Acting Essentials - New York
Course overview
Experience RADA's renowned actor training in this series of practical, standalone workshops. Each session focuses on a core area of the RADA curriculum: Voice, Monologue Workout, Shakespeare Basics, Acting Techniques and Classical Text.
With small class sizes and expert tutors, these workshops offer focused, individual attention in a supportive ensemble environment. Whether you're new to acting or an experienced performer looking to refresh your skills, each session is designed to challenge and develop your practice.
Book a single workshop or attend as many as you choose.
Voice
Discover practical techniques to use your voice with greater freedom, clarity and confidence. This workshop explores the foundations of healthy vocal practice while strengthening the connection between your voice and the text. Through practical exercises, you'll develop posture, breath, voice and articulation, while exploring resonance, range and tone. You will also explore pitch, pace and volume to develop greater vocal range and expression.
- Fall 2026: Monday 21 September, 6pm-8.30pm
- Winter 2026: Monday 7 December, 6pm-8.30pm
- Spring 2027: to be announced
Monologue Workout
Discover practical techniques to use your voice with greater freedom, clarity and confidence. This workshop explores the foundations of healthy vocal practice while strengthening the connection between your voice and the text. Through practical exercises, you'll develop posture, breath, voice and articulation, while exploring resonance, range and tone. You will also explore pitch, pace and volume to develop greater vocal range and expression.
- Fall 2026: Tuesday 22 September, 6pm-8.30pm
Shakespeare Basics
Designed for those with little or no previous experience of Shakespeare, this practical workshop introduces approaches to his language, characters and dramatic action. Whether you're preparing for actor training, working towards an audition, or simply looking to build your confidence with Shakespeare, you'll develop the skills to approach his work with greater ease. Led by an experienced tutor, you'll discover how rhythm and language shape meaning and performance, while developing the confidence to read, interpret and speak Shakespeare with clarity.
- Fall 2026: Wednesday 23 September, 6pm-8.30pm
- Winter 2026: Wednesday 9 December, 6pm-8.30pm
- Spring 2027: to be announced
Acting Techniques
Gain an insight into RADA's approach to actor training, you will work collaboratively, exploring and analysing text using techniques developed by Stanislavski and later practitioners, including Uta Hagen and Sanford Meisner. Guided by RADA's expert tutors, you will develop practical tools for truthful, responsive, and imaginative performance.
- Winter 2026: Tuesday 8 December, 6pm-8.30pm
- Spring 2027: to be announced
Classical Text
Develop your skills in performing Shakespeare through an engaging practical workshop that explores scenes from some of his most celebrated plays. You’ll investigate different approaches to Shakespeare’s work while strengthening your rehearsal practice and growing in confidence with classical text. Focusing on the detail, action and context of each scene, the session will examine character journeys and relationships, helping you unlock meaning within the text. Through expert guidance, you’ll learn techniques that support truthful emotional connection, clear communication with fellow actors, and compelling performances for your audience.
- Spring 2027: to be announced
Entry requirements
- There is no selection process for this course, if you feel this course is suitable for you and have read all the information on this webpage, then please proceed to booking.
- Participants must be over 18 and have fluent, confident use and knowledge of the English language.
Who is this course suitable for?
- Beginners with no prior experience
- Anyone interested in learning the basics of acting
- Anyone considering applying for drama school
Course information
What are the Terms and Conditions of my booking?
You can read the full Terms and Conditions here.
Where does the course take place?
The course will take place at Ripley-Grier Studios, 520 8th Ave 16th floor, New York, NY 10018, USA.
Will there be anything I need to prepare before the course starts?
No, just bring yourself.
Is there any work to do outside of class time?
No
What’s included in the fee?
The fee covers the cost of your tuition for the times advertised above and any materials essential to the course (and not specified here as materials you need to provide yourself). The fee does not include any meals or accommodation.
RADA cannot provide written references for Short Course participants.
What materials or equipment do I need?
You need to wear comfortable clothing that you can move in freely.
I have a disability or access requirement – can reasonable adjustments be made?
We are able to make reasonable adjustments to our training where possible. Many of our courses are highly practical. Most involve movement and some may include work on the floor. You may also be asked to read from various texts. If you have access requirements and/or require more information on access and facilities in our RADA buildings, please email shortcourses@rada.ac.uk
Are there any funding or payment plans available?
There are no RADA Scholarships available for Short Courses. We cannot offer payment plans, and full payment is required to secure your place on a course.
Can RADA provide accommodation?
We are unable to provide accommodation for RADA Short Courses.
Please note that in the event of cancellation, RADA can accept no liability for any costs you may already have incurred; and we strongly recommend you purchase insurance cover for any travel or accommodation booked before the start of the course.
Will I get a certificate at the end of the course?
Yes. A Certificate of Completion is available for this course. Certificates are awarded to students who had no unexcused absences or lateness and operated within the obligations laid out in the Terms and Conditions.
Does the course count towards University credits?
There are no University Credits associated with this course.
What is the attendance policy?
Our attendance policy can be read within our Terms and Conditions. 100% attendance and punctuality are expected for all classes.
How do I register for an in-person course?
You will be providing most of the information we need when you fill in your application form.
On the first day of your course, you will be asked to arrive up to 30 minutes before the start of your first session, and you need to bring a copy of your passport, and, if applicable, evidence of your right to join a short course in the UK.