Find acting classes in New York, NY

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 New York, NY

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

Zip code

Top 10 acting classes in New York, NY

Students agree: these New York 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 New York acting classes

Recent success stories from people in the New York area.

Dave H.

Judy is a patient, supportive teacher who helps actors overcome their individual internal blocks when working on character work and monologues. I highly recommend her!

Joyful Acting with Judy

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

Heather F.

While working as a professional Broadway performer I had the honor to train with Julia. The sessions were very challenging at first because I needed to retrain my breath, relax facial muscles and work on everything from creating sound. Julia's detail to technique allowed me to blossom and find my authentic voice. Her approach to singing is fun but spiritual at the same time. In all my years of vocal training, Julia was by far the most inspiring and liberating teacher I had. Take a risk -you just might find your voice.

Grace Music Studio NY

April W.

David is a phenomenal, award-winning actor and director who knows how to pull the best out in anyone, and push them to fully embody their talent. He is a champion for all of his students, and fights for them at every turn. I highly recommend him!

David Wenzel

Samantha B.

Working with Giovanni has been an absolute game-changer for my self-tape auditions. Not only does he have an exceptional eye for technical aspects - lighting, framing, blocking, and sound - but his guidance in uncovering authentic layered moments within the material is unparalleled. Gio creates a collaborative, supportive environment that encourages exploration while remaining laser-focused on the demands and given circumstances of the scene. He challenged me to connect with the character in ways I hadn't considered, while continuously exciting the frame - bringing a new depth to my performances and elevating my tapes. I've seen a noticeable improvement in the quality of my tapes and, more importantly, my confidence as a professional actor. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned, working actor, Giovanni will help you bring your craft to the next level. I couldn't recommend him enough.

Free Consultation & Acting Coaching

Sally B.

I loved the personal attention I got from my DPRdance Lessons. I spent time one on one with an instructor who developed our lesson plans for my personal needs! At one point I wanted to bring friends in for a group lesson, and they set the class up for me no problem!

DPRdance Company

Will S.

Alexa is very encouraging and provides clear, helpful feedback. Her ability to make what can be an intimidating skill to get into a fun and accessible environment for her students is invaluable. I would recommend her to both new and experienced voice students.

Alexa Rosenberg

Vanessa (.

Marc cultivates the outrageous in his students, urging us to risk bigger choices, all the while providing a safe platform from which to explore. His background in Lecoq and his compassion for fellow humans makes Marc a keen observer of his student's personal clowns which means that the practice room is exhilarating. Marc encourages but holds students accountable for their choices. Equally skilled as a performer and director, Marc models a mind-body approach to acting more often found in Europe than the US. I find his approach to my acting challenges super specific and personal to me. I highly recommend spending some time unlocking with Marc!