Summer Session 2026

• Summer Session 2026 features in-person classes held at 30 Grant Avenue in San Francisco. There are no online classes.
• Students with financial need interested in scholarships should consult the Scholarships page for details on how to apply.
• Sliding scale tuition is available for our shorter classes. Please see the class list for details prior to registering.
• Students interested in the 50/50 Payment Plan, whereby half the total cost of tuition is paid at the time of registration and the second half on the first day of class, must enroll by phone. Please call (415) 439-2319 during weekday business hours. The 50/50 Payment Plan is not available when registering for a one-day class, or with a discount or other promotional code.
• It is not possible to visit 30 Grant Avenue outside of scheduled class times. However, the Melissa Yandell Smith Library is open—info and hours here. Studio A.C.T. students have access to the library for a full year after their last class.
• Questions? For any additional questions or concerns please visit our Studio FAQ page or email us at studio@act-sf.org.

Three Courses, Eight Classes each 

Designed to be taken either individually, in succession, and/or repeatedly. 

Acting 1, Acting 2, and Acting 3 are three different courses designed to be taken either individually or in succession. Each class may also be repeated in order to further solidify the student’s foundation in the practices learned. Together, these courses comprise the Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence, and feature the most prevalent training practices used by professional actors. These practices address awareness, truthful playing, use of language and physical action, psychology, emotion, and script analysis. Students will develop a working understanding of common practical concepts such as action, objective, obstacle, conflict, tactic, intention, motivation, trigger, target, and acting “beats.” 

Refer to each class’s individual description for further details, including scheduling, tuition, and this session’s faculty. 

The Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence is for you if:

• You have already taken Intro to Acting at Studio A.C.T. or have other introductory acting experience, and you wish to develop a more solid foundation in the most commonly utilized and effective acting practices.
• You’re interested in exploring acting as a serious interest alongside your other interests.
• You’re interested in either exploring or pursuing acting as a profession.

Please note: Since acting is a life practice, these courses are designed to be repeatable, emphasizing fluency over “quick-fixes.” Students are occasionally encouraged to repeat levels before moving on to the next.

This course explores the art of acting in a playful, encouraging, collaborative atmosphere, and offers a dynamic and engaging introduction to the craft of acting and theater. Through fun and engaging exercises, students will work on strengthening self-confidence, overcoming performance anxiety, improving focus and concentration, connecting with others through trust-building games and active listening, understanding “stage presence,” and opening their imaginations to playing characters. Because actor training is also life training, students can expect to find new, deeper connections to their own and others’ creativity, unlocking profound layers of empathy through character exploration. Particular emphasis will be given to transferable skills, such as expanding the imagination, collaborating effectively, speaking and presenting without anxiety, and supporting others’ growth. Students may be asked to prepare simple assignments outside of class, including memorizing short texts. Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is recommended that students who register for Intro to Acting also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Intro to Acting is for you if:

• You’ve never studied acting before, are curious about acting, and want an unintimidating but engaging opportunity to explore it. 
• You’ve done a bit of acting in the past, but it’s been a while and you’re hungry to get back in touch with your creative impulses. 
• You’re shy and looking for an experience to help you emerge from your shell.
• You believe you’re “not that creative,” and wish to be proven otherwise!

Eight Classes – Mon/Wed – June 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29; July 1*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day July 6 as needed

In this mid-level class, students will engage in work with a dual emphasis on pursuing actions and intentions alongside active listening and responding to scene partners. Students will work on at least one scene and one monologue. Preparing outside of class is expected, and thorough preparation is essential. Students will receive constructive feedback, with the intention of expanding their ability to integrate receiving and offering feedback into their personal and collaborative process. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is recommended that students who register for Acting 2 also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Acting 2 is for you if:

• You’ve taken some acting classes or acted in a play or two some years ago, and wish to reconnect to or resume your exploration of acting.
• You’ve taken Intro to Acting and Acting 1 at Studio A.C.T., or equivalents elsewhere, and wish to continue exploring acting.
• You’re interested in the Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence and have already taken Acting 1.

Eight Classes – Mon/Wed – June 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29; July 1*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day July 6 as needed

Acting in and auditioning for commercials, film, and TV requires actors to improvise on their feet, respond quickly and truthfully to the given circumstances of dialogue and environment, and to possess an awareness of how best to work within a camera’s frame. This comprehensive class will give students greater confidence acting in front of a camera by empowering them through direct experience with on-camera auditions with on-camera auditions, self tapes, and shoots. Techniques for quick memorization, relaxation under stress, effective audition and cold reading strategies, basic improv techniques related to on-camera acting, and methods for quickly honing in on the emotional truth of a scene, will all be explored. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all exercises and homework assignments. This class is open to all levels, though material and assignments may vary depending on experience and skill level. 

Acting: On Camera Level 1 is for you if: 

• You’re an actor with a prior introduction to on-camera acting, and are looking for more specific experience in the area of acting and auditioning for commercials, TV, Film, and Corporate Industrials. 
• You have already taken both Acting 1 and Acting 2 at Studio A.C.T., or their equivalents elsewhere, and wish to expand your acting into the area of screen media.
• You are pursuing actor training with seriousness, whether toward developing an on-camera career or otherwise. 

Six Classes – Wednesdays – June 24; July 8, 15, 22, 29; August 5*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*No class July 1; Make-up day August 12 as needed

NOTE – This class meets once per week over dates spanning Summer Session Parts 1 and 2.

This popular six-evening, upper-level class offers students who have already taken Acting 3 (or equivalent, see below) the opportunity to lean into more intensive scene study work. Students will dive deep into methods for collaborating effectively, analyzing a script, pursuing actions and intentions, and bringing greater truth, spontaneity, and detailed nuance to their acting. Acting 3.5 Scene Study Deep Dive requires memorization of two substantial scenes. Students are expected to prepare outside of class, and thorough preparation is essential. Students should expect to actively participate in all activities, and must attend all six class sessions, given they will be performing with scene partners dependent on their presence. Though not required, it is recommended that students who register for Acting 3.5 Scene Study Deep Dive also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Please note: Students enrolled in this class are encouraged to identify a scene they wish to explore again in greater detail. Shortly before the first class we will contact students to request information about this and other aspects of their interests. The exact scenes students will work on will be determined collaboratively on the first day of class.

Acting 3.5 Scene Study Deep Dive is for you if:

• You’ve already taken Acting 1, Acting 2, and Acting 3 at Studio A.C.T., or their equivalent elsewhere, and wish to move your exploration of acting toward more nuanced levels.
• You are an intermediate or advanced acting student who wishes to bring greater truth and life to their acting.
• You have a serious interest in exploring acting as a career, and wish to get a good intensive “workout” to hone your acting and script analysis muscles.

Eight Classes – Tue/Thu – June 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30; July 7*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*No class July 2; Make-up day July 9 as needed

This early-level acting class emphasizes ensemble-building, imaginative play, expanding creativity, strengthening self-confidence and self-discipline, memorization techniques, cultivating personal responsibility, and strategies for successful collaboration. Course content may include some memorization of short scenes and monologues from contemporary plays, and students will be asked to prepare assignments outside of class. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is recommended that students who register for Acting 1 also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Acting 1 is for you if:

• You’ve taken Intro to Acting at Studio A.C.T., or an equivalent elsewhere, and wish to continue exploring acting.
• You took an acting class or acted in a play many years ago, and wish to reconnect to actor training.
• You’re wondering whether a career in acting is for you and wish to explore it actively.
• You’re interested in the full Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence and are ready to start.

Eight Classes – Tue/Thu – June 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30; July 2*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day July 7 as needed

Students enrolled in this upper-level class will learn further practical strategies for rehearsing efficiently, collaborating effectively, pursuing actions and intentions, and bringing greater truth, spontaneity, and specificity to their acting through careful analysis of the script in rehearsals. Acting 3 requires memorization of at least one substantial scene and/or one monologue. Students are expected to prepare outside of class, and thorough preparation is essential. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is strongly recommended that students who register for Acting 3 also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Acting 3 is for you if:

• You’ve taken three or more acting classes and/or acted in two or more plays in the past few years, and wish to move your exploration of acting toward more intensive levels.
• You’ve taken Acting 1 and Acting 2 at Studio A.C.T., or their equivalent elsewhere, and wish to continue advancing your acting skills.
• You’re interested in the Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence and have already taken Acting 1 and Acting 2.
• You already have some acting experience, have a serious interest in exploring acting as a career, and wish to get a good “workout” to hone your acting muscles.
• You minored in theater as an undergraduate in college and wish to dive back in.

Eight Classes – Tue/Thu – June 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30; July 2*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day July 7 as needed

This class is designed to help participants develop a solid foundational understanding, practical fluency, and sense of confidence with their ability to use their full voice and to speak with greater clarity. Through group exercises and guided individual work on texts of their own choosing, participants will learn practical techniques to develop a richer, stronger, and more versatile speaking voice. This repeatable course is open to students of all experience levels and is designed to accommodate each student at their individual level of experience.

Voice & Speech Workout is for you if:

• You are an actor who wishes to improve your ability to speak text with greater clarity, variety, and richness.
• You are not an actor, but your job requires public speaking and you wish to strengthen your clarity of speech and confidence in speaking.
• You are a person who enjoys language and wishes to have a practical, enlivening experience with it.

Tuition for our Summer Session shorter classes is priced on a sliding scale to better accommodate the variety of financial circumstances among our many students. You may select your tuition when registering.

Why sliding scale?

Your class tuition supports everything that goes into making Studio A.C.T. possible within the vibrant ecosystem of American Conservatory Theater, from paying faculty and staff a fair wage, to maintaining our studio spaces, to getting the word out about what we do. We respect every dollar you pay for your classes, and consider your tuition a key contribution in support of our mission to provide an engaging, energizing, creative space for all.

Why sliding scale for shorter classes, but not full-length classes?

We first piloted our sliding-scale pricing during the December 2024 weeklong Inter-Session. It went very well! However, the limitations of our enrollment software make administering it challenging, as the system was not designed to accommodate a sliding-scale option. Hopefully the software developers will eventually add this option. In the meantime, limiting our sliding-scale class selections to the handful of shorter classes allows us to provide the option in a manageable way.

Are scholarships still available for shorter classes?

Yes! Scholarships are still available for shorter classes. The percentage requested will be taken from the top tuition price. Please visit our Scholarships page for details on how to apply.

Five classes, Mon–Fri, June 8–12
6:30–9:00 p.m.

This introductory class explores the groundbreaking techniques of Russian actor and teacher Michael Chekhov, nephew of playwright Anton Chekhov. Michael Chekhov’s world-renown acting technique helps actors to physically transform into characters, employ their imagination to listen more deeply, and rely on their body as a resource and means of expression. Recognizing that our bodies and imaginations are inextricably linked, the technique focuses on doing and experiencing, getting “on your feet” right away. Through practical psycho-physical exercises, actors quickly develop their sense of inspiration and learn to trust their own artistic individuality, all the while discovering ways to bypass mental acting blocks and preconditioned ideas—whether of themselves, other people, or acting in general. Chekhov’s tools are useful for any style of stage or film acting and add greatly to an actor’s necessary skill set.

The five-night Intro to Michael Chekhov Acting Technique class is for you if:

• You have taken some acting classes before, such as Acting 1 or Acting 2 at Studio A.C.T. or equivalents elsewhere, and you wish to explore the techniques specific to a more physical approach.
• You wish to physicalize your exploration of imagination and character as it relates to acting. 
• You wish to learn tools to help you overcome acting blocks, find inspiration deeper within yourself, and to work in a playful, creative, and safe way.
• As an actor you have found yourself on the receiving end of un-actable direction, or knowing what you want in a scene but not knowing HOW to get it, or grappling with a character that is very different from you, and you don’t know where to begin. Michael Chekhov’s work is an invaluable tool that can address in real time these common actors' dilemmas.

IT’S BACK!

One class – Sunday – June 14
1:00–5:00 p.m.

This one-day introductory class, open to all experience levels, is a fun opportunity to explore your innate ability to play. Studying improvisation techniques helps actors to free their creative imagination, build self-confidence when going “off script,” and can even support their ability to develop characters in other theater or film acting situations. Improv techniques offer skills to support spontaneity in responding in the moment in a truthful, playful way. Sometimes silly, sometimes outrageous, Improv training inspires actors to think outside the box.

This one-day Intro to Improv for Actors workshop is for you if:

• You are an actor or other performers curious about Improv, but have felt intimidated or overwhelmed by the idea of leaping in.
• You studied Improv a long time ago and want a refresher.
• You’re shy and are looking for an experience to help you feel more comfortable with your playful side.
• You believe you’re “not that creative,” and wish to be proven otherwise!

One day – Sunday – June 14
12:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Conveying truly authentic emotion in performance can be among the most daunting aspects of acting. Often the characters we play are grappling with emotional circumstances that people grapple with in life. Playing these characters truthfully is a way to respect and to honor these real-life emotional experiences. If not done with care, it can also take a toll on the actor. When playing emotionally vulnerable characters, how can we access our own true emotions, share them on stage repeatedly each week or get there quickly when working in film, in a way that is healthy and sustainable? In this one-day class with legendary Bay Area actor, director, teacher, and artistic director of the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, Margo Hall, students will learn practical techniques for accessing their own inherent emotional power in order to craft truthful performances. Every actor is a human being with a wealth of stories inside, from both their personal experiences and the ancestors they carry with them. Margo Hall—known for her powerful stage and film performances, her fierce intelligence and wit, and her commitment to truth—creates a supportive environment for actors to tap into their true selves and so also the truth of the characters they play.

Please Note: For this one-day, in-person class, students should come prepared with a fully memorized monologue that they are passionate to speak, yet find emotionally challenging. For the best experience, it is important the monologue be fully and fluently memorized.

Acting: Tapping Into The Power of Emotional Truth is for you if:

• You wish to develop practical tools for accessing truthful emotion in performance that are repeatable, dependable, and emotionally safe for you personally.
• You want your performances of emotionally vulnerable characters to honor the real-life experiences they depict by handling them utterly truthfully.
• You’ve taken Acting 2 or Acting 3 at Studio A.C.T., or equivalents elsewhere, and wish to continue advancing your acting skills in the area of truthful emotion.

IT’S BACK!

Four Classes – Mon to Thu – June 15, 16, 17, 18
6:30–9:00 p.m.

Of the many ways people perform in front of audiences, singing is among the most vulnerable. Add to that singing lyrics or music you wrote yourself? The Olympics of performing! In this five-night introductory workshop with acclaimed singer/songwriter Rachel Garlin, you will explore the nuts and bolts of writing and performing original songs alongside practical methods for embracing the vulnerability of performance—drawing on vulnerability as a source of productive and positive physical energy to feed both your creativity and your confidence. Through guided exercises, you will work both solo and in groups to write and perform original songs and music. Prior experience with writing music, playing instruments, or singing are not required. This introductory class will meet you at your level. 

This four-night Intro to Songwriting for Performers intensive is for you if:

• You are an actor or singer who wishes to explore writing your own material.
• You are a person who feels creative and musical and wants to explore those impulses.
• You have experience singing, but want to experience getting “behind the scenes” of a song.

One class – Sunday – June 21
12:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Shakespeare’s plays can be intimidating. We are told the dude was a genius and his language is beautiful. Well... okay. But it’s hard to understand, and difficult for many of us to connect with as a result. So why all the fuss about these old plays written in English so antiquated it’s virtually a foreign language? This two-night class will introduce you to practical techniques for understanding Shakespeare’s language, and for speaking it in a natural, organic way. Once an actor has tools to navigate Shakespeare’s poetic dialogue, personal connections and contemporary resonance follow. One need not be a Shakespearean scholar to understand and enjoy the plays. No secret access code is required. This class will provide you with simple keys to unlock your own personal inspiration in Shakespeare’s rich array of characters and stories. Though not required, it is recommended that students who take this class also take Voice & Speech Workout, offered on Tue/Thur this session.

This one-day Intro to Speaking Shakespeare workshop is for you if:

• You are an actor who is curious about Shakespeare, finds the plays intimidating, and wants practical tools to demystify them.
• You are not an actor, but for other reasons—curiosity, an interest in poetry, maybe you’re a playwright exploring heightened language in your own work—you wish to have an introduction to navigating Shakespeare’s language so you can more easily understand and connect with it.
• You are a person interested in Shakespeare or poetic writing in general and wish to have an on-your-feet experience with speaking it.

Five classes – Mon to Fri – June 22 to 26
6:30–9:00 p.m.

In this upper-level, five-evening intensive we will approach script analysis as one might expect to do in the first week of rehearsal for a professional production. We’ll explore the play collectively, starting out working at the table with reading—analyzing plot, character, and style. We’ll work on our feet to explore characters, using physical improvisations that help us understand and develop their stories in a visceral way. This will be a collective process. Actors will not be limited to specific roles, and will have opportunities to explore multiple roles toward the group developing our collective understanding of the play.

Note – The exact play we will focus on is TBD based on enrollment. Students will be emailed the script approximately one week in advance, so as to have read it prior to the first day of class. Hard copies of the script will then be provided on the first day.

Active Script Analysis for Actors & Directors is for you if:

• You are pursuing acting or directing with seriousness, whether toward a career, as a passionate interest, or otherwise.
• You’ve already taken the Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence classes, or their equivalent elsewhere, and wish to continue advancing your acting skills.
• You wish to explore practical, real-world approaches to script and character analysis.
• You’re interested in applying your current acting or directing skills to an intensive exploration of a single play, replicating what a first week of rehearsal for a production might be like.

One day – Sunday – July 12
12:00–5:00 p.m.

This one-day class introduces you to the basic fundamentals of acting on camera, using short scenes drawn from existing film and television scripts. Participants will explore the principles of truthful on-camera acting and learn practical techniques particular to acting on camera versus onstage.

This one-day Intro to On-Camera Acting class is for you if:

• You’ve already taken Intro to Acting, Acting 1, and Acting 2 at Studio A.C.T., or their equivalents elsewhere.
• You have past acting experience but not with on-camera acting, are curious about acting on camera, and want an unintimidating but engaging opportunity to introduce yourself to it.
• You’ve done a bit of on-camera acting in the past, but it’s been a while and you’re hungry to get back in touch with acting on camera. 

Three Courses, Eight Classes each 

Designed to be taken either individually, in succession, and/or repeatedly. 

Acting 1, Acting 2, and Acting 3 are three different courses designed to be taken either individually or in succession. Each class may also be repeated in order to further solidify the student’s foundation in the practices learned. Together, these courses comprise the Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence, and feature the most prevalent training practices used by professional actors. These practices address awareness, truthful playing, use of language and physical action, psychology, emotion, and script analysis. Students will develop a working understanding of common practical concepts such as action, objective, obstacle, conflict, tactic, intention, motivation, trigger, target, and acting “beats.” 

Refer to each class’s individual description for further details, including scheduling, tuition, and this session’s faculty. 

The Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence is for you if:

• You have already taken Intro to Acting at Studio A.C.T. or have other introductory acting experience, and you wish to develop a more solid foundation in the most commonly utilized and effective acting practices.
• You’re interested in exploring acting as a serious interest alongside your other interests.
• You’re interested in either exploring or pursuing acting as a profession.

Please note: Since acting is a life practice, these courses are designed to be repeatable, emphasizing fluency over “quick-fixes.” Students are occasionally encouraged to repeat levels before moving on to the next.

Eight Classes – Mon/Wed – July 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29; Aug 3, 5*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day Aug 10 as needed

This early-level acting class emphasizes ensemble-building, imaginative play, expanding creativity, strengthening self-confidence and self-discipline, memorization techniques, cultivating personal responsibility, and strategies for successful collaboration. Course content may include some memorization of short scenes and monologues from contemporary plays, and students will be asked to prepare assignments outside of class. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is recommended that students who register for Acting 1 also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Acting 1 is for you if:

• You’ve taken Intro to Acting at Studio A.C.T., or an equivalent elsewhere, and wish to continue exploring acting.
• You took an acting class or acted in a play many years ago, and wish to reconnect to actor training.
• You’re wondering whether a career in acting is for you and wish to explore it actively.
• You’re interested in the full Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence and are ready to start.

Eight Classes – Mon/Wed – July 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29; Aug 3, 5*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day Aug 10 as needed

Students enrolled in this upper-level class will learn further practical strategies for rehearsing efficiently, collaborating effectively, pursuing actions and intentions, and bringing greater truth, spontaneity, and specificity to their acting through careful analysis of the script in rehearsals. Acting 3 requires memorization of at least one substantial scene and/or one monologue. Students are expected to prepare outside of class, and thorough preparation is essential. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is strongly recommended that students who register for Acting 3 also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Acting 3 is for you if:

• You’ve taken three or more acting classes and/or acted in two or more plays in the past few years, and wish to move your exploration of acting toward more intensive levels.
• You’ve taken Acting 1 and Acting 2 at Studio A.C.T., or their equivalent elsewhere, and wish to continue advancing your acting skills.
• You’re interested in the Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence and have already taken Acting 1 and Acting 2.
• You already have some acting experience, have a serious interest in exploring acting as a career, and wish to get a good “workout” to hone your acting muscles.
• You minored in theater as an undergraduate in college and wish to dive back in.

Eight Classes – Mon/Wed – July 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29; Aug 3, 5*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day Aug 10 as needed

Ready for a good laugh? It’s been said that comedy is even more challenging than drama—it’s clear you either got the laugh or you didn’t! And the greatest laughs come from the deepest truths. Great comic acting is based in timing, joy, a keen understanding of irony, and a recognition of the absurd truths of the human experience. Plays we call “comedies” may be about anything from light love to political upheavals. In this upper-level class, students will explore scenes from a range of classic and contemporary stage comedies. The class requires memorization of at least one substantial scene and/or one monologue. Students are expected to prepare outside of class, and thorough preparation is essential. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all games and exercises. Students should also be prepared to laugh a lot!

Acting: Comedy Scene Study is for you if:

• You are interested in exploring the particular challenges and joys of comedic acting.
• You’ve taken three or more acting classes and/or acted in two or more plays in the past few years, and wish to move your exploration of acting toward more intensive levels.
• You’ve taken Acting 1 and Acting 2 at Studio A.C.T., or their equivalent elsewhere, and wish to continue advancing your acting skills.
• You already have some acting experience, have a serious interest in exploring acting as a career, and wish to get a good “workout” to hone your comedic acting muscles.
• You minored in theater as an undergraduate in college and wish to dive back in.

Eight Classes – Tue/Thu – July 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30; Aug 4, 6*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day Aug 11 as needed

This course explores the art of acting in a playful, encouraging, collaborative atmosphere, and offers a dynamic and engaging introduction to the craft of acting and theater. Through fun and engaging exercises, students will work on strengthening self-confidence, overcoming performance anxiety, improving focus and concentration, connecting with others through trust-building games and active listening, understanding “stage presence,” and opening their imaginations to playing characters. Because actor training is also life training, students can expect to find new, deeper connections to their own and others’ creativity, unlocking profound layers of empathy through character exploration. Particular emphasis will be given to transferable skills, such as expanding the imagination, collaborating effectively, speaking and presenting without anxiety, and supporting others’ growth. Students may be asked to prepare simple assignments outside of class, including memorizing short texts. Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is recommended that students who register for Intro to Acting also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Intro to Acting is for you if:

• You’ve never studied acting before, are curious about acting, and want an unintimidating but engaging opportunity to explore it. 
• You’ve done a bit of acting in the past, but it’s been a while and you’re hungry to get back in touch with your creative impulses. 
• You’re shy and looking for an experience to help you emerge from your shell.
• You believe you’re “not that creative,” and wish to be proven otherwise!

Eight Classes – Tue/Thu – July 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30; Aug 4, 6*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day Aug 11 as needed

In this mid-level class, students will engage in work with a dual emphasis on pursuing actions and intentions alongside active listening and responding to scene partners. Students will work on at least one scene and one monologue. Preparing outside of class is expected, and thorough preparation is essential. Students will receive constructive feedback, with the intention of expanding their ability to integrate receiving and offering feedback into their personal and collaborative process. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all games and exercises. Though not required, it is recommended that students who register for Acting 2 also register for a Studio A.C.T. Voice or Physical course.

Acting 2 is for you if:

• You’ve taken some acting classes or acted in a play or two some years ago, and wish to reconnect to or resume your exploration of acting.
• You’ve taken Intro to Acting and Acting 1 at Studio A.C.T., or equivalents elsewhere, and wish to continue exploring acting.
• You’re interested in the Studio A.C.T. Acting 1–3 Sequence and have already taken Acting 1.

Six Classes – Tue/Thu – July 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30*
6:30–9:00 p.m.
*Make-up day Aug 4 as needed

This intensive is appropriate for actors and non-actors who have already had an introductory class experience with Dialects. When speaking or acting with a dialect that is not our own, authenticity depends upon specificity, and this class will provide practical tools to help you make your sounds and phrasing specific to any region. You will also develop insights into how a clearly articulated dialect can enhance your ability to convey intentions, something true in both acting and life. Memorizing and performing material from plays, films, poetry, or novels is required, and preparatory work outside of class should be expected. Students should plan to attend all class sessions and expect to actively participate in all exercises.

This six-night Dialects Intensive is for you if:

• You already had an introductory class experience with Dialects and wish to expand and hone your practical ability to speak in varying dialects, to best be understood in a variety of stage, film or other contexts.
• You are an actor with experience working with dialects, but it’s been a while, and you want to reconnect to and refine your ear and your process for learning dialects.
• You have a specific performance on the horizon that requires a dialect of you, and you want to make a thorough study of it and of processes for learning dialects.
• You are interested in how speech and dialects reflect a given person’s cultural and regional background, and want to explore that in a practical way.

Tuition for our Summer Session shorter classes is priced on a sliding scale to better accommodate the variety of financial circumstances among our many students. You may select your tuition when registering.

Why sliding scale?

Your class tuition supports everything that goes into making Studio A.C.T. possible within the vibrant ecosystem of American Conservatory Theater, from paying faculty and staff a fair wage, to maintaining our studio spaces, to getting the word out about what we do. We respect every dollar you pay for your classes, and consider your tuition a key contribution in support of our mission to provide an engaging, energizing, creative space for all.

Why sliding scale for shorter classes, but not full-length classes?

We first piloted our sliding-scale pricing during the December 2024 weeklong Inter-Session. It went very well! However, the limitations of our enrollment software make administering it challenging, as the system was not designed to accommodate a sliding-scale option. Hopefully the software developers will eventually add this option. In the meantime, limiting our sliding-scale class selections to the handful of shorter classes allows us to provide the option in a manageable way.

Are scholarships still available for shorter classes?

Yes! Scholarships are still available for shorter classes. The percentage requested will be taken from the top tuition price. Please visit our Scholarships page for details on how to apply.

Four Classes – Mondays – July 13, 20, 27; Aug 3
6:30–8:30 p.m

This course is suitable for students of all levels. Beginning students will discover their best singing voice, and more experienced singers will gain an opportunity to thoroughly exercise their vocal muscles. Through group work utilizing the Garcia-Marchesi vocal tradition, all students will build their breath support, extend their vocal range, blend resonance areas, and increase their quality of tone and volume. Students will also learn techniques to help protect their voices when they sing. Voice Building is a course that may be taken as frequently as desired, and many students return to it often. 

Voice Building for Singers in-person is for you if:

• You are a new singer wishing to strengthen your voice musculature and technique in a supportive environment.
• You are an experienced singer looking for a regular and intensive workout.

Two Classes – Sundays – July 19 & 26
1:00–5:00 p.m.

In this repeatable two-day Monologue Audition workshop, open to all experience levels, you will have the opportunity to (1) freshen up an audition monologue you already know, and (2) work on a new monologue in new ways. On the first day students will perform the monologue they already know, and we’ll explore practical ways to explore this monologue further. We’ll then identify possibilities for a new, second monologue to complement or contrast the first. In the week between the first and second days, students will memorize and prepare their new monologue. On the second day we’ll share both monologues in a mock-audition format, with feedback and the opportunity to re-audition—a.k.a. return for a call-back!

Note – Students must come to the first day with an audition monologue of their choice, no more than two minutes long, fully memorized and prepared to perform. In the week between class dates, students will need to continue working on their chosen monologue, as well as prepare a new monologue, to be selected in consultation with the teacher.

This repeatable two-day Monologue Audition Workshop is for you if:

• You are an actor who wants to feel more relaxed, centered, confident, and at ease when you audition.
• You are an actor who wants to work on their already memorized monologue from a play – contemporary or classical – for use in future auditions.
• You are an actor who wants to find, memorize, and bring to life a new audition monologue from a play – contemporary or classical.
• You want new practices that are at once efficient and effective for selecting, preparing, and acting monologues.
• You want a chance to practice acting in the context of a monologue.

One Class – Sunday – July 26 
12:00–5:00 p.m.

This unique, one-day introductory class brings together two essential disciplines actors encounter regularly in theater—Stage Combat, whereby physical violence is staged to appear real while being physically safe to perform; and Intimacy Choreography, whereby moments of physical intimacy are staged to appear real while being emotionally safe to perform. Both disciplines require exceptional collaborative and communication skills, combining an awareness of physical and emotional safety with an eye toward creating artistically exciting moments on stage. Practices for negotiating Consent are paired with practical methods of creating physical stagings, placing value on both the physical and emotional demands of crafting and performing challenging dramatic moments on stage.

NOTE – This class involves physical exercises designed to support actors working together in direct physical contact with one another. Nobody will be required to engage in any physical contact they are not comfortable with.

This one-day Intimacy Choreography & Stage Combat workshop is for you if:

• You are an actor, director, stage manager, or teaching artist who wishes to further their understanding, confidence, and skill around staging physically vulnerable moments.
• You wish to expand your understanding and use of Consent as a creative practice in rehearsal and performance situations.
• You want tools to help you contribute to making a safe and inspiring working environment for yourself and others.

NEW CLASS!

One Class – Sunday – August 2
1:00 to 5:00 PM

Do nerves hold you back from giving your best performance? While you might think it's just you that gets nervous in the spotlight, performance anxiety is the #1 fear according to many studies. You might be very prepared with a script and hours of rehearsal, but when it comes to the big moment nerves can still take over. In this one-day class you'll learn about how your nervous system works, and why it's so common to blank out, fidget, or freeze under the pressure to perform. Through somatic practices, engaging group exercises, and improvisation opportunities in front of the group, you'll learn how to take the edge off and manage nerves differently for more calm, comfort, and confidence when it counts.

The Confident Performer one-day workshop is for you if:

• You are an actor struggling with audition pressure or performance anxiety.
• You perform or present in other situations and get overwhelmed with nerves.
• You are a professional in any field who wants to feel more confident and relaxed in big meetings or events.

NEW CLASS!

Three Classes – Mon to Wed – Aug 3, 4, 5
6:30–8:30 p.m.

Ever been in rehearsal, on stage, or speaking in public and found yourself asking, “What do I do with my hands?” You’re not alone! This three-night class will help you move with a greater sense of confidence, strength, and freedom. Students will explore their physical, spontaneous, and creative responsiveness. Drawing on a range of practices, from yoga, contemporary dance, and physical theater, this class will introduce students to practical tools to feel physically confident in performance or public speaking situations. Though not required, students who take this class are encouraged to also enroll in its follow-up class, What Do I Do With My Eyes? scheduled later the same week.

What Do I Do With My Hands? is for you if:

• You want a creative physical practice that will strengthen your confidence in your movements.
• You are an actor who wishes to expand your senses of physical awareness and articulation.
• You are someone who wishes to strengthen the creative connections between your mind and body.

NEW CLASS!

Two Classes – Thur to Fri  – Aug 6, 7
6:30–8:30 p.m.

What do we do with our eyes when we perform? What are our habits of looking, seeing, and being seen, and how might we make conscious choices? This two-night class examines the eye as an expressive tool, and maybe even the window to the soul! Through a variety of physical exercises, students will explore their creative use of looking, seeing, responding, and expressing through an awareness of their eyes as an articulate, integral part of their body’s range of movements. Though not required, students who take this class are encouraged to also enroll in the class, What Do I Do With My Hands? scheduled earlier this same week.

What Do I Do With My Eyes? is for you if:

• You want a creative physical practice that will strengthen your confidence in your ability to see while being seen.
• You are an actor who wishes to expand your senses of physical awareness and articulation.
• You are someone who wishes to strengthen the creative connections between your mind and body.