What should I look for when auditing or observing an acting class?
When observing an acting class, you should evaluate the coach’s effectiveness, the specific techniques taught, and the class culture. Look for a discernable improvement in scenes after a coach’s adjustments, ask current students for honest feedback, and ensure the studio environment—including safety, parking, and class size—meets your professional needs and personal comfort.
At Theresa Bell Actors Studio, we require all prospective students to observe a class before enrolling. While you can learn a lot from a website, nothing replaces an in-person visit to our Dallas Acting Studio. Here is what you should consider during your observation.
1. The Coach’s Impact
Observe the interaction between the coach and the actors. Are they respectful and professional? Most importantly, is there a discernable difference in the scene after the coach makes an adjustment? You want a mentor who focuses on your growth rather than their own accolades.
2. Technique and Resources
Does the school teach a specific Acting Technique that resonates with you? Ask about recommended reading materials that will support your journey. A good studio provides a clear roadmap for your artistic development.
3. Student Community and Feedback
Pay attention to the other class members. Do they respect the coach and one another? We encourage observers to ask our current students questions—there is no better way to get honest feedback than from someone who has been training with us for an extended period.
4. Environment and Aesthetics
Since opening at Southside on Lamar in 2011, I have prioritized creating a space of beauty and inspiration. Is the studio clean, safe, and welcoming? Does it “feel” like a place where you belong?
5. Logistics: Parking and Safety
In a city like Dallas, logistics matter. We offer ample free retail parking and are located directly across from the police department, with security guards available to walk actors to their cars if desired.
6. Class Size and Performance Time
How often will you actually get to act? Our classes average 20–24 students, allowing for 12 scenes per night. Unlike high-priced Los Angeles studios where you might perform once every six weeks, we prioritize consistent, weekly performance time for our actors.
7. The “Vibe” (and our Studio Cat)
Finally, check for personal comfort. For example, we have a friendly studio kitty named Liam who joins us for classes! Above all, ensure the studio resonates with you and your goals.
Observe a Class at Theresa Bell Actors Studio
Ready to see our process in action? If you are looking for Acting Classes in Dallas, contact us today to schedule your observation and find out if our studio is the right home for your craft.
- Another consideration is the other class members. Do they enjoy being there? Do they enjoy one another? Do they like and respect the coach? I find that most of the class observers at the studio ask a multitude of questions and there is no one better to get honest feedback than someone who is already a student. It’s even more helpful to ask someone who has been at the studio for an extended period of time.
- Is the space itself clean, safe, and welcoming? When I first opened the studio at Southside on Lamar in January 2011, it was important to me that it was a place of beauty and inspiration. Of course, if aesthetics are not important to you, you will absolutely be able to find simpler, less inspiring accommodations.
- Is there ample parking and is it free and safe? Southside has two large free retail parking lots that our actors can use. We are located directly across the street from the police department and the building has security guards who will walk actors to their cars should they desire.
- How large are the classes and does everyone get to perform every week? The average size of our classes is now 20 – 24 people. This allows us to get through 12 scenes per night unless someone is having a particularly difficult rework in which case, we may not get through the entire lineup. By comparison, I know that the more successful studios in Los Angeles have anywhere from 80 – 100 students and the actors are able to perform once every six weeks. And, they will easily pay twice as much.
- Pets – If you are allergic to animals or afraid of them, it is best to ask if any are on the premises. We have a wonderful kitty named Liam who often watches the classes along with the students.
- Does it “feel” like you belong? If not, find a place that resonates with you.
- Hopefully, other questions and concerns will be brought to your attention once you are at the location.
If you are looking to observe an acting class before enrolling, then contact us at Theresa Bell Actors Studio today!
