Professional and trainee actors alike will find that they need (or want) to upskill from time to time. Just look at Eddie Redmayne: He’d already won an Oscar, Golden Globe, BAFTA, Olivier, and Tony Award when he went to Paris to study Theatre of the Absurd at the prestigious École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq. He did it in order to prepare for his role as the Emcee in Rebecca Frecknall’s production of Cabaret.
Whether there’s a particular technique you’re hoping to crack or you’re simply a beginner looking for a more general course, there are a number of factors to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you work out which type of classes can get you where you want to be.
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Australia has a great record when it comes to producing A-list performers. They didn’t just rise to fame overnight, though. As a teen, Margot Robbie took classes at Somerset College in Mudgeeraba before she began acting professionally in Melbourne. It just goes to show that, while you can opt to take the academic route (like Cate Blanchett, who graduated from Sydney’s National Institute of Dramatic Art), you don’t need a drama degree to make it big. You could even get lucky and land roles without any training, like Guy Pearce, who was cast in Neighbours when he was still in high school. The odds are stacked against untrained actors, though, so taking classes will increase your chances of landing a role.
Identify your goals
Consider where you want to be in both the short and long term: Do you want to pursue theatre or film? Do you want to be a stunt actor, or a thespian? Try writing a list of SMART goals to avoid making your targets too vague or unrealistic in the time available to you.
Once you have an idea of the direction you’d like to take, ask friends and colleagues for feedback on your strengths and weaknesses as an actor—and be open to their constructive criticism. This will give you valuable information on the places where you need to develop. A great way to get a more objective view of your skills is by taping yourself performing, then watching it back.
Acting classes versus workshops
Workshops are typically run by industry players, such as casting directors. They usually focus on a specific skill, e.g., mask or accent work, and they’re almost always one-off sessions. Classes, on the other hand, are often (but not always) spread out over multiple sessions and tend to cover more than one subject. Even if a class homes in on a specific technique, it will go into more depth and offer more variety than a workshop.
- Scene study: this focuses on breaking down and performing scenes from scripts.
- Acting technique: this covers specific performance methods, such as Stanislavsky or Meisner.
- Improv: this can help you work on spontaneity, quick thinking, teamwork, and creativity.
- Audition technique: this will prepare you for the process of auditioning.
- Voice and movement: here, you’ll learn to enhance your vocal projection, clarity, and physicality.
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Visit the class’ webpage to see a breakdown of what’s covered, then decide if it meets your needs. Here are a few factors to consider.
Class size and structure
Many actors prefer smaller classes, since they offer more one-on-one time with the instructor and have fewer distractions. There are some benefits to taking larger classes, though, such as a lower cost and the chance for networking opportunities.
Check whether the course is ongoing or if it has a specific start and end date. Does it take three years to complete, or one weekend? Does it lead to a particular qualification? Refer back to your SMART goals to help you determine what timeline is a good fit for you.
The traits of a good acting teacher
Research a course’s instructor to determine whether they can deliver what you need. Here are a few things to take into account.
- Professional background: look for a teacher with practical experience in the industry.
- Qualifications: teaching is a skill that requires training to be done well. Is the instructor just an actor, or an actor and a qualified teacher?
- Reputation: read reviews, testimonials, and success stories from past students.
The cost of acting classes
Finding the best course in the world is no good if it’s outside your budget. Class prices vary massively, so if you’re interested in a particular course, check the cost first to avoid wasting time.
Bear in mind that cost is different from value. A degree in drama might set you back, but it means receiving several years of daily classes and leaving with a certification. A weekend class that offers no qualifications might be cheaper, but it could have a much higher cost per day.
To give you some idea of prices, degree programs at UK schools like the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art typically cost around £9,000 per year, while a five-week course at RADA that meets once a week will set you back £950.
Don’t forget to consider financial factors beyond class fees. Will you need to buy particular clothing, equipment, or books? The class provider should be able to give you this information.
Location and schedule
It might seem obvious, but don’t forget that you’ll need to live within easy travelling distance of the class (unless it’s online). It’s also important to factor in your other commitments. Some classes will include accommodations in the cost; decide whether this is the cheapest or most suitable option for you before committing.
Networking opportunities
Connections made during your studies can be a boon as your career progresses. From the teaching staff to your fellow students, everyone is a potential help to you, and you are a potential help to everyone. Will you have the chance to meet industry professionals as part of the class? Does the course include a showcase performance attended by agents or directors? These are important considerations.
Here are some good places to seek out information.
- Online databases: websites like the Australian Film & Television Academy and the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance offer lists of reputable classes; they sometimes even offer courses themselves.
- Industry recommendations: seek out advice from industry professionals, agents, and/or your fellow actors.
- Local theatres and schools: these can be great resources for information on acting classes in your area.