About
The Acting Studio - New York is a private acting conservatory/studio of distinction specializing in the Sanford Meisner Technique located in the heart of the theater district of New York City. The studio was created by its director James Price who has been training actors for over 38 years. It offers acting programs and classes that are uniquely designed to suit the needs of actors, directors and writers who seek careers in film, theatre and television.
The Acting Studio - New York is dedicated equally to the development of craft at the highest level through its intensive short-term and long-term classes, and conservatory programs and to the application of those skills in work presented in open-class forums, group projects and on productions presented for public performance produced in conjunction with Chelsea Repertory Company,(https://www.facebook.com/groups/155538297764/) an off-off Broadway company performing since 1984. The success of many of its alumni allows the studio to make claim to developing award-winning talent.
As a private acting studio, The Acting Studio - New York provides a breadth and depth of experience and exposure to professional theatre that many traditional acting schools, acting classes and academic programs simply can't match. Class size is limited, applicants are screened, and students must maintain a professional standard for advancement.
Take a look at our acting program and acting classes as well as some of the past productions of our acting company, Chelsea Repertory Company: http://www.actingstudio.com/
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Students can apply online at www.actingstudio.com for a variety of classes. Some classes only require registration. But please note that all acting classes require a private interview with the studio director before admission.
The studio welcomes beginners, but previous experience while not necessary for some classes, it will be required for others.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
The studio staff are all working professionals in the acting profession. Well-educated, well-trained and experienced in their respective subjects. Chosen as "One of the Best Acting Schools in NYC." by Time Out NY Magazine.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Prices are most reasonable by NYC standards for the quality and expertise of the training.
How did you get started teaching?
I was asked by Sanford Meisner to join the teaching staff at the Neighborhood Playhouse in NY seven years after graduating from the theatre school. I sat with him and other staff memebers as a teacher in training. I also was a protege of Suzanne Shepard for nine years.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with complete beginners who have gone on to achieve award-winning celebrity status, and I have worked with actors of celebrity status who have come to the studio to retrain with me and the studio staff.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Our in-house, resident theatre company just presented PENTECOST a play by David Edgars and used twenty actors all trained at the studio. We offer this theatre company and its respective LABS to our current students and studio alumni at no cost, to help them continue to grow as performing artists.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would avoid classes that offer a "quick-fix" to actor training. It takes time to develop oneself as a capable instrument of acting and to hone ones skills in the craft. Also, be cautious of teachers who allow acting students to sign up without any proper screening process. And lastly, avoid teachers who teach solo in some isolated location without being subjected to any check or balance or oversight system.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
For beginners, why do you think you want to act, and why didn't you start earlier? For those with some experience, in what areas do you lack confidence and/or where to you need more development? What is your weakness and what is your strength as an actor?