I love this studio! Jamar is an excellent teacher and coach. I specifically wanted to focus on…read moretelevision acting, and this studio provides current TV scenes that help actors develop their craft while practicing self-tapes in a realistic setting. The classes are upbeat, engaging, and incredibly informative. One week we work on scene study, and the next we focus on self-tape auditions, which creates a great balance of training and practical experience. What I appreciate most is how well this studio prepares actors for the realities of the industry...real auditions, real sets, and real-life expectations. I highly recommend it to any actor looking to strengthen their on-camera skills and build confidence in the audition process.

I think Graham is a wonderful teacher. However, my rating is due to this company's business ethics…read more I enrolled in a three-week intensive where students are evaluated and placed with a teacher. I made it clear from the start that my only goal was to train with Graham, which requires an invitation. When I asked about ongoing classes, I was told his classes were full, but that I would be placed just below his level and moved up after I completed the four week course with a different teacher. After completing the intensive, my card was charged without my knowledge for an additional four weeks of classes, and NOT with Graham. When I raised this with the office, they pointed to a "subscription" clause in the contract that allowed them to automatically charge my card. This was never clearly explained to me. I only enrolled in the initial program based on the understanding that I would be invited to train with Graham upon completion. Instead, I was unknowingly charged for more classes, with a different teacher, without consent. When I requested a refund, especially since I wouldn't even be in town to attend (which I explained to them) they refused... "No refunds". They told me I could take the classes when I returned to town, presenting that as a generous accommodation. However, they still would not guarantee placement with the teacher I originally requested. This experience felt misleading and very exploitative. Many actors are investing limited resources into their training, and transparency matters. Charging for services I did not knowingly approve, and could not attend, is unacceptable. I ultimately disputed the charge. After months of back-and-forth, they ruled in favor of the school based on the fine print referencing a subscription. That may be technically enforceable, but it was not clearly communicated, and it's disappointing. Mind you I paid for the intensive, additional classes with a teacher I didn't want based on a promise that wasn't fulfilled, and even booked private sessions with Graham.. all within two months. This company could have earned far more from me long term if they had acted with transparency and integrity. They were greedy and shortsighted. Do better.

Marylin Monroe, Jane Fonda, Dustin Hoffman, Al Pacino, Angelina Jolie, Will Arnett, Scarlett…read moreJohansson & even you can learn and use acting technique here. This school's open approach to The Method and one that is kind. A far cry from usual acting schools, these awesome teaching staff members create a great environment where we are in safe and supportive learning mode. There is a focus on the body being fully relaxed as to access anything they need. The culture is amazing at relaxation exercises that Lee taught specifically to the chair was awesome and I loved being taught it here. From day one the fantastic Holly Hart taught us levels of awareness and how to name things in terms of boundaries. My teacher Anne DeSilvio reminded us that we are just on a leaning journey and take the pressure off of 'nailing it' every time. The on Camera class with Chris Prinzo is upbeat and his notes are constructive and always help. No matter what he has your best interest in heart and wants to see you connect to the emotions within the relationship of the characters, the scene and the exchange between both actors. We were lucky to be taught by two family members related to Lee Strasberg himself here. The fun Sasha Krane took us through a very smart, sharp and dynamic scene study and would sharpen identifying factors to quickly break down these with the script. David Strasberg is great to work with and gives a session that is packed with information and new ways to use old tools we might not have remembered or knew how to use before. He teaches a monthly drop-in class which I look forward to being a part of as well. Jenny at front desk sets the kind tone from day one onwards and no matter what my question was I never felt dumb. I was grateful to her opening the door for me randomly as I arrived earlier than ever each day due to LA Metro transit. Laura Cromer Director of Administration makes schedules & pumpkin pie and amount other things, has the kindest dog. Ashanay at the desk was a wonderful entity and I am glad I got to meet her in her final days in this kind position and wish her the best int he future. Lee Strasberg Institute meets you where you are as an artist and only build up so the experience can remain open to adjust and adapt easier. Their intensive was the best decision ive ever made since living in LA. I am looking forward to my continued study with this school in the future.

I had a great experience here for the Pictures Up Film Festival 2024. The only drawback was parking…read morewas so hard to find! We circled around the area for quite a while until we found something and had to walk far, but hey, it's LA, comes with the territory. Bathrooms are nice and clean and the theater picture and sound were perfect. Staff were nice and friendly and it just overall went really well!

From the moment I stepped into the Howard Fine Acting Studio, I knew I'd found something…read moreexceptional. The quality of teaching, professionalism, and genuine care for each actor's growth is unmatched. Howard is a master teacher--honest, insightful, and deeply committed to helping actors do their best work. His feedback is always constructive, compassionate, and transformative. Marilyn brings such warmth, enthusiasm, and patience to her classes--she creates a space where you feel safe to explore and inspired to take bold risks. Mr. Coury delivers those incredible, applicable "aha" moments that connect the craft to real, grounded human behavior. What makes HFAS even more special is the variety of ways to learn and grow. Whether in the studio or through the many online courses, actors can continue to hone their craft from different angles, at any stage of their journey. The entire community--faculty, staff, and students--fosters an environment that's both challenging and deeply supportive. HFAS isn't just a studio--it's a true artistic home, and I'm endlessly grateful to continue growing here as both an actor and a human being.

I have been in Mr. Coury's ongoing scene study for over a year now, after taking the six-week…read moretechnique course with both Howard and Mr. Coury. Every week, I learn something. Every week, I grow as an actor. Every week, I imagine the alternate world in which I would be lost as an actor without this rigorous gym, and I shudder at the thought. Mr. Coury's critique is straightforward and can feel harsh when you don't know him well, but you quickly find that he does it out of his love for teaching, and it truly is in your best interest. His eye will get you where you want to be if you trust yourself--and trust him.

I have been working with Ellen for over a year and she is one of the sweetest and hardest working…read moreacting coaches I have ever met. She has a loving approach to the craft, and her family mentality really makes the performer feel at home. Great team behind her and excellent central location. 5 stars.

I work with Ellen Gerstein Wednesday nights at a Hollywood bungalow, where refreshments are…read moreavailable, skills are honed and her pug's antics keep the air light. Ellen is sweetheart with a contagious smile. It is truly a privilege learning under her tutelage. I'm gaining confidence weekly and only wish to employ these skills in my quest for artistic expression.

I've been working with Jen and Paolo since February of 2024. They are pros. I audited a class for…read morefree and immediately recognized the value of their expertise. The community of actors is the best. Many of my closest friends I have are from this studio. I'm in Jen's instinct class on Thursdays. Come check it out!

After a long time away, I have finally been able to find it in me to come forward. Krater is a good…read morestudio. I believe that Jen is a good teacher. However, I had to leave classes quite some time ago due to two traumatic incidences that I experienced within the Instinct Class. Firstly, I am an African American man. I was placed into a scene in which I was heavily interrogated by a Police Officer. I had an involuntary freeze in my Nervous System and could barely get through the scene. Upon the talk back, and being vulnerable about what I was experiencing, Jen dismissed this, telling me how I shouldn't feel this way because it's Acting Class and it's not real. Though I see her point, the Nervous System scientifically cannot distinguish between fantasy and reality. Regardless, the fear and freeze that I felt were real, regardless of the source. It was wrong of her to make me believe that I was in the wrong for feeling this way. The second incident, I was paired up with a much older Actress. The exercise was going well at first, but near the end of the scene, this older Actress pulled me into her and inappropriately touched me and aggressively kissed me. Her reasoning for doing this in the talk back was, "I felt his energy and knew it would be okay." This was a misread. I never gave consent for that. No one should ever have to be subject to that kind of interaction anywhere at anytime. This is why Intimacy Coordinating is important. Due to these two incidences happening in a period of a few weeks, I lost all trust and sense of safety within the Studio. Because of these losses, I felt that my growth would be stunted, so I made the decision to part ways. I do not wish ill will, but this had to be said. Objectively, I can understand and appreciate the good this studio has done for many Actors, a good few of which are friends of mine. And admittedly, I myself gained some valuable lessons in the months leading up to these events. However, this is my truth, and after quite some time of healing and mending my Nervous System, it needs to be spoken. Jen is a wonderful teacher, but far from perfect and I hope that these things never happen again to anyone else.

Established in 1963, the Magic Castle is an exclusive members only clubhouse for magicians and…read moremagic enthusiasts. It's also the home of the Academy of Magical Arts. However, non-members can attend if they accompany a member or receive a pass from a kind magician. I've been here numerous times over the years. I've known members and people that worked here. I've seen amazing shows in the main room & fun shows in the parlors. I've been for dinner & brunch. This time I came with friends for drinks & fun. The Castle is big and there is so much to discover. It's charming & mysterious. Take your time and soak it all in. Grab a drink in the main bar, have a seat in Invisible Irma's Room, and ask her to play you a tune on the piano. The magicians are world class performers with unique talents. House magician Mike is darling and he dazzled us with card tricks, mentalist David Stryker wowed us with his mind reading capabilities, and Richard Turner amazed us with his ability to perform card tricks even though he is legally blind. The staff here are all fantastic and work well together. (Especially, Rose at the front desk.) We were treated with kindness & respect the entire evening. Food & cocktails are top notch. We shared Hummus that came with the softest pita bread, Shrimp Cocktail with large juicy shrimp, House Made Veggie Burger with Beer Battered Fries, and the Four Cheese Garlic Bread. Everything was delicious. For drinks we had: Smoke & Shadows (Mezcal Margarita), Cosmopolitan, Champagne, Manhattan, Perfect Timing (Vodka based), and Caymus Cabernet. A night at The Magic Castle is always a fun time and I think everyone should have the opportunity to experience it at least once. The dress code is strictly enforced and I'm ok with that. I appreciate that they adhere to the standards of the exclusivity of a private club. I also believe that if you are going out you should dress up. *No photography allowed inside. *Check website for dress code, valent, & entrance fee.

There are very few places in Los Angeles that truly feel magical anymore, but The Magic Castle…read moreabsolutely lives up to the hype. This iconic Hollywood establishment is famously known for its secrecy and exclusivity, and after finally experiencing it for myself, I completely understand why. Hidden behind the mysterious entrance are some of the most talented magicians and performers you'll ever encounter. Many of them audition for the honor of performing there, and the level of talent throughout the evening was honestly incredible. We're fortunate enough to have a friend who is a member, and although we've been invited before, life always seemed to get in the way. This time, we cleared our schedules and made a full evening out of it and I'm so glad we did. We arrived around 5 PM, valet parked, and checked in with the maître d'. Since guests must be connected to a member, everyone had to be on the guest list and show ID before entering. One thing I absolutely loved was how seriously they take the dress code. Think black tie, cocktail dresses, suits, polished shoes; elegant and classy without feeling stuffy. No flashy outfits or over-the-top looks, just timeless sophistication. Once inside, you're immediately transported into another world. The entrance area has a charming little gift shop with T-shirts, magnets, playing cards, and magic-themed souvenirs. One of the coolest things I learned during the night was that Walt Disney was close friends with the founder of The Magic Castle, which inspired the magic shop on Main Street at Disneyland. As a Disney fan, I thought that was such a fun piece of history. And then comes the famous entrance. You stand before a bookcase, say "Open Says me " to the little owl, and suddenly the hidden door opens into the castle itself. It honestly felt like stepping into a movie. The castle is filled with multiple levels, intimate showrooms, hidden corners, bars, lounges, and surprises everywhere you turn. We ended up seeing five different magic shows throughout the evening, and every performer brought something unique. Some acts were funny, others mind-blowing, and a few genuinely left me speechless wondering how on earth they pulled things off. There's a bar on nearly every level, each with its own vibe. One of my favorite spots had close-up card magic happening right at the bar while people enjoyed drinks and appetizers. Speaking of food, surprisingly phenomenal. We had the chicken club sandwich, calamari, and garlic bread, and everything exceeded expectations. The customer service throughout the entire evening was stellar. Every single employee we interacted with was warm, welcoming, and genuinely kind. It also felt very community-oriented, everywhere we went, people greeted our member friend like family. The entire environment felt intimate, nostalgic, and special in a way that's hard to explain unless you experience it yourself. One thing I also learned is that there are a few other ways to gain access besides knowing a member. If you stay at the Magic Castle Hotel bungalows, admission is often included, and occasionally they offer admission opportunities through blood donation events. If you ever come across an opportunity to visit , take it immediately. The Magic Castle isn't just dinner and a show. It's an experience. There's truly surprise and wonder around every corner, and for a few hours, you genuinely feel transported away from reality. An unforgettable Los Angeles experience and absolutely something everyone should experience at least once in their life.

So fun! I took a beginner salsa class with Rodrigo who was a fun, nice, and approachable teacher…read more We learned basic steps for the first 20-25 mins of class, and then rotated partners for the remainder of class. I thought the class was a good pace and easy enough to follow (although, I've taken beginner salsa at another place before so I had some experience). It was my boyfriend's first time learning salsa and he thought the class was fun but I little too fast, so took off a star for that. Also, the class felt a little big.

The professor Craig was fantastic and created a fun,positive space for us to learn . By the end of…read moreclass I was dancing a style I had never tried before . Can't wait to go next week!

Highly recommend taking Intermediate with Will!! I have been in Will's ongoing class for a little…read moreover 6 months, and I have seen so much growth. Before his class, it would take me an hour or 2 (yikes!!) to record a self-tape. After studying with Will, I can do it in a take or 2. Because in Will's class you only get one or 2 takes, this trains you to make bold choices from the jump. Will has truly helped me to live the life of the character in a truthful and honest way. I looked at my self-tapes from before I started versus now, and it's day and night. I also have a much easier time just being and trusting because I've lived the life of the character, and I know that the emotional core will show up. I love the material he chooses every week. It's always a scene I would never pick for myself that truly challenges me. Being in his class and going up every week has given me such confidence, conquering roles I would have never thought I could. The takes are all recorded, I get to watch my work and see where I'm growing with my own eyes! I know sometimes actors have trouble taking in compliments, but it's another thing to see your work. Will truly cares for his students and handles every student individually!!

Very informative and educational. Will is a terrific and knowledgeable instructor who it feels…read moretruly cares about his students. Looking forward to future classes with Will and at the studio in general. The studio is very welcoming, clean, and generous. Just a little thing but having free printing, coffee, tea, and use of highlighters/pens/pencils gives this studio the 5/5.