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THE STUDIO FAQs

Help! The class I want to take is sold out. What do I do?

Contact the Director of Admissions at [email protected] to join the wait list. It is not uncommon for students on the wait list to get into class.

Do you limit the number of students in each class?

Yes. We operate as a boutique studio and limit class sizes to provide actors with a highly personal, individualized experience. Our B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR class has a maximum of 12 people, and all classes are similarly sized. The maximum number of students accepted into upper level classes ranges from 8 – 10.

After I complete a class, do I automatically advance to the next level?

No. Your work and professionalism will be evaluated at the end of each class. To advance, you must receive instructor approval.

What experience do your Instructors have?

All Black Box Instructors are working artists in the theatre and film industry, as well as practicing students. They are individually invited to the Black Box Instructor Training Program. After graduation, Instructors continue their education through ongoing training. Black Box Instructors hold themselves to the same standards as their students, so don’t be surprised to see them in class with you. For a more detailed look at our Instructors, visit our TEAM page for bios and testimonials.

What is the Black Box Method©?

The Black Box Method© follows a regimented and streamlined curriculum based on the Meisner Technique. The Black Box Method© unleashes physical and emotional impulses, frees the imagination and builds stamina, focus and endurance while training actors to live truthfully and fearlessly under imagined circumstances. The Black Box Method© trains actors to uphold integrity, honesty and bravery at all times. We train you to Work Hard and Be Fearless.

What are Meisner and Viewpoints?

Sanford Meisner advocated fully immersing yourself in the moment through commitment to a scene’s circumstances. Viewpoints is a technique based on work by Anne Bogart and Tina Landau and gives you the tools to discover how your body can fuel your acting process. Simply put, at Black Box we use the Meisner Technique and Viewpoints to teach you how to “not act.” You will learn to live fully on stage as yourself, follow physical impulses and commit 100% to the given circumstances of a script.

Is training at Black Box for everyone?

No. Black Box Acting and the Meisner Technique are best suited for people with the willingness to change, a passionate work ethic and a fearless attitude.

Why do professional actors need to start at B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR?

The Black Box Method© is streamlined and extremely intensive, so we require that all students start from the same place, with the same rules and the same language. This way a common foundation is built for all students to be set up for success.

How do I enroll in B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR?

Because Black Box Acting is a boutique conservatory that runs on a personalized and intensive level, we interview all students, in person, before enrollment in B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR. This interview gives us the opportunity to ensure that Black Box is the right fit for you, and that we provide the kind of training you are looking for.

To Schedule an Interview visit our STUDIO apply page.

Can I audit a class?

Yes. However, auditors must commit to the entire class session. Because so much is learned through observation, the fee for auditing is half the cost of tuition. New students are eligible to audit B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR.

What forms of payment do you take?

You can pay for your class using cash, check or credit/debit card.

When is my STUDIO tuition due?

A $100 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to reserve your space in class. The remainder of your tuition is due the Monday before the session begins.

If I need to drop my class because I get cast, can I get a refund or transfer my deposit to a later class?

If withdrawing from class MORE THAN 7 DAYS PRIOR TO START DATE, the amount of the tuition paid, less the deposit, will be credited back to the original payment method. The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
If withdrawing from class with 7 DAYS OR LESS TO START DATE, the amount of the tuition, less the deposit, will be available as a Black Box credit for one year.
The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
If withdrawing AFTER START DATE, total tuition is forfeited.

Do you require previous acting or Meisner experience to enroll in your classes?

No. We work with both beginning actors and seasoned professionals.

Can non-actors take classes?

Absolutely. Our classes teach not only a technique, but a whole new level of honesty, bravery and communication.

How old are your students?

Our students range in age from 18 to 60+, with the majority of them being in their 20s and 30s.

Do you offer classes for children or teens?

No. Because the Black Box Method© requires a great deal of emotional maturity, we cannot offer class to anyone below the age of 18.

What if the question I have is not answered on this page?

We’re always here to help you, so please don’t hesitate to email the Director of Admissions at [email protected] with any questions you don’t see answered here!