Our Studio
The studio offers on-going workshops open to both professional actors and serious students looking to expand their artistry and craft. What differentiates our studio from others is our firm commitment to illuminating the teachings of Konstantin Stanislavsky in the most accurate and authentic way possible. Additionally, as part of our efforts to make theater education accessible to students of all backgrounds, our tuition costs are among the most affordable in New York City. Here, we believe that the only shortcut to mastering the art of acting is through devoted study and practice. To be a good actor is to be a complete artist. We invite you to join us on our journey.
Teaching Philosophy
Our teaching philosophy is anchored in the principles of Konstantin Stanislavsky, whose work produced practical tools that allow for a truthful, spontaneous and complex performance. Sadly, as Stanislavsky’s most useful findings were developed at the end of his life, his most progressive discoveries never made their way to America. The Stanislavsky “System” as taught in most American drama schools is often out-of-date and misunderstood, at times leading to harmful approaches that ultimately destroy the mental health of the actor. In actuality, Stanislavsky’s approaches to script analysis, character work, and rehearsals are constantly shifting and improving, thanks to the developments and research of Michael Chekhov, Jerzy Growtoski, Anatoly Vassiliev and many others. Therefore, it is the goal of our studio to train a contemporary, virtuosic and ethical actor—an artist in full command of his or her craft, capable of re-creating life, free from cliched imitations, performance after performance.
Casting
86 Underground
86 Underground
As part of our mission of training a new generation of artists, exemplary students from the studio will be invited to perform in Theater 86’s various productions taking place each season. While T86 regularly auditions actors for upcoming roles, preferences are given to current students who show professionalism, commitment and promise. At the core of our casting preference is the ethical actor--a performer who understands that the creative environment is difficult to build yet easy to destroy, that openness, courtesy and respect are the crucial elements that glue together a successful collaboration.
86 Underground
86 Underground
86 Underground
Select participants of Theater Lab will be invited to perform in showcase performances called 86 Underground. These showings are original pieces devised by performers under the supervision of the instructor. Showings will take place at Pushkin Hall and free to the public. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you don't miss these exciting works!