20 Best Acting Programs In Albuquerque, NM (2022 Updated)

UNM is an awesome university! I'm currently a junior and throughout my three years here UNM has provided me with a number of opportunities, friends, resources and life skills. The campus is gorgeous, at all times of the year! People on campus are always friendly and there's always a ton going on. Aside from the great atmosphere, the staff and professors are extremely nice and always willing to help. I came here with no major in mind and was able to explore with the help of my advisor until I figured it out. I was able to create the degree that I wanted through the liberal arts program and my focus areas have opened so many doors for me! UNM has also provided me with the opportunity to go on exchange to another University for a whole year at the same price for tuition, amazing! I will always be grateful for the knowledge and skills I've gained as well as all of the amazing friends and colleagues I've made! I truly could not have asked for a better undergrad experience.Cassie Collister

This is a nice large clean campus. The only bad thing is probably the bicycle theft. Even if you use ulock, there's high chance that it might get stolen. Duck pond is one the best places to chill. Architecture building library has the best view of Sandia mountains from campus. If you love to watch full moon, Johnson field is a good place!Khandoker Nuzhat Rafa Islam

I have been going to the Coumadin Clinic for 10 years or so. They treat everyone like you are a part of their family. It's always been that way. I am very thankful for everything that they do for me. I had 2 other members of my family that had to go there also.Patrick Keller

I tried to enroll into this school last year and the service was superior. The school is clean and very large, it also has a lot of opportunities for students there. The entrance exam was well organized and the questions on them were understandable. The staff there is very nice and supportive. Unfortunately, I couldn't go, It wasn't that I didn't get accepted, I did, but it was the financial aid. It is not the school's fault and I'm fine with that. If I did go to this school, I would've loved it.crystal

This campus really is amazing when you get to walk around in it. The place feels like a college campus. I remember coming here for professional development trainings when I was a teacher at Menaul School. It is very cool that Albuquerque Academy opens its doors to the state competition for Destination Imagination in New Mexico each year.Warman Hall

Excellent private school for middle and high school. Enormous campus with about everything a child could possibly want. Fantastic STEM program. Wonderful labs and facilities. Numerous sports fields. Fantastic aquatic center. This is truly a world class preparatory school. Expensive but financial aid and scholarship programs.Will Stein

I have been going to Bosque School for 5 years and I absolutely love the community. I am extremely grateful that I am privileged enough to go to a school that is accepting, welcoming, academic and socially aware. I believe that the school challenges its students in many aspects and also allows a personal approach that is often lost or disregarded in education. At this school students are encouraged to voice their opinions and if they can justify their opinions well enough they can change the school and make a difference in the community. I, as a student, wont profess to know the actions of the administrators or the justifications behind the actions of the administrators but from my experience with the schools administration they are always open to hearing your opinions and they have been very kind to me. I also disagree with the notion that the school focuses more on sexuality and gender isues more than education: Firstly, I don't believe that education and gender and sexuality issues are mutually exclusive and I also know that if you do not wish to be a part of the gender, sexuality and other social topic discussions all you have to do is stay away from the GSA, SLED and Coffee house meetings. The school offers these meetings as safe spaces for people who identify as a part of the LGBTQ community, their allies or those who are questioning the way they identify. I believe it is amazing that our school offers these communities so those who identify as a part of the LGBTQ community can feel like they belong and can be accepted within the community and can be surrounded by those with empathy and understanding. These communities are completely optional and separate from the core classes and typical highschool education you receive. I am extremely surprised by the personal attacks toward Dr.Reid in one of the other reviews of the school. Why I don't believe that a school or the academics of the school can be judged by the actions of a single teacher I do feel obligated to defend one of my favorite teachers, Dr.Reid. This year instead of learning medevil history we are focusing on history starting during the medevil period and looking at it as a study of humanities instead of just learning historical facts which we would probably forget in a year. I love this approach to history and it quickly became one of my favorite classes. Most people do not like the class for various reasons and at times I find the class frustrating because this approach is much different than anything else I've experienced. However, at the end of each project after struggling with it or trying to understand it I realize how much I have learned and am extremely happy that I was put through that experience. The accusations made by one of my colleagues that she arrives to class hungover are completely false. The grading on our essay did have a lack of diversity in the grading but there have been no other situations where this has happened and I don't believe that we should judge her for one mistake she made. I have learned an incredible amount from her class and enjoy engaging in intellectual conversations about the concepts behind mainstream culture that most would set aside as simple. I enjoy the way she finds a complexity of meaning in everything and enjoy exploring that complexity with her. Lastly, in my defense of her, If a taste for Kumbucha is a terrible things which categorizes her as a terrible person than I too am a terrible person with that same taste for the healthy probiotic drink. In conclusion, this school is an incredible school whose style of education has worked very well for me. I always feel as if my opinion matters and is respected and I feel confident in speaking up if I don't agree with something. I, having struggled with questions of sexuality, am extremely grateful to go to a school which has these safe spaces for me to go to and participate in discussions or as questions. I would highly recommend this school for everyone interested in a unique approach to education and anyone who wants an accepting environment.Gavin Mosher

We love Bosque! My daughter has been attending since middle school, and has received a wonderful education. The school environment is inclusive, welcoming, and supportive, and has been instrumental in helping my daughter grow academically, athletically, and socially. I have been very happy with the faculty and staff at the school over the years as well, and my daughter loves attending. I can't imagine sending her anywhere else.Chris Lamb

I'm in 7th grade and I am totally in love with this incredible school its given me an incredible learning experience and it's not done yet! my favorite part of bosque is strings and the rest of the performing arts. if you're into band, choir, strings, or drama, this is the school for you!Parker Engel

A+++ professional acting school, but so much more than just acting as they have workshops about managing your career and marketing yourself as an actor. They invite experts in from L.A. and other areas to conduct some of the workshops. Top notch workshops in both acting methods and the entertainment industry as a whole. Ron is an amazing teacher! My teen daughter adores him, she appreciates his feedback and tries to hone in on what she is being taught. Brad's workshop is one everyone should take too. They offer a ton of workshops online (Zoom) during the virus. You can't get bored locked at home with all of the amazing workshops that they offer. They are for the serious actor, it is professional and it is meant to not only improve your craft but improve your career management. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to improve their acting career. Thank you, Ron–your school is top notch!N FW

Just completed another fabulous course at Sol Acting Studios! Liz Reeder Neubauer, professional coach and actor, taught voice over students to create not just one or two new voices but an entire catalogue of characters! The voice over market is a mystery no more. Neubauer taught students "real-world" skills in the development of characters for audiobooks, commercials, radio theater, and video games. If you are looking to grow or build upon current acting, writing, and production skills, look no farther than Sol Acting Studio, Albuquerque's number one resource for those who are serious about expanding their performance portfolio. I highly recommend it!Jenny Kinsey

Sol Acting Academy has a team of professional actors teaching a wide range of skills. Each class is highly entertaining and engaging, you will walk away having improved on a skill. Ron Weisberg and Chris Ranney are great people to work with. I highly recommend following Sol Acting Academy on Facebook and taking one of their free classes offered throughout the year. Adult and youth classes are offered. There is the added benefit of free audition prep sessions for current students, working actors should take audition prep classes to improve technique. Audition technique is different to acting and it is a must.Adventures with Naz

I have gotten the best pre-professional dance education I could ask for in New Mexico at Keshet. My teachers are kind and incredibly qualified, and upon completing the KP3 program’s training I would be ready to enter the professional dance world. The most amazing part about Keshet though, is that unlike most cutthroat, competitive dance studios, Keshet fosters a kind, warm and welcoming community that I consider my family. I have grown not only as a dancer but as a person and I don’t think I could say that about other local studios. Please check out Keshet. I couldn’t recommend it more. 💕Bridget McKigney

I have gotten the best pre-professional training experience here at Keshet! I love the kind, non-competitive, and supportive community that Keshet provides. My amazing teaching faculty have helped me strive to be the best dancer, and mentor that I can be every single day! I would highly recommend 🙂Eden Tobias

I love watching my daughter dance and perform there is so much talent there! Its such a wonderful place! Great staff, great instructors, great people!! This place has such an amazing community and I would recommend it in a heartbeat.Karen Zuercher

What more can I say about Lauren Letherer, other than she is the BEST! I've learned more from her in six short weeks than in all those college-level courses and expensive classes I've taken in the past. She creates an inviting space that's challenging & inspirational, yet still feels safe & supportive. You're surrounded by others who constantly challenge you to attain your very best! Not only is she knowledgeable & approachable, but also nurturing & insightful. It creates an environment that allows you to learn by taking chances in a judgement-free space. No matter your level of experience, Lauren will be able to inspire & encourage you in your journey, while breaking you out of any bad habits you may have picked up along the way. All the Stars!Jon McGarrah

Lauren is a warm and approachable acting teacher who brings out the truest performance from each student. Her teaching style is grounded in her own experience as a working actor and in the spirit of one of her teachers, Anthony Meindl (author of Unstuck and At Left Brain, Turn Right). I've taken two acting courses with Lauren and am registered for a third. As a 50-year-old beginner, I have much to learn, and believe that Lauren creates a safe space to explore, make mistakes, and build a solid foundation in the craft. Oh, and perhaps most importantly, she and her classes are great fun!mbrooks972

Working with Lauren was nothing but incredible. Her kind, intuitive approach to the work gave me the opportunity to truly find MYSELF in every scene. Being mentored by someone who has not only taught but also worked in the industry for many years, is the perfect combination. Her vast knowledge and experience has been so valuable for my journey as an actor. I hope she will be teaching in Los Angeles again soon and I can't wait to take classes with her again. New Mexico is lucky to have her!Nina Rausch

SiSu Dance Academy is one of the best choices I’ve made for my daughter. There’s a seriousness & professionalism about the academy but at the same time it’s a very friendly & safe environment. Their heart is into what they are about. Ms. Megan is very welcoming, encouraging and extremely knowledgeable about technique and strength training & in meeting the dancers where they are at making it a safe environment for students to learn and grow. I say this because I’ve been concerned about my daughter’s bone structure and lack of flexibility and they meet her where’s she’s at and I’m proud to see how she’s learning and growing. The studios are beautiful and very clean. Her teachers Amy & Jessica are wonderful. Their love & attention to my child and others is comforting. My daughter started in the Little Movers class with Ms. Amy and she has an awareness & eye for detail with each child in her class, which I love. My daughter loves & looks forward to seeing them and the lovely little friends she’s made. Just precious. It’s how she started to learn the days of the week with the purpose of her finding out if it’s dance class day or not. She never wants to be late or miss class even if the car broke down & once fixed there’s only 15 minutes left of class, she wants to go even if for the last 15 minutes. Never fails to express how much fun she has in class, how excited she is to go and how happy this makes her. We feel blessed and grateful to SiSu Dance Academy for making us feel like part of their family. So obviously, I highly recommend them.Romelia Mendoza

We have been a part of the SiSu family for the last year and expect to be so for many years to come! Both of my daughters began with an interest in and like for dance, but have developed a true passion and love for it! Megan runs an incredible program and all of her teachers are absolutely amazing! The focus is on a mind and body approach in many ways, as the dancers are taught about the importance of diet/nutrition, muscle awareness and care, and so much more along with all of the dance movements, steps and history! We highly recommend this dance studio for all with an interest in dance (my children have participated in two levels of Ballet, Tap, Cross Conditiong and summer programs so far), as well as those who already know they love it!Jessica Patterson-hill

My almost 4 year old daughter just had her first ballet dancing experience here doing cinder-ella dance camp and she absolutely LOVED it!!! Stories, dancing, and crafts! So fun. The teachers were kind and very patient and understanding with that age group. They really made it a fun experience for the kiddos. She doesn’t want to stop going, so we will be enrolling her in ballet this year for sure. The owner is very sweet and answered all of my questions. It’s a peaceful and clean environment in the dance studio, and the kiddos all seem well taken care of by their instructors. I highly recommend this studio if you are looking for a place for your kids to dance!Shelby Murphy

We have been at Elite for almost four years now, and we love it. My kids get a strong foundation in technique in their dancing. The kids get to be in really amazing shows twice a year that are really special and impressive. The older kids and adults in the company are the kind of people I want my kids to grow up around; they are kind, inclusive, and wonderful role models. The teachers are sweet and wonderful. The studio is clean and comfortable. I could say so many good things. Finally, the adult company shows are fantastic. They are such an artistic combination of dance and acting. Their ability to tell a story is beautiful. I highly suggest both this studio and their shows. Thanks for everything Elite.Katie Weeks

Elite is a family-oriented studio that truly seeks excellence and helps dancers learn accurate and beautiful technique while encouraging teamwork, self-discipline, healthy body image (caring for the whole person), and serving others through stories, art, and friendship. Their kids program helps students grow in the lifelong skills needed for their age level, from bilateral coordination and following directions for the youngest ones to healthy core training and public presentation for the older ones. We are thankful for an honest, affordable, friendly studio!Jamie Poore

Elite Dance has been such a rich source of encouragement and purpose for my kids over the years. My kids have been given such exemplary instruction, they have been pushed to better their skills in dance and as overall artists. The shows they get to participate in are done with excellence and they are required to give their best efforts with the reward of having worked beautifully to tell stories and show their craft.Gwendolyn Pozun

I enrolled my 3 years old daughter in two dance schools. Here, I also attended the adult classes, which one can access if they have a child enrolled. About the Tiny-Tots classes, my daughter had fun, but there is no clear instruction, seems the kids do what they want. I was going to give 4 stars, but in the last class we went to, the teacher leaned against the wall, while she put music to the children and watched them jump around the room… something I do at home with my daughter, and I don't expect from a dance teacher in a 45 min class. The adult classes are for people with some to a lot of experience in the styles, I somehow liked them although I don't have any experience in those styles, but the class that I could attend has been canceled sometimes. Also, when I requested the disenroll on October 10, I was informed that I will be charged for November and that I can attend the whole month because the 30 days notice policy to cancel the auto payment… in the digital age. Finally, about customer service, there is a receptionist who is very kind, but another one seems angry anytime you ask her something. And again, is true that the teacher does not take the trouble to know the names, or even to say hello… in the end it seemed to me "come in, move with the music as you can and bye." I don't know about the other classes, I've seen their recitals and they seem good, but my daughter and I far prefer the other academy where they guide her better, you can see the progress in her movements, her enthusiasm for attending the 1 hour class even though she is tired after pre-school, and with a nice welcome environment. I'll look for other options for myself.Viviana Vidal

If I could give no stars I would.. I started my daughter here, first day off class they didn’t walk out and introduce themselves nothing. They opened the class door like you were supposed to know what to do, I took my daughter in the class and the teacher did not acknowledge her what so ever. She really didn’t pay attention to any kids just walked to the front and started doing her own thing. Most kids attended a summer program and were already aware of what to do. My daughter started during a new cycle they blew her off. Didn’t acknowledge parents. They were completely unprofessional. Talked to the front desk they could care less.. This is honestly a very unprofessional school. Do not take your young child here. First day of class and I cancelled them. Horrible dance school!!!Ashley Chavez

I am the mother of four daughters, all whom have taken classes at dimensions for years now. I am both appalled and surprised that anyone would rate this studio less than a 5 star. I can honestly say that the teachers and the owners truly do care about everyone that comes through those doors. The staff is amazing, the owners are creative and genuine, and the building is wonderful. This is the only dance studio I trust with family members, friends and my children.Laura Shaffer

I went to see Willy Wonka, the theater was very nice, clean and the staff was extremely helpful. I felt comfortable and safe, they made us wear our masks, and nobody complained. I hope that I get to see many more plays there because it was simply delightful. And, to the person who said it was in a run down neighborhood…the theater is located on 4th and Griegos, the NORTH Valley, and I'm sorry to say, they are extremely wrong!! I LOVE the area, it's neighborly. Thank you North Valley Arts Center, for giving our youths a place to feel safe and to work on their craft!!!!!!Gloria Gordon

I performed here recently (last Sunday) and the overall facility seemed warmer than usual as well as there were walls with chipped paint. I had a rehearsal room to myself as a dressing room but the restrooms were on the opposite side of the facility.Eric Mazzie

Quarantine absolutely KILLED IT ( in the best way possible) this year! Always look forward to what they do!! As for the Art Center, that was my first time going and it was amazing! The art was most definitely modern and very enjoyable!Shaun Tongate

Can't say enough good things about this family oriented athletic center. My husband is an avid swimmer of their heated outdoor pool and insists on going a couple times a week. Even in the summer, some lanes are reserved for the swimmers. I'm partial to the cardio and weight room for rehab. My personal trainer, Daniel, is the most understanding and knowledgeable of trainers, will do anything to coordinate your schedule with routines that are not high pressure, but suitable to your abilities. All the areas are Covid safe and clean.Mary Spey

Very clean facilities and amazing staff! Awesome summer programs for my children. Also if you are looking for someone to watch your baby or toddler while you're at work the Family Enrichment Center is truly amazing. You're kid will be loved, have fun, and learn everything he or she needs to be way ahead of the other children going into Kindergarten. My son went there after bad experiences with other places in town, and there are not enough great things I can saw about the F.E.C.Jk Marsh

Played bball for the first time this past Sunday & this gym & weight facility is a HIDDEN GEM!!!! You will love all the staff & people that go their regularly! They welcome you with open arms & I’m already gonna sign up for the membership to come in daily to get ready for Mens bball season in the fall this year! Highly highly recommend here for to hoop it up & work out!Jordan M

Found this amazing place by googling "things to do in ABQ" and was so happy to find it. Brought my older teenage son and was not disappointed! Everyone was soo welcoming! I was worried when there was a sign asking to wear masks (to protect the performers) so I was not looking forward to that (asthma & difficult to breathe with pollens right now) but there were just a few people wearing a mask so it was okay. Our big regret is we were in such shock (processing) the mystery revealed that we didn't stop to thank the actors & talk to them! It was fabulous in every way and we will be back (for mysteries & Christmas shows!). Thank you!!Kara Lanctot

We saw 'Unnecessary Farce' last night. The show was very funny. We enjoyed it. The theater is small and not a bad seat in the house. The staff was very cordial and helpful. The actors were excellent. I recommend Adobe Theater. It is a great way to support local theater.Victor Samuels

Simply amazing! This was the first performance and it was incredible. Definitely more than what I would have expected for a small theater. I'll be back for sure. I highly recommend this place for anyone who loves great plays and performances.Kathleen Eickholt

If there was a 4.5 star I would have chosen it. Fun little theatre. Saw "Bicycle men" which was very fun, kinda silly and was a collection of bits strung together all well sung/acted and most poking fun at the French (and their love for bikes.) Would have enjoyed a refreshment or snack during intermission and learned they will soon have some. Liked it well enough to go again:)Carolyn Stapleton

Had a wonderful time watching The Glass Menagerie! It was my first time here! I'm looking forward to attending more performances here. I very much enjoyed this performance. The theater seats about 80 people. I like the decor. It has an old timey feel to it !Kip (Kip)

This is a cute theater, with a lobby that kinda takes you back in time. I saw The Flick, which the cast beautifully brought to life. Highly recommended if you like live theater!d'Wolfe pup

Such a wonderful thing they have done here! I’ve attended two plays here, and both of them were so good. The folks at Hold The Applause produce great content that’s entertaining and great for the entire family. I watched Almost Maine and cracked up the entire time, then went to see Sense and Sensibility and laughed, teared up, got angry… basically all the emotions. If you’re looking for a place to see a high quality play, and also support a non-profit with a great vision, check this place out. You won’t regret it. They also do a great job of being safe in these crazy COVID times.Luke Simon

HAP is genuinely dedicated to helping the community grow. Not only do they provide high quality theatre to audiences, they offer community members of all ages the opportunity to fill onstage, backstage, and leadership roles. The staff members are kind and enthusiastic and the performers are always so talented. Excellent organization!Ariana Gant

Hold the Applause Productions is a fantastic theatre here in the Albuquerque community. Their shows are always so well done, and despite having a smaller space, they use it so well. The team is always professional and they work hard to make HAP as wonderful as it is. You will love this theatre, don't miss it!Lauren Jehle

Whether you have always wanted to dabble in the film industry, or a seasoned actor looking to perfect your skills, The Communication Method for Actors is an excellent way to understand the science behind our communication. Faith breaks it down through hands on exercises, personal experiences and if you’re like me, nerd out and get the brain science behind the communication 🤓 . I’ve taken this class several times and there is always some new nugget I find. Highly recommend for anyone to break out of their shell! Just go for it! 🤩Michelle James

I have taken courses with CMFA since last August and am now in the Masters' class, working the techniques and creating muscle memory. The basis in science is a fresh approach to looking at acting. I can't recommend the class more. Actors of all experience and training levels will find value in the CMFA to hone their craft in new ways that may have not been even on the Actor's radar. I look forward to class each week. -Abe RuthlessAndrew Alexander

I have a young daughter who wants to act. Knowing nothing about the industry I scoured the internet and found Faith. We are 4 lessons in and WOW! Faith is a master teacher with a wealth of knowledge. She communicates with my daughter in a way that is both fun, engaging and full of practices that are building an incredible skill set. I’m so grateful for her and her willingness to teach and work with my daughter.Brittany

Excellent venue for a movie! We parked easily in their spacious parking lot. Inside, temperature was cozy (32° outside). We got concessions before checking in for SING 2 in theater 3. We had five seats in the center – F6-11. Seat 11 did not recline, but when I mentioned it to an employee on the way to the bathroom, he had it fixed before I returned. Wow! The bathroom was clean & well stocked. Signs advised users to keep a sink empty between them to avoid getting sick. Very nice. The sound and picture was great. No problems. Seats reclined and were so comfortable. They seemed bigger, more plush, and had more of a recline than the AMC theater we frequent in Palm Harbor. When we lifted the center armrest, we got another drink holder instead of the crack. That was also different to us. Temperature in the theater was perfect – not too hot or cold. The movie was excellent, too, so no one fell asleep. We don't understand why patrons left their trash behind. To keep employees working?? Never fear. They were! They picked up the trash left behind, and we took our trash to the nearest trash receptacle. We will have to check out the Cinemark near us when we get home.Courtenay O'Connell

Easy in and out. Always clean theaters quick and friendly food services. Gear staff always guiding you to the correct areas. Bathrooms decent. But it's glad to be back to the movies after the pandemic restrictions lifted. I was never a huge movie fan but only once I started going. Then it was gone. I wanted it. But glad to go weekly or near monthly to just watch something and to kill time. 🤝🏻💯 I've been to the one in the malls and thought yeah they're better. Hmmm not as much as this place. Heck I feel that the membership deals and the screens are bigger and better not only here. But all of the Century Rios.Anthony D

Well I'm going to say this, I am not going here on Halloween anymore, they made me and my friends take off my makeup for Halloween in their bathrooms. Caught me off guard because I have no makeup wipes. So have to use water and paper towels to get it off. This make up doesn't come off easily it's suppose to be water proof. Next time put a sign up that says "NO MAKEUP", your sign said "NO MASK" there was nothing about makeup. It's Halloween. People cosplay through out the year to the movies. Why on Halloween that rule has to change. Rethinking about going here in general.J.T. Lalio

I received a direct call back from Carissa who was exceptionally attentive to my needs and made every effort to answer my questions about the industry. She was professional, clear, accommodating and pleasant. She provided many useful suggestions as to how to prepare myself for success in the industry and has represented her company well. I would definitely recommend and suggest that anyone interested in having their talent represented deal with Carissa. You can tell when someone truly cares about their profession and enjoys their work. She was infectious in the best way.William Simmons

I have had a great experience during my first year with Carissa Mitchell. Her Talent Agency has provided the absolute best environment for me to grow as a new Actor . I've had the privilege of working with Carissa personally, and I can witness without a doubt she is a true professional, and will never quite on her mission to promote her clients and help them achieve their dreams .Michael Kirby

Highly recommended agency for any actors seeking representation. Carissa Mitchell is a knowledgeable, highly respected agent with a great reputation on both sides of the table. I have loved my experience being represented by M&P!Art Tedesco

If you or your child are ready for traditional classical ballet training in the Russian style this is the place to be. My daughters have taken classes here since they were three years old. The discipline and commitment that this type of training provides is amazing. It carries over into their music lessons and academics. They have learned to organize their time well so that they can keep up with their ballet and academics. I would recommend this academy to anyone. Plus the atmosphere is friendly and there seems to be a sense of community among the students and parents.Ling Faith-Heuertz

Great teachers for all ages, Zoom classes also available. Spacious studios with sprung floors. A friendly, supportive atmosphere, and they follow infection control policies.Guy Pierce

Highest quality ballet courses in New Mexico – for children and adults alike! Professional staff, beautiful studios and amazing productions. Thank you BRT!Dorian McKenzie

The Southwest School of Filmmaking has been the largest factor in encouraging me to pursue my goals of attending film school and someday becoming a professional film editor. The opportunities that the camp offers are tremendous; the value of being taught how to handle professional camera, sound, and lighting equipment as well as editing and screenwriting software should not be understated. The counselors at SWSOF are incredibly encouraging and present the filmmaking industry in a realistic yet unintimidating manner. The interpersonal and organizational skills that come with managing a small crew have taught me so much about how action flows on set. Along those same lines of teamwork, the people that I have met there have become some of my greatest friends, and the thrill of growing and improving my skills alongside them is genuinely one of the most exciting prospects of my future. Hari is an amazing mentor, and I'm sure all of the students can attest to how much we have learned from him. He encourages us to steer our own ships while remaining a steady and reliable presence that we can go to for any questions or assistance. Additionally, Alec is an absolute delight to work with. He makes the editing process easy to digest for beginners who have never worked with Premiere and may be a bit intimidated by the seemingly complicated look of the software. In my opinion, despite the varying skills and experience of everyone there, the mentors at SWSOF are never patronizing, a quality that I think anyone guiding young filmmakers needs to display. I have never, ever felt ashamed for not knowing something, for lacking a certain skill, etc. Instead, I was pushed to ask questions, and to be curious. Is SWSOF worth it? Absolutely, no question. Attending this camp has made me feel so much more comfortable making short films and reaching out to others in the industry. It was as if the floodgates had finally opened, and much of the hesitation I had about "just going for it" receded. SWSOF solidified my love for filmmaking, and was the final push I needed to apply for film school. I got in, and I will look back on this camp with gratitude for I could not have done it without the encouragement of everyone there.Siena Tan

The Southwest School of Filmmaking was an exceptional experience for our kiddo the past two summers and will have a lasting impact on their future. We were fortunate to snag the very last spot in the 2021 camp and signed up as early as possible for this past 2022 session. The program's mentors, facilitation, curriculum, and technical resources are very relevant and appropriate for kids in high school who have a growing interest, aptitude, and passion for visual media production. The camp concludes with the screening (in a theater) of a short film produced from start to finish by a team of students. In addition to leaving camp with a film credit, our kiddo developed lasting relationships with team members and the program's mentors. Just as important as the production experience, these relationships with new friends and mentors will be essential to a potential future in the visual media industry. Thanks Southwest School of Filmmaking! So very glad we found you!Larry B

My daughter had the absolute best experience at the Southwest School of Filmmaking. She has always had a passion for stage acting, but the camp gave her an opportunity to learn about film. The exposure to the both the acting side as well as the production side has opened up her mind to a whole new world of artistic expression. She is looking forward to switching to the other side of the camera next summer! In addition to an excellent teaching environment with real film making professionals, the SSF also provides an amazing social environment for young people. It is incredibly inclusive and was fully prepared to accommodate my daughter's many food allergies. I highly recommend the experience for any young person seeking either first-time exposure or wanting to dive deep and acquire new film skills.Kelly Egolf