There are varying types of acting classes, from beginner to advanced. These classes can teach acting technique, scene study, audition technique, improv, cold reading, and body movement. An advanced class may hone in on one specific technique and skill, where beginners classes are generalized.
Primarily, an acting class will teach you to perform. This will start by teaching you to access your body and movement, control your voice, and break through discomfort. A good class will teach you how to read a text and respond. By the end of an acting class, you should feel confident in your performance. Classes also teach you to respond to direction, and work as a team.
Different acting methods that may be taught include: Stanislavsky, Strasberg, Adler, Meiser, and Hagen. A beginners class may cover all the methods, where an intermediary class might specialize. These techniques are used to help actors create engaging characters and performances.
Classes are valuable for everyone interested in pursuing acting as a career. Even as a career progresses, regular classes can be used to improve technique and build connections.
Acting classes are primarily focused on theater and stage acting. However, there are specialized classes for screen acting.