Quick Answer
The top acting studios in New York City for honing your craft are Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, Maggie Flanigan Studio, William Esper Studio, HB Studio, The Barrow Group, Terry Schreiber Studio, T. Schreiber Studio, Atlantic Acting School, The Neighborhood Playhouse, Stella Adler Studio, New York Film Academy, Actors Connection, Esper Studio, New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, and Black Nexxus NYC. These studios offer comprehensive conservatory programs, ongoing classes, workshops, and private coaching rooted in techniques like Method, Meisner, Adler, Hagen and more. Their distinguished faculty have experience across Broadway, film, and television. Through rigorous training focused on exercises, scene study, script analysis, and performing, these studios provide unparalleled opportunities for honing acting skills and thriving in New York City's world-class entertainment industry.
Introduction
For any actor looking to develop their craft, training at an acting studio can provide the skills, experience and industry exposure needed to thrive in theater, film and television. And there may be no better city for acting studios than New York - with its iconic theaters, active entertainment scene and wealth of talent. From Broadway stages to big budget TV productions, the top studios in NYC can prepare actors for success.
But with the sheer number of acting classes and conservatory programs available, how do you determine the best options? Which studios have produced stars and consistently prepare students for careers on stage and screens? What foundational techniques or specialty areas do certain studios focus on? This comprehensive guide will survey the top-rated NYC acting studios, their unique approaches, distinguished alumni, and what makes each one stand out.
Whether you’re pursuing Method, Meisner, Adler or other training, are interested in musical theater, Shakespeare, comedy or scene study, we’ll cover the 15 strongest acting schools at the core of New York’s vibrant theater community. You’ll learn how their philosophy, faculty, class format and industry connections differentiate each studio. From 2-year conservatories to flexible workshops, these acting hubs offer every level of commitment.
By the end, you'll have an in-depth view of the diverse, high-caliber acting studio options in New York City for nurturing talent and launching careers in entertainment. Let’s begin exploring where you can master the techniques, hone your artistic voice and develop the resilience needed to shine on any stage or set!
The Top Acting Studios in NYC
1. The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute
The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute should be at the top of any actor's list when looking for acting studios in New York City. As one of the leading Method acting schools in the world, it offers both conservatory training and private coaching rooted in Strasberg's teachings and approach. Students receive rigorous training based on sense memory exercises, action work, improvisation and in-depth scene study. The school's esteemed faculty have worked closely with Strasberg himself and emphasize creating truthful, emotionally alive performances. In addition to full-time and part-time conservatory programs, the school offers classes for all experience levels, teens, kids, and specialized workshops. The Lee Strasberg Institute has trained countless A-list actors over the decades including Scarlett Johansson, Alec Baldwin, Anne Hathaway and many more
Key Highlights:
Renowned Method acting school rooted in teachings of Lee Strasberg
Conservatory training and private coaching options available
Focus on sense memory exercises, improvisation, and scene study to create truthful performances
Distinguished faculty trained by Lee Strasberg himself
Website: https://strasberg.edu
2. The Maggie Flanigan Studio
For Meisner technique acting classes in NYC, Maggie Flanigan Studio is a top choice. Their programs place a strong emphasis on creating honest, emotionally connected actors through the teachings of Sanford Meisner. Both their Studio Program and Professional Workshops aim to strip away actors' defenses and blocks to unleash raw, vulnerable talent. Core classes at the Conservatory include Acting 1, a two-year course focused on breaking down inner walls and accessing subconscious behavioral patterns. Scene study classes then integrate Meisner repetition exercises to sharpen listening and responding skills. The school also offers comprehensive voice, speech, movement and camera courses to complement the acting curriculum. Maggie Flanigan Studio faculty bring practical experience from Broadway, film and television.
Key Highlights:
Focus on Meisner technique and creating honest, emotionally available actors
Two-year Acting 1 course aims to break down blocks and walls
Scene study integrates Meisner repetition exercises
Complementary voice, speech, movement and camera classes
Faculty with experience across stage and screens
Website: https://www.maggieflaniganstudio.com
3. The William Esper Studio
For those looking for a rigorous acting program focused on Sanford Meisner's teachings, William Esper Studio is an excellent choice. Their two-year Meisner training program involves intense scene study, repetition exercises, and technique integration. Students rehearse and perform plays in a supportive environment that builds confidence. The school emphasizes developing listening, responding, intuition and working from a place of truth. Other specialized classes include Shakespeare, voice & speech, movement, and camera work. The faculty comprises working professionals who push students out of their comfort zones and bring out their best. In addition to the conservatory, William Esper offers summer intensives, private coaching, and classes for all levels. Notable alumni include Jeff Goldblum, David Morse, and Sam Rockwell.
Key Highlights:
Two-year Meisner technique conservatory training program
Scene study, repetition exercises, performance opportunities
Focus on listening, intuition & working from a place of truth
Courses in Shakespeare, voice, movement and camera work
Faculty of working professionals push students to excel
Website: https://www.esperstudio.com
4. HB Studio
Since its founding in 1945 by Herbert Berghof, HB Studio has been an acclaimed destination for studying the Meisner technique in NYC. Students receive training rooted in Berghof and Meisner's approaches through scene study, script analysis, and exercises focused on authenticity. Core classes like Fundamentals drill down on the basic tenants of acting while allowing students to access raw emotion and vulnerability. Ongoing scene study and performance workshops then help actors integrate technique into practice. HB Studio offers summer intensives, teen conservatory, private coaching and classes for all experience levels in addition to its full conservatory. Notable alumni include Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Jessica Chastain.
Key Highlights:
Legendary NYC studio founded in 1945 by Herbert Berghof
Meisner technique training through scene study, exercises, script analysis
Fundamentals course focused on drilling down to raw emotion
Ongoing scene study and performance workshops
Classes, intensives and conservatory for all ages and levels
Website: http://www.hbstudio.org
5. The Barrow Group
The Barrow Group provides comprehensive acting training rooted in the Meisner, Adler and other techniques led by distinguished faculty. Their programs emphasize accessing emotional truth to create honest acting grounded in the text. Core training includes Acting 1, Voice & Speech, Alexander Technique, On-Camera, and Improv. The Barrow Group also offers scene study at various levels, audition technique, coaching, and classes focused on musical theatre. Students regularly perform in plays directed by faculty and guest directors. The Barrow Group's COPA program for teens provides training in all aspects of performing arts. Notable alumni include Anne Hathaway, John Krasinski, and Natascha McElhone.
Key Highlights:
Training draws from Meisner, Adler and other acting techniques
Classes aim to access emotional truth and text-based performances
Core courses in Acting, Voice, Alexander Technique, Camera, and Improv
Ongoing scene study, audition technique classes, and play performances
COPA conservatory program for teens interested in performing arts
Website: https://www.barrowgroup.org
6. Terry Schreiber Studio
For over 40 years, Terry Schreiber has offered personalized training and coaching for actors in film, theater, and television. His studio provides a dynamic curriculum designed to help actors build technique while discovering their unique talents. Core classes cover script analysis, sense memory, Advanced Scene Study, speech, and on-camera acting. Private coaching sessions allow actors to address specific challenges and material. Schreiber also teaches specialized showcases including Cold Reading, Audition Technique, and an intensive 3-Day Commercial Workshop. While not a conservatory program, the studio offers support for creating a career in entertainment. The staff of working actors provides practical guidance for navigating the industry. Notable alumni include Ted Danson, Rachel Dratch, and Michael Imperioli.
Key Highlights:
Over 40 years of experience training actors for stage and screen
Personalized classes and coaching to develop technique & strengths
Core courses in script analysis, sense memory, scene study, and on-camera
Private coaching sessions available to target specific material
Specialized showcases and workshops focused on auditions and commercials
Practical guidance for building an acting career from staff of working actors
Website: https://tschreiber.org
7. T. Schreiber Studio
T. Schreiber Studio offers comprehensive theater training taught by working professionals based on the teachings of Terry Schreiber. Programs emphasize selecting interesting, character-appropriate material and making bold acting choices. Core classes include scene study, cold reading, improv, Shakespeare, comedy, and musical theater. They also offer specialized sessions on audition technique, commercials, sitcoms, and soap operas. While not a conservatory, T. Schreiber provides a curriculum designed to strengthen technique and establish a firm acting foundation applicable to all media. Classes accommodate beginner to advanced skill levels. The faculty comprises working actors who share practical insights. Showcases throughout the year allow students to perform for industry invited guests. Notable alumni include Mariska Hargitay, Peter Dinklage, and Antonio Banderas.
Key Highlights:
Theater training for stage and camera by working acting professionals
Classes focused on selecting bold material and making strong choices
Core courses in scene study, cold reading, improv, Shakespeare, comedy, and musicals
Specialized workshops on key audition techniques and acting for camera
Accommodates beginner to advanced skill levels
Showcases for students to perform for industry guests
Website: https://tschreiber.org
8. Atlantic Acting School
As the official acting school of the renowned Atlantic Theater Company, Atlantic Acting School provides conservatory training, summer, and evening programs rooted in practical performance techniques. Their programs are based on David Mamet and William H. Macy’s teachings focused on script analysis, action, and direct communication with the audience. Core courses cover Practical Aesthetics technique, voice & speech, movement, and camera work. Atlantic also offers scene study, theater styles, and acting for film. Students learn to break down a script to identify character objectives and motivations in order to deliver impactful performances. Atlantic’s faculty work actively in theater, film, and television. Notable alumni include Rose Byrne, Felicity Huffman, and Camryn Manheim.
Key Highlights:
Official school of the Atlantic Theater Company
Training grounded in David Mamet & William H. Macy’s Practical Aesthetics method
Classes in core technique, voice, movement, camera work, and scene study
Focus on script analysis and identifying character objectives
Faculty who actively work in entertainment industry
Website: http://atlanticactingschool.org/home
9. The Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre
A top choice for Meisner technique acting classes in New York, the Neighborhood Playhouse offers a rigorous conservatory program taught by working professionals. Their comprehensive two-year program focuses on training actors to respond viscerally and work from instinct. Classes are rooted in the teachings of Sanford Meisner and emphasize imagination, intuition, and emotional preparation. Students take courses in scene study, text analysis, commercials, theater history, on-camera technique, and more. The Neighborhood Playhouse also provides summer intensives for all experience levels. Notable graduates include Diane Keaton, Tony Randall, and Grace Kelly.
Key Highlights:
Renowned two-year conservatory grounded in Meisner technique
Training focuses on visceral response and working from instinct
Extensive curriculum including scene study, text analysis, commercials, and on-camera
Classes emphasize imagination, intuition, and emotional preparation
Summer intensives accommodating all skill levels
Website: https://neighborhoodplayhouse.org
10. Stella Adler Studio of Acting
For aspiring actors interested in studying Stella Adler's influential technique, this New York studio bearing her name could be an ideal choice. Students undergo intensive training based on harnessing imagination, expanding individuality, and applying textual analysis. Core courses cover Script Analysis, Characterization, Style & Scene Study, Movement, Voice, and Theater History. The advanced program guides students to make bold, personal choices that organically fit the character and text. Stella Adler Studio also offers short-term workshops, summer intensives, and classes for teens and kids. Located in the heart of the NYC theater district, the school regularly hosts industry showcases for students. Notable alumni include Salma Hayek, Mark Ruffalo, and Benicio Del Toro.
Key Highlights:
Opportunity to study Stella Adler's technique in NYC studio named for her
Intensive training focused on imagination, individuality, and text analysis
Core classes plus advanced program for making bold, organic acting choices
Short workshops, intensives for all ages, and industry showcases for students
Website: https://stellaadler.com
11. New York Film Academy (NYFA)
While not an acting-only studio, the New York Film Academy provides immersive conservatory programs focused on on-camera acting for film and television. Their 1 and 2-year programs drill down on acting techniques through hands-on courses in scene study, film & TV styles, script breakdown, and more. NYFA emphasizes on-set experience with multiple collaboration-focused projects and student films throughout the year. The school offers limited class sizes aimed at closely reproduting a professional set environment. In addition to core acting skills, NYFA develops skills in analyzing material, directing actors, editing, and marketing. The faculty comprises experienced film and TV professionals.
Key Highlights:
Immersive 1-2 year conservatory programs focused specifically on acting for film/TV
Hands-on courses in scene study, script breakdown, acting techniques for camera
On-set collaboration projects & student films offer intensive experience
Skills developed in material analysis, directing, editing, marketing and more
Faculty of experienced film/TV professionals and small class sizes
Website: https://www.nyfa.edu/acting-school
12. Actors Connection
For over 30 years, Actors Connection has offered acting classes, showcases, seminars, and assistance launching a career. Their programs emphasize learning to act with authenticity and making bold choices. Offerings range from Foundations Scene Study and On-Camera to specialized sessions like Acting in Film Noir and Acting for Soaps. Classes accommodate all experience levels. Unique workshops provide training in key skills like improv, musical theater, stunt work, and voiceover. Showcases throughout the year allow students to perform for invited casting directors and agents. The school also provides career counseling and assistance creating a professional portfolio.
Key Highlights:
30+ years training actors in NYC across theater, TV, and film
Classes aimed at creating authentic, bold performances
Foundations to specialized topic sessions accommodating all levels
Unique offerings in improv, musical theater, stunts, voiceover
Showcases to perform for invited casting directors and agents
Career counseling and portfolio creation assistance
Website: https://www.actorsconnection.com
13. Esper Studio
Esper Studio offers quality on-camera acting classes and workshops to students of all levels and backgrounds. Their curriculum focuses on the Meisner technique adapted for the unique demands of television and film. Flexible class options range from year-long programs to single day intensives. Core courses include Foundations, Audition Technique, Scene Study, Cold Reading, Improv and more. For professionals, they offer short-term intensive Master Classes to strengthen audition skills and sharpen acting tools. Classes incorporate exercises, on-camera repetition, and training in genres from sitcoms to drama. Students gain experience through live tapings, demo reels and referral opportunities. The faculty comprises working actors in TV/film.
Key Highlights:
On-camera acting training focused on Meisner technique
Flexible class options from 1-day intensives to year-long programs
Core courses in Foundations, Scene Study, Auditions, Cold Reading, Improv
Short Master Classes for professionals needing tune-ups
Live tapings, demo reel experience and referral opportunities
Led by working TV and film actors
Website: https://www.esperstudio.com
14. New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA)
NYCDA provides full-time conservatory programs and part-time acting classes focused on stage, film, and television. Their comprehensive programs blend classroom training in techniques like Meisner and Adler with hands-on experience through performances in New York City. Core curriculum includes Acting, Voice & Speech, Movement, Camera Technique, Audition, Musical Theatre, Shakespeare, and Script Analysis. The faculty comprises working actors, directors, and writers who bring real-world insights. NYCDA also offers an 8-Week Summer Intensive, workshops for international students, and programs for teens. Notable alumni include Uzo Aduba, Emily Bergl, and Geoffrey Arend.
Key Highlights:
Conservatory programs and classes focused on stage, TV and film acting
Balance of classroom technique training with NYC stage experience
Courses in Acting, Voice, Movement, Camera, Auditions, Musical Theatre, Shakespeare
Faculty are working actors, directors and writers
Summer Intensives, international student offerings, teen programs
Website: https://www.nycda.edu
15. Black Nexxus NYC
For acting classes rooted specifically in the Black experience with a focus on thriving within the entertainment industry, Black Nexxus NYC fills a valuable niche. Their conservatory program emphasizes mastering technique and creating art that reflects students' culture and identity. Classes are grounded in foundational Meisner, Adler, Hagen and Stanislavsky training tailored for contemporary Black storytelling. The core curriculum covers Acting, Audition Technique, Voice & Speech, Movement, Camera Technique, and more. Unique offerings like Black Diasporic Dramaturgy examine plays using an Afrocentric lens. Students regularly perform plays by distinguished Black playwrights.
Key Highlights:
Acting training focused on the Black experience and thriving in entertainment
Conservatory grounded in adapted Meisner, Adler, Hagen and Stanislavsky techniques
Courses in core acting skills plus Black Diasporic Dramaturgy
Performances of plays by renowned Black playwrights
Website: https://www.blacknexxus.org
Evaluating and Choosing an Acting Studio in NYC
With this overview of top-rated acting studios in New York City, how do you choose where to focus your training? Here are some key factors to consider as you research prospective schools:
Acting Technique, Philosophy & Faculty
What core acting techniques does the studio teach (ex. Meisner, Adler, etc)? Do you feel a strong connection to this philosophy?
Who are the founders and lead faculty members? What are their credentials and accomplishments in acting and training?
Does the faculty comprise working actors with recent experience in theater, TV, and film?
Class Format & Offerings
Does the curriculum focus more on scene study, exercises, and repetition or full stage/on-camera performances?
Beyond core classes, what specialized topics are covered (musical theater, Shakespeare, comedy, etc)?
Does the studio offer short workshops, intensives or master classes in addition to multi-year conservatories?
Student Experience & Outcomes
What performance and showcase opportunities do students receive? How often and in front of what audiences?
Does the studio help connect advanced students to agents and industry representatives?
What level of individualized attention, feedback and coaching do students receive? What are the class sizes?
Does the studio produce any notable alumni actively working in theater, TV or film?
Convenience, Scheduling & Cost
Is the studio reasonably close to where you live or work in NYC? Do you require a commutable location?
Do class times fit within your availability? Can you attend multiple days per week?
Is the curriculum formatted as ongoing classes, a fixed conservatory, or short workshops? What fits your timeline?
What is the total tuition? Are any scholarships, payment plans or discounts offered? Is it accessible for your budget?
Career Support Services
Does the school help students prepare materials like headshots, resumes, reels and websites needed to start their careers?
Is career counseling and guidance provided on how to obtain representation and roles?
For conservatories, is business training included on auditioning, agents, finances, branding, etc?
Student Body
Does the school accommodate beginner actors or is intensive training required? What is the skill range?
Is the environment supportive of all backgrounds, identities and learning types?
Will you receive individual attention or be lost in overly large classes?
Will you collaborate and build connections with peers at your experience level?
Reputation & Reviews
What is the studio's reputation within the NYC acting community? How are they regarded by industry professionals in the city?
Do alumni and student reviews praise the quality of training, faculty dedication, and career preparation?
Have any well-known actors trained or taught classes there?
Top Specialized Acting Studios in NYC
In addition to the comprehensive acting studios above, New York City offers more specialized schools focused on particular techniques, demographics or areas of the entertainment industry. Here are some of the top picks in these niches:
Experimental Theater
For training in avant-garde and experimental theater, these studios offer unique programs:
The New Actor's Workshop - Founded by Mike Nichols and Paul Sills, this school teaches improvisational Viola Spolin technique and unconventional scene work to enable organic, responsive acting.
The Magnet Theater - Improv and comedy training centered around students finding their unique comedic voice and developing original material.
Musical Theater
If musical theater acting is your specialty, consider these top-rated programs:
Circle in the Square Theatre School - One of few Bachelor's programs in musical theater affiliated with a Broadway theater.
CAP21 - BFA and Two Year Conservatory focused entirely on musical theater training and performance.
American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) - Offers conservatories and BFA Degrees in Musical Theatre or Performing Arts.
Drama Programs for Teens & Kids
For aspiring young actors, these studios offer introductions to acting in a developmentally appropriate way:
Lee Strasberg Institute - Teen and kids classes teaching concentration, imagination, sensory exercises.
Stella Adler Studio - Teen and youth courses to build imagination and individuality on stage.
New York Film Academy (NYFA) - Part-time film acting intensive for teens.
Training for Film/TV
To focus your skills specifically on screen acting, check out:
New York Film Academy (NYFA) - Conservatory crafted entirely around acting for film and television.
The Actor's Green Room - Scene study and on-camera intensives focused on acting techniques that work for TV/film.
NYC Acting Studio - Short term core classes and intensives for camera acting and audition skills.
Worthwhile Alternatives to Acting Studios
While classes at a formal acting studio are hugely valuable, they are not the only option when seeking training as an actor in New York City. Here are a few other worthwhile routes to gain experience and make industry connections:
Community Theater Groups
Volunteering with community theater companies around the city provides opportunities to perform in productions and gain stage experience in a more affordable, laidback environment. These groups often host open calls.
Theater Internships & Apprenticeships
Local theaters, Broadway productions, and talent agencies offer competitive internships and apprenticeships. These provide training, mentorship, and professional connections.
Independent Coaching
Experienced coaches who specialize in specific acting techniques or audition preparation offer private and small group classes. This can provide focused support.
Extra Work
Taking on background roles as an extra provides on-set experience, exposure to how film/TV sets run, and chances to connect with crews. Useful when starting out.
| Studio | Technique | Class Format | Showcases | Training Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute | Method acting | Conservatory, private coaching, classes, workshops | Regular student showcases | Sense memory, action, improvisation |
| Maggie Flanigan Studio | Meisner technique | Conservatory, private coaching, workshops | Ongoing student productions | Emotional truth, vulnerability |
| William Esper Studio | Meisner technique | 2-year conservatory, summer intensives, private coaching, classes | Student productions | Listening, intuition, truth |
| HB Studio | Meisner technique | Classes, intensives, conservatory | Showcases | Imagination, raw emotion |
| The Barrow Group | Meisner, Adler, etc. | Scene study, acting classes | Student productions | Emotional truth, text analysis |
| Terry Schreiber Studio | Various techniques | Group classes, private coaching | Showcases | Developing strengths, individualized |
| T. Schreiber Studio | Various techniques | Scene study, workshops | Showcases | Making bold choices |
| Atlantic Acting School | Practical Aesthetics | Conservatory, summer, evening classes | Performances | Script analysis, actions |
| The Neighborhood Playhouse | Meisner technique | 2-year conservatory, summer intensives | Showcases | Imagination, intuition, emotion |
| Stella Adler Studio | Stella Adler technique | Conservatory, workshops, classes | Performances, showcases | Imagination, individuality |
| New York Film Academy | Various techniques | 1-2 year conservatories | Student films | On-camera, hands-on |
| Actors Connection | Various techniques | Classes, workshops | Showcases for industry | Audition skills |
| Esper Studio | Meisner technique | Classes, intensives, workshops | Taped performances | On-camera |
| NY Conservatory for Dramatic Arts | Meisner, Adler, etc. | Conservatory, summer intensives | Productions | Stage and camera |
| Black Nexxus NYC | Meisner, Adler, etc. | Conservatory program | Showcases | Black experience |
Conclusion
After reviewing these exceptional acting studios at the heart of New York City's theater scene, you have a comprehensive guide to the techniques taught, class formats offered and unique strengths of each program.
From intensive conservatories focused on a specific methodology to flexible workshops for polishing skills, NYC has a dynamic range of options. Whether your goals involve Broadway productions, big-screen films, television shows or web content, these studios provide thorough training for success.
While an ideal acting program is highly personalized to your individual talents and interests, this overview highlights the philosophy, faculty, and industry connections that set reputable studios apart. As you continue on your artistic path, let this be a reference for exploring schools where you can master technique, take risks, get noticed and fully realize your potential.
With an abundance of resources like student productions, industry showcases and personalized coaching, New York City offers unparalleled ways to hone your craft. Bring your dedication, courage and willingness to grow - and the right studio will shape you into a dynamic performer ready to contribute your unique gifts to audiences near and far. Now step out of your comfort zone and into the spotlight!