Find acting classes in Santa Monica, CA

Q: How much do acting classes cost?

Acting classes cost $25 to $65 per hour on average for group classes or $50 to $150+ per hour to hire a private acting coach. Prices vary depending on where you live and the instructor's experience and reputation. Acting studios that offer ongoing weekly classes typically charge $150 to $350 per month . Acting courses and workshops can cost as little as $200 to as much as $2,800+ , depending on the content, number of sessions, and the instructor's demand. Some acting workshops are short, 1- or 2-day intensive classes focusing on one aspect of the industry, while other programs last 4 to 8 weeks and cover several topics, methods, and techniques. Most studios offer a free trial class so you can get a feel for the teaching style and decide if it's right for you.

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Find acting classes in Santa Monica, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best acting classes in your area.

Zip code

Top 10 acting classes in Santa Monica, CA

Students agree: these Santa Monica acting classes are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.

Your Acting Classes questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.

How much do acting classes cost?

Acting classes cost $25 to $65 per hour on average for group classes or $50 to $150+ per hour to hire a private acting coach. Prices vary depending on where you live and the instructor's experience and reputation. Acting studios that offer ongoing weekly classes typically charge $150 to $350 per month.

Acting courses and workshops can cost as little as $200 to as much as $2,800+, depending on the content, number of sessions, and the instructor's demand. Some acting workshops are short, 1- or 2-day intensive classes focusing on one aspect of the industry, while other programs last 4 to 8 weeks and cover several topics, methods, and techniques.

Most studios offer a free trial class so you can get a feel for the teaching style and decide if it's right for you.

Are online acting classes worth it?

Online acting classes are worth it if you want to pursue acting and are unable to attend acting classes in person. With online video calling platforms like Zoom and Skype, you can now study acting with the best in the industry from the comfort of your own home! Many reputable acting coaches—including those right here on Lessons—now offer online acting classes and teach the same methods and techniques that they teach in the studio.

Do you need acting classes to become an actor?

You technically don't need acting classes to become an actor. However, acting classes can help you gain confidence, learn new methods and techniques, analyze scenes and scripts, and build new industry connections and relationships. Acting classes can also teach you about the business side of acting, which is as important as acting itself.

How long do acting classes take?

Acting class length varies depending on the studio and the type of class. Some studios have 2-hour classes, while others have classes lasting 3 to 5 hours. Depending on the location, acting classes may be offered in several formats, such as ongoing weekly classes, weekend intensive workshops, and training programs that can run anywhere from 2 to 8+ weeks.

What skills do you need to be an actor?

While the necessary skillset varies depending on the type of acting you pursue (think Broadway theater vs. TV commercials vs. film), all actors need a broad range of skills to portray the expressions and emotions of a character so effectively that they temporarily transport the audience to a world where the actor is indeed that character. This often involves:

Memorizing lines and stage cues
Analyzing scripts and scenes
Developing a character's emotions and physical expressions
Working with other actors, directors, and production crews
Adapting to unexpected changes and situations
Speaking clearly and adjusting one's voice to align with the character
Learning and developing different acting methods and techniques
Being comfortable in front of an audience or camera

Reviews for Santa Monica acting classes

Recent success stories from people in the Santa Monica area.

Karla R.

My daughter’s on camera confidence really developed here with Bobby. He provides a safe space for kids to explore their talent, and also provides parents with significant information on getting your child started in “the biz”

BobbyGene's Actorsclubhouse Inc.

Teri D.

There aren’t enough stars to give Debbie the review she deserves! Her vast experience and enthusiasm for her craft are invaluable. Debbie is professional and compassionate and truly cares about my daughter and her journey into the world of acting. Lessons with Debbie have resulted in more confidence and a solid foundation to continue building upon.

McLeod Management & Debbie McLeod Productions

Gabrielle S.

She is a very good coach and advocated for me so much. She made it a soft environment for me and was very encouraging. She’s amazing and I’m glad I choose to work with her.

Puja at Rainbow Productions

Colette R.

Ms Jentzen is a consummate professional acting coach and teacher. Her students benefit from her life-long acting, writing, and directing expertise. She imparts her knowledge and intuition to address and enhance each actor’s individual talents and needs. She has been truly supportive of my acting development. I highly recommend her to strengthen all actors' skill levels.

Acting with Impact - Kimberly Jentzen's Studio

Patrick M.

Jan has been nothing short of a great teacher and friend to me. Shes critical on where you need to improve and encouraging with your strengths! If you're looking for a teacher with lots of personality, stories, and drive to help you further yourself; you're in the right place.

Angel Diva Music and Acting

Samantha W.

Caleb Stewart’s teaching methods are both innovative and inspiring. He doesn’t just teach you how to act; he teaches you how to shine on stage and screen. Thanks to Caleb, I’ve landed roles I once thought were out of my reach!

Get Booked Acting Studio

Collin B.

Bobo is a terrific and engaging teacher. Incredibly helpful and full of great advice.

Bobo Chang Acting Classes

Aritina L.

Within ONE lesson, Howard could pinpoint EXACTLY what my trouble areas are, and not only is he able to articulate a very clear plan for dealing with those, but he has also helped me with the burdening amount of pain that plagues my joints and muscles when I play something technically demanding! Furthermore, he is very focused, understanding, knowledgeable and gentle! After having many verbally.... difficult teachers whose teaching involved quite a bit of negative reinforcement, it is an absolute pleasure and an eye opening experience to have a patient, understanding teacher. Some people may learn quite well in that fashion, and there was a period of time when I actually believed, or rather was brainwashed into thinking that being verbally berated would serve as motivation. But now I see quite clearly that is not the case: I learn a lot better and I am more motivated to practice when I find it a pleasure to go to my piano lessons! Thank you, Howard for all your dedication, patience and knowledge!