If you want to become an actor you may be considering taking acting classes. But do you really need them? And what options are there? In this guide, we’ll look at the benefits of acting classes, the disadvantages of acting classes, the types of acting classes out there, and how to choose one. We’ll even cover what to wear to an acting class, so you’re completely prepared.
There can be a lot of pressure to go to a prestigious school to become an actor. While this may be a great option for some, it may not be right for others. With so many other options there is no reason to attend a certain class or school just because you think you should. No matter your budget, schedule or goals, there is something out there to suit you.
In an industry that can seem daunting and inaccessible, where formal training is often glamorised and prioritised, it’s essential to challenge the traditional narrative and not put pressure on yourself. Blooper Magazine, your guide to all things film, acting, and screenwriting, is here to remind you that the path to becoming an actor doesn’t have to be defined by the number of classes you attend or the prestigious institutions you enrol in. Instead, it’s about embracing the journey, cherishing the process, and finding what works for you.
Benefits of Acting Classes
1. Develop Your Acting Skills
One of the major benefits of acting classes is to improve your acting. Acting is a skill and craft to be developed and worked on like any other. Going to an acting class means that you will have someone to guide you and give you direct feedback as you develop your acting skills.
2. Build Your Confidence
Another one of the main benefits of acting classes is that they will build your confidence, especially in a tough industry that can judge actresses’ looks. Going to acting classes will build your confidence by giving you a safe space to develop your acting skills. They also allow you to practice new techniques before applying them in the real world.
3. Connect With Other Creatives
Acting classes provide an opportunity to meet and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Building a network of creative people can support your career growth and even help in future collaborative projects. Classes offer the opportunity to meet new friends, colleagues and build a support system. This is another one of the great benefits of acting classes.
Disadvantages of Acting Classes
1. Cost of Acting Classes
It’s no lie that acting classes can be expensive, and this is one of the main disadvantages of acting classes for many. Some of the top acting schools even charge thousands a term, and even more casual classes can feel like a big chunk out of your paycheck. Luckily, there are ways to learn even if you’re on a budget, which we’ll cover further on.
2. Less Time To Work
Acting classes can be a double-edged sword. Not only can they cost a lot, but they may also give you less time to work. Attending acting classes may require a significant time commitment, potentially impacting your ability to earn money or make industry connections – another one of the disadvantages of acting classes. Long-term courses like drama schools can delay your entry into the acting world for up to three years.
3. Insular Environment
Some argue that practical skills like acting are best learned by doing. Another of the disadvantages of acting classes can be that, although they are valuable, they may not fully reflect the real-world challenges of working in film and theater. Many believe that the most beneficial way to learn is to jump in head first and learn as you go.
Types of Acting Classes
There are a number of different types of acting classes that you can take to improve your skills as an actor. One of the hardest parts can be trying to figure out what class is right for you. Here is a short guide to the different types of acting classes you can take.
Drama School
Attending drama school is one of the more traditional routes into acting. Many drama schools now offer degrees or diplomas in acting, which take three years to complete. If this feels too long for you, many drama schools also offer one-year foundation courses. Drama schools are notoriously difficult to get into, however, they often offer a direct route into the industry.
Casual Classes
Part-time acting classes offer a flexible alternative to full-time training, allowing you to balance work or studies alongside your acting development. It also means you can choose a specific class that suits you. Below are some of the topics you may want to attend classes in.
Meisner Classes
Sanford Meisner was an acting practitioner based in the US who was very influential on the craft during the 20th century. Meisner technique emphasizes listening and being present in the moment. It can enhance confidence and focus for actors who tend to overthink. If you get stuck in your head a lot as an actor, then Meisner classes might be a great option for you.
Movement Classes
The ability to transform your movement is a great skill for any actor to have, and attending classes can help you learn to do this. There are a variety of classes related to movement that one might take. Some of the most popular include:
- Alexander Technique, which focuses on posture and relaxation.
- Laban Efforts, which focuses on movement qualities and characterization.
- Lecoq Technique, which focuses on mime and mask.
There are also more general movement classes, including ones on character physicality. The wide range of options means there’s plenty for you to explore depending on what suits you.
Voice Classes
Understanding how to properly use your voice as an actor can be really helpful, especially if you want to work in theatre. Voice classes teach proper voice usage, projection, and maintenance to prevent vocal damage. Some also teach you characterization for things like video games or audiobooks.
Improv Classes
Improv is the practice of creating scenes that are made up almost entirely on the spot. While it is an art form in its own right, it can be a fantastic skill to develop in order to improve your acting as a whole. Improvisation skills improve confidence, creativity, and teamwork. These types of acting classes are widely available and can benefit actors in various contexts.
Accent Training
Accent Training can be a great skill to have, and a really fun class to take. A lot of actors will have coaching for a certain role, however, learning accents beforehand will get you ahead of the game. You can improve your CV and be ready for any potential auditions you may have in the future. You can learn with a coach, on a course, or even in acting classes on Youtube, so there are lots of options when it comes to learning new accents.
Online Classes
Online classes are one of the great tools for actors to take advantage of in the modern age, especially when learning how to get better at acting at home. You can take classes in various acting styles, voice classes, script analysis, film acting – just about anything you can think of. There are even entire drama schools that are now based online, as well as acting classes on Youtube that are entirely free to watch. The great thing about these is they are often much more affordable and easy to fit around a busy schedule, making acting classes a lot more accessible to anyone that wants to take them.
What Should You Wear To An Acting Class?
When it comes to what to wear to an acting class, there is a stereotype that actors always wear all black to rehearsals. Well, it’s actually based on a little bit of truth! Some acting teachers encourage their actors to do this because it means that everyone comes in dressed as a ‘blank slate ‘so they can fully immerse themselves in their characters. This is more common in formal classes, such as at a drama school, where you will be advised strictly on what to wear to an acting class. Usually, though, you can simply wear whatever you find comfortable. A pair of sweatpants and a loose-fitting t-shirt is always a safe bet when deciding what to wear to an acting class. Similar to what you should wear for an audition, it is about comfort over style.
What Classes Should A Beginner Actor Take?
A beginner actor should start out taking some acting technique classes. There can be a wide variety to choose from, and it can be worth watching some acting classes on Youtube so you can get an idea of what interests you. Often you will be able to find an acting technique specifically for beginners which is a perfect place to start. Otherwise, a general acting class will cover everything you need to know. Scene study classes and improv classes can also be useful for beginner actors, alongside film acting classes if you know that’s what you want to specialise in.
There are many ways to become an actor without experience or formal training so never be disheartened or encouraged not to follow something that will bring you joy.
Is It Worth Paying For Acting Classes
Some acting classes can be pretty pricey, and it can feel like a big commitment to pay for them when you’re just starting out. While some acting classes can be expensive, there are free or low-cost alternatives available. Joining amateur dramatic societies, improv groups, drama clubs, or even watching acting classes on Youtube can help improve your skills. There’s no need to jump in head first straight away.
Do You Need Acting Classes To Become An Actor?
Technically, you don’t need to go to acting classes to become an actor. Ultimately, whether you get the job depends on what you do in the audition room. However, the skills that acting classes give you mean you will have a far higher chance of booking that job. Whilst not all actors have attended drama school, most do have some sort of training or education. So, in order to improve your skills, build your confidence and find your place in the industry, acting classes can be a great tool in order to help you do that.
Conclusion
As you can see there are so many options when it comes to taking acting classes. Whether you’re a total beginner or if you’re interested in further developing your skills to progress your career, there’s something for you. Whether you’re on a budget or you have a busy schedule, from drama schools to acting classes on Youtube, there is always an option that can help you build up your acting craft in the way you’d like.
One thing that remains abundantly clear: the journey of becoming an actor is as diverse and unique as the characters we see on screen. While formal training can undoubtedly provide valuable skills and knowledge, it is not the sole determinant of success.Blooper Magazine exists to remind you that your passion, dedication, and creativity are the driving forces behind your acting aspirations. We have embraced the belief that art is not confined to the realm of perfection but rather thrives on the imperfections that make us human. Every stumble, every blooper, is an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.