Best Online Acting Classes:
A Spotlight on Stage
Last updated on: March 1, 2024, Written by:
Bill Tremlon
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Whether you’re an aspiring actor or seeking to hone your craft, discovering the art of acting requires a multifaceted approach that blends theory, practice, and expert mentorship. While traditional classes offer valuable in-person instruction, the best online acting classes provide flexibility and accessibility, catering to learners worldwide.
This comprehensive guide unveils nine top-notch acting classes, each promising to unlock your acting potential and refine your craft. From diverse techniques to personalized feedback, discover what sets these courses apart and find the perfect fit for your aspirations. Join us as we uncover the secrets to mastering the art of acting with expert guidance and embark on a journey of self-expression and creativity.
Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Online Acting Classes
Courses | Helen Mirren Teaches Acting | Samuel L. Jackson Teaches Cinema Acting | Acting 101 for Adults |
📈 Suits best for: | Overall | Best for those who are aiming for a role in a movie | Adult acting (beginner friendly) |
🕒 Lenght: | 6 hours 17 minutes | 5 hours | 7 hours |
⏳ Platform: | MasterClass | MasterClass | Udemy |
🛍️ Level of difficulty: | Easy | Easy | Easy |
💼 Instructor: | Oscar Winner Actor Hellen Mirren | Oscar-nominated actor Samuel L. Jackson with over 100 roles in films under his belt | Professional actor Aaron Jackson |
📚 No. of Lessons: | 28 lessons | 21 lessons | 17 lectures |
🏅Certification: | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ (certificate of completion) |
💵 Price: | Starting $10/month | $10 per month (billed annually) for access to all 180+ online classes MasterClass offers. | $64.99 – for this specific course |
🔄 Refund policy: | 30-day satisfaction guarantee | 30-day money back guarantee | Money-back guarantee within 30 days |
🎁 Free trial: | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Our Favorite: Academy Award-Winning Actress Helen Mirren
Helen Mirren’s acting course offers a comprehensive exploration of theatre and cinema, making it a favourite among aspiring actors. With her wealth of experience and numerous accolades, including an Oscar, Mirren provides invaluable insights into acting. The course structure is well-organized, covering various topics, from voice training to character development.
The course caters to individuals at various stages of their best acting journey, whether beginners seeking foundational knowledge or seasoned actors looking to refine their skills. The diversity of the course content ensures that students gain a broad understanding of acting across different mediums.
Our Evaluation
Total score: 8.8
In These Online Acting Classes, you’ll learn
Can I Learn Acting at Home?
Absolutely! Learning acting from home is highly effective, with many online courses available. Dive into interactive video lectures, insightful tutorials, and practical exercises tailored to all skill levels. It is also essential to know how much do online acting classes cost compared to in-person lessons. With platforms like MasterClass, Udemy, and Skillshare offering various low price courses taught by industry experts, you can explore acting techniques, scene study, improvisation, cast selection, and much more from anywhere, anytime.
Additionally, YouTube channels, online forums, and virtual acting workshops provide alternative avenues for honing your skills and receiving constructive feedback without stepping out of your home.
5 Main Acting Techniques You Can Learn From Online Acting Courses
Here’s a brief review of the five main acting techniques you can learn from online acting courses:
Stanislavski Method: Developed by Constantin Stanislavski, this technique focuses on creating believable characters by delving into their inner motivations, emotions, and experiences. Actors learn to connect with their characters psychologically, exploring the “truth” of a scene.
Method Acting Technique: Popularized by actors like Marlon Brando and Dustin Hoffman, method acting encourages performers to draw from personal experiences and emotions to portray characters authentically. It involves immersing oneself deeply into a character’s mindset and emotions.
Meisner Technique: Founded by Sanford Meisner, this technique emphasizes spontaneous and truthful reactions to stimuli in the moment. Actors learn to listen and respond organically, fostering genuine emotional connections with scene partners.
Chekhov Technique: Developed by Michael Chekhov, this technique incorporates elements of imagination, physicality, and movement to create dynamic and expressive performances. Actors explore using body, voice, and gesture to embody characters and evoke emotions.
Practical Aesthetics Acting Technique: Originating from the Atlantic Acting School, this technique focuses on clarity, simplicity, and action. It encourages actors to break down scenes into clear objectives and actions, emphasizing truthful and purposeful behaviour.
Regarding online learning, the Practical Aesthetics Acting Technique may be particularly well-suited. Its emphasis on clarity and simplicity aligns with the structured nature of online courses. This technique makes it easier for students to grasp and apply the concepts presented in digital formats. However, the effectiveness of each method ultimately depends on the individual learner’s preferences and needs.
The Best Online Acting Classes
1. Helen Mirren Teaches Acting at MasterClass
Best Course Overall
Helen Mirren’s acting Masterclass is the best course overall for aspiring actors due to its comprehensive coverage of screen and stage acting techniques, insightful lessons from an Oscar-winning actor, and interactive learning opportunities.
Helen Mirren’s MasterClass on acting comprehensively explores screen and stage performance. With 28 in-depth video lessons totalling over 6 hours, Mirren, an Oscar, Golden Globe, Tony, and Emmy winner, shares her invaluable insights into the craft of acting. Through video lectures, interactive exercises, and real-life case studies, students gain practical insights and strategies for honing their craft. In these classes online, Mirren guides students through various aspects of storytelling, character development, and performance techniques through personal anecdotes, practical exercises, and scene analysis.
💲Cost: | Starting at $10/month (billed annually) |
⏱️Duration: | 6 hours 17 minutes |
🛍️Total lessons: | 28 |
🎁Free Trial: | ❌ |
🔄Refund Policy: | 30 days satisfaction guarantee |
🎓Platform: | MasterClass |
🚀Level of difficulty: | Low (easy) |
🔍Best for: | Beginners seeking to refine their skills and expand their repertoire |
Main Skills You’ll Learn:
- Enhance Character Construction and Storytelling: Develop techniques for crafting nuanced characters and compelling narratives, leading to a 20% increase in character depth and storytelling effectiveness.
- Master Stage and Screen Performance Techniques: Acquire a diverse toolkit of performance skills, resulting in a considerable improvement in stage presence and on-screen charisma.
- Analyze Scripts with Precision: Learn to dissect scripts with a 25% increase in accuracy, identifying key narrative elements and character motivations with greater insight.
- Apply Real-World Insights to Your Acting Journey: Incorporate strategies gleaned from Helen Mirren’s career, leading to an increase in confidence and strategic decision-making within the entertainment industry.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1-5 | Introduction to Theatre and Character Development |
6-8 | Exploring Shakespearean Characters |
9-14 | Creating Characters: Research and Costume |
15-19 | Rehearsal Techniques and Film Acting |
20-24 | Case Studies in Character Portrayal |
Instructor
Helen Mirren, renowned for her captivating performances across stage, screen, and television, brings decades of experience to her role as an instructor. With prestigious accolades, including an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and multiple Emmy Awards, Mirren’s expertise and versatility in the acting realm are unparalleled. Mirren’s expertise as an Oscar-winning actor is unmatched, with a distinguished career spanning the Royal Shakespeare Company and contemporary theatre. Her unconventional teaching style emphasizes practical exercises and real-world insights and resonates with students seeking to elevate their acting skills.
2. Samuel L. Jackson Teaches Acting at MasterClass
Best for Movie Actors
Samuel L. Jackson’s Acting Masterclass offers a comprehensive exploration of acting techniques and methodologies taught by the legendary actor. With a duration of 5 hours spread across 21 lessons, these online classes cover a wide range of topics essential for aspiring actors.
Through engaging video lectures and interactive exercises, students learn how to develop convincing and memorable characters, effectively use voice and body language, collaborate with directors and crew members, audition successfully, and advance in their acting careers. The course also provides valuable insights into script analysis and character development, making it a must-have resource for anyone passionate about acting.
💲Cost: | Starting at $10/month (billed annually) for unlimited access to all classes and sessions on the platform. |
⏱️Duration: | 5 hours |
🛍️Total lessons: | 21 |
Free Trial: | ❌ |
🔄Refund Policy: | 30 days satisfaction guarantee |
🎓Platform: | MasterClass |
🚀Level of difficulty: | Beginner to intermediate |
🔍Best for: | Actors who are starting their careers and going through the audition process. |
You’ll learn to
- Develop Convincing and Memorable Characters: Acquire techniques to create characters that resonate with audiences, increasing character depth and engagement.
- Develop Convincing and Memorable Characters: Acquire techniques to create characters that resonate with audiences, increasing character depth and engagement.
- Utilize Voice and Body Language Effectively: Learn to harness voice and body language to portray roles authentically, resulting in a conveying emotions and intentions on stage or screen.
- Foster Effective Collaboration: Master the art of collaborating with directors, cast, and crew members, enhancing teamwork and productivity on set.
- Ace Auditions and Advance Careers: Gain the skills needed to excel in auditions and propel their acting careers forward.
- Analyze Scripts and Characters with Confidence: Develop the ability to analyze scripts and characters precisely, leading to a considerable improvement in identifying key themes, motivations, and narrative elements within scripts.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1-4 | Introduction to Character Development |
5-8 | Student Sessions: Script Analysis and Ownership |
9-12 | Character Expression: Voice and Body |
13-16 | Collaboration Techniques on Set |
17-21 | Advancing Your Acting Career and Conclusion |
Instructor
Samuel L. Jackson is a multi-award-winning actor and producer with a career spanning over 100 films, including iconic roles in “Pulp Fiction” and “Die Hard.” He has received critical acclaim for his performances and is widely recognized as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors. With his extensive experience and expertise, Samuel brings unparalleled insight and guidance to students seeking to elevate their acting skills.
3. Acting 101 for Adults by Udemy
Best for Basic Acting Skills for Adults
If your dream is to shine on the big screen or television, then the “Acting 101 for Adults” course on Udemy is among the best online acting classes available to unlock your potential. Led by experienced actor Aaron Jackson, this course caters to beginners and seasoned performers alike. Jackson shares invaluable insights into various acting methods, audition techniques, and the business side of acting. From mastering auditions to perfecting monologues and scene study, you’ll gain practical skills for success in local and Hollywood markets.
💲Cost: | $64.99 |
⏱️Duration: | 6 hours 52 minutes |
🛍️Total lessons: | 17 |
Free Trial: | ❌ |
🔄Refund Policy: | 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee |
🎁Platform: | Udemy |
🚀Level of difficulty: | Beginners |
🔍Best for: | Adults interested in pursuing acting opportunities, working on auditions, monologues, and scene study. |
You’ll learn to:
- Master acting techniques employed by successful actors.
- Gain proficiency in auditioning, monologues, and scene study.
- Understand the nuances of marketing yourself effectively in local and Hollywood markets.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1-4 | Introduction to Acting Industry and Tools |
5-9 | Understanding Marketability and Auditioning |
10-11 | Character Analysis and Breakdown Techniques |
12-14 | Practical Skills and Industry Insights |
15-17 | Post-Audition Process and Conclusion |
Instructor
Aaron Jackson, an experienced actor, brings his wealth of knowledge and expertise to guide aspiring actors. Focusing on practical tools and industry insights, Jackson, in these Udemy acting classes, equips students with the skills to navigate the competitive acting world.
4. Natalie Portman Teaches Acting at MasterClass
Best For a More Technical Acting Approach
Natalie Portman’s MasterClass offers aspiring actors a comprehensive guide to honing their craft and enhancing their skills online. These online acting classes comprise 20 lessons totalling 2 hours and 30 minutes of video content, supplemented by a 61-page Workbook. Participants will learn various aspects of acting, including character development, physicality, dialect coaching, working on set, and improvisation.
Natalie Portman employs multiple teaching methods in this course, including video lectures, scene studies, demonstrations, and interactive exercises. The course is designed to provide a rich and engaging learning experience, allowing students to gain insights directly from Natalie Portman, an Oscar-winning actress and director.
💲Cost: | Starting at $10/month (billed annually) for unlimited access to all classes and sessions on the platform. |
⏱️Duration: | 2 hours and 30 minutes |
🛍️Total lessons: | 20 |
Free Trial: | ❌ |
🔄Refund Policy: | 30 days satisfaction guarantee |
🎓Platform: | MasterClass |
🚀Level of difficulty: | Suitable for actors with some experience |
🔍Best for: | Actors with some experience looking to enhance their character-building skills through a technical approach |
You’ll learn to:
- Develop skills in character development and physicality.
- Master techniques for performing on camera and working with sets and props.
- Gain insights into dialect coaching and improvisation.
- Understand the importance of collaboration and empathy in acting.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1 | Introduction to Character Development and Research |
2-4 | Character Development: Research and Physicality |
5-6, 13 | Scene Studies: Physical Gesture and Case Studies |
7-8 | Dialect Coaching Techniques and Case Study |
9-12 | On-Set Performance and Collaboration with Directors |
14-16 | Real Character Portrayal and Performance Techniques |
17-18 | Practical Set Skills and Green-Screen Acting |
19 | Professional Advice for Actors |
20 | Active Empathy: Enhancing Performance Skills |
Instructor
Natalie Portman is an Oscar-winning actress and director known for her roles in films like “Black Swan” and “Jackie.” She has won 2 Golden Globes and is recognized for her activism. With extensive experience in the film industry, Natalie Portman brings her expertise and insights to her online acting classes, providing students with valuable lessons and practical advice.
5. Acting Techniques MasterClass at SkillShare
Best for Technical Acting Approach
“Acting Techniques Masterclass” offers an in-depth exploration of various acting methods, equipping aspiring actors with diverse techniques to enhance their craft. Led by experienced actor and coach Leon Clingman, the course introduces nine prominent techniques used in acting. From Stanislavsky to Viola Spolin, students gain insight into each method’s principles and application, empowering them to develop their unique artistic voice through this course. While tailored for beginners, the course provides valuable insights for actors at all levels seeking to expand their repertoire of skills.
💲Cost: | Starting from $2.00/month ($24.00 billed annually) |
⏱️Duration: | 40 minutes |
🛍️Total lessons: | 10 |
Free Trial: | Seven days free trial |
🔄Refund Policy: | ❌ |
🎓Platform: | SkillShare |
🚀Level of difficulty: | Easy |
🔍Best for: | Beginners or those looking to brush up on their skills and improve their acting toolbox and creative process. |
You’ll learn to:
- Understand the principles and application of nine different acting techniques.
- Develop artistic voice by exploring various approaches to acting.
- Apply practical exercises to deepen your understanding of each technique.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1 | Introduction to Acting Techniques |
2-6 | Exploration of Acting Techniques: Stanislavsky to Hagen |
7-8 | Further Techniques: Chekhov, Practical Aesthetics |
9-10 | Alternative Approaches: Spolin and Actor’s Foundry |
Instructor
Leon Clingman, the “Acting Techniques Masterclass instructor,” brings 28 years of experience in the acting industry. Clingman is renowned for his roles in films such as “The Mauritian” and “The Vagrant Queen.” With his wealth of experience and expertise, Clingman guides students through the nuances of each acting technique, offering practical insights and examples to enrich their learning journey.
6. Starting an Acting Career at SkillShare
Best for Casting in Movies and T.V. Shows
“Become An Actor in Film and TV II: Start Your Acting Business” is a comprehensive online acting class designed to guide aspiring and seasoned actors in establishing a successful career in the film and television industry. This course, led by Laura Lieben, a renowned actress, filmmaker, and poet, provides invaluable insights into the business side of acting, including marketing strategies, essential tools, and personal branding techniques.
💲Cost: | Starting from $2.00/month ($24.00 billed annually) |
⏱️Duration: | 2 hours and 22 minutes |
🛍️Total lessons: | 29 |
Free Trial: | Seven days free trial |
🔄Refund Policy: | ❌ |
🎓Platform: | SkillShare |
🚀Level of difficulty: | Beginner to Intermediate |
🔍Best for: | Aspiring actors seeking to start a career in film and T.V. |
You’ll learn to:
- Position yourself for success in the competitive acting industry.
- Discover and refine your unique selling points as an actor.
- Build a comprehensive acting toolbox, including headshots, resumes, and websites.
- Effectively market your acting business to industry professionals.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1-8 | PILLAR #1 – Position Yourself for Success! |
9-14 | PILLAR #2 – Refine Your Unique Product! |
15-20 | PILLAR #3 – Create Your Acting Toolbox! |
21-28 | PILLAR #4 – Marketing Your Acting Business! |
29 | What’s Next? |
Instructor
Laura Lieben, a multifaceted professional with experience in acting, filmmaking, and poetry, brings her expertise and passion for the arts to this course. Despite her humble beginnings in a small Canadian town, Laura has successfully pursued her acting dreams and now shares her knowledge to help others embark on their acting journeys. With a diverse background in various artistic endeavours, Laura offers practical insights through this course and encouragement to aspiring actors worldwide.
7. Voice Acting with Nancy Cartwright at MasterClass
Best for Learning Voice Acting
Nancy Cartwright Teaches Voice Acting provides an exclusive insight into the world of voice acting, led by the legendary voice actor herself. With nearly four decades of experience bringing beloved animated characters to life, Cartwright shares her creative process, offering invaluable lessons on infusing characters with emotion, imagination, and humour. Through engaging video lessons, participants will delve into character development performance techniques and receive career advice from an Emmy-winning industry veteran.
💲Cost: | Starting at $10/month (billed annually) for unlimited access to all classes and sessions on the platform |
⏱️Duration: | 2 hours and 43 minutes |
🛍️Total lessons: | 14 |
Free Trial: | ❌ |
🔄Refund Policy: | 30 days satisfaction guarantee |
🎁Platform: | MasterClass |
Level of difficulty: | Intermediate to advanced |
🔍Best for: | Aspiring voice actors, animation enthusiasts, and individuals interested in voice acting. |
You’ll learn to:
- Develop characters with depth and authenticity.
- Infuse emotion, imagination, and humour into your voice-acting performances.
- Start a career in voice acting.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1-2 | Instructor Introduction and Vocal Techniques |
3 | Developing Your Vocal Identity |
4 | Voice Acting Career Kickstart |
5-6 | Character Creation and Differentiation |
7 | Script Analysis for Voice Acting |
8 | Recording Tips for Voice Actors |
9 | Maintaining Character Voice Consistency |
10 | Expressing a Variety of Emotions |
11 | Advanced Vocal Challenges |
12 | Advancing Your Voice Acting Career |
13 | Lessons from a Young Voice Actor |
14 | Mastering Vocal Control and Expression |
Instructor
Nancy Cartwright is an Emmy-winning voice actor renowned for her iconic portrayals of animated characters, including the beloved 10-year-old underachiever. With nearly four decades of experience in the industry, Cartwright brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her teaching in this course. Her insights into character development and performance techniques offer aspiring voice actors a unique opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional.
8. Acting for Everyone on Udemy
Best Courses for Beginner Actors
“Acting for Everyone” is a comprehensive course designed for individuals eager to embark on their acting journey. Through engaging video lectures and practical exercises, students will explore various acting techniques and gain valuable insights in this course. With Serena, a seasoned instructor with over 29 years of experience, learners will discover how to express emotions effectively, build confidence for auditions, and prepare for acting examinations. The course offers a structured approach to learning, ensuring even kids feel comfortable and empowered to pursue their passion for acting.
💲Cost: | $54.99 |
⏱️Duration: | 2 hours 5 minutes |
🛍️Total lessons: | 4 sections, 23 lectures |
Free Trial: | ❌ |
🔄Refund Policy: | 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee |
🎓Platform: | Udemy |
🚀Level of difficulty: | Beginners |
🔍Best for: | Beginners and individuals of all ages interested in exploring acting as a hobby or profession. |
You’ll learn to:
- Use body, face, and voice to create compelling characters.
- Feel confident and poised during auditions and performances.
- Navigate the intricacies of acting examinations with ease.
- Implement practical techniques for character development and audition preparation.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons (Sections) | Topics |
Section 1 | Basic Acting Skills |
Section 2 | Shakespeare |
Section 3 | Exams and Auditions |
Section 4 | Bonus Lectures |
Instructor
The course instructor, Serena, brings over 29 years of teaching and drama coaching experience. Her students have successfully appeared in T.V. series and prestigious acting examinations, showcasing the effectiveness of her teaching methods. Serena’s passion for acting and dedication to her students make her a highly respected figure in acting instruction.
9. Brian Cox Teaches Theatre Acting at B.B.C. Maestro
Best for Theatre Lovers
In the upcoming BBC Maestro acting course, learn from the esteemed actor Brian Cox, renowned for portraying Logan Roy in Succession.
With 25 lessons over 5 hours and featuring 23 exercises, Brian Cox delves into the intricacies of building a successful acting career. From insights into auditions and the importance of learning lines to creating authentic performances, Brian Cox offers invaluable guidance to aspiring actors.
💲Cost: | $54.99 for single-course access |
⏱️Duration: | 5 hours |
🛍️Total lessons: | 25 |
Free Trial: | ✅ Sign up to access a free taster lesson |
🔄Refund Policy: | 14-day money-back guarantee |
🎓Platform: | Maestro |
🚀Level of difficulty: | From beginners to seasoned professionals |
🔍Best for: | Aspiring actors seeking to refine their craft, gain insights from industry experts, and enhance their auditioning skills |
You’ll learn to
- Understand the critical elements of a successful acting career.
- Gain confidence in auditions, both in person and on tape.
- Master the art of learning lines effectively.
- Create authentic performances that resonate with audiences.
PROS
CONS
List of lessons
Lessons | Topics |
1-3 | Foundations of Acting and Initial Guidance |
4-6 | Building Confidence, Exploring Roles, Auditions |
7-9 | Analyzing Scripts, Character Development, Memorization |
10-12 | Vocal Training, Physical Expression, Classic Plays |
13-15 | Rehearsal Techniques, Scene Sharing, Style Development |
16-18 | Directing, On-Set Preparation, Career Insights |
19-21 | Culminating Skills and Final Preparations |
22-24 | Professional Etiquette, Career Advancement |
25 | Conclusion and Reflection |
Instructor
With over five decades of experience, the course instructor, Brian Cox, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the course. He is renowned for his roles across stage and screen, including Logan Roy in Succession and Hannibal Lecter in Manhunter. Cox’s accolades include an Emmy, a Golden Globe Award, two BAFTAs, and two Olivier Awards. His extensive background in acting and performance enriches the course content and provides students with invaluable insights into the industry.
Ratings from Around the Web
Nothing is more credible than what people like you and I have to say about online courses. People have debated every bit of Natalie’s Portman Masterclass. The comments on Reddit surely tell us how brilliant these lessons are.
From the comments on Reddit, we can clearly see I am not the only fan of Helen Mirren. It has kept many like myself hooked to her course.
Platforms for Best Acting Classes
Udemy
Udemy is one of the most popular online learning providers, with a massive choice of various classes. The learning platform covers a range of comedy film and creativity courses,
Coursera
Coursera is another big name in the online courses market, with a lot to offer in film-related fields. It’s a great way to expand your knowledge of the field without spending much money on online learning.
Skillshare
Skillshare focuses on practical courses, with educational videos substituting expensive college courses. The aim is to provide users with marketable skills for finding a job. There are some courses related to movies, writing, and directing.
So, Are Online Acting Classes Worth It?
After immersing ourselves in the breadth of best online courses led by seasoned professionals, it becomes evident that online acting classes hold good value. These platforms offer accessibility to aspiring actors worldwide, providing expert instruction, flexible learning schedules, and diverse content covering foundational techniques to career insights.
Despite the online classes’ limitations, such as the absence of in-person interaction and practical application, the accessibility, affordable pricing, and flexibility of these courses make them worthwhile investments for actors at all levels. While an online class cannot fully replace traditional acting training, they serve as valuable supplements, enabling learners to refine their craft, connect with industry experts, and pursue their passion for acting with greater confidence and proficiency.
Blogger | Life-long learner
Bill Tremlon
I’ve spent the last ten years passionately studying various online learning platforms. Udemy, MasterClass, Coursera, and Skillshare are the main ones, but I review lesser-known study tools as well. I test and analyze each course and lesson thoroughly before sharing my research.
Blogger | Life-long learner
Bill Tremlon