I just finished shooting my first real acting job (student film) and I suppose now would be the perfect time to give my long overdue review for Doug. Doug is more than just an acting teacher - since he has a background in psychology, he is really good at helping actors deal with the many mental blocks and self-sabotage that get in our way when trying to perform, especially when under the pressure of auditions. But he's not just some rah-rah guy. He's had a pretty successful acting career himself, and he understands how to immerse oneself in the circumstances and life of the character so as to make a performance as truthful as possible. He will ask you all the right questions about what you know about your character, and soon you'll begin to ask yourself those same questions. I first became interested in Doug's classes because I heard that he gears everything towards getting work in TV/film. I think it may have been fate that I decided to start taking lessons with him because he's exactly the type of coach I needed. Acting for TV/film has a lot of specific techniques that I had no idea about until I started working with Doug. Maybe more importantly, some actors tend to have bad habits that need to be trained out of them to read properly on the big and small screen. Besides the technical stuff, Doug is super chill, funny, and he cares about all his students. read more

Seriously meeting Doug and taking his classes is one of best things that happened in my life! I can't even express how much I appreciate Doug Warhit. He's a legendary coach and actor, he genuinely cares about everyone he works with, and he knows how to get the best out of people. His precision is so amazing because there will be tons of things from little to big that we don't notice we do on camera but Doug helps bring awareness to it and correct it. His techniques are amazing and help a person actually give a realistic performance and express legitimate emotions when acting rather than trying hard to fake a certain emotion. So many thanks to Doug Warhit! read more

Doug Warhit is more than a great acting instructor, he is an exceptional human being who truly cares about the people he coaches! As one of his students who has participated in his classes at various levels since 2017, I can attest that his direct and intuitive approach combined with sense of humor, experience and knowledge creates a highly effective creative environment for actors of any and all different ages and types. Wether you are a seasoned actor or just getting started he uses his experiences as a life coach, psychotherapist, actor, and director to provide sound guidance in helping you understand yourself better through the work while giving you the freedom to express, discover, and empower yourself as an actor! The accountability, support, and affordability that his classes provide are invaluable to any actor navigating their way through their creative journeys. Consistency is key and Doug sets the tone by leading by example and constantly having his finger on the pulse of the industry. The dynamic of the class functions in a truly safe and collaborative way on all fronts, just as you will experience with directors and other actors when you are working. Everyone learns from each other. In addition, the online format mirrors the audition process and trains you to optimize your approach. And working on camera with repetition and a variety of other actors with challenging scenes that Doug provides, translates to working on set when it comes time to perform there. On top of that, you receive a copy of your work each week that he promptly emails to you after class! Industry guests are an added bonus to an already worthy process. Every four weeks an industry guest joins the class giving everyone an opportunity to perform in front of them as if it were a call back audition, then ask questions and have them answered at the end. This is priceless, as it helps you gage where you are in your journey and gain extremely valuable insight from friendly working professionals that Doug hand picks! Overall, all of these things and more make Doug and his class truly one of a kind! And his commitment to the craft and his students is unmatched as he consistently gives you the techniques and tools that you can use to gain confidence and bring out the best in yourself! And again, no matter what phase of your life as an actor you're in, he is a master at helping you find your way at just the right pace you need to succeed. Do yourself a favor and give it a try! His books are another valuable resource that have helped me along the way, they include: Book the Job: 143 Things Actors Need to Know to Make It Happen, The Actor's Audition Checklist, and Warhit's Guidebook For The Actor. read more

Been taking Warhit's classes for over 10 years. It doesn't cost anything to audit a class and see if it's worth the investment. You won't be coddled but you won't be humiliated either. He finds the right balance of encouragement and constructive feedback that you actually need to improve. Since Covid, classes are all virtual, but I don't feel like we've sacrificed anything. Doug still cares deeply about your progress. If you have an audition, he'll do whatever it takes to get you thru it. Even read with me for my self-tape for a big audition. Don't think you can just come unprepared to classes either. He does not let people off the hook. This is for people who truly care about improving and willing to do the work. Aside from that, these are more than acting classes. He's performed miracles with my self esteem and confidence. What you pay in his classes will save you money on therapy. read more

I got kicked out NOT because of Doug. Because of a neighboring office didn't like that I was writing on their table. One of the girls at the neighboring office literally said "I'll slash your face." How does that sound. read more

It is pretty simple--I find myself doing my best acting work when I am consistently attending Doug's class. I studied with Doug for a few years when I first moved to Los Angeles. During this time I felt more confident in scenes and auditions and knew I was doing industry-worthy work. I have recently come crawling back for more, after taking time off for comedy school, and couldn't be happier. Doug is intelligent and quirky, he understands actors, and most importantly his students as people. Doug's class is a safe space to explore. He's not afraid to tell you when it looks like you are acting or you're not quite in it. He's also not afraid to tell you when you are right on. The honest feedback he provides is so key to growth. In this class you'll explore the deeper thoughts of the character, play with improvising scenes, work your scene on camera and learn to take quick redirects, just like on set. And an industry guest watches your work at the end of each month! Yay for built in networking. read more

I came to Doug's class after receiving multiple recommendations. I audited his class and have since studied with him for over a year. From the get-go, he is very personalized in his approach with each student. When starting his class, he has a conversation as to your goals and expectations. You can choose what you like to work on, whether it is cold-reading, auditions, a specific genre, and he'll give you the material and direction to do so. Monthly you perform in front of an industry guest which is great for replicating the audition process and networking. Another thing that has been incredibly helpful is being able to bring in sides for a self-tape/audition and work on that. Given the world is moving more and more towards self-tapes, it has been helpful to get some feedback before submitting. It is apparent that he cares about his students. He has high expectations and gives you the tools to meet those. He is honest, if your performance isn't up to par, he works with you to break it down and make it better. If it's good, he will let you know that as well. Also doesn't hurt that he is witty and has a good sense of humor. I have taken many acting courses, but his approach, knowledge, and the environment he creates has kept me coming back. read more

So far I've taken one private session class and Doug is thorough and to the point, he gets you to where you need to be, like the cliff notes of acting. He is firm, but sarcastic and entertaining as well. We record our sessions I even laughed when the while the camera was rolling and he was explaining techniques. I think if anything at all he will tell you what works best for you and try to hone it down, there isn't much nonsense like with other classes, or structure for that matter, rather improv and also learning as you go. If you are that type of person, then this is a great tool for you! read more

My first class with Doug was five years ago. I cannot imagine my weekly training with anyone else. Doug provides just the right combination of accountability and encouragement. I truly believe that the class is well-suited to cultivate your talents, regardless of your preferred technique or experience. To top it off, Doug is a wonderful resource who cares about his students and is happy to give advice whenever asked. read more

Doug knows minds. I have been with Doug on and off for a year now. He is great. To the point with no nonsense. His techniques are true to humans and allow people to open up their self to another level of acting. The course is on-camera working on scene studies. You bring in your own disc to record and he gives feedback and instruction while the camera is rolling. Great way to learn! Highly educated gentleman, by the way. First and foremost, a great human being. read more

Studying with Doug was the best decision I've made in LA. Coming out of an extensive theatre training and having studied with many outstanding instructors both from NYU Tisch and Harvard A.R.T Institute, I felt that on-camera auditioning was a whole different beast. Doug's no-nonsense but warm approach really helped me get out of my head and gain confidence. Doug has strong opinions, a great sense of humor and a great heart that can't help but draw a lot of respect. Acting training can be personal, sensitive and sometimes confusing- Doug is objective, straightforward and practical. You get to focus on the solution through tangible exercises and repetition so there is no room for mystery and getting lost in your own head wondering, "why do I suck?" The class is filled with such talented actors- including several working actors- and you get to see where the bar truly is, which is very informative and inspiring. In class you can work on cold readings, prepared sides or any audition material you have and every session is recorded so you can watch and review at home. Doug also gives you directorial adjustments to make sure you are actually making the choices that serve the scene so that you can book the job instead of just being a good actor that's not quite right for the part. All of this was so necessary to my growth as an actor and surviving in LA. I can't recommend his class enough. read more

Over the years I've gone through 9 acting coaches and I have to say Doug deserves the solid 5 stars he has. Many actors, including myself, struggle to be fully involved in the process before anything acting-related even begins because of personal blocks or other reasons that hold you back and I love it that Doug addresses those. He gives you specific tools and exercises that you can do to get rid of those blocks, which help a lot, but you have to do them!! It's not magic that'll just happen because you know how to, you have to take action. One other thing that makes Doug stand out from many Hollywooders for me is that when you care, he cares. If you're struggling and are really searching for something, he's going to help you get there. read more

My biggest fear was loving acting, but being a bad actress. Thank God and Mama Universe that I found Doug to straighten me out! He cares by being direct, straight to the point, and by giving you USABLE feed back on how to improve your performance. So, no more wasting your money, and HOPING your acting improves. You SEE YOUR ACTING IMPROVE, because you can take your cold reading/performance tapes home. He also sneakingly finds out what's holding you back. Self doubt, fear, anxiety? He helps you get past it. I studied with him for nearly a year, and by the end, had people saying how talented I was. Well talent took a whole lot of work!! He offers private sessions, and beg/int level class and adv. class. You get to practice cold reading, scenes, monologues, and perform in front of an industry guest monthly. You also learn by listening and seeing him critique other performances. I highly recommend you take his class! read more

I know I've ranted and raved about several instructors on here. But as far as on-camera class goes, Doug is THE best. And in general, really. (yes, I went to a "guru" school, yes, I think Doug is better, as much as I loved my teacher there.) If you want to learn to book, Doug will teach you. But be warned, if you want to get the most from this class, you have to know two things-1) PAY ATTENTION, he moves fast, just like being on set or in an audition. If you don't listen, you'll look like an idiot. (I will think that anyway, Doug is far too kind to do so.) and 2) Don't get all grumpy and take it personal when you're asked to change something. Doug runs a tight ship, and he calls things like he sees them-but never in a mean way (some people seem to equate honesty with being mean or harsh, but that is not Doug's spirit at all.) I love that I get to see my work and can take home a DVD with me, along with Doug's commentary. It is such a helpful tool and lets me see all my quirks. Doug also has all these great ways to make things seem natural and real and truthful, and he will try different things depending on what works best for you. (Many are improv-based). Doug has THE most hilarious dry sense of humor of anyone I have ever met, but there are some people in the class who don't get it and think maybe he is being rude. But the thing is, if you EVER think Doug is being rude, you are probably sort of unintelligent/need to watch more British comedy. (sorry, truth hurts!) Doug honestly, honestly cares about his students, and his class has a industry guest EVERY month AND is the most fair in terms of price compared to everywhere else I've been. Classes are around 15 or so people, and Doug will work through any spots that seem to be giving you difficulty and ask you to bring it back the next week if it needs more work. He's great. He really is. No pretension, no puffery, just a great fella who knows his stuff and is passionate about helping you do your best work, period. read more

Doug is really my go-to coach in LA. He's direct and intuitive, and asks he right questions to make you dig deeper and become more authentic and more interesting to watch. He's extremely fair when it comes to class rates, missing classes, etc. I honestly feel at home in his class. Like I'm at home being taken care of and not being dealt BS and wasting my money. I love this guy and hope to train with him for many years to come. I want to echo Jessica T's review to the max - "Doug doesn't waste anybody's time. His critiques are very direct and spot on (in my opinion) He works with what you give him. If you truly care, he cares. He is a VERY fair person. He is so talented at pinpointing specific problem(s) of each student and provides an appropriate solution. Extremely intelligent and quickly understands complexity of the characters and writing. He is one of the funniest people I know. He has such a great sense of humor and love the way he incorporates it into his teachings. If Doug spent any time in class talking about himself, like many other teachers like to do, it would without a doubt be fascinating/entertaining. BUT, he doesn't, because he makes the class about YOU. Doesn't matter what stage you are at in your acting career, you will grow. He works with each student at their own level. Price and make-up policy are very reasonable. He truly cares about his students and goes out of his way to help. I feel tremendous improvement since I've started working with Doug. One of the first major things I noticed was how much more confident I have gotten. I also find myself much more relaxed when I'm working. Also, the students in Doug's class are there to work. Not to show off the latest fashion trends. It's great." read more

I have found Doug's class to be invaluable to my acting career. He is straight forward and insightful, and his methods focus on both the art and industry involved in acting in Los Angeles. His monthly industry guests make his course a valuable networking opportunity as well, and his availability for private coaching for auditions has helped me book jobs. read more

Best acting coach you can get. Doug is very funny and straight to the point. Super empath, he understand people. He's not only a great acting coach, also a great life coach. Strongly recommend!!! read more

Hands down, Doug Warhit's acting workshop is the most valuable training I've received in Los Angeles. The class is extremely practical and affordably priced. It is on-camera so you can get comfortable with the lens, learn the subtleties of close-ups and film technique, and eliminate unconscious nervous habits. Doug works with current material from television shows and films, and there is a monthly industry showcase (included in the cost of the class) which has helped me immensely. I met my commercial agent there and we have been working together successfully for over four years now. I've also made numerous connections with managers, agents and casting directors. With over twenty years of teaching experience, as well as many years spent as a professional actor, Doug understands the business and is an excellent coach. His approach is based on a deep understanding of all the modern method acting techniques from Stanislavsky, Meisner, Adler and Strasberg. He mixes and matches them and applies them differently for individual actors, believing them all to be useful tools that we should acquaint ourselves with. He encourages his students to take stock of what WORKS for you so you can create a personalized "list" of tools to approach each and every role. Doug is selfless and tireless, making himself available to his students around the clock for private coaching and any questions that you may have about preparing for a role or the business in general. He is a licensed psychotherapist, as well as a life coach, and genuinely cares about his students. He has a deep passion for the craft of acting--he's all about the work. And he's damn funny. I simply cannot recommend him more highly. read more

Doug helped me in many ways when I first came to Los Angeles. His class is focused, fair and thoroughly educational. I learned a lot from the Q&A class at the end of each month and booked representation with my first commercial agent through his monthly workshop, which has led to a great deal of opportunities in my fledgling career. Doug's commitment to his students is unmatched and he's a fantastic resource for aspiring actors and seasoned professionals alike. If you are looking for rigorous study in scene work, character building, improvisation and general technique, he is not only knowledgable but caring and cost-effective. Visit his website at www.DougWarhit.com to learn more. read more

I love Doug, he's such a good-hearted guy that really cares about his actors and wants everyone to be happy. His style is a hybrid of all sorts of techniques and so there's always a way to benefit from going to his class. I felt very comfortable talking to him about my trouble areas and he was always an email away if I needed. I also made some really close friends in his class. read more

Dough is an amazing acting coach. The problem I found with most acting classes I attended was that there was a lot of "sugar coating". I am all for being supportive of the choices you make as an artist but a class is the place where you can grow as artist and Doug knows how to push you to be your best. He tells you like it is and he has made me a better, more connected actor. He has many years of experience and he always has good advice on all industry aspects. I find a lot of value in watching other students perform because his input is so insightful.I highly recommend Doug for all acting levels. L read more

Doug is extremely hilarious! I take private acting classes with him, and he is great. He knows his stuff, and he is also a great life coach. He records every session on a CD for you so you can take it home and see what you're doing right or wrong. He has a great sense of humor (you have to understand his sarcasm, because at first, I was absolutely petrified and thought he was being serious about everything). His classes are definitely something to look into. read more

Doug is an excellent coach and his cold reading class is just what the working actor needs. He is very direct with his feedback and will tailor the teachings to fit your specific needs and what YOU are wanting to achieve. I've never been a big fan of sticking with the same acting coach or workshop too long but since I have found this class I have been with him for almost a year now. read more

So happy I found Doug. I've been in his class for about a year now and certainly don't plan on leaving anytime soon. Doug doesn't waste anybody's time. His critiques are very direct and spot on (in my opinion) He works with what you give him. If you truly care, he cares. He is a VERY fair person. He is so talented at pinpointing specific problem(s) of each student and provides an appropriate solution. Extremely intelligent and quickly understands complexity of the characters and writing. He is one of the funniest people I know. He has such a great sense of humor and love the way he incorporates it into his teachings. If Doug spent any time in class talking about himself, like many other teachers like to do, it would without a doubt be fascinating/entertaining. BUT, he doesn't, because he makes the class about YOU. Doesn't matter what stage you are at in your acting career, you will grow. He works with each student at their own level. Price and make-up policy are very reasonable. He truly cares about his students and goes out of his way to help. I feel tremendous improvement since I've started working with Doug. One of the first major things I noticed was how much more confident I have gotten. I also find myself much more relaxed when I'm working. Also, the students in Doug's class are there to work. Not to show off the latest fashion trends. It's great. read more

I've taken many classes over the years, and Doug's class is easily one of the most valuable. Doug is honest with his feedback and can even be tough on his students at times, but he always comes from a place of genuine care about his students and desire for their growth. The class is structured like an on-camera audition session: Doug gives each student a scene, we take some time in the hallway to prepare using the many different strategies he's armed us with, then one by one we go into the class to audition on-camera (with our peers as an audience) as Doug gives us feedback and adjustments. In addition to learning through performing, I also gain so much from watching the other students work. (His advance classes are especially filled with so many intimidatingly talented people!) Since Doug usually assigns the same scenes to multiple students, I'm able to gain some insight into the audition process from a casting director's perspective -- meaning that I'm more equipped to present them with interesting, compelling choices that may set me apart from the competition. Also, because Doug's feedback is so honest and because his students are able to review the videos of our on-camera sessions, I generally have a better gauge of my own work and it makes me far more confident in the audition room. Furthermore, once a month, Doug invites a casting director, agent, or manager to join our class, watch us perform, and give us industry advice. Doug has definitely set up his class structure to give his students a professional boost! And so many people in the industry hold Doug in high regard. Oftentimes when a casting director sees his name on my resume, they stop and fondly tell me a nice story about their relationship with him. After seeing such growth in myself and in many of my classmates, I highly recommend Doug as a human and a teacher! read more

Ditto to everything that's been said. He is a no-bs New Yorker, yet he genuinely cares for his students. He seems to really love what he does. Advice: although Doug works with all levels, I wouldn't recommend him to those just starting out, it's just not a good use of time. Take classes elsewhere first to get the basics down. He is better for intermediate to advanced -- his class is great for polishing screen technique for actors who are already solid. Just my opinion. It's like a weekly workout to keep you on your game. He is an awesome human being. Lots of fun to work with. read more

I first started taking classes with Doug almost a year ago. If I could give him more than 5 stars, I would. I went to college for theatre, graduated and all that-- but I never realized how much I didn't know before Doug and his class. He genuinely cares about every one of his students, he takes the time to dig deep and figure out all that is needed for every character. I can see a lot of progress and understanding and appreciate that Doug was my first acting and on camera coach in LA. I will always recommend Doug, not only for his eagerness to push and help and lose old habits and create better new ones, but also because my phone wanted to change his name to Doughnuts. read more

Doug Warhit quite simply changed my life in a profound way, both professionally and personally. I was really floundering in my acting career when I found Doug, and I was able to reinvent myself, get rid of actor self-sabatoge, and really hone in on my craft in a meaningful way. I love the format of the class with the mix of cold reads, scene study, and a showcase every month. I got called into a producers session for CSI from a particular showcase, so the guests are totally legit. And you are encouraged to bring in someone yourself, which is amazing. But most importantly, Doug is a great human being. He taught me the art of how to live a creative life. I used him for classes and one on one. Not that socializing in his class was a prerequisite, I made long lasting professional relationships in his class that last to this day. I became a small business owner, helping actors with demo reel footage, and became an independent producer, and a light years better actor, all under his watch. I couldn't say enough great things about Doug. Oh, one more thing, pick up his book "Book The Job". It's the best book I've ever read on auditioning. read more

Doug is an immensely talented teacher. He is extremely bright and very industry savvy. His comments are insightful and tailored to your personality and problems. He is caring and perceptive, goes out of his way to ensure the development of every actor to his or her utmost potential, and is a hilarious guy. I came to his studio after a really negative experience at another studio that turned me around and eroded my self-esteem as a person and as a performer. Doug patiently helped straighten me out, including giving me a free private session after a near breakdown in class. Trust me, you want this guy in your corner. read more

Doug Warhit is the best acting coach I have studied with. He is very straightforward which is great because other acting coaches like to sugarcoat it and everything is "that was great, nice job" Doug will give you the direction if needed in a very nice but direct way. He has helped me grow so much an an actor. Right after I began his class i booked my first lead in a movie! This is the class to be in if you want to further your acting career! DOUG IS AMAZING! read more

Doug deserves every single star on the page - not one person had rated Doug Warhit under 5 stars- the reason is he is that fabulous. His style of teaching is amazing because he will use different theories and exercises from various styles of acting in order for you to go to the next level in your acting. He starts and ends his classes on time. He is encouraging yet stern and will push you to do your best. Biggest thing for him is Do you homework and just try !!! He has made me the actor I am today and I will always see Doug for coaching !! Best in Los Angeles ! read more

Doug Warhit... is one of a kind! His class is awesome! HE is awesome! I was given a random suggestion when I entered the world of acting to learn cold reading. Cold reading is so invaluable when it comes to auditioning, where you might get your script the day before or even the morning of. He teaches so many valuable techniques on how to approach a new scene and how to successfully approach the audition process. This class is not only a good cold reading class though, but a GREAT acting class. He is very honest and straightforward. He has an acting background as well, so he knows what he's talking about. You will eventually come to learn how SERIOUSLY he takes your development and how much he wants for you to succeed. He even offers one on one private lessons if you feel you need extra help. He is genuine and he cares. I've taken other acting classes.. SEVERAL other classes.. and Doug's is by far the best. read more

I've been going to Doug's for about two years and there's a reason for it!! Through his feedback and coaching I have grown so much as an actress. He has a lot of wisdom to share and truly cares for his students. His critiques never make you feel bad or harshly judged because you know that he just wants you to develop as a strong actor. He points out things you would never notice on your own. I highly recommend this class to anyone looking for a great teacher, mentor and coach. read more

Doug is the best coach I've studied with by far. He has given me multiple tools I can use for each new piece/character I come upon, and I never feel lost in my approach now. He has changed the way I view acting for the better and has vastly improved the amount I book work. I've been in his class for almost two years now and am continuing to study with him, for I always seem to learn something new. His once a month industry guest night is an invaluable educational experience. I strongly recommend you audit his class and see what you think. read more

Doug really does deserve all the praise on this page. His classes are focused on-camera and he will video tape you as you perform, which is helpful for remembering his notes. Class moves quickly so you have to pay attention and be ready to work! Doug also does one-on-one coaching, and he's great at giving practical advice about improving your acting and about the reality of the business. His techniques have already helped me grow a ton, and I know I will use what he has taught me often in my career. I am so glad to have started working with him! read more

I have been studying with Doug for almost 3 years now. He is the absolute BEST Acting coach around! He is direct and to the point. The tools and techniques he offers to stay out of your head and in the moment are priceless. Not to mention his industry guests he has in every month! Highly recommended. read more

The rating says it perfectly. Woohoo! As good as it gets! That is Doug. He is everything I've ever wanted in an acting teacher and more. I am so so so thankful that I found him as soon as I moved out here because I don't know what I would've done without his guidance in this industry, with myself and my acting. He has brought me to my best as I continue to get better and better as an actor every single time I work with him. I recommend this class to every actor I meet because I have seen so many people including myself continue to grow and get better and better every class. He really knows how to work with each individual person with their own individuality. He allows the freedom for you to use whatever tools work best for you and there is an industry guest every month so that you can showcase your talent. I can't say how many people, also including myself, I know that have gotten agent/manager meetings and called in by great casting directors. THIS IS THE BEST ACTING CLASS IN ALL OF LOS ANGELES. read more