What Type Of Acting Classes Should I Take?
By: TMA Team | October 07, 2023 11:57 AM
The world of acting is full of exciting opportunities. There is always room for growth, exploration, and sharpening your acting chops!
Whether you are a professional actor, a beginner, or an actor on the rise—choosing the right acting classes could take you to the next level.
If you are still on the fence and cannot decide whether you need acting classes or not, we have got your back!
Scroll down to learn everything you need to know about what type of acting classes you should take to keep your passion alive and bolster your success as an actor.
Do You Need Acting Classes?
Before we delve deeper into the types of acting classes, it is important to ask yourself. Do you even need acting classes to refine your acting skills?
Going to school for acting is not a necessity for becoming an actor. However, taking a few acting classes is advised to enhance your talent and give you the practice you need! With consistent practice, you can always set yourself up for success.
But here's the catch: The majority of actors struggle with practicing with consistency due to pressure from auditions and not knowing where to begin. Moreover, many of them thrive in their craft when they receive feedback from expert coaches.
So if you are in the same boat and struggling to establish a consistent practice routine and need expert guidance, you may want to consider acting classes.
Some of the immediate benefits of enrolling in an acting class include:
Enhances your confidence
Improves your teamwork skills
Expands your professional network
Connects you with like-minded professionals
Gives you a chance to explore exciting career opportunities
Gives you insight into the life of an actor
Get’s your prepared for auditions
Types Of Acting Classes
We have broken down the types of acting classes you should consider according to your current experience. So let's get into it:
For Beginner Actors:
If you are someone who is passionate about developing and strengthening your basic acting skills, you should take a look at the following classes:
1. Introductory Acting Classes:
Just as the name suggests, introductory acting classes are like an audit session for beginners who are stepping into the acting world.
It is always a great idea to start with introductory classes because they give you an overview of the basics of your craft, the fundamental challenges that actors face, and how to overcome them.
By the end of this introductory course, you will be able to take your creativity to new levels and decide if you want to proceed with your career as an actor.
2. Improvisation Classes:
Are you someone who wants to step out of your comfort zone and be able to think on your feet? If yes, then improv classes are an excellent choice for you!
They are a type of live theatre training in which you are given a plot, theatre, characters, and dialogues in the moment. It is an incredibly essential skill if you want to land commercial auditions.
3. Voice Training:
Beginners also struggle with voice and speech adjustments, accent reduction, and proper diction. These classes will help you develop some powerful skills like vocal control, articulation and projection.
As a result, your voice becomes a potent tool for effectively conveying your emotions and narratives.
4. Movement and Physical Classes:
Acting isn't just about conveying your emotions through words, it is about using your entire body!
These classes will teach you how to move with intention, making your physical presence a compelling part of your performance.
Whether you land a side role or a leading role, your audience will notice you and you will make a notable impact!
5. Cold Reading Classes:
Cold reading which is also known as sight reading is one of the popular techniques which helps you prepare the text and main part of the scene. You will learn to efficiently and effectively understand your character, and your obstacles and prepare for your performance during auditions in a short amount of time.
You will focus more on delivering an effective and impactful performance than figuring out your script.
Try these important developmental classes for beginners if you are looking for basic training and skills to conquer TV/Film, commercial, and theatrical auditions.
Here’s how to get over stage fright: 10 Ways For Actors To Get Over Stage Fright
For Intermediate Actors:
For someone who has a solid grip on the basics of the acting world and is looking to expand your current skills, welcome to the next level.
1. Voice-Over Classes:
Voice-Over Classes and Voice classes aren't the same. These classes help you to take your vocal prowess to the next level by refining your vocals and helping you to develop various accents, character voices as well as create a VO demo reel.
This will enhance your versatility as an actor. It is also important to consider that very few casting directors and agencies consider voice-over actors without relevant training or experience.
2. Scene Study:
When you are advancing as an actor, it is important to understand how a scene works and how to give an impactful performance in a particular scene.
According to many expert acting coaches, it helps you practice different types of scenes from TV shows and films to improve your skills. It also helps you to understand the character and the depth of the scene in a particular plot. Scene study is great for developing stage presence and how to become a better scene partner.
3. Audition Technique:
When you are in your intermediate phase, there is a high chance that you are receiving more opportunities to go on auditions.
As exciting as they might sound, auditions could be a nerve-wracking experience for many acting professionals. Therefore, it is important to work under an expert and master audition techniques. These classes prepare you to shine in front of the camera and directors!
Most of these classes will also focus on the artistic and technical aspects of doing self-tapes.
4. Script Analysis:
Script breakdown and thorough analysis help you understand the complex character arcs. It helps you understand the plot at a profound level and make informed choices to breathe life into your character.
The better you understand your script, the better chances you have to deliver an impactful performance and book the job!
These types of classes can be considered at an ongoing level or once in a while when the Intermediate Actor needs to brush up on these skills. Oftentimes, the Intermediate Actor may join one of these classes at the request of their agent or casting director.
For Advanced Actors:
If you are on an advanced level and an expert in your field, you should still never stop learning. Consistent practice will help you become a Master of your craft.
As an expert, you can still consider the following classes to enhance your craft:
1. On-Camera Technique:
Advanced actors always want to make a transition towards the TV industry or film industry.
On-camera training gives you an opportunity to learn how to act in front of the camera, including working with a team, working with a script, blocking and developing a natural screen presence.
2. Advanced Acting Techniques:
As an expert acting professional, you can even explore some of the most advanced acting methods like Alexander, Meisner, and Stanislavski techniques to hone your acting skills.
These skills will not only refine your skills but will make you the master of your craft. The ability to sort through various techniques allows advanced actors to dive deeper into their reservoir of creativity more easily.
3. Classical Acting Training:
Advanced actors might want to give classical acting a try. These classes train you to tackle the most challenging characters and scenes. These classes are built for actors with a solid foundation.
With classical acting classes, you can own the complex characters and difficult plots that demand your best from a bygone era. Master the greats such as Shakespeare, O’Neil, Ibsen, Chekov, and Euripides.
4. Masterclasses and Workshops:
The best way to keep growing in your field is to keep learning. It would be best if you attend workshops and masterclasses for advanced actors by renowned experts and actors.
This will help you gain fresh insights and explore diverse acting techniques.
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What's Next?
Time waits for no one and neither should you when it comes to pursuing your passion to become an actor. Don't miss out on the chance to become the best in your craft by polishing your skills and making the most of your potential.
We hope our guide helps you choose the best acting classes that align with your goals and areas of interest as an actor! Happy acting!
What is your favorite type of acting class? Share in the comments below! For more make sure to follow the blog or sign up for classes with The Modern Actor coaching.