Houston’s vibrant performing arts scene is home to numerous acting schools and programs. Whether you’re aiming for film, stage, improv, or commercials — and whether you’re a beginner or seasoned performer, child or adult — there’s a program to fit your needs. Below is a directory of 35 top acting schools with physical locations in Houston and nearby communities (Sugar Land, Katy, The Woodlands, etc.), organized by category.
On-Camera Acting Studios (Film, TV, Commercials) – All Ages
Next Actor Studio
Next Actor Studio (2406 Quenby St, Houston, TX 77005) – A SAG-AFTRA affiliated acting school in Houston’s Rice Village area offering on-camera acting classes for all ages (kids, teens, and adults). Established in 2003 by filmmaker Sanjay Rao, Next Actor teaches the Stanislavski method in a supportive studio environment. Classes range from beginner to intensive, covering scene study, film acting technique, voice acting, and even production. Uniquely, Next Actor records all classes for students to review their work. The studio also runs the Next International Film Festival of Houston and produces in-house indie films, giving students opportunities to participate behind the scenes. Website: http://nextactor.com
Next Level Acting Studios
Next Level Acting Studios (1963 W. TC Jester Blvd, Houston, TX 77008; also in The Woodlands at 307C Sawdust Rd, Spring, TX 77380) – An on-camera acting studio owned by Hollywood veteran Deke Anderson (40+ years experience) and Elsa Ward. Next Level offers quality film and TV acting classes for children, teens, and adults, with locations in Houston and The Woodlands. Anderson’s background includes credits on “Friday Night Lights” and more, and he brings that expertise to help students with audition technique, improv, and scene work. Classes are available in-person (and online) for all levels – from beginners to working actors. Students get to practice on-camera in mock auditions and learn to adapt to the industry’s demands. Website: http://www.nextlevelacting.com
Film Acting Academy
Film Acting Academy (1900 Kane St, Studio #115, Houston, TX 77007) – A dedicated film and TV acting school located in Houston’s Arts District. Founder Lee Stringer, a film/TV actor with 30+ years experience (“Friday Night Lights,” “Fear the Walking Dead”), leads a faculty with dozens of film and television credits. The academy offers on-site group classes and one-on-one coaching focusing on acting for film, TV, and commercials. Students work on audition taping, script analysis, on-camera scene study, improv for actors, and industry terminology. The curriculum is very practical – covering set etiquette, hitting marks, and building confidence on camera. The Academy even assists with professional audition tapes and has virtual coaching options. Website: http://www.filmactingacademy.com
Spotlight Acting Academy
Spotlight Acting Academy (21412 Provincial Blvd, Katy, TX 77450) – A boutique acting and filmmaking studio in Katy (west of Houston) offering classes for ages 8 through adult. Founded by Katie Martin in 2011, Spotlight emphasizes small class sizes and individual attention. They offer on-camera acting classes, filmmaking classes, and monthly workshops. Youth and teens learn to bring characters to life through monologues and scene work, while aspiring filmmakers (11-18) get to write, shoot, and edit short films. Adults can also join acting classes to “level up” their craft. The academy’s nurturing environment focuses on building confidence and creativity. Website: http://www.spotlightactingacademy.com
Page Parkes Center of Modeling & Acting
Page Parkes Center of Modeling & Acting (7155 Old Katy Rd, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77024) – A well-known talent development center that has been training models and actors in Texas for decades. Page Parkes offers a range of on-camera acting workshops for kids (ages 5–7), pre-teens, teens, and adults. Beginners might start with a Kids Acting & Photo Workshop to learn basic acting techniques and on-camera skills (including improv and slate), while more advanced students can progress to film acting technique and TV sitcom acting courses. The curriculum covers cold reading, audition interviewing, monologues, character development, and even includes a professional photoshoot as part of advanced courses. Notable alumni of Page Parkes include stars in fashion and film – testament to its reputation. Website: http://www.pageparkes.com
Kim Houston Acting Studios
Kim Houston Acting Studios (Houston – multiple workshop locations) – Casting director Kim Houston brings 30 years of industry experience to this acting studio. Kim Houston Acting Studios offers a variety of classes and workshops focusing on film, TV, and voice-over. Classes (for both youth and adults) include on-camera scene study, “Active Listening” for TV/Film, voice-over technique, the Business of Acting, and even on-set workshops where students practice scenes on a real set. Kim’s perspective as a working casting director and coach provides students with insight into what casting professionals look for. Many classes are short-term (4-week or single-day workshops) – perfect for busy adults or teens who want targeted training. Website: https://kimhoustonacting.com
John Lansch – Studio for Actors
John Lansch – Studio for Actors (350 North Sam Houston Pkwy E, Suite 220, Houston, TX 77060) – Veteran actor John Lansch offers acting classes, private coaching, and audition taping in north Houston. With 30+ years teaching in Los Angeles, New York, and Texas, John specializes in helping actors of all ages master on-camera skills. The studio’s offerings include group acting classes (Film/TV scene work, cold reads, etc.), one-on-one lessons, and professional audition self-taping services. John’s students have gone on to book major film roles alongside stars like Nicolas Cage and appear in Broadway productions. Classes emphasize truthful acting for the camera and practical career guidance. Website: http://www.johnlansch.com
OGAC – On-Going Acting Classes with Crystal Martinez
OGAC – On-Going Acting Classes with Crystal Martinez (Houston Heights area) – Crystal Martinezz (a Houston-based actress with 20+ years experience) founded OGAC to train local actors in film acting technique. This program, located in the Heights (near 9th St & Cortlandt St.), offers continuous weekly acting classes focusing on film and TV acting, audition prep, and scene study. Crystal’s teaching approach is described as “dedicated and unique,” aiming to develop aspiring actors into professionals at an affordable rate. The classes are ongoing, meaning students can join the appropriate level and train consistently. OGAC also hosts periodic demo reel workshops and script analysis courses. Website: https://www.facebook.com/ogactingclasses
Be Scene Acting Studio
Be Scene Acting Studio (Classes in The Woodlands at 701 Sawdust Rd, Spring, TX 77380) – A non-profit acting school that delivers “Hollywood level” film acting classes in the Houston area. Be Scene Acting Studio offers in-person workshops for teens and adults, led by coaches with 40+ years of combined experience in TV and film. Their signature approach is that “every actor works every class,” ensuring each student gets on-camera time. Workshops cover scene study, on-camera audition technique, emotional availability, and even virtual audition skills. Classes are often limited to about 20 students to guarantee personal feedback. Notable: Be Scene holds classes at Silver Rock Productions in The Woodlands and also offers online training options. Website: https://besceneacting.com
Theater & Performing Arts Academies (Stage, Musical Theater, Youth Programs)
TUTS Humphreys School of Musical Theatre
TUTS Humphreys School of Musical Theatre (800 Bagby St, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77002) – The education arm of Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), located downtown at the Hobby Center. HSMT is a premier musical theater training program where “future Broadway stars are born”. It offers year-round classes and production-based workshops for ages 4–18 in acting, singing, dance, and improvisation. Students can enroll in a 20-week curriculum during the school year (with beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels in tap, ballet/jazz, acting, voice, etc.). In the summers, HSMT runs popular musical theater camps. Alumni of TUTS’s programs have gone on to Broadway and national tours. Notable: Dennis Quaid took classes at U of H/TUTS early in his career. Website: https://www.tuts.org/hsmt
Main Street Theater – Youth Theater
Main Street Theater – Youth Theater (Classes at 3400 Main St and Avalon) – Main Street Theater (founded 1975) runs an acclaimed Youth Theater program known for adapting children’s literature into professional productions. They offer Core Skills acting classes for ages 4–14 (to build fundamentals) and Performance Classes where older children and teens rehearse and perform plays. For example, kids might spend a semester preparing a play or musical, culminating in a fully staged production. They also host Drama Day camps (one-day workshops on school holidays) full of skits and stagecraft for ages 6–11. Uniquely, Main Street can even send teachers to you: their “Personalized Pod Classes” allow a group of friends to learn acting or Shakespeare at home with an MST instructor. This program has a reputation for nurturing young talent in a fun, yet professional setting. Website: http://www.mainstreettheater.com
Stageworks Theatre Acting Academy
Stageworks Theatre Acting Academy (10760 Grant Rd, Houston, TX 77070) – A community theater in northwest Houston with a robust educational wing. Stageworks’ Acting Academy provides year-round theater arts training for students ages 5 to 18. Kids can take classes in acting, singing, and dancing in a supportive environment that aims to boost confidence and teamwork. Each semester of classes ends with a full production on Stageworks’ stage – recent shows for the academy include youth versions of Broadway musicals (e.g. “Mary Poppins Jr.”). They even offer a home-school program and participate in the Junior Theater Festival. Stageworks is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and hands-on instruction; it’s a great option for students in the Cypress/Tomball area. Website: https://www.stageworkshouston.org
HITS Theatre
HITS Theatre (311 W 18th St, Houston, TX 77008) – Nestled in the Houston Heights, HITS Theatre is a non-profit performing arts school empowering youth in grades K-12 through musical theater. Celebrating over 40 years, HITS offers after-school classes that teach acting, singing, and dancing. Students have the opportunity to audition for fully staged musicals (HITS is known for its outdoor performances at Miller Theatre). Classes range from “Performance Classes,” where students rehearse a specific show, to skills-based classes like stage combat or audition technique. HITS prides itself on a diverse, inclusive environment and eco-conscious practices. Financial aid and scholarships are available to ensure access. Many Houston-native performers got their start at HITS, making it a cornerstone of youth theater education in the city. Website: http://www.hitstheatre.org
Class Act Productions
Class Act Productions (25275 Budde Rd, Suite 25, The Woodlands, TX 77380) – The Woodlands’ premier school of musical theatre, Class Act Productions is dedicated to “celebrating talent, encouraging dreams, and developing abilities”. It has served families for over 25 years. Class Act offers production-oriented training: students (elementary through high school) take technique classes and perform in full-scale musicals throughout the year. They have multiple leveled troupes and an annual summer intensive. Notably, Class Act’s show productions are high quality and often open to the community. Alumni have gone on to study performing arts in college and beyond. The organization fosters a close-knit, family values atmosphere. Website: http://www.classactproductions.org
Bay Area Arts Conservatory (BAAC)
Bay Area Arts Conservatory (400 Hobbs Rd, Suite 202-203, League City, TX 77573) – Serving the Bay Area (Clear Lake/League City), BAAC is a multi-disciplinary performing arts school offering theater, dance, and music classes. For acting, BAAC provides courses for preschoolers up through teens – from “Broadway Babies” for ages 3–6 (a musical theater intro) to more advanced Acting Technique classes for teens focusing on concentration, scene study, and character development. Students can also join musical productions and showcase performances. The conservatory’s founders are local artists dedicated to sharing their passion and creating a positive, motivating learning environment. BAAC is a great option for families in the southeast Houston metro seeking comprehensive arts training close to home. Website: http://www.baactx.com
The Purple Box Theater – Kids Academy
The Purple Box Theater – Kids Academy (1309 W. Parkwood Ave, Ste C-107, Friendswood, TX 77546) – Purple Box Theater is a community theater in Friendswood that also runs an award-winning performing arts program for ages 5–18. They offer classes in theater, improvisation, dance, and voice, as well as frequent workshops and camps. For example, Purple Box produces youth shows like Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” and also offers straight acting courses for those less interested in musicals. They even have some offerings for adults (acting and improv classes for community members). The atmosphere is very encouraging and confidence-building, aiming to make every child feel like a star. Website: http://www.thepurpleboxtheater.com
A.D. Players Performing Arts Academy
A.D. Players Performing Arts Academy (2613 Saint St, Houston, TX 77027) – The A.D. Players Academy is the educational wing of A.D. Players, one of Houston’s longest-running theater companies. They offer year-round theater classes and camps for ages 3–18. During the school year, children can enroll in after-school courses that teach acting fundamentals, musical theater, and even technical theater. Each fall and spring session centers on a fun theme (Fall 2024’s theme was “Uncovering Mysteries,” featuring characters like Sherlock Holmes in the material). The Academy also runs popular summer camps divided by age group. Taught by experienced teaching artists, A.D. Players’ programs help students refine their technique or learn the ropes of theater in a faith-friendly environment. Occasionally, they offer workshops for young adults as well. Website: https://www.adplayers.org/performing-arts-academy
Exalted Arts Theatre Company
Exalted Arts Theatre Company (3400 Main St, Ste 8, Houston, TX 77002) – Exalted Arts is a professional Christian theater company that also provides values-driven acting workshops for the community. Their mission is to “enrich lives” through theater that inspires and uplifts. Exalted Arts offers the Inspired! Performance & Enrichment Workshop series for youth, which engages middle school students in acting and storytelling while also building character and confidence. (They partner with local schools and organizations to host these workshops.) The company welcomes people of all backgrounds to join in exploration and self-discovery through the magic of theatre. If you’re looking for an acting program that combines technique with personal growth and faith-based values, Exalted Arts is a unique choice. Website: https://exaltedarts.org
Drama Kids International (Houston)
Drama Kids International (Houston) (Multiple locations: Cypress, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, etc.) – Drama Kids is a national after-school drama program, and the Houston-area franchise offers fun, developmental acting classes for children in many suburbs. Instead of a single studio, Drama Kids holds classes at local community centers and schools across northwest Houston (for example, Cypress, Spring, Woodlands, Katy). Their highly trained instructors use an internationally recognized curriculum of over 450 lesson plans. Kids from Kindergarten through 6th grade build confidence, speaking skills, and acting abilities through imaginative activities and scene work. Each session typically runs 10 weeks, ending in a low-pressure presentation for parents. Drama Kids is more about skill-building and confidence than big performances, making it ideal for children to get their first taste of acting in a fun environment. Website: https://dramakids.com/houston-tx
Christian Youth Theater (CYT) Houston
Christian Youth Theater (CYT) Houston (Multiple locations citywide) – CYT is an after-school theater arts training program for ages 4–18 that emphasizes developing character through theater. CYT Houston conducts classes in regions around Greater Houston (North, Central, Southeast, etc.), often renting church or community facilities. Classes include drama, voice, dance, and specialty topics, running for 10-week sessions in fall, winter, and spring. Students not only learn performing skills but can also audition for CYT’s fully staged musical productions each session. For example, one class might focus on improvisation while another covers musical theater dance. CYT’s Christian ethos means they strive to create a positive, family-like atmosphere. It’s one of the largest youth theater programs in the nation, and in Houston many homeschoolers and public schoolers alike participate. Website: http://www.cythouston.org
Express Children’s Theatre
Express Children’s Theatre (4916 Main Street, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77002) – Founded in 1991, Express Children’s Theatre is Houston’s oldest and largest multicultural performing arts and education organization for children. They produce professional plays for young audiences and also offer a range of educational programs. Express’s experienced team offers everything from single-day acting workshops to long-term residencies at schools. For example, they might run an in-school drama club for a semester or a one-day theater camp during spring break. The focus is on the “five C’s” – confidence, communication, creativity, collaboration, and capability. Express Children’s Theatre is also known for their summer programs and partnerships (they often collaborate with the Children’s Museum and Miller Outdoor Theatre). If you want your child to experience theater in a culturally diverse and inclusive setting, Express is a fantastic resource. Website: http://www.expresstheatre.com
Invicta Arts & Training Center
Invicta Arts & Training Center (14520 Memorial Dr, Unit 59, Houston, TX 77079) – Invicta is a newer entry to Houston’s arts education scene, offering an “elite training center” for ages 8-18 that combines acting, dance, voice, fitness, and nutrition in one program. Co-founded by a Broadway performer and a certified personal trainer, Invicta’s concept is to train “athletes of the arts.” Acting classes at Invicta cover stage and on-camera acting fundamentals, often integrated with movement for a holistic approach. They operate out of SoReal Dance Studio in the Energy Corridor/Memorial area. Parents have praised Invicta’s personalized and motivating instruction. If you have a triple-threat in the making or a young performer who could benefit from cross-training (e.g. acting and dance), Invicta Arts is worth checking out. Website: http://www.invictatrainingcenter.com
Wildfish Theatre
Wildfish Theatre (1703 Post Oak Blvd, Suite D1, Houston, TX 77056) – Wildfish Theatre is a non-profit children’s theater company in the Galleria area that provides a hands-on learning experience in all aspects of theater for grades K-12. At Wildfish, kids don’t just act – they also learn about production, stage management, and mentoring. In fact, teen actors are encouraged to mentor younger students, fostering a sense of community and leadership. The theater produces several shows a year (recently “James and the Giant Peach Jr.” and “Bat Boy the Musical” were on the slate), and holds an annual theater festival where students can showcase original work. Wildfish offers classes and intensive workshops that help young performers build confidence and teamwork through the arts. Website: http://www.wildfishtheatre.org
Kids’ Backporch Productions
Kids’ Backporch Productions (3214 Hamm Rd, Pearland, TX 77581) – Known as KBP, this non-profit educational theater group in Pearland serves the Greater Houston area by producing plays with and for youth (and even adults). Kids’ Backporch offers theater workshops for various age groups, and then rehearses full productions ranging from classic children’s stories to murder mystery dinners. They meet at the Shadycrest Baptist Church activity center in Pearland. Tuition-based workshops typically run each season (for example, a 3-hour Saturday workshop on acting basics, or a semester-long rehearsal process for a show). KBP prides itself on being an inclusive community where novices and experienced young actors can perform side by side. It’s a great way for kids in the Pearland/South Houston area to get on stage and improve their acting chops in a fun setting. Website: http://www.kidsbackporchproductions.org
Stage Right of Texas – Bravo Company
Stage Right of Texas – Bravo Company (234 N. Main St, Conroe, TX 77301) – Stage Right is a theater company based in Conroe’s historic Crighton Theatre, and Bravo Company is its children’s performing arts school. Bravo Company offers reasonably-priced acting classes for ages 5–18 in a Fall-to-Spring format. Students meet weekly to learn acting, improv, and musical theater, and they put on multiple performances on the Crighton stage each year. The program runs September through May (aligned with the school year). Many families in The Woodlands/Conroe area love this program as an after-school activity that builds theater skills and friendships. Being affiliated with the Crighton means kids get to perform on a large, professional stage. For north-of-Houston residents, Bravo Company provides quality theater education without the commute into the city. Website: http://www.stage-right.org
Pearl Theater (Pearland Theatre Guild)
Pearl Theater (Pearland Theatre Guild) (14803 Park Almeda Dr, Houston, TX 77047) – The Pearl Theater is a community theater serving Pearland and South Houston. In addition to its regular season of plays, Pearland Theatre Guild frequently offers theater classes and camps for kids. For example, they host summer “Camp Pearl” sessions where children learn acting, set design, and costumes, culminating in a showcase performance. They have also run teen workshops in audition techniques and occasional adult acting workshops. The theater itself is an intimate space where many local actors first set foot on stage. Participating in Pearl’s programs can be a great introduction to community theater – some students later audition for the Guild’s mainstage shows. Check their site or Facebook for announcements of upcoming classes and workshops. Website: http://www.pearltheater.org
Theatre Suburbia
Theatre Suburbia (4107 Way Out West Dr, Houston, TX 77092) – Theatre Suburbia is Northwest Houston’s longest-running all-volunteer community theater (founded in 1961). While it’s primarily known for its productions, Suburbia contributes to actor training by occasionally offering adult acting workshops and an annual youth summer workshop. Aspiring actors who get involved at Theatre Suburbia learn by doing – you can audition for a show or work backstage to gain experience. Many actors have sharpened their craft on Suburbia’s stage over the years. For teens, the theater has held a Summer Drama Camp where students receive coaching and put on a short play for family and friends. Theatre Suburbia is a welcoming place for those in the Jersey Village/Cypress areas to dip their toes into acting with guidance from seasoned community directors. Website: http://www.theatresuburbia.org
Improv and Comedy Training
ComedySportz Houston (CSz Houston)
ComedySportz Houston (CSz Houston) (MATCH – 3400 Main St, Houston, TX 77002) – Home to Houston’s longest-running improv comedy show (ComedySportz, 30+ years strong), CSz Houston also runs the Houston School of Improv. They offer a four-level curriculum for adults in short-form improv comedy, as well as a High School League for teens. Classes typically meet weekly for 8 weeks. In Level 1 (Improv 101), beginners learn the basics of “Yes, And,” playing ComedySportz short-form games, and having fun on stage. As you progress, levels 2–4 introduce scene work, character creation, and performing professional-style improv matches. ComedySportz’s format is clean, family-friendly comedy, so students learn to improvise without vulgarity – a useful skill for corporate entertainment or general audience shows. Graduates often get to play in student showcases and may be invited to audition for the ComedySportz troupe. Website: http://comedysportzhouston.com
Station Theater
Station Theater (2219 Crockett St, Houston, TX 77007) – Station Theater is Houston’s hub for long-form improv and sketch comedy training. Now operating out of Sawyer Yards (Studio C2 at Summer Street Studios), Station offers a full range of improv classes: a free intro class every Friday, and multi-week courses in levels 1 through 5 covering long-form improv techniques, advanced scene work, and even sketch writing. They start new classes every month, so it’s easy to jump in. Station’s philosophy centers on the creative, narrative style of improv (more like you’d see at Upright Citizens Brigade or Second City). Students often form indie improv teams and perform in Station’s weekly shows. They also offer corporate team-building workshops and specialty electives (like musical improv) from time to time. If your goal is to sharpen your wit, think on your feet, or dive into Houston’s comedy scene, Station Theater is the go-to place. Website: http://www.stationtheater.com
Professional & Academic Acting Programs
University of Houston – School of Theatre & Dance
University of Houston – School of Theatre & Dance (Margaret Downing Theatre Arts Center, 3351 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204) – UH’s School of Theatre & Dance offers rigorous degree programs in acting: a BFA in Acting and a Professional MFA in Acting (in partnership with the Alley Theatre). The four-year BFA immerses undergraduates in voice, movement, stage combat, dialects, and more, with alumni like Emmy-winner Jim Parsons. BFA students get performance opportunities and work with the Houston Shakespeare Festival. The three-year MFA is an elite program that accepts a small cohort of actors for advanced training. Notably, MFA students spend their third year in residence at the Alley Theatre, working alongside the Alley’s resident acting company and appearing in productions. Both programs emphasize a mix of classical and contemporary training, networking, and professional readiness – MFA candidates even audition for regional theaters as part of their curriculum. For college students seeking a comprehensive acting education, UH is one of the top choices in the region. Website: https://uh.edu/theatre-and-dance
The Ensemble Theatre – Acting Classes
The Ensemble Theatre – Acting Classes (3535 Main St, Houston, TX 77002) – The Ensemble Theatre is a prominent African-American theater company, and it extends its mission to educate through various workshops and classes. They periodically offer adult acting courses (for example, a scene study class that might meet one evening a week for several weeks) and technical theater workshops. Ensemble also has the Young Performers Program (YPP), a summer intensive that provides theatre, music, and dance training for children ages 6–17. The adult classes, when available, are taught by seasoned theater professionals and focus on honing craft for the stage – one recent offering was dubbed “Celebrating the Creative Journey,” a course for adults rediscovering their artistic voice. The BOLD series (Bringing Opportunities for Leadership Development) includes masterclasses with industry experts in acting, directing, etc. If you want to train at a theater known for its rich cultural legacy, keep an eye on The Ensemble’s education page for upcoming class schedules. Website: https://ensemblehouston.com
Classical Theatre Company – Acting Studio
Classical Theatre Company – Acting Studio (Studio at 2101 Winter St, Houston, TX 77007) – Classical Theatre Company (CTC) is Houston’s professional theater dedicated to classical plays, and they have offered professional training for local actors. CTC’s Artistic Director John Johnston has taught a Classical Acting Studio class focusing on performing the classics (Shakespeare, Molière, etc.). The theater’s listing indicates their studio is located at Winter Street Studios, sharing space in the arts district. In these classes, actors might work on verse, diction, and period movement in an intimate group setting. While CTC doesn’t have ongoing public classes year-round, they do hold seasonal workshops and intensives (sometimes in conjunction with their production schedule). Additionally, for those early in their career, CTC offers internships and apprenticeships that include coaching. Training with Classical Theatre Company is ideal for actors wanting to sharpen their classical technique under the guidance of artists who regularly produce those works. Website: http://www.classicaltheatre.org
Kim Tobin Acting Studio
Kim Tobin Acting Studio (1824 Spring St, Studio 232, Houston, TX 77007) – Kim Tobin-Lehl is an award-winning actor/director and veteran teacher who founded this studio to provide professional-level acting training in Houston. Grounded in Meisner and Stella Adler techniques, Kim’s classes are known for being intimate, intensive, and transformative. She has over 20 years of teaching experience and is a Resident Artist at 4th Wall Theatre (which she co-founded). Classes at the Kim Tobin Acting Studio typically run in multi-week sessions, each class about 3 hours long with every student working each time. Actors train in emotional truth, text analysis, instincts, and sometimes on material ranging from contemporary scenes to Shakespeare. Unique policy: Kim allows auditing – new students can observe a class to see if it’s the right fit. This studio is geared toward serious actors (often adults and advanced teens) aiming to work professionally in theater or film. Website: http://www.kim-tobin.com
Studio for Actors Houston (David Rainey)
Studio for Actors Houston (David Rainey) (1218 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77008) – This is an acting studio led by David Rainey, a resident company actor at the Alley Theatre and master teacher who has been coaching Houston actors since 2005. David’s Studio for Actors offers ongoing scene study classes for adults (often in 4-week modules) and specialized workshops. For instance, he teaches an Acting Master Class on Monday evenings that runs in 4-session blocks. The curriculum can cover anything from Uta Hagen exercises to deep text analysis – and class size is kept small for individual feedback. The studio frequently partners with Landing Theatre Company for workshops, and other notable coaches (like Vivian Majkowski) are on the team. They also sometimes offer youth acting intensives (e.g. “Shakespeare Alive” for teens). Classes take place at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio in the Heights. Training with David Rainey means learning from one of Houston’s top classical actors – perfect for those looking to elevate their craft, sharpen audition pieces, or prepare for grad programs. Website: https://studioforactorshouston.com
Houston Community College (HCC) Drama Program
Houston Community College (HCC) Drama Program (Central Campus: 3517 Austin St, Houston, TX 77004; multiple campuses) – For an affordable, structured introduction to acting, HCC’s drama department is a valuable resource. HCC offers a two-year Associate of Arts in Drama with courses in Acting I & II, Stagecraft, Voice for the Theater, and more, taught by credentialed faculty. Many local actors start at HCC to build technique and transfer to university programs or jump into community theater. HCC’s Central Campus has a Theatre One program that produces plays – giving students practical stage experience. Even if you’re not seeking a degree, you can often enroll in individual classes for college credit or audit them. The Northeast Campus (Acres Homes) partners with the Deluxe Theater in Fifth Ward, where students get to perform in a beautiful restored venue as part of their training. In short, HCC provides an accessible pathway to learn acting fundamentals, scene study, and even film acting (through its filmmaking program) under experienced instructors, all at a fraction of the cost of private studios. Website: http://www.hccs.edu/programs/theatre
Each of these acting schools and programs offers something unique – be it the polish of on-camera techniques, the exhilaration of improv, or the foundations of stage craft. Houston’s rich variety of classes means actors of every age and experience level can find a place to grow. Consider your interests (film? stage? comedy? musical theater?) and your location, and dive in! Your acting journey can begin with any one of these excellent Houston-area schools. Good luck, and “break a leg!”