the Price of Theater Performance Classes

For $275 I received a series of 6 Vocal Production classes. In this context "Vocal Production" refers to learning how to use one's voice effectively in live theatre, not singing.

The quality of the service and training was outstanding. I had taken courses in public school and in college before, but had never taken private lessons. Previous courses had been filled with a lot of "fluff", but this course was information dense. We did a lot of exercises that made a tangible difference in the strength and quality of my voice.

With theatre (or any other type of performing arts class) you really need to separate the wheat from the chaffe. Any has-been or never-was can hang a shingle and lead the class in some exercises. It takes a well educated and trained professional to evaluate the student's strengths and weaknesses and effectively prescribe the right exercises and tasks to help the performer grow. Beware of modeling and talent agencies that run acting workshops. They are notoriously after parents' money and deliver very little.

If there is a well respected actors' workshop in your area that would be a good point to begin your research. A private acting coach with an excellent reputation is another good option. Sometimes a region will have a "theatre alliance" type of community group that serves as a clearinghouse of information on all of the local theatres, arts schools, and workshops. Also, examine your motivation before taking a subject like "scene study", for example. Are you a rank amateur who needs an introduction to scene study? Are you already knowledgeable and need an instructor to "take you to the next level"? Being able to communicate your needs to the instructor before signing up for the class will make a huge difference in what you get out of the class. Avoid "fluff"-- courses with no substance.