Do you have payment plans?
YES! We are willing to work with you, just talk to us about what you need.
Can I sign up for a class after it has already started?
Registration closes at the beginning of the first class unless it fills up prior to that. No registration is available after class begins.
I've never acted before, what kinds of classes do you offer for people like me?
You're in luck-- we have classes for beginners of any age! All of our intro level classes are suitable for adults with no training or experience.
I want to do film and tv- what kind of classes do you have for that?
Acting in front of the camera requires technique on top of skill. If you are a beginner, we recommend that you take a few acting classes before you get in front of the camera. Also, technically all of our virtual classes are on camera classes- so any class you take with Montage will give you some on-camera experience. If you already have the skill and are looking to learn the technique, we do offer classes in film.
What will your classes do for me?
Honestly, that depends on what you want our classes to do for you. Here are some of the reasons that people take our classes:
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Acting is always something I wanted to try.
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I want to meet people and do something fun.
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I want to overcome my shyness.
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I give a lot of presentations at work, and I want to improve my stage presence.
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I need a hobby.
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I want to be a professional actor, so I need training.
As you can see, there are a lot of different reasons why people take our classes. Everyone who studies with us will have access to world class training taught by industry professionals, the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of the craft of acting, and all of this takes place in a diverse and supportive environment. What you do with those things is up to you.
Will you make me a star?
No. Anyone who tells you they can do that is lying to you. Unless it is Steven Spielberg. He could probably do that. If you know him, could you please give him my headshot?
Will these classes be offered again virtually?
YES! Montage is here to stay! Our virtual classes aren't going anywhere. Even when the Michigan Actors Studio is given the all clear to resume in-person classes, we will still offer a full range of virtual options. We offer classes in the spring, summer, fall and winter so you can continue to study the craft year round!
When will you resume in-person classes?
The truth is, we don't know. For the foreseeable future, all of our classes have been moved on-line. As soon as we are ready to open our doors and resume live classes, we will let you know.
I have always wanted to act. How do I get started?
One of the most important things an actor can do is study their craft. We recommend that you find a place that is a good fit for you, and start learning by doing. Michigan Actors Studio and Montage offer a safe space to explore, grow and learn about acting. We think you'll like it here.
Do I have to have prior experience to take one of your classes?
In a word, no. All of our beginning level classes do not require any experience. Some of our upper level classes do have prerequisites, but those can all be met by taking our intro level classes.
Will I be able to take a single class to determine whether or not I’d like to continue?
We currently do not offer auditing (sitting in to watch a class), however we frequently have open houses where you can meet our teachers, ask questions and have the chance to win gift certificates good towards classes. Watch for free samples of our virtual classes to give you a taste of what we do and how we do it-- coming soon!
What are your teachers like?
Our teachers are patient, encouraging, knowledgeable and have over 100 years of combined teaching and acting experience. We also think we're pretty funny, but you'll have to decide that for yourself.
Who takes your classes--will I fit in?
We feel confident saying "Yes, you will fit in". How can we say that? We have an incredibly diverse student body. Our students are recent graduates, empty nesters and retirees. They are doctors, line workers, engineers, stay-at-home parents, college students, contractors and teachers. They are life-long Michiganders, from all over the US and recently immigrated to the United States. They are every color and orientation. It is really important to us that our classrooms are welcoming safe spaces. This means that the instructor and student together foster a non judgemental environment where people from all walks of life are able to bond over their study and love of the craft of acting.
How do I decide what kind of coaching I need?
One of the most important elements of a successful coaching session is having a goal. When you are clear about what you want, it makes it easier for our coaches to ensure that you get it!
When you should consider booking an acting coach:
- I have an audition coming up and I want to be prepared.
- I want to be ready the next time I need to have an audition prepared.
- There is something specific I'd like to work on. (A technique, a particular monologue)
- I feel like my acting is "stuck" and I need a fresh eye.
- I think I would like to be an actor/study acting, but I'm not sure if it's right for me, I want to check it out without making a big time commitment.
When booking an acting coach is not the best choice:
- I want to study acting.
Acting coaching is NOT a good substitute for a class and here's why: studying acting is equally about action and observation. When you are watching someone else you can objectively see- without your own fears or doubts attached to it- what is working and what is not.
