Private Acting Coaches

How do you go about choosing an acting class? The first thing you must do is assess your needs. Do you want acting advice from a multi-year program or independent classes? Are you looking for an acting coach's training to help you prepare for an acting audition, or a role? Are you a stage actor who wants to make the transition to TV? There are classes in technique, scene study, improvisation, musical-theatre auditioning, speech, movement, and so on. You have to decide which class or classes will fulfill your wants, focus on your weak areas, and, most importantly, hone your strengths.

Once you've figured out what entertainment career you are interested in, start asking your actor friends for teacher references. Try to find out with whom actors you admire have studied. Read as many books as you can to build your understanding of different acting techniques. One of these acting philosophies might strike a chord with you that directs your quest for the perfect teacher.

Once you've narrowed the field, there are other basic factors to consider. Ask if auditing classes is permitted, but don't be put off if it's not; teachers may feel the need to protect the privacy of their students. Instead, make sure you interview the acting coach or teacher. And don't feel intimidated. Be direct and honest.

Acting is mostly about instinct and feeling, and that's exactly what it's all about when choosing the person you decide to work with. If working with that acting coach feels right, then that's the person for you.

LINKS

The Ruling Classroom
Before signing up for an acting class, try auditing a few.

Acting Schools and Coaches: Know Your Gods
Who's who in the pantheon of acting teachers and coaches?

NYC-Area Acting Schools and Coaches
A list of New York-area stage and film acting schools, teachers, and coaches. Also included is a separate list of career coaches/counselors.

Los Angeles-Area Acting Schools and Coaches
The following schools offer two-year acting programs. Many offer other shorter programs in a variety of plans and performing-related areas.