First time going to a sketch comedy show…read more My girlfriend wanted something to do and it was cheap. That being said we are in our early 20s and we were the youngest people there. Everyone else was a milenial, 35+. Some of the bits were funny and you definitely get what you pay for. I went to the restroom in between sketches, and when I was coming back the host was grilling one of the guys. He said he went 35 mins over and spilt milk all over the stage. He then asked him if he even read the email. After the 11 PM show, most of the audience had left, I assume many of them were friends or family of the actors. Then it was mainly actors from previous showings in the crowd and my girlfriend and I. Overall a pretty weird experience. We shared a few laughs though, and I did find it inspiring that all these people were chasing after their dreams. What they do seems hard, and I respect that. Mixed bag, probably will not be going back here ever again. Side note: Their website is out of date, and borderline false advertising. All the photos on there are from their old venue and it was much nicer. Their new venue on Vermont Ave is pretty run down and not as comfortable seats and a rinky dink new venue all around.

Saw a play here a couple of weekends ago and it was advertised under another name from the venue I…read morebought the tickets from. This appears to be a common theme out here in LA so I am assuming it's kinda like a "pop up" name depending upon the producers/production company. In any case, I feel like I had been here before (under a different name, or perhaps in the same area) but I do not recall the entrance being so heightened on a platform with chunky steps and also a handicap bridge (which was difficult to enter and exit on). Once inside, the theater was fine (but old) and seating was not comfortable (I sat on a folding chair). Stage was easy to see from any seat in the house. Unfortunately, the production was rather grim so we left during intermission. Not sure if I'd come to another production here; I guess it all depends on what it is.

This was by far one of the best classes that I have taken in L.A. I have taken numerous classes…read morehere since I was a child since my dream has almost always been to be an actress. I also took Improv classes at the Groundlings which were VERY expensive. When I took classes at the Groundlings, it was very apparent that they basically anyone in the lower classes were just a number. They fill the lower level classes just to keep the money flowing. I found Actors Improv Studio through my agent. No it's not in the fanciest building or the best neighborhood. But that's not what you go to class for, and he usually has some licorice or candy that you can snack on during class. That definitely sweetens the deal. :) I took classes here for about a month. Bill was EXTREMELY helpful and it was very apparent that he cared about each student individually. He takes the time to critique and praise you after each exercise. He even videos during each class, and after some exercises you can watch your work. The best part of his classes was his encouraging nature. All I can really remember from taking classes at the Groundlings is all the rules they give of what you are not supposed to do. Bill presented the rules of Improv, but not in a way that makes an improvisor feel stifled and held back. I left his class feeling much more confident thanks to him. The only reason that I haven't been able to go back is b/c I can't afford the extra expense at this time. But I would recommend him to anyone who really wants to know what it takes to become a great Improvisor. Yes CDs and such are mildly impressed when they see the name of a big name Improv Studio on your resume. But that won't book and keep a job. You have to be able to deliver much more than that. Bill will help you get to a place where you can consistently deliver.

This is what improv is all about and I am so relieved to have finally found it in North Hollywood…read moreunder the instruction of Bill Applebaum! Improv intimidates me but when I audited the class, it all melted away and we just had fun. I especially appreciated the relaxed and natural manner in which the class unfolded. Bill was in tune with what every performer brought to the table, his feedback was constructive, and it was obvious to me just how much he enjoyed sharing his passion for improv to anyone willing to listen. As it turns out, it's fun to learn from someone who enjoys what they do. Audit the class and see for yourself.

Sent my teen here for a weeklong camp and they had a blast! Really great program that helps get up…read morein front of people. Teen can't wait to do it again.

The Groundlings School teaches a foundation that is not only about comedy. It's about linking ideas…read moretogether and supporting each other. I had the privilege of taking a class here that reminded me of our basic tools to make an improvised scene occur. It is taught in a true 'drill' like fashion. Getting 'the reps' in feels good as it takes the pressure off the end result. I had the pleasure of having the fantastic teacher Echo Cullem. He teaches from the heart, knows the rhythm of a scene and how things should feel. He is a person we could trust as a group collective and one that made me feel open and able to adjust and learn. Eco reminds us that 'The most important person in a scene is your scene partner.' Our class was lucky to be given this amazing experience and I will miss each and every one of my talented classmates. Training at The Groundling is an honor for any funny or talented person who might be blocked or need to hit reset and you owe it to your talent and your Los Angeles story to train here.

I joined this class with absolutely zero stand-up experience, and it exceeded all my expectations…read more Gerry and Heather are phenomenal instructors, and their system truly works. They create a fun, encouraging, and supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable taking risks and finding their voice. By the end of the class, I had a set I was proud of and the confidence to get on stage and perform it. The group itself was incredibly supportive, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

I signed up for this class having years of stand up sketch and improv experience, but never taken a…read moreclass for stand up comedy. I spent a long time skeptical about taking a course and worrying it would lead to generic comedy or hack style. But I've known countless alumni of the class over the years and always wondered what was so special about it because they'd given me glowing reviews. This year I found myself wanting to sharpen tools in joke writing and re-invigorate my perspective on stand up altogether. The class achieved exactly that - plus introduced me to a really great community of people who are funny, smart, and kind. Gerry cultivates an environment that is rare in stand up comedy culture in that it goes against the negative cliches of being brash, cutting, competitive and toxic. The instructors are very generous with giving guidance in and outside of class. Besides feeling inspired personally, I saw classmates flourish and felt a tidal wave of love and appreciation coming out of class. Not to mention a brand new tight 5+ minutes to take around. I think it's a very smart move to start your stand up journey here, and if you're already involved but looking for a huge breathe of fresh air, it's here too.

If you're struggling to let go of what's holding you back from fully expressing yourself, Improv is…read moreone of the most powerful solutions--and Improv LA is the place to be. The teaching approach is incredibly inspiring. You feel supported every step of the way, and all the teachers in the classes I attended were not only highly professional but also deeply encouraging. Even as a complete beginner, I never felt intimidated or out of place--you truly feel like you belong right away. I'm so grateful I found this school. After completing Level 1, I immediately enrolled in Level 2 and continued all the way through Level 4. I'm proud to say I completed the entire Improv program at Improv LA, and it has been such a transformative journey. I also took Comedy Sketch 101--it was a blast! I came in with no idea what to expect, and by the end, I created a sketch that made the whole class laugh out loud!

I took Keith's improv class as a beginner and found it to be a really fun and honestly…read moretransformative experience. I liked that each week was divided up by different games, exercises, and lessons that slowly built up into a long form show. We learned the basics of improv and all its fun acronyms (yes and, CREW, etc.) and applied to to our scenes. Keith did an amazing job at making everyone feel welcomed and not scared to be vulnerable, and was an attentive teacher. I can tell he truly loves what he does because he genuinely laughs at every scene. Through this class, I also learned many life lessons: everyone is faking it till they make it, always ask more questions, embrace the silliness and absurdity of life, never stop playing, and just show up. Life is just improv if you really think about it :') Thanks Keith for a great class! Now go tap into your inner child and take an improv class!

John Rosenfeld Studios has been an incredible experience for me! I've taken classes at several…read morestudios over the past 9 years and this is by far one of the best I've ever been to. Everyone in this community is incredible kind, the staff are WORKING actors and have immense knowledge & experience of this industry, being on set, etc. and John is unbelievable at helping you understand & breakdown the script, nail your upcoming auditions and become a better version of YOU as a more skilled artist! If you're ready to work, up for the challenge and want to be a better, more skilled & prepared actor, JOIN THE JRS COMMUNITY! I love this place!

I usually don't leave reviews, but my experience at this "acting studio" bothered so much, I refuse…read moreto stay silent. I went in for a consultation because I was looking for a new acting studio to attend in person. It was a horrible experience. John has a predatory approach and it seemed like I was purposely excluded and not understood. He asked me what I do for work and recommended more expensive private lessons with another one of his teachers. I also spoke to a friend who had a consultation before and they told me he treated them the same way. There are way better acting studios in Los Angeles. He's always asking people about their occupation to see how much money he can get out of you. The consultation didn't help me with anything and I left feeling scammed.

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.

Whoa. I had an amazing Adv Technique class with Robby Descant. Doing selftapes at home can feel…read morelike a chore and be frustrating for actors because you rarely (if ever) get feedback on how to perform for commercials. Robby changed all that for me and got me excited again about auditioning for commercials. In the first class he focused on the technique behind preparing a great audition but also the mindset you should have as an actor to stay energized in this branch of the industry. I could notice myself (and others) getting better each week. Robby created an environment where we could play and have fun while also giving a performance that was authentic to the individual. I would highly recommend these classes and Robby. I'm continuing through their series and excited to continue growing

The Commercial Class has been an outstanding experience so far! I enrolled a few weeks ago in the…read moreintroductory class with Joy Lofton and it has already exceeded my expectations. After taking a break from acting for a few years, I'm now in the process of getting new headshots and looking for representation. I wanted to ease back into commercial acting and this class seemed like the perfect way to do that. Before signing up, I wasn't confident in my commercial technique or auditioning skills, but I also worried the class might be too basic since I've taken several others before over the years. From the very first class, Joy provided invaluable insights that immediately helped improve our work. She broke down how to approach and deliver copy in a way that made sense. As a working commercial actress and session director, she has likely seen thousands of auditions, and her expertise shows in every piece of feedback she gives. She knows exactly how to redirect actors to deliver their best performance with kindness and clarity. Unlike some teachers in this town who berate actors in narcissistic fits of rage, Joy is the complete opposite. She creates a supportive environment, starting each audition scenario by reminding us to breathe and center ourselves before diving into the material. Personally, I started off feeling apprehensive and unsure, but now I feel significantly more confident in making stronger choices without second-guessing myself. Overall, this class covers everything you need to succeed, from slating to self-taping, and I would 100% recommend it to anyone looking to learn or refine their commercial acting skills!