Spring 2024 registration is open!
Once you pick your classes, pre-register & pay early to secure your spot. Classes fill fast.
Scroll down to find descriptions, teacher bios, pricing, and specifics about these classes.
Private Coaching for Singers ~ various dates
These classes are for EVERYBODY — curious beginners; people who made theatre or films in school but then “real” life was interrupted for a few decades; professionals from non-theatrical industries who think an acting or voice class might help them perform more comfortably at work; theatre professionals who want to get back to basics and do self-care; empty nesters finally getting to do something they want to do; college students seeking a creative outlet… People like YOU, who want to connect and have more fun! THESE CLASSES ARE DESIGNED TO BE TAKEN MORE THAN ONCE AS OFTEN AS YOU LIKE.
Acting Fundamentals
Led by Rick Roemer, Francine Michelle, Jacqui Calloway, or Babs George, this playful approach to the actor’s craft is conducive to the beginner. This class provides individuals the opportunity to experience living in the imaginary world of a character and a story while expanding their own self-expression and emotional life. Students will learn how to investigate a script as well as explore their own intuition through games,
exercises, and scenes from film or stage. The class is designed to be taken more than once, as it is different in meaningful ways each time — ever-changing with the instructor, fellow students, and the material chosen for the class. In addition, while we are a professional training school, our beginning courses are for anyone who is curious about acting, seeking to expand their creativity, wanting a new challenge, or just to have fun. Acting Fundamentals Rick’s Syllabus / Jacqui’s Syllabus / Babs’ Syllabus / Francine’s Syllabus
Jan 10 – Feb 21 (6 weeks) Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm $231 DRAM 3034 200 Syn 81738 Northridge Campus – Rick No class Feb 14-Valentine’s Day (18-hour class; limited to 12 students)
Jan 22 – Feb 26 (6 weeks) Mondays 6:30-9:30pm $196 DRAM 3034 201 Syn 81739 South Austin Campus – Jacqui (15-hour class; limited to 10 students)
Feb 2 – Mar 8 (6 weeks) Fridays 11am-2pm $231 DRAM 3034 202 Syn 81741 Highland Campus – Rick (18-hour class; limited to 12 students)
Mar 19 – Apr 23 (6 weeks) Tuesdays 6:30-9:00pm $196 DRAM 3034 203 Syn 81742 Highland Campus – Babs (18-hour class; limited to 10 students)
Mar 22 – Apr 26 (6 weeks) Fridays DRAM 3034 205 11:30am-2:30pm $231 DRAM 3034 205 Syn 93160 Cypress Creek Campus – Francine (18-hour class; limited to 12 students)
Uproot Fears/Unleash Stage Presence
Led by Amy Griego, this class is appropriate for anyone who has to present or perform in front of others, regardless of profession. If you’ve experienced recurring stage fright or performance anxiety, you know it can hold you back in work and life. Have people offered, “Just picture everyone in the audience naked” or “take deep breaths and don’t lock your knees” or other wildly unhelpful suggestions? If you’re ready to actually do something about your stage fright in a supportive environment with others facing similar experiences, this course is for you. In a group workshop setting across 6 weeks, you can find your calm, assertive center, enabling you to be more fully present on any stage — so that the story you want to communicate can be all it’s meant to be. Limited to 12 students. Amy Griego-Uproot Fears/Unleash Stage Presence Syllabus
Jan 23 – Feb 27 (6 weeks) Tuesdays 7:00-9:00pm $156 DRAX 4013 200 Syn 81795 Highland Campus
Uproot Fears/Unleash Stage Presence II
Led by Amy Griego, this class digs a little deeper than the level one class. We have all watched an actor give everything on screen in a way that makes us think “Could I ever be that vulnerable?” Yes you can! This level two class will have you take the Fearless Character you created in level 1 and ask them to tackle your fear of showing your vulnerability on screen and off. Using themes of generational roles and inner parts work we will look at what “mask” you wear day to day and when and how to express your true center self in a safe and meaningful way.
TBD
Improvisation I
Led by John Ratliff, this class provides proof that Improv is an indispensable asset for the actor, a great tool for development and self-discovery, and – maybe most importantly – FUN! In this class, we will explore the fundamental improv skills of paying close attention and reacting honestly, the essential ingredients of compelling scene work. It’s not about thinking fast or being funny! This class is open to everyone, from actors who want to upgrade their technical toolkit to people with no performance experience who want to try something a little challenging (but FUN!) in a super-supportive environment. Limited to 12 students. John’s Improv Syllabus
Jan 22 – Feb 26 (6 weeks) Monday 6:30-9:00pm $196 DRAX 4042 200 Syn 81771 Highland Campus
Mar 18 – Apr 22 (6 weeks) Mondays 6:30-9:00pm $196 DRAX 4042 201 Syn 81772 Northridge Campus
The Commercial Audition
Led by Jacqui Calloway, this class is for actors who are new to commercial acting. Students will learn how to approach various types of commercial auditions, including no-dialogue, solo improv, group improv, and scripted auditions. We’ll cover slating, camera & teleprompter techniques, clothing and styling tips, and how to adjust the tone of your performance for different types of commercials. Students will learn how to film professional audition tapes at home and participate in mock live auditions and callbacks. We’ll also discuss business logistics, including headshots, casting websites, agencies, and self-submitting in the Austin market. (Limited to 12 students). Jacqui Commercial Audition Syllabus
Feb 22 – Apr 6 (6 weeks) Saturday 10:00am-12:30pm $196 DRAX 3088 200 Syn 81769 Highland Campus
Training the Speaking Voice
Led by Adam Roberts, this class is intended for anyone desiring to increase the power and impact of his or her speaking voice. Training in healthy vocal production is an essential part of speaking intentionally in any situation, from the stage or screen to the classroom or boardroom. In this course, you’ll learn a variety of techniques for preparing and utilizing your natural voice to speak confidently in a variety of environments. The first few classes will focus on active exercises designed to healthily engage the various aspects of vocal production, while the final sessions will practically apply what you’ve learned to scenes, speeches, interpersonal communication, or presentations. Limited to 12 students. Adam-Training the Speaking Voice Syllabus
Jan 10 – Feb 21 (6 weeks) Wednesday 6:30-9:30pm $231 DRAX 3064 200 Syn 81757 Highland Campus (no class February 14)
Introduction to Voiceover
Led by Cliff Miller, this course is for actors and curious individuals wanting to learn more about the world of voiceover. We will cover acting for voiceover, home studio setup, mic technique, and recording and editing. Through analyzing, performing, and critiquing voiceover copy, we will focus on commercial and narration. Limited to 8 students. Materials needed: internet connection & audio/video capability with computer or tablet; updated (free) Zoom account. Cliff’s Intro to Voiceover Syllabus
Jan 9 – Feb 13 (6 weeks) Tuesdays 6-8:30pm $191 DRAX 3068 210 Syn 81762 Online/Zoom
Feb 28 – Apr 10 (6 weeks) Wednesdays 6-8:30pm $191 DRAX 3068 211 Syn 81763 Online/Zoom
Foundations of Singing
Led by Adam Roberts, this course provides an introduction to vocal technique for the beginning singer. Students will have the opportunity to sing both individually and as part of a group. This class is ideal for anyone who desires to gain a foundational knowledge of singing, including stage and film actors. Students are encouraged to focus on the musical styles that most interest them, with support from the instructor in identifying specific song choices. By the end of the course, participants will have become better acquainted with the unique qualities of their individual voices. No prior singing experience is necessary. Limited to 10 students. Adam’s Foundations of Singing Syllabus
Mar 20 – May 1 (6 weeks) Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm $231 DRAX 3038 200 Syn 81752 Highland (No class April 17)
If you’ve taken our Fundamentals classes and want to stretch further, Explorations are for you! These classes are also right for those with plenty of experience who are looking to get back into acting work after a break or people who have previous training in basic acting concepts and techniques. THESE CLASSES ARE DESIGNED TO BE TAKEN MORE THAN ONCE.
Acting Explorations
Led by Rick Roemer, this course is for those who have had previous acting training, such as Acting Fundamentals. Using scenes or monologues, the focus will be on strengthening text analysis and following inner impulses to create a powerful need to speak. The work in class will enliven the imagination and increase emotional availability and vulnerability of the actor. This class can be taken more than once, as it is different each time with new students and new scenes to explore. Limited to 12 students Acting Explorations Syllabus – Rick
Feb 28 – Apr 10 (6 weeks) Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm $231 DRAM 9002 200 Syn 81744 Northridge Campus
Mar 22 – April 26 (6 weeks) Fridays 11am-2pm $231 DRAM 9002 201 Syn 81749 Highland Campus
Acting On Camera
Led by Francine Michelle, or Craig Nigh, this is an intermediate class focusing on acting for the camera. It is required that you have had at least a basic acting class before joining — such as Acting Fundamentals or the equivalent. It is suggested that you have had Acting Explorations. The emphasis is on developing a naturalistic acting style through connection, honesty, vulnerability, and following intuitive impulses. The student’s work will be explored through exercises and scene study from film and television scripts. Some videotaping and playback will be used for critique. Limited to 12 students. Francine’s Acting On Camera I Syllabus ~ Craig’s Acting On Camera I Syllabus
Jan 25 – Feb 29 (6 weeks; no class on 5/12) Thursdays 6:30-9:30pm $231 DRAM 3010 200 Synonym 81725 Highland Campus – Francine
Apr 7 – May 19 (6 weeks; no class May 12) Sundays 12:00-3:00pm $231 DRAM 3010 201 Syn 81726 Highland Campus – Francine
Feb 19 – Apr 1 (6 weeks) Mondays 6:30-9:30pm $231 DRAM 3010 202 Syn 81733 South Austin Campus – Craig
Audition Monologue Workout
Led by a team This class is for teens 16+ and adults.
Auditioning is an essential (and occasionally dreaded) skill that each actor must master. In this class, students will find the FUN in entering a casting room, reframing auditioning into an opportunity to do the thing we love. This class will increase confidence and hone dynamic monologue techniques for stage auditions. Skills covered include character study, choosing clear and high-stakes objectives, blocking, entrances/exits, and who to be fully present in the room. Register early! Once the class makes students will receive guidance on finding monologues. Students will bring a 1-minute to 90-second monologue of their choice to the first meeting. Limited to 10 students.
May 4 – June 8 (6 weeks) Saturdays 1-3:30pm $196 DRAX 3086 200 Syn 81767 Highland Campus
Movement Fluency for Actors
Led by Toni Bravo, this class is a must! Give yourself space to explore acting from the physical point of view. Alignment, relaxation, breath, and keen awareness enable physical neutrality and genuine presence before making character choices. This experiential class includes movement analysis, body language, and gesture — ultra-practical tools to get actors out of their heads and into their bodies! You will find joy and relief from working outside-in. Bring a yoga mat for comfort. Toni Bravo – Movement Fluency Syllabus
Mar 19 – Apr 23 (6 weeks) Tuesdays 6:30-8:30pm $191 DRAX 4000 200 Synonym 81794 Highland Campus Studio
Tools of the Trade
Led by Jacqui Calloway, this class is designed for actors with prior training who are beginning their professional acting journeys, revamping their materials, or newly breaking into the Austin market. It covers headshots, resumes, demo reels, personal websites, casting websites, and social media. We’ll discuss the industry standard for each element, look at professional examples, assess students’ current materials, and work on them in class. We’ll end by discussing the logistics of getting an agent and sustaining an acting career in Central Texas. Limited to 12 students. Jacqui’s Tools of the Trade Syllabus
May 4-June 1 (5 weeks) Saturdays 10:30am-1:00pm $161 DRAX 3087 200 Syn 81768 South Austin Campus
Self-Taping Your Auditions
Led by Matthew Iott, this class is appropriate for actors who need to self-tape auditions for film, TV, or theater. The first half of the class will be the technical side of self-taping, building a home set-up, and some basic editing skills. The second half of the class will address the unique acting challenges of self-taped auditions, and how to make blocking and behavior choices that look good within the confines of the camera and stand out to casting directors. Students will be required to film weekly tapes at home and send them in for review in class. For actors with previous training/experience. Students will need to bring the phone/tablet/camera that they will be using to film, as well as a laptop for editing. Limited to 12 students.
Apr 15-May 20 (6 weeks) Mondays 6:30-9:00pm $196 DRAX 3046 200 Syn 81754 Highland Campus
Introduction to Voiceover II
Led by Cliff Miller, this class builds on the techniques and industry knowledge established in Intro to Voiceover, which is a prerequisite for taking this course. This class is designed for the individual who would like to take their interest in VO beyond the classroom and into the industry. We will continue to analyze, perform, and critique commercial and audiobook copy. In addition, we will begin working on the growing field of e-learning narration. Limited to 8 students. Materials needed: internet connection & audio/video capability with computer or tablet; updated (free) Zoom account. Cliff’s Voiceover II Syllabus
Apr 24 – May 29 (6 weeks) Wednesdays 6:00-8:30pm $196 DRAX 4053 210 Syn 81773 Online/Zoom
Accents for Film & Stage
Led by Cliff Miller, this course introduces two important accents used for stage, film, television, and video games. In the Fall, we’re offering Scottish and the Southern of Kentucky and Tennessee. Through Knight-Thompson Speechwork, a new standard-bearing approach to speech, students will acquire the skills to convincingly perform these accents. Areas of focus include developing the oral posture, learning how to create the unique pronunciations, and analyzing the “music” (rhythm, tempo, and intonation) of the accent. Studies include native speakers of these accents, and dialogue from stage and screen scripts will be utilized to apply the work. This course is for actors with and without speech training and for people who simply would enjoy learning two interesting accents. Limited to 10 students. Cliff’s Accents syllabus
Apr 30 – Jun 4 (6 weeks) Tuesdays 6-8:30pm $196 DRAX 3065 210 Syn 81758 Highland Campus
Private Coaching for Singers
Led by Adam Roberts, Private coaching sessions with Adam Roberts are offered in musical theatre and contemporary vocal styles such as pop, folk, rock, etc. Coaching packages are tailored to each student’s unique goals and may include work toward preparing upcoming auditions, building a rep book, bolstering technique, expanding range, and strengthening a variety of performance skills. Coachings are available for adults from beginning through professional levels, and to advanced high school students. Adam’s Private Coaching for Singers Syllabus
Lessons are once a week during the scheduled dates below. Book your day and time during the weeks indicated below by contacting booking@adamkroberts.com
Tuesdays Jan 9 – 23 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 200 Syn 81774 Highland Campus
Wednesdays Jan 10 – 24 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 201 Syn 81776 Highland Campus
Thursdays Jan 11 – 25 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 202 Syn 81777 Highland Campus
Tuesdays Jan 30 – Feb 13 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 203 Syn 81778 Highland Campus
Wednesdays Jan 31 – Feb 14 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 204 Syn 81779 Highland Campus
Thursdays Feb 1 – 15 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 205 Syn 81780 Highland Campus
Tuesdays Feb 20 – Mar 5 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 206 Syn 81781 Highland Campus
Wednesdays Feb 21 – Mar 6 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 207 Syn 81782 Highland Campus
Thursdays Feb 22 – Mar 7 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 208 Syn 81783 Highland Campus
Tuesdays Mar 19 – Apr 2 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 209 Syn 81784 Highland Campus
Wednesdays Mar 20 – Apr 3 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 210 Syn 81786 Highland Campus
Thursdays Mar 21 – Apr 4 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 211 Syn 81787 Highland Campus
Tuesdays Apr 9 – Apr 23 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 212 Syn 81788 Highland Campus
Wednesdays Apr 10 – Apr 24 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 213 Syn 81789 Highland Campus
Thursdays Apr 11 – Apr 25 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 214 Syn 81790 Highland Campus
Tuesdays May 7 – 21 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 215 Syn 81791 Highland Campus
Wednesdays May 8 – 22 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 216 Syn 81792 Highland Campus
Thursdays May 9 – 23 (3 sessions) $271 DRAX 3063 217 Syn 81793 Highland Campus
Advanced Scene Study
Led by Rick Roemer, this ten-week course is available only with instructor approval. Participants are expected to have had Acting Explorations, Ongoing Scene Study or other comparable training. Advanced Scene Study is the best opportunity for actors to flex their acting muscles and refine their craft on a consistent basis — a weekly workout with a community of peers. Actors will test their performance abilities in a safe and playful environment, using realistic scenes both comedic and dramatic. Expand your comfort zone, dive into character and gain more confidence in your art and your craft! Limited to 10 students. To request instructor approval, please send a resume and reel to theactorsschool@austincc.edu with Advanced Scene Study Request in the subject line. Rick – Adv Scene Study syllabus
Jan 20 – Mar 30 (10 wks) Saturdays 11am-2pm $366 DRAX 3084 200 Syn 81765 Northridge Campus
Acting on Camera II
Led by Francine Michelle, this class is for students with professional experience and/or previous film acting training. Francine focuses on achieving an honest and vulnerable performance for the camera. The emphasis is on energy and making choices that highlight the actor’s power to tell a story. Students will explore the work through scene study from film and television scripts with some videotaping and playback for evaluation. Suggested prerequisite: Two or more beginning acting classes, Acting Explorations, Advanced Scene Study, or other previous acting training/experience. Limited to 12 students. Francine – Acting On Camera II Syllabus
Mar 21 – Apr 25 (6 wks) Thursdays 6:30-9:30pm $231 DRAX 3003 200 Syn 81750 Highland Campus
Advanced Musical Theatre Workshop
Led by Adam Roberts Join this workshop for an afternoon of musical theatre coaching in a group setting, This masterclass is intended for experienced theatre performers with an existing rep. Each participant should bring sheet music for 2 audition-appropriate cuts of 32 measures/1-minute in length. Limited to 15 participants. Lunch from 1:30-2:30PM on your own. TO BE RESCHEDULED $100 DRAX 4040 100 SYN 82285 Highland Campus
Working actors rejoice! The Actor’s School is expanding to include an “actor’s gym” program called the Pro Series. These classes require instructor approval and are designed to be taken as often as you like. Look for the Pro Series to roll out in Spring 2024!
Private Coaching
Several teachers at The Actor’s School offer private studies to older teens and adults. Areas of study range from auditioning for film and stage to Shakespeare, Voice, Monologues, and more. Contact the school for more information at theactorsschool@austincc.edu
Where our classes are held:
ACC Highland Campus – 6101 Highland Campus Dr, Austin, TX 78752, Bldg 4000 in our Studio – details sent upon registration. ACC South Austin Campus – 1820 W Stassney Ln, Austin, TX 78745 – Room number and details sent upon registration. ACC Northridge Campus – 11928 Stonehollow Dr, Austin, TX 78758 – Room number and details sent upon registration.