Discover top acting classes in Austin, from improv to film techniques.

Top Acting Schools and Classes in Austin, Texas

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Austin’s vibrant performing arts scene is supported by numerous acting schools, studios, and training programs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, and whether you’re interested in film, stage, improv, or commercial acting, there is a class in Austin for you.

This directory highlights the top acting schools and classes with physical locations in Austin (and surrounding areas), covering all experience levels (beginner to advanced) and all age groups – from kids and teens to adults.

Each listing includes key details like location, types of classes, age groups, notable instructors, tuition (when available), and contact information.

(Note: Always check the school’s official website for the most up-to-date schedules and pricing.)

Acting Studios & Schools (All Levels, Adults & Teens)

These studios offer comprehensive acting training for adults and teens, from foundational techniques to professional-level courses.

The Actor’s School (Austin Community College)

  • Address: 6101 Highland Campus Dr. (ACC Highland) and 1820 W Stassney Ln. (ACC South), Austin, TX (The Actor’s School (@theactorsschoolatx) – Instagram)
  • Classes: Wide range of courses from Beginning Acting to Advanced Techniques, including voice/speech, improvisation, Shakespeare, and audition prep (Performance Training | ATX Theatre).
  • Ages/Levels: Older teens and adults, beginner through advanced (continuing education program open to the public).
  • Notable Instructors: Founded by veteran actress Babs George in 1993 (Babs George | ACC Continuing Education); all instructors are working professionals in theatre or film.
  • Tuition: Moderate, typically priced per course (approximately a few hundred dollars each; for example, a multi-week course may cost around $150–$300). Courses are offered through ACC’s Continuing Education.
  • Website & Contact: theactorsschool.org – (Registration via ACC Continuing Ed) (Performance Training | ATX Theatre).

Austin Acting Studio (Craig Nigh)

Carol Hickey Acting Studio

The DuPuy Acting Studio

BriteLites Acting Studio (Mona Lee Fultz)

  • Address: Crestview Shopping Center, 7109 Woodrow Ave, Austin, TX 78757 (Home – BriteLites Acting Studio)
  • Classes: Training primarily for film, TV, and commercials. Specializes in audition technique, on-camera acting, and career guidance (including image and branding) (Home – BriteLites Acting Studio). Classes cover scene work, monologues, and industry skills.
  • Ages/Levels: All ages (teens through adults) and experience levels. Students range from serious aspiring actors to professionals seeking public speaking confidence – even politicians and corporate clients have trained here (Home – BriteLites Acting Studio). Beginner-friendly and supportive environment, with some classes tailored by age group.
  • Notable Instructors: Owned and operated by Mona Lee Fultz, a working actress and casting director with decades of coaching experience (teaching since 1977) (Home – BriteLites Acting Studio). Mona is highly respected; her studio is recommended by talent agencies and casting offices in Texas and Los Angeles (Home – BriteLites Acting Studio).
  • Tuition: Moderate. Classes are typically ongoing weekly sessions; students often pay monthly or per workshop. (Contact the studio for current rates and scheduling.)
  • Website & Contact: britelitesacting.com – Email: monalee@thebizonline.com (via website contact) (Home – BriteLites Acting Studio).

In The Moment Acting Studio (Laurel Vouvray)

  • Address: 730 W. Stassney Lane, Suite 226, Austin, TX 78745 (Meisner Technique with Laurel Smith Vouvray) (South Austin)
  • Classes: Meisner Technique–based actor training. Emphasis on truthful emotional connection and “living truthfully in imaginary circumstances.” Classes include improv exercises, repetition technique, scene study, character development, and audition prep.
  • Ages/Levels: Primarily adults, with a focus on intermediate to advanced students, though dedicated beginners are welcome. (The training can be intense and akin to therapy in its depth, according to student testimonials.)
  • Notable Instructors: Taught by Laurel Smith Vouvray, an acclaimed acting coach with decades of experience. Her students have gone on to roles in major films and TV (e.g. Disney’s Ahsoka, FX’s Snowfall) as noted in testimonials (Meisner Technique with Laurel Smith Vouvray) (Meisner Technique with Laurel Smith Vouvray). Laurel creates a nurturing yet challenging environment.
  • Tuition: Ongoing class enrollment, roughly $200 per month for weekly classes (Meisner Technique with Laurel Smith Vouvray). Workshops and private coaching are available (contact for details).
  • Website & Contact: inthemomentacting.com – Email: laurel@inthemomentacting.com (Meisner Technique with Laurel Smith Vouvray). (Reach out to inquire about class openings and placement.)

Youth & Teen Acting Programs

These schools specialize in training children and teens – from playful introductory classes to pre-professional conservatories. They often offer after-school classes, summer camps, and performance opportunities for young actors.

ZACH Theatre Performing Arts School (ZACH Youth Programs)

  • Address: 1510 Toomey Road, Austin, TX 78704 (ZACH THEATRE PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL – Austin, TX – Yelp) (ZACH Theatre campus, South Austin)
  • Classes: Year-round theater classes and camps for kids and teens (Grades K–12). Curriculum spans acting, singing, dancing, improv, musical theatre, and audition techniques, all designed to teach life skills through theater arts (Performance Training | ATX Theatre). ZACH offers general classes for fun and skill-building, as well as audition-based programs for serious students (like the Pre-Professional Company for musical theatre and the Acting Conservatory for advanced acting training in grades 9–12) (Performance Training | ATX Theatre) (Performance Training | ATX Theatre).
  • Ages/Levels: Children and Teens (age 3.5 up to 18), from beginners to advanced pre-professionals (Camps & Classes – ZACH Theatre – Official Site). Programs include Creative Drama for young kids, performance classes for elementary through high school, and even a full-time ZACH Academy (a daytime performing arts high school program for grades 6–12) (Performance Training | ATX Theatre).
  • Notable Instructors: ZACH’s education faculty includes professional directors, actors, and educators. (ZACH Theatre is Austin’s longest-running professional theatre, so students often learn from theater professionals in a hands-on environment.) The Pre-Professional Company and Conservatory involve audition-based entry with expert coaching.
  • Tuition: Varies by program. Short classes and camps range from roughly $200–$500. Intensive year-long programs (Conservatory, Academy) are higher tuition and may require an audition. Need-based scholarships are often available.
  • Website & Contact: zachtheatre.org/education – (ZACH THEATRE PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL – Austin, TX – Yelp). (Check the website for seasonal class schedules, audition info, and registration.)

kidsActing Studio

  • Address: 1400 Tillery Street, Austin, TX 78721 (Theater Classes | kidsActing Studio | Austin) (East Austin; plus multiple class locations citywide)
  • Classes: Acting, musical theater, and film classes for youth. kidsActing has been empowering Austin kids through the performing arts since 1980 (Theater Classes | kidsActing Studio | Austin). Offerings include after-school classes (improvisation, scene study, acting for film), production classes where students rehearse and perform in full shows, show choirs, and technical theater training. They also host popular spring break and summer camps featuring plays and musicals.
  • Ages/Levels: Preschool (age 3-4) through High School (age 18) (Theater Classes | kidsActing Studio | Austin). Grouped by age: there are creative drama classes for the youngest, and more advanced production and troupe classes for pre-teens and teens. All experience levels are welcome; the environment is safe and supportive so kids can build confidence and communication skills (Theater Classes | kidsActing Studio | Austin).
  • Notable Instructors: The studio employs experienced theater instructors, directors, and choreographers. Founded by Diane Seger (a well-known figure in Austin youth theater), kidsActing has a long track record of alumni who have gone on to professional work. Classes are fun-focused but with high production values – kidsActing shows have live sets, costumes, and often live music.
  • Tuition: Moderate. Classes are typically semester-based (fall/spring) and range around $300–$600 per semester, depending on length and whether a production is included. Camps have weekly tuition (around $250–$400 per camp week). Payment plans and some scholarships are available.
  • Website & Contact: kidsactingstudio.com – Email: info@kidsactingstudio.com (Theater Classes | kidsActing Studio | Austin). (Parents can find class schedules by age group on the website, as well as performance dates for student shows.)

The Adderley School (Austin)

  • Address: Austin location in the Tarrytown area (central Austin). Mailing: PO Box 301616, Austin, TX 78703 (Contact Info – The Adderley School). (Classes are held at local venues/churches – contact for details.)
  • Classes: Musical theatre performance training for kids and teens. Adderley is a private performing arts program that originated in California and expanded to Austin. Students take acting, voice, and dance as they rehearse for fully staged musical productions – each class term culminates in a production featuring the students (Performance Training | ATX Theatre). The program emphasizes not just performance skills but also teamwork and confidence.
  • Ages/Levels: Toddlers to Teens. The Austin Adderley School offers classes for children as young as 3 or 4 up to 18 (grouped by age). There is also an invitation-only “Conservatory” ensemble for advanced students who train at a higher level (Austin — The Adderley School). All levels are welcome; many students start with little experience and gain skills through the productions.
  • Notable Instructors: Founded by Janet Adderley, a Broadway veteran. In Austin, classes are taught by trained musical theater instructors. The Adderley School is known for notable alumni in other cities – for instance, Ben Platt (Tony Award winner) attended Adderley in California (Performance Training | ATX Theatre). The Austin branch upholds the same high-caliber training, often with professional guest directors for shows.
  • Tuition: Premium pricing as a private program. Classes (which include rehearsal and performance) can be a few hundred dollars per month. The exact tuition is provided upon inquiry/registration, and space is often limited.
  • Website & Contact: theadderleyschool.org – (The Adderley School – Austin, Texas – Yelp), Email: info@theadderleyschool.org. (Enrollment is typically by semester; prospective students can sign up or audition via the website.)

Paramount Theatre’s Academy for the Arts (Paramount Education)

  • Address: 713 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701 (Paramount Theatre downtown).
  • Classes: Summer camps and after-school programs in theater arts, run by the historic Paramount Theatre. These award-winning camps invite kids and teens to explore acting, singing, dancing, creative writing, and production (Registration is now open for 2024 Paramount Summer Camps With …). For example, Camp Paramount (for grades 1–10) and Camp Story Wranglers (which focuses on writing and performing original stories) are popular offerings. Students get training in acting, voice, movement, and even behind-the-scenes skills while preparing a showcase or short performance.
  • Ages/Levels: Grades 1–12 (approximately ages 6–18). Programs are generally open to all skill levels – no prior experience required. Camps group students by age (e.g., elementary vs. middle vs. high school) so instruction is age-appropriate. Teens can partake in more advanced intensives, such as film camps in partnership with Austin School of Film (some summers) or teen improv camps.
  • Notable Instructors: Paramount’s education staff includes professional teaching artists in acting, dance, and music. As an example, the Paramount Story Wranglers program (for 3rd-5th graders) is taught by comedians and performers who adapt kids’ original stories into sketches. The theatre’s connection to the performing arts community means camp instructors often have real-world theatre experience.
  • Tuition: Moderate – Summer camp tuition typically ranges from about $300 to $500 per week-long camp (with longer multi-week camps for teens at higher rates). The value is high given the downtown venue and live performance on the Paramount stage at the end. Scholarships are available to ensure accessibility.
  • Website & Contact: austintheatre.org/education – Email: info@austintheatre.org (Students & Educators – Paramount Theatre). (Registration for summer camps usually opens in late winter/early spring and often fills up (Paramount Education – Facebook).)

Shine On Performing Arts (SOPA)

  • Address: 1120 Toro Grande Blvd #100, Cedar Park, TX 78613 (Shine On Performing Arts) (North Austin metro; Cedar Park)
  • Classes: All-around performing arts classes and productions in a community theater setting. Shine On is a non-profit that offers a “wide assortment of classes, workshops, masterclasses and camps for ages 3 and up,” from beginner (Step 1) to advanced (Step 3) (Shine On Performing Arts). This includes acting fundamentals, musical theatre, dance, improv, and technical theater. They also produce full shows (for kids, teens, and adults) and have programs like the Rising Stars (youth troupe) and community theatre productions for all ages.
  • Ages/Levels: Ages 3 through adult, truly all abilities and skill levels (Shine On Performing Arts). There are preschool creative drama classes, kids and teen acting courses, and even adult classes. Shine On explicitly welcomes students of all backgrounds and capabilities (they note they are an “all abilities” program (Shine On Performing Arts)). Beginners will find a supportive atmosphere, while advanced students can tackle challenging roles in productions or masterclasses.
  • Notable Instructors: Founded by LaUna Shoemaker, SOPA’s team includes experienced educators and directors with a passion for youth theater “through the love of God” (the organization has a faith-based element) (Shine On Performing Arts). Classes focus on building creativity, leadership, and community. Guest artists sometimes lead specialty workshops (e.g., stage combat, audition technique).
  • Tuition: Varies. As a non-profit, Shine On strives to keep costs reasonable. Short classes and workshops might range from $100–$200, while longer semester classes or production-based courses can be a few hundred dollars. They often have discounts or scholarships for families in need.
  • Website & Contact: shineonperformingarts.org – Email: info@shineonperformingarts.org, Phone: (512) -*. (Located in Cedar Park, about 20 minutes north of downtown Austin; offers a welcoming community theatre vibe.)

TexARTS Academy (Lakeway)

  • Address: 2300 Lohmans Spur, Suite 160, Lakeway, TX 78734 (TEXARTS ASSOCIATION – Updated April 2025 – Yelp) (Austin Lake Travis area)
  • Classes: Comprehensive performing arts training. TexARTS is a nonprofit arts academy offering after-school and weekend classes in acting, dance, voice, film & TV, improvisation, sketch comedy, stage combat, and musical theatre (TexARTS: Theatre & Academy). In the fall and spring, students can enroll in weekly classes (e.g. Acting 101, Broadway dance, Improv comedy, On-Camera Acting). TexARTS also produces youth musicals and offers summer camps. Adult offerings include dance and occasional acting workshops, as TexARTS doubles as a community theatre producing professional plays and musicals.
  • Ages/Levels: Youth of all ages (typically 5–18 for regular classes) and some adult classes. There are beginner courses for young kids, intermediate classes for pre-teens/teens, and advanced programs like the Musical Theatre Academy for dedicated students by audition. Adults can join adult dance or acting workshops when scheduled. The academy emphasizes high-quality training at all levels.
  • Notable Instructors: TexARTS instructors are often professional performers, choreographers, or directors. The academy was co-founded by Broadway professionals and maintains a high standard – guest Broadway artists occasionally teach masterclasses. Students get a taste of a “professional model” similar to big-city performing arts schools, but in a supportive community environment.
  • Tuition: Moderate to High. Prices correspond to the breadth of training: a 10-12 week semester class might be in the $300–$500 range. The elite Academy programs or production-based courses can be higher. There’s an annual membership fee for students. (TexARTS is a nonprofit, so any additional donations support their programs.)
  • Website & Contact: tex-arts.org – (TEXARTS ASSOCIATION – Updated April 2025 – Yelp). (Lakeway is about 20 miles west of Austin; many Austin families make the drive for TexARTS’ specialized training. Check the website for class schedules by age and discipline.)

CYT Austin (Christian Youth Theater)

  • Address: Classes held at multiple Austin locations (North and South Travis County – often in churches or community centers). Main mailing: CYT Austin, PO Box … Austin, TX.
  • Classes: After-school theater arts classes in 9–10 week sessions, plus full-scale musical productions each semester. CYT offers training in acting, voice, dance, and even technical theater for kids (CYT Austin). Students can take a weekly class (e.g. drama, improv, musical theater dance, etc.), and those enrolled are eligible to audition for CYT’s Broadway-style musical productions (performed at local theaters). They also offer themed summer camps for ages 5–12 and 13–18.
  • Ages/Levels: Ages 7 or 8 up to 18 (grades 2–12) (Class FAQ – CYT Austin) (CYT Austin). Beginners are absolutely welcome – no experience is necessary to join classes or audition for shows. More experienced youth will find opportunities to take advanced workshops and lead roles in productions. CYT creates a wholesome, encouraging environment in line with its Christian ethos, but is open to all.
  • Notable Instructors: Part of the national CYT network, CYT Austin has trained teachers for each discipline. Many are performers, directors, or educators from the local theater community (and are background-checked due to working with kids). The program’s focus is on building character and confidence through theater. Students also work with production teams (music directors, choreographers, etc.) during shows, gaining professional insights.
  • Tuition: Moderate. Classes typically cost around $200–$250 per student for a 10-week term (discounts for siblings). Participating in a production may have an additional production fee (around $150) to cover costumes, etc. Scholarships or financial aid may be offered for families in need.
  • Website & Contact: cytaustin.org – (CYT Austin was founded in 2015 and has class sites in North, Central, and South Austin to serve families across the area (Class FAQ – CYT Austin). Check their website for the current class schedule and locations each term.) (Class FAQ – CYT Austin)

Improv and Comedy Training

Austin has a thriving improv comedy scene. These theaters offer improvisation, sketch, and stand-up classes that are great for actors and non-actors alike to build confidence, creativity, and comedic skills. Most improv schools serve adults, though some have youth programs as well.

The Hideout Theatre

  • Address: 617 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701 (Performance Training | ATX Theatre) (Downtown Austin)
  • Classes: Improvisational comedy for all levels. The Hideout has been teaching improv for 20+ years, with a well-structured curriculum: Level One improv (an introduction for beginners) through advanced improv, plus specialty classes (improv for scriptwriters, etc.) and improv for kids classes. They focus on long-form improv and theatre-style improv. Students learn to perform spontaneously, create characters, and collaborate onstage. The Hideout also occasionally offers storytelling and sketch comedy workshops, and a free intro class for the curious (Performance Training | ATX Theatre).
  • Ages/Levels: Adults for the main improv classes (typically age 18+; no experience needed for Level 1). They also have a Youth program: “Hideout Kids” classes and summer camps for ages 5–17. Most people start with beginner classes and can progress through the levels to performing in student showcases.
  • Notable Instructors: The Hideout’s faculty are among Austin’s most experienced improvisers. Co-founder Andy Crouch and other staff have trained thousands of Austinites in improv. Instructors like Roy Janik, Jessica von Schramm, etc., often perform in the Hideout’s weekly shows. The teaching style is very supportive – perfect for people looking to “break out of their shell” or improve public speaking.
  • Tuition: Approximately $200–$250 for a multi-week course. For example, a Level One eight-week class might be around $230. Youth classes and camps vary, often $150–$300 range depending on length. There are sometimes early-bird discounts.
  • Website & Contact: hideouttheatre.com – Email: classes@hideouttheatre.com. (Located in a coffeehouse theatre on Congress Ave – you can catch one of their improv shows any weekend to see what the training can lead to!)

ColdTowne Theater

Merlin Works Institute for Improvisation

Fallout Theater (Comedy School)

  • Address: 616 Lavaca St., Austin, TX 78701 (Improv 101: Long-Form Basics (Mondays) – Fallout Theater) (Downtown, in the iconic Fallout basement theater)
  • Classes: Improv, sketch, clowning, and stand-up in an underground comedy club setting. Fallout Theater (born from the former New Movement Theater) offers Long-form Improv 101–301, which teaches the fundamentals of creating spontaneous comedic scenes, as well as sketch writing courses where students write and perform their own comedy sketches (Austin School of Comedy 101 Classes – Fallout Theater). Unique to Fallout, they also have clowning classes and experimental comedy workshops from time to time. For stand-up, they have a course that culminates in a live showcase. The vibe is very DIY and indie comedy.
  • Ages/Levels: Adults (18+) primarily. Beginners are welcome in all intro-level classes (they even host a free low-pressure drop-in improv class every Monday) (Fallout Theater (@falloutcomedyatx) • Instagram photos and videos). Since Fallout’s community leans young, many students are in their 20s/30s, but anyone with an interest in alternative comedy can join. No prior stage experience needed.
  • Notable Instructors: Fallout is run by a collective of local comedians. Instructors have experience at big-name comedy theaters and festivals. For example, their stand-up class might be taught by a regular from the Austin stand-up circuit, and improv teachers are seasoned performers from shows like “Fuck This Week” (a popular Fallout show). They emphasize real-world comedy skills – many grads go on to perform weekly.
  • Tuition: Around $225–$250 for multi-week courses. An 8-week improv class with a student showcase at the end is roughly $240. Sketch courses can be similar. They sometimes have early registration discounts or bundle deals (and a free intro class as mentioned).
  • Website & Contact: falloutcomedy.com – Email: classes@fallouttheater.com. (The theater is located beneath the Starbucks at 616 Lavaca; it’s a beloved, intimate venue. Students often get plugged into the comedy community here quickly, attending or volunteering at shows in addition to classes.)

College & University Acting Programs

For those pursuing formal degrees in acting, Austin is home to respected university programs that provide advanced training, performance opportunities, and academic credentials in theatre.

University of Texas at Austin – Department of Theatre & Dance (B.F.A. in Acting)

  • Location: UT Campus – 300 E 23rd St, Austin, TX 78712 (F. Loren Winship Drama Building).
  • Program: A highly regarded Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting. This unique four-year conservatory-style program combines rigorous stage acting training with courses in devised work, film, and television acting (Adult Spring 2025 Classes – Austin – The Actor’s School). Students undergo intensive scene study, voice, movement, and acting for camera throughout the degree. The curriculum also includes opportunities to create original work and a showcase for industry professionals in the final year.
  • Ages/Levels: College undergraduates (approx. 18–22). Admission is competitive – students must apply to UT and pass a live audition to be accepted into the BFA Acting cohort. Once admitted, the cohort trains together in a structured sequence of classes each semester. (UT also offers a B.A. in Theatre for broader study, but the BFA is the focused acting track.)
  • Notable Faculty: The program boasts faculty with extensive professional and academic experience. Professors include Franchelle Dorn (Shakespearean actress), Jim Rambo, Gia Mora, and others who have worked on national stages and on screen. Guest artists and industry professionals frequently conduct workshops. UT’s connections mean students sometimes get access to audition for film projects or participate in Austin’s film scene while in school.
  • Tuition: UT tuition for Texas residents is roughly $11k/year (and about $40k/year for non-residents), but varies with course load. Scholarships and financial aid are available. The BFA program is full-time; students will treat it as both an academic and artistic commitment.
  • Website & Contact: theatredance.utexas.edu – (Search “BFA in Acting” on the site for details). Note: This is a degree program, not a casual class – ideal for those seeking a professional career with a university education to back it up. Graduates leave with ample stage experience and often Equity eligibility.

St. Edward’s University – Theater Arts (Acting Concentration)

  • Location: St. Edward’s University campus, 3001 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704. Performances at Mary Moody Northen Theatre (on campus).
  • Program: A well-respected B.A. in Theater Arts with an Acting emphasis (and a BFA-style training within a liberal arts framework). The Mary Moody Northen Theatre (MMNT) stands at the center of St. Ed’s theatre training and operates on a professional model (Mary Moody Northen Theatre). Unique to this program, students act alongside Actors’ Equity Association guest artists in four mainstage shows a year, earning points toward their Equity union membership (Bachelor’s in Acting at St. Edward’s University | Global Admissions). The curriculum covers acting, voice, movement, theater history, and tech, but the production experience is what sets it apart.
  • Ages/Levels: College undergraduates. Students audition to be theater majors (or can audition after enrolling at St. Ed’s). It’s a rigorous program for those serious about acting, though students can double-major or take a broader liberal arts course load as well. The experience level on entry can vary – some incoming freshmen have extensive high school theatre background, others are newer – but the program quickly brings everyone up to professional standards through its repertory theatre approach.
  • Notable Faculty: The program is led by Professor Mary Alice Carnes and a team of faculty who are both educators and practitioners. Guest Equity actors (from Austin and beyond) join each production, meaning students might perform with seasoned professionals (for example, recent productions have cast well-known local Equity actors in major roles). This mentorship model gives students real-world insights and often networking connections. St. Ed’s theater alumni often work in regional theatre or move to major markets with a solid résumé of roles.
  • Tuition: As a private university, tuition is higher (approx. $50k/year before financial aid). However, St. Edward’s offers talent scholarships for theater students, and the value lies in small class sizes and the Equity candidacy program (rare at the undergraduate level).
  • Website & Contact: stedwards.edu/theatre – (See “Mary Moody Northen Theatre” page for info). If you’re a high school student looking to study acting in college, St. Edward’s provides a conservatory experience within a supportive university community.

Specialty Acting Training

Finally, Austin also offers specialized training to complement acting classes – such as stage combat. These programs are great add-ons for actors or fun skill-specific workshops for anyone interested.

Violent Crown (Stage Combat & Physical Storytelling)

  • Address: Based in Austin, TX (training workshops held at various theaters or gyms – contact for details).
  • Training Focus: Stage combat, fight choreography, and physical acting. Violent Crown is “a corps of martial artists and performers who seek to advance the safety and artistry of physical storytelling” (Performance Training | ATX Theatre). They offer workshops and classes in combat techniques for stage and screen: hand-to-hand combat, sword fighting, falls, punches, etc., all with a focus on safety and realism. They often collaborate with theatre companies to train actors for shows, and they can certify actors in certain stage combat skills.
  • Ages/Levels: Teens and Adults – generally those 16+ (or sometimes younger with parental consent) who want to learn stage combat. It’s suitable for actors of all levels because they start with basics. It’s also popular with stunt enthusiasts or action performers. Some classes require a baseline level of fitness, but many are beginner-friendly.
  • Notable Instructors: The team is composed of professional stunt performers, martial artists, and fight directors. They stay up-to-date on industry standards for stage and film combat. Instructors will emphasize both the mechanics (how to throw a safe punch) and the acting (selling the hit and staying in character). This group is known in the Austin theater community – you might see their members choreographing fights for local Shakespeare or opera productions.
  • Tuition: Varies. Workshops might be one-day intensives (e.g. $75 for a 3-hour session) or multi-week courses (e.g. $200 for a 6-week series). They may also do custom coaching for productions. As a specialized skill, the cost is well worth it for actors looking to expand their repertoire.
  • Contact: Website: violentcrown.wordpress.com (Performance Training | ATX Theatre) – there’s a contact form for inquiries. You can also find Violent Crown on social media to see upcoming workshops. Note: This is a part-time training outfit; they schedule classes based on community interest, so reach out to express interest or see if a new training session is coming up.

Conclusion: 

Austin’s acting training landscape is rich and diverse, from traditional acting studios and improv schools to university programs and specialty workshops.

Whether you’re a child with Broadway dreams, a high schooler prepping for college auditions, a busy adult looking to explore creativity, or a professional actor sharpening your craft, Austin has an option for you.

The key is to identify your goals and jump into a class – the city’s welcoming acting community and skilled teachers will take it from there, helping you grow in talent, confidence, and maybe even launch your next big role. Enjoy the journey, and “break a leg”!

Sources: The information above was compiled from official school websites and trusted local directories, including program descriptions and details from each organization (Performance Training | ATX Theatre) (The Actor’s School (@theactorsschoolatx) – Instagram) (Performance Training | ATX Theatre) (Home – BriteLites Acting Studio) (Meisner Technique with Laurel Smith Vouvray), as well as up-to-date insights as of 2025. Please refer to the cited references for more in-depth information on each program.

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