Adult Classes
Welcome to The Acting Studio at McCarter—your creative home for every level of performer, from curious beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether you’re seeking a fun way to connect with fellow theater lovers or in-depth, professional training for the stage and screen, we have a class for you.
Fall Session
Advanced Scene Study
By Invitation Only. Ages 18+
Elevate your craft in this master‑level class that builds on Scene Study 1. Under the guidance of the instructor, students will apply advanced lessons in Meisner technique and text analysis to the preparation, rehearsal, and presentation of scenes from a range of contemporary and classic plays. Students are challenged to stretch themselves by working on a variety of diverse and complex roles. Emphasis is placed on applying technique to solve the acting problems inherent in each scene, thus gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the rehearsal process. Each session culminates in a polished showcase for an audience. Previous acting training is required and admission to the class is by invitation only.
Dates: Sept 8, 15, 29; Oct 6, 13, 27; Nov 3, 10, 17; Dec 1, 8
Time: Mondays 6:30-9:00 PM
Cost: $500
Scene Study
Beginner/Intermediate Level. Ages 18+
The Adult Scene Study class offers students ongoing practice in their craft through a Meisner-based approach designed to develop the actor’s ability to use themselves truthfully, spontaneously, and actively. This class will combine acting exercises and scene study to explore technique, analyze scripts, and develop characters. Students will learn how to apply the actor’s technique to the rehearsal process and build a performance. This class encourages actors to stretch themselves by working on a variety of diverse and challenging parts in a safe, communal environment that balances rigor with fun.
Fall Session: Sept 9, 16, 30; Oct 7, 14, 21, 28; Nov 4, 11, 18; Dec 2, 9
Time: Tuesdays 6:30-8:30 PM
Winter Session: Registration Opens November 10
Spring Session: Registration Opens March 9
Cost: $400
Acting Collective
All skill levels welcome. Ages 18+
The Adult Acting Collective is a place for adult students to explore the craft of acting in a supportive environment that promotes creativity, community and friendship. Each session will teach the fundamentals of acting through themes such as improvisation, scene and monologue study, character development, the art of comedy, solo and ensemble performance, specialized acting techniques, and more! Each 10-week session will build on the session before but also allow for new students to enter the process. This class emphasizes group work and balances rigor and skill-building with fun! It is appropriate for the beginner student as well as those wishing to reconnect with their craft.
Fall Session: Sept 10, 17, 24; Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Nov 5, 12, 19; Dec 3
Time: Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 PM
Winter Session: Registration Opens November 10
Spring Session: Registration Opens March 9
Cost: $400
Improv
Ages 18+
Step into the world of improv and unlock skills that resonate far beyond the stage. McCarter's Adult Improv class offers a lively, supportive space to sharpen you listening skills, develop your truthful spontaneity and trust your creative instincts. Each week you will work closely with fellow students to learn how to perform classic short-form improv games as well as long-form scenes grounded in core improv principles like “Yes, and...”, “Don’t prepare!” and “Commit!” At the end of the session, students will have the opportunity to showcase their newly honed skills in a relaxed and fun sharing for the public! This class is perfect for anyone ready to stretch their creative muscles and discover the joy of saying “yes, and” to new opportunities!
Dates: Sept 11, 18, 25; Oct 9, 16, 23, 30; Nov 6, 13, 20; Dec 4, 11
Time: Thursdays 6:30-8:30 PM
Winter Session: Registration Opens November 10
Spring Session: Registration Opens March 9
Cost: $400