home | contact us | disclaimer  

Acting School Classes and Courses

Acting schools offer their students professional training in the field of acting, drama, theatre, and the arts. An acting school program is designed to provide face-to-face learning with professionals in the field, and students can look forward to rewarding careers after completing their chosen course of study. Many movie, stage, and theatre professionals learn critical acting skills at a formal school, and can also gain practice in their field by working with a mentor or coach found at various acting colleges. Acting schools can range from short, intensive programs and workshops over a period of one to 12 weeks, or take the form of year-long courses for more comprehensive training. From acting studios to college programs offering acting classes, students interested in being on camera or working on stage can gain the critical experience they need for lifelong success in the field.

Why Attend Acting School?

Acting school offers several advantages over a standard degree in theatre, film, or drama. The classes offer intensive, one-on-one training sessions that allow students to grow and develop their talents to their highest potential. Student who want to learn acting may choose to attend private studios and colleges where they can experiment with a variety of acting techniques and styles for both public and media performances. Acting school prepares students with focused and in-depth study of acting principles, physical conditioning, and rehearsal time for various productions. Students learn the importance of voice, movement, the Alexander Technique, posture, breathing, and other critical skills. A degree in film, theatre or drama is often limited to analysis and classroom study. Acting school provides students with important conditioning and one-on-one training for professional grooming and personal development.

Types of Acting Classes

Rigorous training and daily practice are just a part of these programs, and acting classes help students learn and build upon fundamental techniques in their field. Various types of classes include:

  • The Alexander Technique
  • Monologue Practice and Application
  • Power of Expression
  • Scene Study and Analysis
  • Shakespeare and Modern Theatre Studies
  • Character Workshops
  • Audition Process and Practice
  • Language and Breathing Technique
  • Diction, Rhythm, and Vocal Melody

Students are expected to practice daily, and may work independently or in a group setting. Workshops and group presentations offer additional opportunities for students to practice and perfect their skills.

Acting School Requirements and Expectations

From speech to scene study, a successful acting career begins with diligent practice and in-depth study of all disciplines. This is one reason why acting colleges are so competitive; schools in New York are designed to 'weed' out students who cannot make a full-time commitment to study and practice, and dropouts are very common. Still, those who have a sincere interest in pursuing an acting career have many opportunities to grow and master their talents no matter what type of classes or programs they enroll in. The demands of acting schools require focus, a healthy physique and high fitness level, drive to succeed, and time to study and practice. Although it is not exceptionally difficult to learn acting, successful careers are determined by those who can make a lifelong commitment to their craft.

What to Expect With Acting Classes and Programs

Acting classes and programs are designed to challenge and educate students with critical principles and techniques for film, television, stage, and theatre productions. Students who enroll in an acting class can pick up various presentation techniques and learn how to incorporate specific skills into their routine. Film school programs also incorporate hands-on workshops, seminars, and conferences for students to network and learn from their peers and mentors. Acting schools in New York especially offer a comprehensive format for studying and learning.

Applying to acting school involves sending in high school transcripts, an application form, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a headshot. Almost all acting colleges and schools require students to attend an audition where they may present a series of monologues, speeches, or short skits to determine their level of talent. An interview may also be a part of the process where students must state their goals and career objectives for review.

Classes Available at Acting Colleges and Schools in New York

Schools in New York offer a set of distinct courses and programs compared to other colleges around the country. New York is one of the country's leading epicenters for filmmaking and theater, and many acting school professionals and instructors set up their own private studio to offer classes throughout the year. Still, a formal acting college can groom students for a career, but may not be able to match the real-world experience available in New York and other larger cities. Courses and classes available at schools in New York include:

  • Acting for Film
  • Meisner Technique
  • Film Craft
  • Speech
  • Text Analysis
  • Improvisation
  • Voice & Movement
  • Editing
  • Acting for Television
  • Scene Presentation
  • Performance and Screenings

Along with basic course requirements, students are required to take part in various performances and work on building their experience as often as possible. A successful career rests on the student's individual talents, skills, drive, and eagerness to learn acting throughout their lifetime. Acting colleges can provide the foundational classes to introduce students to basic concepts, but each student is responsible for growing and learning throughout their career.

 

Back to Acting School Classes and Courses