Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes Graham Shiels Studios the best Film and TV acting classes in Los Angeles & New York?

At Graham Shiels Studios, our focus is simple: prepare actors for the realities of today's Film & Television industry. Our training combines the rigor of the Yale School of Drama technique with practical, on-camera experience using currently casting Film & TV scripts, ensuring every class is directly applicable to the auditions and roles actors are pursuing today. Our motto here is: "Train with the working." We believe what sets us apart, is that our instructors are not only experienced teachers—they are currently working actors who understand the industry's evolving expectations firsthand. Students receive hands-on coaching in audition technique, script analysis, self-taping, and on-camera performance, while developing a personalized process they can rely on throughout their careers. Rather than teaching a collection of tricks or shortcuts, we provide a comprehensive acting technique that empowers actors to make bold, truthful choices, perform with consistency under pressure, and bring authenticity to every role. Our goal isn't simply to help students book their next audition—it's to equip them with the craft, confidence, and professional mindset needed for a long and meaningful career in Film and Television.

2. What makes actors trained in the Yale School of Drama technique so successful?

The Yale School of Drama technique has earned an exceptional reputation through decades of artistic excellence and proven results. The rigor of its training has shaped generations of actors who have gone on to receive the industry's highest honors, including Academy Awards, Emmy Awards, and Tony Awards. Equally important, the Yale pedigree carries immediate recognition throughout the entertainment industry. Casting directors, agents, managers, directors, and producers understand the caliber of training associated with the institution—now known as the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University. Its emphasis on disciplined craft, deep textual analysis, and truthful performance has established a standard of excellence that continues to distinguish its graduates in film, television, and theater.

3. Why should my teachers be currently working Film/TV industry professionals?

At Graham Shiels Studios, our instructors bring current industry experience into every class. Because they continue to work as professional actors, they understand what today's casting directors, directors, producers, and studios are looking for. Their guidance is informed by firsthand experience. Beyond teaching technique, they help bridge the gap between the classroom and the professional world. Students gain practical insights into how to apply their craft in today's industry while building the confidence, discipline, and professionalism expected of working actors. The business of acting is always changing. Learning from professionals who are actively navigating that world helps ensure your training remains relevant, practical, and aligned with the realities of today's Film & Television industry.

4. Are on-camera acting classes at Graham Shiels Studios in Los Angeles beginner-friendly?

Yes. Graham Shiels Studios welcomes actors of all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether you're stepping in front of the camera for the first time or a seasoned series regular looking to refine your craft, our classes are designed to meet you where you are and help you grow.

5. Is this Film and TV acting class near me?

Our in-person Film & Television acting classes are offered in person in New York. For actors outside of New York & Los Angeles, we also offer live online classes, making our professional training accessible from anywhere in the world. Whether you join us in person or virtually, you'll receive the same high-caliber instruction and personalized coaching that define the Graham Shiels Studios experience.

Getting Started...

1. Do I need acting experience to join?

Not at all! Graham Shiels Studios welcomes actors at all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned working professionals. Our classes are designed to meet you where you are and help you build the skills, confidence, and on-camera technique needed to succeed in film and television. Whether you’re taking your very first acting class or looking to sharpen your existing craft, you’ll train in a supportive, professional environment alongside actors who are actively pursuing their careers. The most important requirement is that you’re ready to work, learn, and grow.

2. Do I have to take The Lab before joining an ongoing class?

Yes! The Lab introduces you to our approach, training methods, and expectations while giving you a strong foundation for the work you’ll continue developing in our ongoing classes. It allows us to make sure every actor entering an ongoing class has a shared understanding of the fundamentals and is prepared to get the most out of their training. Once you complete The Lab, you’ll be able to join an ongoing class and continue building your craft alongside our community of working actors.

3. What is The Lab?

The Lab is the foundational training program at Graham Shiels Studios and is the first step for actors joining our ongoing classes. Designed to introduce you to the GSS approach, The Lab focuses on building a strong foundation in on-camera acting, technique, preparation, and the mindset needed to work professionally in film and television. It’s an intensive environment where actors learn the fundamentals, develop their skills, and begin to understand what is expected of them in our ongoing training. The Lab also gives you the opportunity to experience the GSS community and working environment before moving into an ongoing class. Completion of The Lab is a mandatory prerequisite for joining an ongoing class at Graham Shiels Studios.

4. What happens after I complete The Lab?

Once you complete The Lab, you’ll have the opportunity to continue your training in one of our ongoing classes. The Lab is designed to give you the foundation you need to transition into our ongoing training, where you’ll continue developing your craft, strengthening your on-camera technique, and working consistently alongside other actors. Our team will help guide you toward the ongoing class that is the best fit for your training and experience. From there, you’ll continue building on the work you started in The Lab and developing the skills needed to pursue a professional career in film and television.

5. How do you determine which ongoing class I'll be placed in?

After completing The Lab, our team will determine the ongoing class that is the best fit for you based on your experience, training, current skill level, and where you are in your development as an actor. We want to make sure you’re placed in an environment that will challenge you, support your growth, and allow you to get the most out of your training. Your placement is not about labeling you as a certain “level.” It’s about finding the class where you can continue to grow, do your best work, and train alongside actors who are at a similar stage in their development.

6. Can I skip The Lab if I already have professional experience?

No. The Lab is a mandatory prerequisite for all actors, regardless of their previous training or professional experience. Even if you have extensive experience in film, television, theater, or other acting programs, The Lab ensures that every actor entering our ongoing classes has a shared foundation in the Graham Shiels Studios approach and training methods. The Lab is not about determining whether you are experienced enough to join an ongoing class. It is about introducing you to the work, establishing a strong foundation, and preparing you for the training ahead.

7. Can I audit a class before enrolling?

Yes! Auditing a class is a great way to experience Graham Shiels Studios firsthand before committing to ongoing training. Our Los Angeles audit is held on Tuesdays at 6:45 PM, and our NYC studio audit is held on Mondays at 5:45 PM. An audit gives you the opportunity to observe the class, get a feel for our training environment and approach, and see how we work with actors in an ongoing class setting. If you’re interested in auditing, please reach out to our team for availability and scheduling information.

About The Classes...

1. What is taught in the Ongoing Film & TV classes?