20 Best Acting Programs In Manhattan, NY (2022 Updated)

The only reason ppl go here and are willing to grossly pay for an education is the location. I went to school here and will say it is far overpriced for the education you are given. Some staff are great and really care about the education they are providing. Others just read off a powerpoint and have no interest except for a paycheck. Career services ask if you want to be reached out to and say they will help but its not in their interest. At the NYC campus the administrative and financial aid staff are blatantly rudeRyan Ryan

Pace is expensive, doesn't help the students getting internships and when the students get one on their own, Pace takes the credit. After graduating, the students don't get a job. One of their alumni just got a good job and due to she owes money, they don't give her transcripts and are retaining her title. Is not possible for Pace to help when the students really need help? It is not possible to set a plan of payments?.Cristina Chaves

This is a good school. However, the quality is almost identical to the CUNY school I attended before coming here that costed significantly less. Additionally, the lack of diversity (granted, because of how this is a private school) is also lacking. I am happy to be graduating from here from a grant through the NYC Department of Education for free, and in all I enjoyed my experience here.Mr. Luppino

To all the high school freshman posting reviews and rating AMDA 5 stars stop. You do not go there. Do not give it a bigger head than it already has. Attended in 2013-2014 would have been one star if it weren't for some (a few) wonderful teachers. (Stacy Lee, Kathy, Jeff, Tim,and Ray thank you) I am posting this review because they just posted an instagram post about 13 reasons why. They said check this out help is available. Would have been nice if that was ACTUALLY TRUE. However, if you have any sort of mental health problems you are told to grow up! (By teachers AND THE DAMN COUNSELOR) you are told stories of how the show must go on fake it til you make it. If you cannot stop crying you are weak, and theater is just a hobby for you. The teachers name drop and make you feel bad about yourself for not being Jason Derulo.The only person who helped me get help was my acting teacher (god bless him), who sent me to the counselor who told me I was acting like a child and that I need to prioritize. "If this isn't for you you don't have to be here" I told him this is the most depressed I've ever been. No offer to find therapy near me. No weekly meetings. No follow up visit. He suggested I find a new dream. So I did but now I'm 25,000 dollars in debt after 9 of the worst months of my life. Like others have said AMDA is what you make it but if you have any sort of mental health issues don't count on getting any help. PS. The dorms have a large scary roach problem, pretty sure it used to be a mental hospital (how fitting) PPS. I can acknowledge that I learned a good deal in my acting and VPS classes. And that not all the teachers suck.Madison Mitchell

I joined AMDA NYC back in 2021 Fall. This school has changed my life. Incredible staffing who are all working professionals within the acting world and all are incredibly motivated, fun and inspiring. My time at this school has been nothing but positive thus far and, the school continues to get better and better. I have done my own reading into reviews and the bad reviews have definitely changed. I have seen things change here, I have seen things become progressively better for the students here at AMDA. AMDA has become much more of a supporting and safe environment for not just me but for everybody who needs it. You certainly learn a lot here, develop great connections with your teachers and get plenty of opportunities out here. I myself, am certainly glad that I chose this school. Great friends, great classes, great locations, great teachers and all around an incredibly exiting journey.Kallan Fuller

My daughter just graduated in Sept 2017 from NYC in dance. She had a very positive experience from start to finish! Starting with Elliott Kerr, Assistant Director of Admissions. Elliott did a nice job of answering all our questions and helping get all our paperwork completed. Our daughter loved all her teachers and has said through out her program, "this is the right school for me." I feel like the program and the school prepared her for auditioning and the life of a performer! THANK YOU AMDA!Jennifer M

PLEASE READ IF YOU ARE APPLYING TO THIS SCHOOL I attended the biology program as a transfer student and it was the worst mistake of my life. Marymount Manhattan puts up this facade that their small class size sets them apart from any other college in the city. Let me be clear: this school has more downfalls than advantages. This school requires their students to take general education courses as a freshman and then again at junior and senior levels. I was a biology major taking dance, film and painting during my junior year. Just another ploy to make more money. I was told by an advisor that I would have to graduate a year late to take one single class in spring semester that was only offered every other year. If a class is mandatory for graduation, it should be offered every year. The shortage of staff to teach classes sets an automatic disadvantage for students. How can they expect a student to return to one of the most expensive cities in the world to take one single class? The adjunct faculty is laughable. I took a painting class and had to buy everything out of pocket. I do not come from money as most students at this school and was told by my professor that my brushes were "too cheap". The courses from this college are impossible to transfer as they are considered a joke at even community colleges. As a freshman my friend failed her first biology exam. Normal, not everyone is able to adjust to a college style exam right away. She immediately went to see her professor about improving her grade and she was told to change her major and her aspirations to go into medicine over her first ever college exam. Is that pushing your students to be successful? Maybe the BFA programs are better, but I have only heard negative aspects about them as well. The majority of my anatomy class was failing and nothing was done by the staff to improve lessons regardless of the countless complaints by students. The graduation rate is laughable. The advisor and bursar offices are laughable. They are quick to take your money for a transcript but never send it out. There is so much more to say about this college but it cannot be done in a single review. Please do your due diligence before committing to this school. Countless people can tell you the many other options in the city you can choose from.Natalie Rivera

I transferred here from a big state school and after taking a gap year. As a marketing major in a primarily performing arts focused school, I sometimes feel like not enough attention is given to the business department, but the small class sizes and very focused attention given to each student in the school makes Marymount, in my eyes, a very great institution. This school has been very good to me and I have met a lot of awesome people and am currently working with the career offices to secure an awesome internship for the summer. The individualized attention that each student gets here is only awarded to this who strive for it, and unfortunately there students at Marymount who don't really try and attempt to get over on the faculty because its a private school. But if your looking for a small school in the center of NYC, I highly recommend Marymount.Samuel S

I received three evening robo-fundraising calls within a week that began with the robo-caller saying not to worry, they were just calling to see how my child is enjoying the school. After that, it became a fundraising pitch. If they want to see how my child is doing, they can ask my child. Three calls, all in the evening, within one week, and with a deceptive script. Marymount Manhattan may be a fine school, but their fundraising tactics are sleazy, and the first one alarmed me a great deal.John McGary

My experience at the Barrow Group has truly helped me not to give up as an actor. After moving to NYC in 2009, my very talented friend recommended that I take classes at The Barrow Group. I trusted his recommendation because he was very knowledgable about the class options in the city. I am so thankful that I found the Barrow Group!! I really missed my theatre community from Graduate School and the Barrow Group became my NYC home base. I have taken four classes with Lee Brock and I have learned so much from her. She helped me go back to the beginning…back to those years before all of the training…Lee helped me go back to the 'Story.' She helped me to focus on what truly matters…telling the story! The teaching style of the Barrow Group is extremely accessible to actors. You can get a feel for the teachings style by reading Seth Barrish's book "An Actor's Companion: 99 Bit of Craft." It is so wonderful!! -BrandyBrandy Caldwell

I am starting my fourth class tomorrow. Obviously, I love this place. The teachers are friendly, down to earth, and REALLY know their stuff. It really is amazing, the learning curve, and how much you do learn during just one class, let alone three. The teaching methods are so great, it makes you almost feel like what you have learned should have been common sense. I've attended one of their shows (so far), and it was really an inspiring experience, with just superb acting. Whenever people ask me about my experience here, I cannot recommend The Barrow Group enough.Tomo Lovric

An extraordinary theatre company and school. I had studied for many years with some of the best and most highly regarded teachers in the acting community but it wasn't until I found the Barrow Group that I felt I became a good actor. Seth Barrish has created an astoundingly simple approach to the work that makes acting fun again. And truthful and real. He and his co-artistic director Lee Brock have created a wonderful home for some of the most passionate and talented artists I have ever had the privilege of working with. I couldn't recommend them more highly!Peter Lewis

I went here from pre-K through 5th grade. Everything was ok academically till 4th grade and in 5th grade it honestly amazes me the schools that I got into. I didn't know how to do long division and my mom had to teach me it herself in the summer before 6th grade. I got punched 2 times while I was at Caedmon and in 5th grade when I sent one of the kids who punched me to the principals office, since his parents were such big donors, they did nothing about the situation. They treat the donors kids specially and we had to raise money holding bake sales before class for our own field trips. They did nothing on the instance on bullying whatsoever. We had 30 minutes of activity a day. And we had 'silent lunch's where they stopped the kids from talking to each other in the one time of day that was dedicated to social time. A bunch on kids whould show up late and there were no consequences. We had one class where we litterally did nothing but play Minecraft. There was little diversity in our class.Koffee e

The Caedmon School is the leader when it comes to providing well-rounded elementary education for the whole child. The Caedmon School prepares children well for life after elementary school, whether it's in areas of academics, social development, or emotional intelligence. But, it's not just about what they learn at Caedmon: their Caedmon experience will leave them with wonderful memories and confidence for life! In my opinion, all great elementary schools should aspire to become like The Caedmon School: excellent across the board with a schoolhouse that is child-centric (even the faucets are made for the little ones!) nestled on the upper east side of Manhattan. My family and I are so fortunate to be a part of this lovely school community and I am so happy that I discovered this hidden treasure. We have been a part of the Caedmon community for 7 wonderful years!!!Dr.Adebola Dele-Michael

This is our second year of having the privilege of sending our children to The Caedmon School and being part of a truly special community. The care for the individual child and their unique educational journey is paramount to the incredibly talented teachers and compassionate staff. We are having so much fun watching our children grow into curious and engaged little learners. The classrooms are beautiful and bright and our pre-school aged children have access to all the facilities of an elementary school (music room, art studio, STEAM lab and a gym to name a few). We love being a part of the Caedmon community, a diverse and down to earth group of families dedicated to the development and enrichment of our children.Michael Gramer

I took the 1-year online screenwriting course. In theory it sounded perfect for me, since I wasn't in a position to go to school full-time. I had high hopes. On the positive side, I did learn the basic principles of screenwriting. Also, I finished a first draft of a film script, which was pretty cool. The discipline of meeting weekly to report on my progress helped me achieve my goal. I wish my review could end there, on a positive note. But on the negative side, I found the instructor extremely rude to anyone who didn't agree with their opinions 100%. The person often ridiculed students and dismissed their contributions. The surly attitude shut down conversation more than once. I have a Masters degree, and have been a student in several schools as an adult – and I have encountered only a few instructors as abrasive as this person. (That's saying a lot, considering how arrogant many professors are!) Also, the instructor was late to class more than once. To be fair, the person did make it up, by extending the classroom time. Still, when you've arranged for child-care, it's a drag to sit and wait in front of your computer, while your instructor fumbles around, making half-baked excuses why they were late. I have kids at home who play the same tricks in an attempt to evade their responsibilities, I don't need my screenwriting instructor doing the same! Worse yet, the instructor once shared personal information about their family of origin that was unnecessary to the classroom context. (We paid a hefty tuition fee to learn screenwriting skills, not to hear sad facts about this person's childhood. Hey, we all have a few sad memories about childhood! Get over it! An online classroom is not the place for a paid instructor to share personal memories). I would have been more sympathetic to their plight if they had been a nice human being from the beginning. They weren't nice, so I'm not sympathetic. Finally, the instructor went back on a promise they had made to me during a classroom session. Another student hadn't come to the online class, and we were scheduled to read their script. So I volunteered to submit my rough draft – with the understanding that I could re-submit my script once it was finished, for another classroom review. The instructor agreed to those terms – but went back on their agreement a few weeks later. When I questioned the instructor about it, my concern was dismissed. So, I copied the transcribed conversation in which the instructor made the promise. They replied that they were way too busy to give each student individual attention! (Then why make the promise in the first place?). My poor rating is entirely based on the habitually unprofessional conduct of the instructor. The actual course content was very, very good. Had someone else – with a good work ethic, a sense of punctuality, and a commitment to personal and professional integrity – taught the course, then I would have given NYFA a perfect score. So, although I'm indebted to NYFA for helping me acquire basic screenwriting skills, and giving me the opportunity to complete a rough draft, I found the personal conduct of the instructor a very serious obstacle to the learning experience. My suggestion to anyone who wants to enroll in an online screenwriting course: – Make sure the educational institution has a professional code of conduct – Make sure the school holds their instructors to that code If you can't afford the cost of tuition: – Buy a good book on screenwriting. It will give you the exact same info about skills that this course provided, at a fraction of the cost – Enroll in a writing class at your local community center, where you can find like-minded people who will hold you accountable as you write your next project -Keep writing! Don't give up. After a number of years, I continue to uphold my opinion of the school.Robert Widdowson

The (limited) number of students that actually care is the only reason this school gets 2 stars. I attended the Masters Cinematography program in Los Angeles, and I am here to tell you that for that program- I can't speak to the others with as much in depth knowledge- the school is a joke, and serves to print money for itself. I was to attend for two accelerated semesters, and during the first, I found work doing what I was going to school to study and basically checked out mentally. When time came for my second semester, I had done very little for my classes, and went to our instructor to tell him I was leaving. The part that confused me was when he said that I was one of the best students in class, which made me laugh, as I had been working on set for the proceeding two months, hadn't attended class, or screened any projects for the class. I pointed out these facts to him, went to the bursers office with my story, and within 5 minutes I was holding a check for 40 thousand dollars: a complete refund of my tuition for both the previous semester, and the upcoming semester. My question is this: if they don't know they are scamming all their pupils, why were they so eager to hand over so much money and bid me farewell? Seems like an admission of guilt, and an effort (which admittedly worked) to prevent me from commenting on my experience. All you need to do is look at the top 5 most common jobs for degree holders from NYFA. The most common is elementary school teacher. The rate of alumni body working in thier field of study is a jawdropping .008%. Yea. Not worth it. Do yourself a favor, and watch all the films on AFI 100 greatest films list, then learn how blender and composition work, buy yourself a camera, and make a film.Nick Frazier

Did a filmmaking workshop. Loved some teachers and learned a lot, but the administration its just been awful. Since my first day. When I arrived due to a ridiculous covid protocol that I haven't been informed, I couldn't attend my first day of classes. I lost many hours and they just left me outside the door even though I crossed the world to get to nyc. And now, I finished the workshop four months ago and still haven't get my diploma. I keep writing to them but nothing gets done and it just keeps wasting my time. I paid around 5 thousand dollars to take that workshop and I just can't believe I don't have the proof of the classes I took.Pili Martínez

"writing as a process " Toward going and forward comma and or onward continuing forward direction ahead of awareness, especially after an interruption continued.  Breaking up a writing assignment into several stages aiding avoidance often face….topic's posing 1 challenge. Analyzing studying in detail, by breaking  down previous mentioned  into smaller system. Process writing is a method of describing of thier solution  toward  into service comma and or toward cause, exist comma and or happen equaling to available purpose using tables, charts, diagrams, images,  equations comma and or graphs plus imagination leaving results. A method now is present participle of use. A process-oriented toward graduating the task intoward different stages. Revising re-examining comma and or making a alter toward change comma and or make difference to. making additions and subtracting from z toward a. process writing is rewriting towards improvement leaving for. Indicating objects of the. The aim comma and or The purpose of. For example acts of action comma and or activity. Process writing is a loop of making certainly. Process writing is a Loop writing method that can repeat for months. Depending on the blockage. Three basic stages comma and or performances of writing proccessed. 1.Topic, first draft,2nd initial writing 3.re-writing.1 thesis a stating of act's expressing, opinion, judgment,assertion of confident comma and or forceful  fact comma and toward or belief toward declare making know formally and officially. Within collected material. 2. Pre writing before you write comma and or invention stage'd. Writing down a plan of preliminary of what, you'll, think and main point's. 3.Outline aim toward present of your arguement comma and or ments. In what order of discuss . Tentative planning which isn't mention. Second step in the writing process is to be continued. First draft based on your blueprint plan. "Proof read your blueprint bring" I added your imagination and discover more improvement. Process rewriting is the third stage of the writing process. Equaling to 1 draft 2 draft 3 draft.Jerderrio Welch

Got my Master in Public Administration from Wagner Graduate School of Public Affairs in 1985. Not an ounce of financial aid – It was my one-hundred percent self-paid onus. Even with full-time work for the duration of full-time study, it was easier than where my Bachelor of Arts was from: Binghamton. Long story short, the Public and nonprofits sector didn't want me; but, made some successes in the Corporate world in Banking, Insurance, followed by Investment Brokerage. My point ? Be adaptable for all your endeavors, and a Master's degree allowed me to enter, and to succeed in, fields for which I had no experience ! Life is what you make it, folks.Lawrence Weinzimer

On October 24th, my boyfriend and I participated in ctour's one-day trip to the San Diego Sea World. We were very happy and enjoyed the whole day. Thank you Ctour, thank you tour guide Daniel for your leadership, we will choose Ctour when we come to California!WENDY

This school is a little gem for those wishing to actually train in the art of acting. The staff is excellent – nurturing and knowledgeable, very much experts in their fields who have honed their skills over many years. The Playhouse fosters a inclusive community of creative individuals who work together to "live truthfully under imaginary circumstances". One of the last great acting schools that is still independent from/not affiliated with any particular college, the Playhouse allows all ages and levels to train here and be assured of receiving a true education in acting. For those wanting to build a solid foundation in all aspects of acting, with a toolbox of marketable and reliable skills – look no further!Patrice Van Voorhees

This school prepared me as a professional actor, creator and leader in the tv/film/theatre industry. It provided me with a strong network of artists and mentors that continues to be my guiding light.Samantha Herrera

Nice and humble place for studying acting. Every one is very warm and welcoming. Better then other Meisner technique Studio"s in NYC.HOST WEBSERIES

I can't believe how naive I was years ago when I went here for singing class. I was so sad because I never progressed and the teachers did not help me at all- they would only answer questions I directly asked, not offer any new information. Overall, the education AND experience you will get at this school is minimal. Like, 95% less than I expected, and I will tell you why. When I came to class, the student body was mostly foreigners, from countries I never really heard of. It kind of looked like 90 day fiance in there. Some of the foreigners were even in their 40s and over, and came to class here even though they already had established careers in their country of origin. Which I thought was a bit odd, but I was 18, there was a lot I did not know about the world. This was so deleterious because out of a class of 25 people, you would find maybe 3 that took the class seriously and seemed like they practiced. Often a student would get up and sing a song, very badly like they didn't care at all, with the lyrics on the sheet right in front of them- like at a karaoke bar. If you want to get better, you get around people that are better than you, or that work really hard- and at this class a serious student is a rare rose. Let me tell you why I point this out. You can go on youtube right now and look up the show "UK Border Force." It's a show about UK airport immigration. Boy, did this naive American learn a whole lot from that show! Apparently, in Britain this information is well-known, but in America's politically correct atmosphere, this very important information is hidden. To come to America legally, someone needs a visa. The F-1 student visa is for a full-time student coming to America to learn a trade, often that is not offered in the student's country of origin. Are acting lessons and singing lessons such a specialized skill that an unaccredited 'acting school' would be granted the F-1 student visa program? For medical school or a school like Juliard I would understand- but a cheap little acting studio in Chealsea, in a small building, with no professors, that charges $300 for an unaccredited class? Does that sound right to you? This school is nothing more than a VISA MILL. This is why so many older people came here as "student." This is basically a phony college that can get someone a visa for cheap. Of course it's in New York- what an easy way to get to America, overstay the visa (as most do) or scoot over to Long Island to squat in a sanctuary city. Wow. I can't believe I didn't notice this before. I went for an education and boy did I get one- just not in singing.Chi Chi

Where to start? Hb Studio was and is the only reason I temporarly moved to New York. The Variety of different acting teachers, classes and workshops spoke for itself when I researched Hb Studio back in Germany. Both my initial reachout and the continous support of the international office were suggesting a warm welcome. And the actual arrival went exactly as I hoped; The staff is openminded and very helpful. They even assisted me with non-school-related problems which really helped me put my feet on the ground. That kind of service become rare these days! The same goes for the 9 different teachers that I am able to study with. While being supportive and understanding they push every student individually to new limits. Beside different techniques and approaches of the teachers I also learned a lot about myself which already directly influenced my acting. The classes are reasonably sized and allow propper, structured exercises aswell as a trustful, troupe/ensemble-like atmosphere. The whole community is diverse, welcoming, understanding and supporting through all instances. From the comilitones over the staff to the teachers, I felt accepted and welcomed throughout my whole term. Being a future Alumni makes me both proud and thankful. I am glad to have choosen this school and can only recommend it to everyone who is willing to invest in her/his selfdevelopment!Karl Faktor

I have studied playwriting for years and have had a number of productions. While at HB, I valued studying alongside so many talented, supportive playwrights. However, after writing several drafts of a play, I was denied an in-class reading, something granted to every student who follows the guidelines. Also, when the instructor initiated "the basement series," she asked every student but me to submit one of their plays. Even the students questioned the omission. The toxic atmosphere the instructor created caused her "pet" to address an email to "the playwrights," but to address me separately; he did so to suggest that I am not a playwright. As the tuition is quite high, no student at HB should encounter anything less than a professional environment. No one has time for petty people.Irwin Nayman

Learn from the best. When I was 19 years old, I was accepted to the Lee Strasberg Theater Institute. It was the highlight of my life at the time. The great teachers back then were Harv Dean and David Gideon. I went to school here part time for 9 months to learn acting at its very basic. If you can afford going to the school and want to learn acting from the aspect of the instrument, then I highly recommend going here. The most important thing I learned from this school, is that even if you attend the classes and do your scene work, you need to be out pounding the pavement and looking for work in the industry, an agent and possibly a manager. I would not call the school glamorous but it does show great pride and respect for people who walks through their doors. If you are serious about acting and show business, this is the place to be. Take a look at the names of the superstars that have graced these doors!.C H

Although I am old enough to be the GRANDmother of most of the students, I had the honor to chat with Lee Strasberg himself, one morning, years ago. He spent nearly a half hour on the phone with me – a total stranger. I had acting aspirations back then (I am a freelance writer today). And I have never forgotten his generosity, wisdom, and graciousness to me – someone he would never meet in person. I love stopping by whenever I can, to donate theatre books, costume pieces, and just sniff around who's doing what. A cool place, and a wonderful energy, carrying on the great Lee's tradition of realism, heart and acting from the soul!!!Cynthia Hawkins

So cool, in a jimmy fallon interview, lady Gaga said she went here for 10 years! As a little monster I give this institution 5 stars! A Star is born! ❤️👏James G

I love this school because they offer so many different classes that there's a place for each child. My daughter loves this school because she enjoys dancing ballet and contemporary dance. One of the perks about the dance department is part that they're part of The American Ballet School which is a plus. It's one of the very few schools in the Uptown Manhattan area that offers art enrichment for children at a reasonable price.Josie P.

Today was my granddaughters first ballet class here she's 4 such an amazing experience for her everyone there from the security staff to every teacher is amazing Mr Aubrey Lynch taught her class today. This gentlemen is phenomenal his resume speaks for itself he's the male Debbie AllenVan Walsh

They have a comprehensive arts program and the instructors are highly qualified and trained. A very nice enviornment for yoing and mature students. With such a rich history, its going to be interesting see the development as gentrification presses on.Krista Vista

My kid took a teen class, and I just found out a teacher (older women/went to Yale drama) pulled him and his partner from the stage after he fumbled a line/stuttered and said he was unprepared and disappointing. He prepared weeks with this script only to never get to show it. She mocked him in front of the whole class and said he would never make it in the industry. I just found out about this. Safe to say, he will not be going back, and I urge anyone who has kids to not to allow them to attend any class here.Joane white

Top notch acting school with rigorous curriculum and faculty that will push you to new discoveries and bring out your best. More than just actor training, Stella Adler Studio of Acting will challenge you to look outside yourself and become an active member of the community, inspiring change in others.Felix Birdie

Top-tier acting school with alumni widely passionately continuing the core mission of theatre. Their enthusiasm and work ethic for the art is famous & reflects well on the students they choose to receive & their training. Sorry their many student works by attending.Richard Chen

A fabulous theater for all ages but an absolute must for young adults and children. The most recent show we attended was When We Rise Up. A wonderful piece offering a glimpse into the experiences of a diverse group young people entering adulthood during these challenging times. My teen and I discussed the show for hours afterwards.Catherine McGibney

Cancelled the show and kept our money. I'm not angry that they had to cancel the show due to Covid in the cast. It is thievery for them to cancel the show and say we can only use the tickets in a future order. That doesn't help people who don't live in the city or just wanted to see this show which only runs through the holidays.Luke Michaels

An incredible venue for children’s theater – most of which will entertain and mesmerize adults at least a much as little people. They’re breadth of programming is astounding, and they do a lot to support bringing in attendees who can’t usually afford or have access to the theater.David Berkowitz

Came here before to see Chicken and Biscuits . Now here for American Buffalo . With its circular design it makes for a immersive theater experience . You feel like you are in the living room of the set . I’ve been to a ton of plays and this is the first time I noticed an assistive listening device table for those that are hard of hearing or blind . Headsets are available to describe the action and narrate the scenes . You can get a closed captioning device and even get a connection right into your hearing aide , I was told all of this by the nice gentleman in charge of the devices . Very helpful . Also another staff member let me know that there were designated wheelchair seats -to get to those you need to arrive a minimum of 30 minutes before a show . You go in through the lobby and take an elevator down in a different entrance . To use the accessible bathroom you also go through a different entrance . If it were me I’d call the theater before and let them know you are coming and find out more details of all the ins and outs . One other thing of note Is that this theater is off Times Square but a much quieter street which is really pleasant . It’s only one level of seats so not very big which I also love .Kristen (Gypsy Monkey)

Not handicap friendly. You have to go to the box office for someone to walk you to the main building to ride the elevator to the theater. If you need medical devices such as walkers or crutches you will need assistance walking down the stairs to the seating. If you are in a wheelchair you will not be able to have front row seating. If you have trouble walking up in down steps this there there will be difficult unless you have assistance with you. The bathrooms are not on the same floor you will have to take the elevator with an assistant to walk you down a long hallway to a restroom. So if you cannot walk long distances you may want to think about going to another theater. Also you may want to ask for a booster seat just in case you get stuck behind someone who decides to wear their hair in a messy bunW

First time in this theater but I’m loving it. The stadium layout is perfect to have stage set up in the center, so actors can act freely in the middle instead of having to face a certain way to the front, best for play, not sure how it works with musical tho. Came to see American Buffalo features the three powerful actors, they built a whole pawn shop in the stage center: the props are so details your eyes just can’t help to check out everything. There’s no bad seats in the theater as it doesn’t have that many rows, so everyone is very close to the stage. I would say on the side 2-3rows are the best. So you are close to the stage center but not too close.Alex Zhang

I've been to the Basie at least 10 times for a variety of shows, and I love it. It is clean, security and ushers get people in quickly and are friendly. Bar and popcorn on site. The theater itself is gorgeous, I love the decor. Plenty of good eats in the area, grab a local dinner first. The train station nearby (2 blocks) offers free parking. The area has a nice feel to it, always police nearby when walking it. My only concern is if you're taller, the upper seating will leave your knees very squished into a seat in front. Overall, great place.Christine Moon

Great theater! Been there many times but this was the first time in the balcony. I have to say the first row in the first section of the balcony sucks. The foot wall is so high that you have to sit on the front edge of your seat in order to see the stage floor. The exception would be if your six feet tall or more then you could sit back comfortably and watch the show. All the other rows are great… if you like balcony seating. Don't let this review scare you away this is a great place to see a show, just beware of this row.John Russ

Nice, attractive old renovated theater. Seats could have been bigger with more room in between rows, but the seats themselves were comfortable. Enjoyed our show. The staff were friendly and helpful. Being from out of town and not knowing the parking situation, I really appreciated being able to reserve a parking space in the lot across the street. The attendant was really nice and helpful.Shahana Garner

We had a great time on MegaWatt Wednesday. We got there at 6 for the free mixer and show, and started until the 9:00 show was over. We didn't realize until we went to buy our tickets, but buying a ticket for any show lets you stay for as many shows as you want! Great evening, especially for $7. My friend with me was new to improv and really enjoyed it too. * I didn't know until i was booking at 4:58pm, but same-day ticket sales end at 5. I couldn't place my order and had to get to the theatre early to buy in-person. That caveat isn't revealed until it's actually after 5 and too late. *Holly Crumrine

Came here to look at colleges and it turned into the absolute highlight of the trip- my Dad and I will still think of moments from the Metal Boy and Bodywave showcases in public and have to stifle a laugh.Olive Kimbrell

It was so cute! Went to see a friend in level 1 improv. Adorable little bar when you walk in. They have canned things. Cute little intimate theater bumping AC at the show.Abigail P

My experience at the Terry Knickerbocker Studio was nothing short of life changing. I feel truly blessed, and honored that I was selected to attend, and complete the 2 year conservatory program. The Terry Knickerbocker Studio provided me with a wonderfully warm, and generous artistic home when I wasn't sure I would ever be able to find one. They made me feel welcomed from the first moment when I reached out in 2019, to attended their Fall Meisner Intensive, till the day I graduated the 2 year program in 2022. I learned so much about acting during my time at the studio but I also learned so much more about myself and the kind of artist I wanted to be. Terry, along with the other incredible faculty members, really care about the collective as well as the individual. They take time to provide individual feedback and also create space for people to share a thought, a discovery, or a question. They continually, and gently invite you to give a little more, dig a little deeper, reveal a little more, encouraging you to find the deeper meaning within relationships and circumstances. The work you do here is an ongoing conversation of artistry that Terry and the other faculty members help facilitate while guiding you through the journey that is the training. The training was everything I hoped it would be, and everything I wanted for myself. I wanted to be a part of a high quality, rigorous training program surrounded by others who we're committed and focused as well; I found that at the Terry Knickerbocker Studio, while also finding an artist home and friends that will last me a lifetime.David Afkham

I completed the 2 year program this past June, after doing the intensive before that as well. I can confidently say that this was the best and most meaningful training I've ever had as an actor. The teachers are kind, thoughtful, and challenge you in the best way to become the best actor *you* can be. This isn't a cookie cutter experience; Terry and his faculty take your individuality into account and celebrate it and then invite you to celebrate it too. Working with Terry challenged me in the best way, inviting me to take big risks, to fail big (in a safe and welcoming environment), to stretch, and to learn as much as possible. He'd always have amazing ideas and suggestions to invite you into a collaboration and to help you see your work in a new way. I am a totally different actor than I was at the start of my journey here and I'm so grateful for this experience. Study here! Terry and the faculty absolutely love what they do, love the work, love the craft itself. That level of deep artistic love and play is such a gift. I know I'll continue to return to this studio as I now consider it an artistic home base to continue to grow my artistry.Melissa Aquiles

I have never met more generous, deep humans. The training was everything I'd hoped it'd be and managed to be everything I had dreamed a conservatory could be. No one gets lost in the shuffle. Everyone is seen, pushed, celebrated, PUSHED, and asked to give more than the day before. I have felt tremendous growth as an artist and witnessed it in each of my classmates. My capacity to trust myself, my gifts, my experiences, and my perspective has quintupled. I feel like I've been given the tools and awareness to pave towards the career I've always wanted. Terry is the real deal, his staff and faculty are the real deal, and you can't help but get it on you being in this brilliant community. This place and these people hold a large room in my heart and I am so proud to be a graduate. When I asked my manager if I should take two years off to do this training he said I'd be a fool to turn down the opportunity to work with Terry, if you are considering training here I pass that same sentiment on to you.Tom Colford

I'm a new actor who started at T. Schreiber a year ago and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I was nervous about getting into acting because you hear about how some teachers break their students down but as a beginner, that type of instruction can be discouraging. I started with the Beginning Saturday Program with Pam Scott. I loved it because she's a very nurturing and encouraging teacher who imparts tons of knowledge and skills to her students in every class. You'll learn a lot and feel very safe taking risks. I've also had the opportunity to be taught by Bob Verlaque and Susan Pilar who substituted a few of my Scene Study classes when Pam couldn't make it and they were amazing as well. As you continue, you may find that you need a different type of instruction. The teachers here encourage you to do so. Not just within T. Schreiber but outside of it. Although I will probably try classes outside of T. Schreiber, I really love the faculty here and they will most likely become a mainstay in my life.C Banks

I've been studying at T Schreiber Studio on and off since 2014. I've explored studios and teachers all over New York City and have truly never found a teacher that I've connected with or who has made as big of an impact on my career as Peter Jensen. I think I would genuinely credit Peter with teaching me how to act and with teaching me to love acting. There is no place I love in NY more than his scene study class. He is the most honest, compassionate and caring teacher that there is. His deep understanding of the craft makes it easy for him to communicate with actors on a level that you rarely see from acting teachers. The class always feels like a judgement free zone where we, as actors, are encouraged to explore, be playful and grow. I can't wait to go back in person!Amanda Bear

If you're willing, this studio is equipped with everything you need to become a great actor. T. Schreiber has that rare combination in acting teachers of being immensity knowledgeable, compassionate, intuitive, and understanding. He doesn't teach any one method, but rather is versed in all of the major American styles of modern acting and leads you through exercises to figure out which ones resonate most in your individual process. It is a safe environment where you are free to discover and explore and take risks. As a teacher he is constantly adding to his vast understanding of theatre and teaching styles and is a wealth of information on plays, monologues, actor biographies, and inspirational pieces of art to held broaden and deepen your exploration of character.Jonathan MacMillan

This is a great music school. If you are looking for a music lessons, look no more. We offer private lessons in piano, guitar, violin, saxophone, and voice. This is my 10th year working for this school as a piano teacher. If you’re a beginner, you’ll have a great experience because teachers are really enthusiastic and very patient. The school embraces all methods and styles of music. I am able teach my lessons on the highest level and the Anselmo Academy allows me to give the best classes without restricting which music books I use. We specialize in beginners and also teach very advanced music students and everyone in between. I have taught celebrities like Aretha Franklin and the same system and techniques are taught to all of my students.Melissa Manning

I started teaching piano and music theory at Anselmo Academy more than a decade ago. Anselmo Academy provides a flexible schedule so we as professionally trained musicians can both teach and continue with our freelance musicians career. The friendly environment and the amazing people I got to meet and work with throughout the years made it easy teaching to become my passion and way of life. I strongly recommend this non-profit organization for its honesty, dignity and professionalism in all aspects of its provided services. I love teaching piano at Anselmo Academy and it makes me so happy and proud to see all my students excel and to be continuesly inspirited while learning how to speak the language of music.Aleksandra Kocheva

Anselmo Academy has a unique mission to help every individual discover and develop his/her own innate talent in music, art and theater with highly distinguished faculty members at a feasible rate. In addition to introducing the fundamentals of music and arts, they provide gifted students opportunities to compete and perform in prestigious venues, such as, Jazz at Lincoln Center. Even in the absence of live music during the pandemic, students were given the chance to have a virtual recital through zoom. I strongly recommend Anselmo Academy to anyone who wishes to set a strong foundation or be inspired to further refine their musical and artistic skills.Karine Koroukian

I feel a piece of me is left behind in class after every Tuesday night. I’ve found what separates this class is the intimacy from the size and culture, which prioritizes the growth of the student. Dave puts his heart on the table during every class. It’s infectious and through osmosis you take a bit of that vulnerability with you in your scenes, in your prep, and throughout your week Dave makes the class what it is. He does so by demanding the culture be one of respect for one another, complete honesty of performance, humbleness to accept feedback, commitment to putting in the work, and curiosity to learn from one another. Hands down one of the best acting classes NYC! I dare you to try and find the same level of care and passion at some of the “top” acting schools in nyc. Just one warning: only consider coming if you are actually serious. Make sure you’re ready to put in the work. You’ll thank yourself for it.Mark Ghaida

David is a absolute gem. He is so talented. So patient plus the quality of his work is incredible. My 16 year old son bonded with David right away. David didn't only tape him, but went through the script in detail until he was fully ready for tape. My son who has been acting most of his life was so psyched to learn new techniques from David. It also takes my son a little bit to warm up with someone, but not with David. He felt so comfortable and looked so relaxed on tape. Another amazing quality of ActorClass, is that that they get right back to you when you are in panic mode for an ASAP self-tape and always finds time to book you right in. David is very personable and a pleasure to work with. I feel so fortunate to have found ActorClass. Thank you so much.Michele Rosen

I am a NYC/ LA actor !! I Have been in HBos The Deuce, BoardWalk Empire, The Dark Knight Rises , Bridges of spies, the greatest showman on earth as Hugh Jackman photo double and many more . Not only as an actor but as a human, david epstein class has made me a better person , actor, friend and director !!! David isn’t like most acting classes , he really takes his time to get to know someone and always gives you a scene which is somehow . Someway , perfect for you . David’s had me living outside my comfort zone in scenes and in life. Haven’t spoken to David recently in a few years and he immediately picked up my phone call. Thank you !!! David caresMichael Gucciardo