway, Off-Broadway, and regional theater experience. Participants are required to prepare two contrasting short songs (16 or 32 bars) and should have their full repertoire available, as Thinger may request to hear additional pieces. The evening begins with a Q&A session, followed by individual performances in a group format, during which Thinger will offer coaching, direction, and honest, constructive feedback. This masterclass presents a unique chance for serious musical theater actors to work closely with a casting director from one of Broadway's most prominent offices, potentially opening doors to future opportunities in the industry.

The Barrow Group Acting School's Beginner Acting IV: Theatre Performance course offers a comprehensive journey from script to stage, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience in theatrical production. Under expert guidance, participants explore The Barrow Group's unique tools and techniques, gaining a deep understanding of the rehearsal process and the art of storytelling. The course emphasizes the crucial relationship between performers and their audience, instilling a sense of responsibility and connection that is essential to compelling theatre. Through directed rehearsals and dedicated practice, students work collaboratively to bring a one-act play to life, honing their skills both in and outside of class time. This immersive experience culminates in a live performance at the prestigious TBG Studio Theatre, allowing students to showcase their growth and newfound abilities before a real audience. By combining the practical application of acting techniques with the excitement of a full production, this course provides a transformative experience that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world theatre performance.

Karie Koppel, an esteemed Off-Broadway casting director, offers a Theatre Intensive opportunity for actors to enhance their theater skills through an intensive workshop with Actors Connection New York. Participants will receive personalized feedback and training from Koppel, whose impressive credits include "Queens Girl In The World" and "The Gentleman Caller," among many other Off-Broadway, regional, and national tour productions. The workshop begins with a Q&A session, followed by individual scene work where actors perform pre-assigned sides with a reader, receiving Koppel's expert guidance in a group format. This intensive not only provides valuable audition training but also offers the chance to work closely with a casting director active in theater, film, and TV. Koppel's extensive experience, including her role as Director of Casting for GFour Productions, ensures that participants will gain insights directly applicable to their careers. The personalized approach, where Koppel pre-casts each actor based on their headshots, adds a unique and tailored element to the workshop experience.

The Theater Intensive with Rebecca Weiss through Actors Connection New York offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of theater under the guidance of an experienced casting director. Rebecca Weiss, with over a decade of experience in casting and artistic producing, brings valuable insights from her work with McCorkle Casting in both theater and film. Her impressive portfolio includes casting for renowned theaters such as Barrington Stage, The Guthrie, and George Street Playhouse, covering a wide range of productions from classic plays to world premieres. The intensive begins with a Q&A session, followed by personalized scene work where participants perform pre-assigned sides with a reader, receiving immediate feedback and training to enhance their audition skills. This hands-on approach in a group format allows actors to learn not only from their own performances but also from observing others. The class is open to diverse talent, welcoming all types, ethnicities, and ages (18+), making it an inclusive environment for actors to sharpen their skills and gain valuable industry connections.

Edge Studio's How to Start in Voice Acting & Voice Over - With Private Evaluation offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of voice acting. This highly recommended industry package provides aspiring voice actors with practical insights and personalized feedback to help determine if a voice-over career is the right fit. The program begins with a candid one-hour private evaluation session, covering 23 different voice-over genres to identify your natural strengths and suitable areas of focus. Following the evaluation, you'll receive detailed feedback and recommended next steps from your coach, along with valuable industry guides to support your journey. To give you a real feel for the profession, the package includes free access to 10 voice-over classes, workouts, and audition simulations, allowing you to experience coaching, meet fellow students and voice actors, and hone your skills in a supportive environment. This structured approach, combining personalized assessment with hands-on experience, provides an excellent foundation for those considering a career in voice acting.

Barry Shapiro, a renowned casting director with over 37 years of experience, offers a 4-Week Hybrid Voice-Over Intensive through Acting & Voice Studios designed to elevate your voice-over career. Participants have the opportunity to record up to 10 professional VO spots, either in-studio or remotely, receiving personalized coaching and feedback from Barry throughout the process. The program provides invaluable insights into advancing your VO career, securing bookings, and mastering the art of voice acting, drawing from Barry's extensive experience casting over 8000 commercials for major brands. Each session involves performing and being coached on various VO scripts, ensuring a fun and educational experience while receiving feedback from a seasoned casting professional. Participants are encouraged to prepare 2-3 commercial copies per class, each no longer than 45 seconds, maximizing the learning opportunity. This intensive not only hones your voice-over skills but also offers a chance to ask Barry questions about the industry, making it an invaluable resource for aspiring and experienced voice actors alike.

Acting Courses by School

Here are some of the top schools offering Acting training, including The Barrow Group Acting School (20 courses), Actors Technique NY Kids & Teens (18 courses), and Acting School for Film and Television (10 courses).

The Barrow Group Acting School

NYC location: 520 8th Ave,, New York, New York

The Barrow Group Acting School is a New York City acting school founded in 1986 by Artistic Director Lee Brock. They offer classes and workshops in a variety of acting disciplines, including scene study, monologue work, and audition techniques for actors of all levels. The school's alumni include Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway, three-time Emmy winner Jennifer Landon, and Emmy winner Tony Hale.
- Beginner Acting I: The Basics
  - 30 Hours
  - $545
- Alexander Technique for the Actor I
  - 8 Weeks, 2 hr/wk
  - $395
- Beginners Acting I: The Basics
  - 10 Weeks, 3 hr/wk
  - $425
- Beginners Acting II: Getting Specific
  - 10 Weeks, 3 hr/wk
  - $495
Acting School for Film and Television

NYC location: 150 West 46th Street,, New York, New York

The Acting School for Film and Television is a New York City acting school that offers classes and workshops for actors of all levels including scene study, monologue work, and audition technique. The school was founded in 1984 by Artistic Director Michael Howard and is known for its practical approach to training actors for the film and television industry.
- Full Term 03
  - 99 Hours
  - $4,950
- Half Term 01
  - 49 Hours
  - $2,400
- Half Term 02
  - 49 Hours
  - $2,650
- Get Your Act Together
  - 123 Hours
  - $8,300
The Actors Circle

Los Angeles location: 11282 Washington Blvd, Culver City, California

The Actors Circle in Los Angeles is a professional school for young actors in training. They offer a range of classes and workshops for students of all levels, including acting, improvisation, audition technique, and scene study. Through their unique approach, they provide an opportunity for students to develop their skills and gain confidence in their performance.
- Acting for Adults
  - 3 Hours
  - $54
- Kids Acting (5-11 yrs old)
  - 2 Hours
  - $40
- Teens Acting (12-16 yrs old)
  - 2 Hours
  - $48
Russell Acting Studio

NYC location: 210 W 50th ST, New York, New York

Russell Acting Studio is a New York City acting school that offers classes and workshops for actors of all levels. They offer classes in a variety of acting disciplines, including scene study, monologue work, and audition techniques. The studio was founded by actor and director Russell Davis, who has worked in the industry for over 30 years.
- 8-Week Advanced Intensive Acting
  - 8 Weeks, 2 hr/wk
  - $300
- Beginning Acting for the Non-Actor
  - 6 Weeks, 2 hr/wk
  - $240
DBA Flappers University

Los Angeles location: 102 E Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, California

DBA Flappers University, located in Los Angeles, is an esteemed acting school that offers a diverse range of courses designed to hone the skills of aspiring actors. With a commitment to providing top-tier instruction, the university offers comprehensive acting programs, improv workshops, and stand-up comedy courses. Whether participants seek to refine their acting techniques, develop their comedic prowess, or explore the art of improvisation, DBA Flappers University provides a nurturing environment where students can unlock their creative potential and thrive in the performing arts industry.
- Intro to Stand Up Comedy
  - 3 Hours
  - $25
Acting Class Now

Los Angeles location: 3932 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, California

Acting Class Now is a Los Angeles- based school dedicated to teaching students of all levels and backgrounds how to hone their acting craft. The school offers an extensive range of courses such as Beginning and Intermediate Scene Study, On-Camera Acting, and Improv Acting. Each class focuses on developing skills in improvisation, scene study, character development, and audition techniques.
- IK Connection Method: Moment 2 Moment
  - 3 Hours
  - $25
Improvolution

NYC location: 115 Macdougal Street, New York, New York

Improvolution is an acting school in New York City specializing in improv-based courses. Students can choose from offerings such as one-on-one coaching, scene workshops, and comedy improv, all taught by professional improv actors. With a focus on building both confidence and creativity, Improvolution provides a supportive learning environment to help their students find their inner comic.
- Intro to Improv
  - 2 Hours
  - $50
Actors Technique NY Kids & Teens

NYC location: 519 8th Ave. , New York, New York

Actors Technique NY Kids & Teens provides a supportive, creative atmosphere for aspiring young actors to hone their craft. They offer a variety of courses, from the basics of acting and singing to more advanced coursework like monologue development and film audition techniques. Their highly experienced teachers help each student reach their highest potential and create successful, happy performers.
- Drop-In Days Pick Your Day, Let Us Know!
  - 10 Weeks, 5 hr/wk
  - $195
NEW YORK IMPROV THEATRE(8 Improv)

NYC location: 318 West 53rd Street, New York, New York

NEW YORK IMPROV THEATRE (8 Improv) offers a comprehensive introduction to improvisational theatre and comedy, with courses available for students of all levels. Courses include basic improv skills workshops and advanced courses on creating long-form productions and films. With instructional staff comprising professional comedians and actors, this school is well-suited for those looking to gain the necessary skills to become professional improvisers.
- Comedy Camp, Times Square NYC
  - 7 Hours
  - $450
The New York Performing Arts Academy

NYC location: 500 8th Ave., New York, NY

The New York Performing Arts Academy offers a wide range of acting and production classes taught in nine different locations in NYC. Their courses are designed for students and professionals of all levels, from beginning classes to specialized production workshops covering improv, film, and voiceover techniques. Their experienced teachers provide generous feedback and guidance, allowing students to explore their talents and develop their skill sets.
- 12-Week: Acting for Stage, Film & TV
  - 12 Weeks, 1 hr/wk
  - $695
- 8-Week: Acting for Stage, Film & TV
  - 8 Weeks, 1 hr/wk
  - $495
- 4-Week: Acting for Stage, Film & TV
  - 4 Weeks, 1 hr/wk
  - $275

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Learn Acting

Learn More About Acting Courses

What is Acting?

Why Learn Acting?

What You’ll Learn in an Acting Class?

How Long Will It Take to Learn Acting?

What are the Advantages of Taking an Acting Class?

Best Acting Classes

Acting Courses by School

The Barrow Group Acting School

Beginner Acting I: The Basics

Alexander Technique for the Actor I

Beginners Acting I: The Basics

Beginners Acting II: Getting Specific

Acting School for Film and Television

Full Term 03

Half Term 01

Half Term 02

Get Your Act Together

The Actors Circle

Acting for Adults

Kids Acting (5-11 yrs old)

Teens Acting (12-16 yrs old)

Russell Acting Studio

8-Week Advanced Intensive Acting

Beginning Acting for the Non-Actor

DBA Flappers University

Intro to Stand Up Comedy

Acting Class Now

IK Connection Method: Moment 2 Moment

Improvolution

Intro to Improv

Actors Technique NY Kids & Teens

Drop-In Days Pick Your Day, Let Us Know!

NEW YORK IMPROV THEATRE(8 Improv)

Comedy Camp, Times Square NYC

The New York Performing Arts Academy

12-Week: Acting for Stage, Film & TV

8-Week: Acting for Stage, Film & TV

4-Week: Acting for Stage, Film & TV

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