20 Best Acting Programs In Phoenix, AZ (2022 Updated)

The level of frustration I have with the financial aid office right now is uncalled for. For two months now, TWO MONTHS I have been attempting to get my financial aid straightened out for the last class I need for my degree. I’ve gone in several times and spoke directly to someone in financial aid, I’ve spoke to someone almost weekly over the phone and now I’m almost two weeks into this class and NOW they tell me I won’t be getting financial aid for this one class. I’ve filled out and had approved form after form, have notifications in my student center stating I will be getting awarded for this class and only this class and now they tell me nope sorry you’re not enrolled in enough credits. What?!!! How many people have opened my account and saw this was the only freaking class I was in?!! Why have me jump through so many hoops if I wasn’t even eligible in the first place? Zero help or communication from anyone in the financial aid department. I urge anyone thinking of going to any Maricopa school to go else where this behavior is consistent across every college within the system. I’m a working single mother, I don’t just have $300 lying around to pay for classes, which is why I applied for financial aid! Thanks for waisting my time and energy for absolutely nothing. I can’t wait to finish this class and finally be don’t with this joke of a school.Megan Welshans

One of the worst customer services I've had to deal with. I bought 15$ dollar headphones and I wanted to return them the same day because they couldn't plug into the school computers. I had ask (in the most generous way) if I could get my money back and get different headphones. I just wanted to do my homework on the school computers. Joana (the lady working at the store) stated that " you can't return these headphones. Once you open them you can't refund them". In my head, I thought to myself ' Any student that opens a textbook can't get their money back even if it's the wrong textbook'? When I first purchased these the same day, she didn't even give me a receipt. she just said thanks & went back on her phone. However, I walked back into the store and then stated that " On the receipt that you didn't give me the first time coming to bookstore stated that "Non-Textbook items may be returned within 30 days of purchases. She then stated that "It doesn't cover all scenarios and situations" She then proceeded to play on her mobile device. Never go to this bookstore unless you want the employees to ignore you.Joseph Perrine

Giving negative stars should be an option. Followed the class plan to get my psychology degree given to my by one counselor only to be told that was wrong the semester I was set to graduate. Got another plan from a different counselor paid out of pocket to take the psych course I WAS TOLD THAT WAS ALL THAT WAS NEEDED, confirmed I completed ALL necessary classes, took time to walk across the stage. When months went by and I hadn't gotten my degree I reached out only yo find that counselor was no longer there and the math class she said I didn't need yo get my degree was needed BUT they don't offer that class anymore. Person I spoke with tried to brow beat and guilt trip me into taking a basic degree. I didn't spend 12k to NOT get the degree I signed up for on day 1. This is a deceptive practice forcing students to taken more classes they don't need because your counselor screwed up 2 OF THEM!!! Shame on you for not owning your mess up and making it right.G H

Paradise Valley Community college is more than just a college because it is truly a community with people who truly care about your success! The teachers, staff, and students all make you feel welcome. The campus is also beautiful to talk a walk around both indoors and outdoors. Buying/renting textbooks and any needed items physically and digitally is a pretty smooth transition! One of the best interactions I had at PVCC was when I was inquiring about enrolling at PVCC in Fall 2020 for the spring semester 2021 as a new student, the supervisor in the PVCC Admissions/Recruitment office for new students (I cannot remember his name… Alex/Josh maybe? He's the main supervisor for new students for PVCC) was SO kind over the phone! He literally talked to me for 30-45 minutes explaining deadlines for FAFSA, placement test advice, payment plans, what scholarships I should apply for, broke down how FAFSA exactly works depending on how many classes you take, and even connected with me about him being a former actor then how he transitioned to getting an educational degree when he went back to school before landing his job with helping college students which was so neat to hear as I'm a Theatre Major so he was not only able to provide some insight as a former artist but he eased my anxious feelings about not knowing everything I needed to do in order to apply because he was very personable and didn't get annoyed at me when I was asking basic questions about enrollment. He was the FIRST college person to break everything down and give me an order of what was important so I could be as successful as possible. I didn't get that type of kind and thoughtful explaining about college when I was in high school applying to colleges. I had talked to other colleges and universities where conversations were off-putting unfortunately they would just say everything you needed to do as a new student within 30 seconds and then get frustrated if you don't understand or needed clarification. I highly recommend PVCC if you're looking to do your Associates Degree, Associate to transfer to a Bachelor's at university, or even to take some classes just for fun because you just want to learn THE THING you've always wanted to do but are scared, do it at PVCC (for me it was dance classes, I finally did my first two dance classes EVER at PVCC and I loved it!).Rebeca Anvik

PVCC not only has a beautiful campus, but also offers a wide variety of programs. Student life events are another great advantage of this college. PVCC actively offers opportunities for students to get involved, and provides support for students to succeed in their academic goals. I have been so impressed with the faculty and how attentive they are to students concerns and needs. The school also does a fantastic job of engaging and empowering students! I have made so many friends through my participation in student clubs and organizations. I’m graduating from the nursing program this semester, and I am so thankful for the education and experiences I have been provided. The Nursing professors are outstanding! They are supportive, encouraging, uplifting, professional, and hold their students to a high level of learning and comprehension. This program has helped me become successful in my academic and career goals. I wouldn’t trade my experience at PVCC for anything!Audrey Fish

I do my running on the track, it's not the most modern up-to-date facility when it comes to their sports courts, it could use some upgrades, but it's free and it's a very nice setting and backs up to the golf course, and it's better than running on the concrete streets. Not sure how the community college itself is it looks real nice I'm sure it's beautiful I just use the sports facilities outdoors.Thomas Uhlenberg

I would not recommend this school, I am truly and whole heartedly regretful of choosing this school over all of the other options I had. Something about this school stood out to me, and the counselors here try really hard to get you in. I do not identify with Christian faith and I am not religious at all so I initially felt weird about going to this school, but they mention multiple times that they accept all faiths and backgrounds so I felt better. However, upon talking their forced “Christian Worldview” class, the teacher grades with an iron fist for a 101 class and is just awful. My GPA for sure was going to plummet due to this stupid 101 class that they force on you. Honestly it was so ridiculous that I felt the need to reach out to my advisor. I was trying to come up with a solution because I felt some type of way about this. I suggested them placing me with a different teacher, since this teacher has AWFUL reviews going back years yet they do nothing about it. However they pretty much told me I still had to take the class, I could not switch to another teacher (you cannot pick your own teachers by the way which is huge for me now). Their only solution was that “another teacher would review my work.” This turned me off so bad from the entire school that I ended up withdrawing due to principal which messed up my financial aid. They honestly did not care one bit and obviously know there is a problem but do nothing to address it. I was so turned off that I chose to mess up my financial aid and just pick another school, there was no way that I was finishing out my degree here after this. Go elsewhere !!Taylor

I am an Atheist. I chose this college because it had the focus I was looking for, the delivery method was fully online so I could continue to work, and the price was the best around. I did not feel like being of the Christian faith was a prerequisite. My instructors and professors were not pushy with religion, and for a master's program, I felt like I was able to learn what was necessary for the field I was in. I have a Master's degree and 2 focuses now from GCU and I couldn't be happier with my education and experience. The guidance counselors were great, the financial aid process was easy, and I'm grateful for GCU and all they have done for me.April Wittmeyer

Parking in Garage building#7 on 33rdAvewas the best for going into the areana. We had to checkin at theguard station, drive around it then enter the parking garage. Parking was allowed on the 2ndfloor and above. It was the AFHE homeschool senior graduation. The campuswas very green. The areana was building #38 there is a museum to JERRY COLANGELO here and a beautiful tripple cross monument. The restrooms are spacious and everything but the soap dispensers are automated. The seats of the arena were a tight squeeze to sit down on if you are 1x or biggerEileen L. Smith

I have a mobility scooter because I can't walk very well anymore. This scooter is electric and I don't go very far on it as it has a limited range. The park I go to some times is far (in a wheelchair). I cut through the north campus parking lot 100's of yards from any building to save some battery. I felt dejected today when I was accosted by one of the campus police telling me to leave as is a closed campus. It did not feel like it was for my safety as much as him exerting his authority. I was just cutting the corner of the campus away from anyone. Edit: This happened around noonish on the same day I posted. Edit2:Not fair to the school so Just the Officer gets a one star for that day. The school itself is pretty awesome.D. O.

I decided to take 2 classes this semester, both in person classes. One started in September and the other in October. My September class is amazing! I love the teacher and the curriculum. My October class was switched to online only days before it was supposed to start- I paid and signed up for an in person class specifically, and was not notified by anyone that it had been moved to online, leaving me with one day to find another class, or bite the bullet and do an online class. Very unhappy with the communication of the school.carly

They are a horror story. 2018 I applied for being a personal trainer. They put me in a weird stack of classes including world religion and other classes. They said I can't change no matter a student advisor's mistake. When I dropped classes they claimed I owed them almost $400 for their mistake and out a freeze on my FAFSA.Scandy Italian Ice

A friend invited me to a musical for the color of purple. I haven't been to the theater in eons. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and wouldn't mind coming back to watch another. It was emotional for me and I had too much excitement on my face that one of the employees could tell that it was my first time there. She complimented me and shared how truly it was and refreshing to see the excitement on my face. That made me feel good to no end. It was a delight to receive such a compliment. I'm planning on enjoying more theater in my life. The last musical I had seen was in New York the avenue Q on Broadway which was in the early 2000s. I don't give myself a chance to enjoy more of it. I love going to the movies instead but I just realized it is night and day. Thanks to my friend who thought of me and I shared in the joy of supporting his two friends that casted in the musical. It was an honor to watch this musical.Melinda Lee-Knopf

What a wonderful local theater. Quaint, with a tiny Broadway feel. I had the privilege to see my first show here, ‘Edgar Allen Poe’. What an amazing, transformative experience. The performance was just brilliant. The staff there was extremely helpful and pleasant and what a treat I was able to have a small wine prior to sitting. The only wonder was where to park and I do wish that intimate seating had just a little space. I was so enthralled that a few of my gasps felt like I may have been a slight allowance to the beside me and the woman in front of me. Again, it is a Sammi yet lovely space to enjoy the arts just close considering even just cold and flu season or the minor entranced giggle or gasp.Akilah Schneiderwind

My wife and I secured some tickets fro. Vettix to see Bandstand. We arrived early enough to enjoy a meal at the bistro. Separate review upcoming for that splendid meal. This venue was very quaint and a little dated but that made the ambiance more enjoyable. We had seats on the left side in row E. The show was awesome. The performers did an amazing job and the staff was great. Thank you for a lovely evening.Jason Champagne

We took our 5 and 9 year old granddaughters to see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on Saturday August 29th. I was deeply disappointed in how risque some parts were (Potiphars wife) and absolutely vulgar Pharoh was. I understand Pharoh was "Elvis" but the real "Elvis" was not vulgar. He did not thrust his hips like this young man did. He was WAY over the top. Potipars wife did not have to be depicted as so vulgar. The story could have been told in a family friendly manner. The professional troupes that perform this wonderful Bible story do so in a manner that is not simply vulgar and classless. I am sorry that my precious grandchildren were subjected to this unnecessarily vulgar depiction of a beautiful Biblical story…Jeanette Compton

We recently saw their production of Seussical the Musical. WHAT A GREAT SHOW! All of their talent was far above our expectations! My wife and I were very impressed by the quality – not only of the acting talent, but the choreography, sets and sound engineering as well! We have two little ones and they absolutely loved it! Would definitely recommend and will be going to other performances by this theatre.Rodney Patton

Great view points! Took my niece to get understanding from other kids perspective and she loved it. COVID really did a number on not only the parents but the kids as well. Great job staff.B. Scroggins

I’ve been an artist my entire life. I had always dreamed to make video games and work on the characters for them ever since I was little. When I found out ASU had a new art program, I was happy because I didn’t have to get an associates at a community college. Turns out, this would be the worst experience of my life. The classes they had me taking were beginners classes, some had absolutely nothing to do with my career of choice. The fact that I was spending 6,000 a semester just to learn how a line can work in art was very degrading to me. In fact, the only reason I put two stars was because my 2D Design professor was amazing, comforting, and she had a true passion for everyone’s art. She was the reason why I didn’t leave after my first month. Not only did the BFA program suck, they almost never get back to you on any questions you have. When I got accepted, no one told me that I had to talk to my counselor and chose my own classes upon registration so I almost didn’t even make it into the fall program. Not only that, but it took almost a month to be able to even call my counselor to figure things out. When I wanted to drop out of ASU, I scheduled an appointment with my counselor and he told me to just withdraw from my classes. I took his advice and four months later I was still enrolled getting emails that I was on “academic watch”. I also emailed the financial office to tell them that I was withdrawing from ASU, after two and a half months I got an email basically stating “we don’t know what to do for you” in a polite manner at least. This whole situation has been an absolute nightmare, and I know google isn’t the best place to review them but I needed to put this out there. If you’re looking for a good place to do animation or 3D computer design, look into CG spectrum. They take great care of their alumni.Baylee Grace

Mesa Arts Center is a gem of a venue with so many features – architecture, water fountains, plants, studio spaces, and more. In 2016 the center put on Spark! Festival of Creativity and it was such a good time. Thought of sharing these photos from the installation Sensebellum hosted called, "The Sensatorium". Here's to hope for another event like this at that location in the future! Thank you again to the whole team at the Mesa Arts Center 🙏Sensebellum

Went there for an event We All Are The Cure, Ben Fuller incredible Cristian singer, he gave his testimony,WOW, the new 988 crises help line. The venue very nice easy going in. I parked outside in the back free parking, not far at all. Very nice place. People very nice, they do have snacks and soda vender, clean bathrooms, accomodations for wheelchairs chairs. 100% recommend.AnaNicole Hausherr

Great arts center with a wonderful museum/exhibit hall, 4 theatres with some amazing touring shows and impressive local productions, and an absolutely lovely arts store stocked with a nice variety of local art including ceramics, paintings, photography, jewelry, including holiday art – whimsical, serene, and thought-provoking. Highly recommend this for local gifts!Nancy Ordonez

Went to the lion king and absolutely loved it. We were in the lower level ( row 7 center) and it was great views. They also consider this the VIP section and had bags that they gave us. Have sat in the balcony before and won’t do that again as it’s way too steep . So if you are scared of heights, I wouldn’t pick the balcony. The show was amazing and the theater itself is lovely. They had lots of ushers as you drove in, guiding you but you w wish they had the same after the show. Driving out of the parking lot was very chaotic and took a long time. We did buy $10 parking pass when we bought the tkts and that was helpful. ( at least when driving in).RGK Kalra

They have a great place to have some really excellent shows. The parking is easy in and out. The staff always seems very friendly and helpful getting you to your seat or whatever you need. Lighting is very professional done. Seats are comfortable and they give you a lot of room for your legs. Prices on their food and beverages are very good. So, you maybe thinking why the 4 vs 5 stars I would have to say the only thing is the sound system is not that good and you can't hear every thing that is going on all the time. Saw a few shows there now and because of the sound it was hard to understand.J J

Very nice theatrical plays and talented preforming plays. Loved the Lion King Broadway Play and Hamilton. I find seating at least 15 rows from stage is best since the seats are not really stadium stacked. I had to keep moving my head to watch the show because the person in front had a big hair do. I sat back my next visit below handicap section and no problem. The seats slop down a bit like stadium seating. Remember you have to pay $10 for parking. Reasonable price show items. Drinks and food of course pricey. Easy traffic flow arriving and leaving show; even almost sold out events.Dree

If you are interested in acting, coming out of your shell, or just want to try something new that makes you nervous/excited…come to Dearing Acting Studio. These guys are amazing, and there are no judgments. They truly want to help people wherever they are in life and their careers. If acting isn't your thing…it doesn't matter. You don't have to be an actor, or want to be an actor to benefit from the positive energy that this place, and its team exudes. The worst that can happen…you may become a more well rounded individual having met them. Jason LeonettiJanson Lionotis

I love taking classes here! Not only is a positive, encouraging environment, but also a great classroom. I loved working on myself and how I can improve my speech, diction, and overall acting ability. Truly the best part was also seeing all my classmates develop into better actors! The difference from week 1 to week 6 was astounding. I can't wait to dive into the next round and continue to work towards getting real acting jobs. I cannot say enough great things about this studio and the team that runs it! Highly recommend.Melissa W

If acting or improv-ing is something you feel is in your stars or on heart and you haven't had the courage to give it a try… this place is the place to dive in. Regardless of your age, race, disability or beliefs, Dearing will show up for you. The instructors are amazing, kind and honest. They will encourage you and will provide you with a safe place to explore. So glad I signed up….Coey K

My experience with Go and Drive has been nothing short of amazing! Celina made me feel so comfortable and happy each and every lesson. She maintains a professional environment while we chatted back and forth through our 2 and a half hour sessions; she makes them fly by so fast! Her way of teaching is well paced, fun, and most importantly easy to understand! Within a few lessons I felt extremely safe on the road. She breaks down parking, three point turns, parallel parking, and turning into easy to understand steps that I feel anyone can get the hold of! Her way of explaining each and every hurdle is absolutely spectacular! I am very grateful for her and I very much recommend asking for Celina as your instructor. 🌻Aaron

I took Ultimate Package in the late December – early January. It was a very pleasant experience. I got a decent preparation for the theory test and passed it easily the same day. Everyone with whom I cooperated in Go and Drive auto school were very friendly and ready to help. I got my driving license. I am a foreigner, but I didn't face any additional obstacles. The best part of my education was my driving instructor – Mabel Contreras. It was a great pleasure to drive with her. She is very professional, calm and thoughtful. I felt very relaxed while driving with her and believed in my skills. Mabel, thank you very much.Alena Gross

I highly recommend Go & Drive Driving School. My daughter absolutely loved it and she's a typical teenager who I thought wouldn't want to take a course. However, it was the best thing for everyone! Amber taught her things I, myself, have forgotten over the years and even had her experience the freeway a few times which is more than I ever had when I was taught to drive! My daughter loved being with Amber and learned so much from her. I will definitely being doing this again for my 13 year old when the time comes! Highly recommend! Well worth the money.Lindsay Bullington

I attended a concert that featured In This Moment. The concert was great, but the overall experience of the theater itself was more bland. My party and I got to the concert early, even though we had our assigned seating, to make sure we could get any snacks or anything extra before the first band came on stage. The food and drinks were way over priced, but this is not uncommon. We couldn't bring anything into the theater so it's kinda of a situation where you are just stuck. We sat down at our assigned spots. The first band started and the theater wasn't even full. Our friends who were a bit farther away came and sat next to us so we could rock out together. More people came in, but we were able to meet up again for the last band. The concert was great despite a few errors from the sound techs, so I can say if that was the concert halls fault or not. The concert hall itself was just boring though. The band could have performed anywhere and still been great. If you like seated rock concerts this place is "fine". I would have preferred to be outside, even if I had to stand I had no real issues with it or the staff, but I was not amazed in anyway by the place.Michael Nawrocki

What a shame! This venue has gone DOWNHILL. We went to see Alicia Keys. We arrived to find the strictest security ever, which was great but their communications didn’t tell people they had a bag size limit. So many people were just simply screwed. When we got in, we ordered soda and water, which was great because the water is in a tin can – more eco friendly than plastic cups. We got our drinks and made our way to the auditorium. We saw a line that was backed up to the entrance to get in to our seats! As it turned out, they were forcing everyone to pour out their drinks into giant plastic cups FOR NO REASON! We are now forced to cart 3 massive cups along with our phones and try to find our seats. The worst part was, to go to the bathroom, you had to leave and re-enter the stupid line or a nasty staff person would yell at you for cutting. It was a logistics disaster. You’d expect more professionalism and effort from a venue this size. Once in the venue, the seats are trashed, rope lighting is falling from the edges of the walls and it just looks terrible. It’s time for an overhaul here. One star because at least Alicia was amazing. 🙂Austin Pierce

There was convenient parking nearby ($15 for the event) which made it easy to get to the venue. Preliminary security went really quickly and there wasn't a huge line as the concert was starting. Inside the signage wasn't super helpful for knowing where to go for which sections but there were various employees who all were able to point us in the right direction. We arrived after the event had actually started so the lights were dimmed to the point that we couldn't really read the section numbers on the signs. The seats themselves felt pretty old; not the most comfortable but not the worst either.Jill D

Amazing summer programs open to all young people. It's a small price to pay for a little slice of the specialness that is PCDS (small classes, caring focused teachers). Whether you go year round (i.e., qualify through testing and pay the tuition) is up to how you feel about private schools – pros and cons. Amazing education, high pressure.Sarah G

We have been a part of the wonderful DC Dance family since the very beginning of August 2014 and we continue to be!! My daughters have really loved their time this studio and have learned so much about dance and even more importantly so much more beyond just dance moves. This is a studio of dance and heart. Trisha, the phenomenal artistic director with endless vision and talent and Christie, the amazing, super friendly studio owner are a dynamic duo who really care about each and every dancer. The dance productions that these students and teachers put on every year are absolutely incredible and I say that as a parent who has been to over 25 Broadway shows. They continue to amaze me each and every time. At DC Dance there are no egos, no competition amongst the girls, its all about quality dance and learning how to be the best person inside and outside the studio walls. I will say that back in 2014, my oldest daughter was about ready to give up dancing for good after being at other studio and by a whim we found DC Dance and they almost in instant brought back my daughter's love of dancing again and she has been dancing strong ever since. This studio is one of quality, dedication, professionalism, and going on the journey of growth with your child. DC Dance is family.M Fransway

DC Dance AZ is a one of a kind gorgeous dance studio with classically trained teachers, that offer ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, drama, and so many more amazing classes. My Daughter has been dancing at DC Dance AZ since she was in Kindergarten. She is now going into 7th Grade and is still dancing here and loves every teacher, and dance friend so much we call our this our DC Dance Family! She has learned so much aesthetically which had inspired her to be more confident and has more appreciation for this beautiful art form. We love that this studio is not competitive dance but rather classically trained. The owner is so professional and kind and has treated us like family! The teachers are phenomenal! Trisha, one of my daughter’s favorite teachers has an astonishing professional background in dance and is an amazing choreographer and role model. She choreographs each show as a full Broadway inspired production with elaborate costumes. There are 3 recitals a year, and an annual fundraiser for The Autism Society of Greater Phoenix. DC Dance AZ holds a very special place in our hearts and I highly recommend this one of a kind gem here in North Scottsdale!Lori Lee

DC Dance AZ provides my daughter with an excellent place to explore her love of dance and performing. After trying several other dance studios DC Dance AZ, proved to be the best studio for us. I love that the studio is not competition focused, but rather challenges the dancers in their growth and development both as individuals and as team members, as they grow through the different levels of Company. The studio provides a small family feeling, very welcoming to new parents and dancers. You will often catch the older dancers smiling and interacting with the younger dancers. There is a sense that ensuring the dancers conduct themselves in a positive manner is equally as important to performing proper dance technique. Making it a positive place I feel comfortable with my daughter growing and spending more and more time at, as she gets older. The owner of the studio makes this an excellent choice for dance studios, as her commitment to her dancers and families is always demonstrated with her above and beyond efforts to serving everyone. She treats everyone like family and genuinely loves all her dancers.Jessica

After investigating several acting classes it became REALLY OBVIOUS that this was THE BEST option for several reasons: 1. I wanted a teacher who’s actually an industry professional ( most classes are taught by wannabes) and this was it, Dustin really has a talent for noticing what I need to improve on. 2. I didn’t want a teacher who just pats me on the back, tells me a did a good job and to “go along now and pick Mary golds.” Dustin’s let’s you know when you did a good job and lets you know what you should improve on. No growth in the comfort zone right?? 3. The class is full of kind and like-minded people, it’s cool to see how accepting they are of new people. I really couldn’t find a class that simultaneously pushed me outside of my comfort zone and made me feel good about the progress I’ve made before coming to Finding You Pictures. 10/10 recommend!Vincent Gunter

I have taken serval types of acting course from Dustin throughout the years. Recently have taken his scene study class in his beautiful full equipped studio. Dustin course is intense with active participation and constructive feedback to help you as an actor to improve your craft. The class size is small allowing actors lots of time time to work on various techniques from cold reads, scene study, building and other skills. This class is perfect to help build skills as an actor that you may need to bring our improve. Also prepare you for your next audition. Dustin is a skilled actor with countless experience in the industry. He has created an affordable class to extend his skills to help other actors who want to achieve their goals.Alicia Maudilee

I've been taking classes at Finding You Pictures for over a month now and am so glad I made the decision to join their class. Dustin does a great job with providing applicable techniques and pushing your comfort zone so you can truly grow as an actor. I've met so many talented actors and have seen them improve before my own eyes. The class environment is great and it's something I look forward to every week. If you are serious about mastering your craft Finding You is the place to go.Faith Wheelington

Temple Music and Performing Arts has been nothing short of transformative for my daughter. She's learning about the audition process in a supportive, but professional environment, and has made some great friends in the short time she's been participating. The productions are TRULY some of the best children's theatre I have ever seen (and we're from Los Angeles). Terry aims to get the best out of his actors and they rise to the occasion. Emily's choreography is fun and age-appropriate. The costumes – fantastic! My daughter's first production was in May, and she attended one of the summer camp sessions this summer. Even though we live in North Phoenix, we've committed to the first fall production because it's really brought her out of her shell. I can't stress enough how nurturing and fun of an environment it is, while also being simultaneously professional and foundational for kids who are interested in theatre. My daughter is attending ASA this fall, and I feel like she's already been given a great base to start from with Temple Music.Shannon Marvin

Temple Music Studios is the BEST! This is a family owned business and Terry, Ginny, and Emily have a wonderful team of professionals that care deeply for the kids they work with. Our daughter has been taking voice lessons with at Temple Music Studios for several years and loves it. She has become more confident with her singing and has improved greatly with her lessons. They are also very passionate about children’s theatre. Our daughter has been in several of their shows at Prince of Peace. She had a blast and made some of her closest friends there. I highly recommend….they will treat you like you are part of their family!!B B

The teachers are incredible! Both the owners and the teachers genuinely care about each of their students. The owners are extremely nice people. Temple Music and Performing Arts puts on top-notch productions. In the process of doing so, the students learn what is required to put on a top level production in a fun, supportive and nurturing environment.Deb B

My daughter began taking singing lessons a few years back and I have been incredibly impressed with the staff and the passion that they bring to the studio. Kirk truly has a love for what he does and it transfers to every teacher and student. The studio provides multiple opportunities at various levels to "showcase" the students and their talents to parents, friends, family and the general public. During our time with the studio, my daughter has developed confidence, her skill level has greatly improved, increased stage presence, teamwork and a place that rewards for hard work and dedication. The focus is on creating a "well rounded" student in music. Whether you sing or play an instrument – the opportunities at Kirk's studio for the Performing Arts showcase above the rest!Jennifer Collins

We have been part of Kirk’s Studio family for a year and half and have never once experienced any challenge with quality. They have the best and kindest teachers. Specially during these testing times of pandemic, their operation was smooth. Transition from in person to online has never been a problem. They have been such valuable partners in our daughters music journey. We have over the year have many times switched from online to in-person classes and vice versa depending on the need of the times and people at Kirk Studio has made navigating these changes very easy. All it took us to do is drop an email and all was set for our daughter. All she had to do was attend the classes. We are thankful to have found Kirk’s!!Shilpa Kothari

We had been through many piano teachers for my boys before finding Kirk's Studio. Initially when my sons started piano lessons it was more of a chore for them to practice and work at it. Now my sons love to practice and really enjoy going and learning how to make music. What I love about the studio is that no matter what you interest is in leaning to do music, the studio has something for everyone and every ability. Kirk Studio's is a place where you can start your musical journey to grow to your fullest potential. I love the opportunities that my kids have had to perform and love that my boys are excited to show me what they are working on after every lesson.Katie Poole

The best aspect of this place is they coach you on different acting techniques of the highest quality but encourage each person to focus on their individual artistic journeys which, I feel, is liberating and a very unique form of education, something that's not very common. It does take a lot of work, though, and rightly so. I’ve been in Rachel’s class for almost two years now and it has helped me immensely to grow as an actor – every feedback of hers has opened up some new avenue in me to explore. I had also been wanting to delve into Shakespeare for the longest time and being in AZAA made it possible for me. I started off with Brandy, the artistic director, as my coach and it was absolutely wonderful to be taught by her – it laid a strong foundation and her passion for this art form is infectious to say the least. The current instructor Maren (who is such a wonderful human being!) has brought another dimension to Shakespeare with movement based learning and the art of story telling through physical behavior which, again, opened a new dimension of acting as an art form for me. Finally, the Meisner technique class, taught by Isaac Byrne, who's based in New York, has helped me understand the magical effect words or text have on a human being, an actor and all you have to do is "not get in the way". Isaac's very systematic and practical approach to coaching and his honesty and transparency as a person is something that inspires you to accept who you are as a person and put yourself out there confidently. I also want to say that this place is a thriving community of artists and all my fellow actors who I've met in class are wonderful people and I thoroughly enjoy all the after-class parking lot conversations. Those are highly enlightening and fun! I would highly recommend this place to anyone who is considering taking the plunge into acting. You will grow here, not only as an actor, but also as a human being!Ashwini Chandrashekar

I have been studying acting for several years now and have never found a place quite like AZAA. The intense and highly personalized conservatory-style training is unlike anything else you will find in Arizona. In my time here, I have not only felt empowered to push past many of my personal barriers that were holding me back in my acting, but I feel that I have truly been set up for success, on a personal as well as a professional level. In addition to the one-of-a-kind training you will get from the profoundly gifted artists who lead this program, there are regular special workshops led by top industry professionals who come from LA and NYC. Invaluable discussions around the industry, the realities of being a working actor, and the continual paradigm shift in the realms of stage and screen are regularly held in these classes as well. If you're in Arizona, and you're serious about the craft of acting, this is the place to be. I have never felt more supported, inspired or empowered in my work and on my path like I have while I have been at AZAA. I will always cherish the time I have spent here.Avery Volk

I honestly do not know if I can articulate what being a student at Arizona Actors Academy under the instruction of Brandy Hotchner has meant to me. There is so much I would like to say that I feel like I could easily write pages upon pages, however, I will simply say this: When I first entered class I was a shy and scared being who honestly did not feel that I would ever be good enough. Through careful and dedicated instruction, Brandy helped me to realize my potential and gain the confidence within myself that was always waiting there to be claimed. My entire world came to life (both artistically and personally) after I began class with Brandy. I highly recommend this program to the serious actor who would like to take their craft to the next level. The type of training received in this program is comparable to the training at highly recognized conservatories in New York. Enrolling in classes at Arizona Actors Academy is one of the best decisions I have ever made.Jenn Ball

We hosted a fundraiser at this location and it was absolutely amazing. The staff bent over backwards to make our experience great and the performers were hilarious. Unfortunately there was no signage on the building which made it hard for our guests to locate it. I'm guessing that will eventually be corrected, but just know it's directly east of Bass Pro shop and directly across from the "brass tap" bar. Definitely worth a trip out. Funny, funny stuff.Tony Stark Policci

Wonderful to see the crew back on thier original stage! Covid hit everyone hard, and we attended as many variety venues as we could while the jesterZ name was absent! Nothing compares to the auditorium like stage, the custom lighting, the aura of prior acts floating in the air, best place in town to enjoy a good family friendly laugh!Arthur Tallman (King_Arthur_VII)

Always a fun evening at JesterZ Improv! I especially love that it is fun for all ages. We’ve been going since almost the beginning, both of my kids have requested to go for their birthday over the years. I love comedy, but it’s nearly impossible to find ‘clean’ comedy. Thank you JesterZ for the many years of laughter!Amber Henthorn

This may seem like an overstatement to the casual reader, but working with Ann and Alene at Animal Actors of AZ was life changing for us and our dog, and one of the greatest experiences of our lives. We adopted a beautiful but insecure shepherd-mix dog who was afraid of everything and everyone. We tried another popular training organization in Cave Creek and it was a disaster. Their method of training dogs for recalls (“come”) involved letting the dog run out on a long lead, then giving the command and abruptly yanking the lead to snap the dog’s neck. The methods were born out of training dogs for the military, and lacked any form of compassion. Needless to say, this was not the right approach for a dog who was already terrified of everything and everyone. It wasn’t humane. Quite by accident, while seeking an organization to provide snake avoidance training for our young dog (an essential skill if you live in the deserts of AZ), we heard about the wonderful results and compassionate approach of Ann Austin and AA of AZ, so we took our dog there solely for this purpose. What we saw blew our minds! Ann and Alene are truly dog whisperers. Their level of understanding of dog behavior, their connection with the dogs, their patience to understand the nature of every dog breed and every dog’s unique personality and background was unlike anything we had ever witnessed. They LOVE dogs! They show them love every step of the way. They have infinite patience. They emphasize training you how to train your dog so that with each step, the bond of love and trust between you and you dog grows and grows. After completing the snake avoidance program over two Saturday sessions, we made the best decision ever to commit to Ann and Alene’s guidance in training our dog. It was life changing for all of us! Our dog became confident and happy. I could take her ANYWHERE, and if it was legal, off-leash, and she would stay perfectly on command. At one point I walked her down a pathway and another person’s dog was aggressively snarling and trying to attack her while it’s owner had its lead wrapped tightly around her fist and the dog was up on its hind legs, pulling almost more than its owner could control. Our dog was on a heel command next to my leg. We walked past the attacking dog and my dog never missed a step. She had confidence in me as her protector. She never flinched. It was the moment that I realized that we transformed not only our dog’s confidence and happiness, but it changed our confidence and happiness with our dog in any situation. Ann told me at the beginning of our training that if we would commit to the training we would develop a bond with our dog that would be greater than any bond we have ever had with any animal. No truer words were ever spoken. Our dog was about eight months old when we began training with Ann. She is now 7-years old. We can now point to hundreds, if not thousands, of experiences where our dog has behaved in such a way as to make us so very proud to be part of her pack.😊 She has been lured away by coyotes, and a simple recall command, without having to raise my voice, brought her back immediately. We walk on the busiest streets, off-leash, and she heels perfectly and stops automatically at the intersection until I decide it is safe for us to cross together. I could go on and on. We now live in Utah. If we ever have another dog, I will travel to AZ to work with Ann and Alene to train our dog. There just isn’t anyone better.Tom

We rescued two puppies four years ago — mind you my husband and I were in our late 60s. One day while trying to walk these two pups in the desert wash by our house, I happened Aline Jones and her young Doberman. She saw me struggling with our pups, Sage and Blu, and I commented on how well-behaved her dog was. Well, turns out she is one member of a family who own Animal Actors of Arizona! Best day of our lives and the lives of our dogs. I came back home, read up on their philosophy and immediately called to meet with Aline to discuss having them train our dogs (or was it more about training us). We have owned three other dogs and taken them to various other training programs but nothing compares to the success we have had with Aline’s guidance. One of the best benefits of Animal Actors of Arizona is that once your dogs have “graduated”, you and they are invited to join in any and all Dog Walks held through out the year. There is no additional fee for attendance and it’s a wonderful way to stay connected with this excellent training group. I highly recommend them to anyone serious about having well-trained dogs in their lives.Ellen Roach

I went to Animal Actors with my wild and out of control 16 week old toy poodle. They had been highly recommended by some of my dog owner friends. This started a delightful, rewarding and fun journey. We started with the snake training; then did the 3 basic obedience courses; then went on to Movie Dogs, a course to learn tricks and advanced moves. My little poodle Barkley went on to earn Obedience and Therapy Dog certifications and become a paid actor in videos and live shows. He of course now is very well behaved and has touched hundreds of people's hearts. Ann and Aline are professional, kind and compassionate. They have together many decades of knowledge and experience. They are great teachers and take a sincere and personal interest in both the dogs and their owners. If I could give them a 6 out of 5 stars I would!Annette Cline