Who needs another review when every one already lists 5 stars? If there were six, Keep It Real Acting would have earned it. I started with a 4-pack "Wednesday Workout" and quickly realized the value of Judy and team's perspective. We just finished the "Advanced Commercial Callback Class" and I'm a devotee to their approach. If you want technique, practice, perspective and a whole lotta fun, you can't get any better than this. Thanks Judy, Francene and everyone involved for taking me to the next level and opening me up to being vulnerable. read more

I have been a working actor for over 25 years, but took the "Keep It Real" commercial acting workshop just to brush up on my skills. During the 5th week of class, I booked a national network on-camera spot. I learned new techniques and received honest, useful feedback. I would highly recommend this class to anyone wanting to go into on-camera commercials. read more

I booked my first audition coming out of an intensive workshop with Judy! I've been in the commercial game a number of years, had booked regularly in the past, but was going through a dry spell. Judy gave me the tools and the confidence to walk into the room, be myself, make my choices and ultimately get the job. I highly recommend, whether you're new to the game or established but seeking a refresher or that extra boost. Thanks again Judy, I will be back! read more

I took the Not Just A Pretty Face class. I had a great time at this class and acquired some great information. It was a small group of girls, some brand new to the industry, some new from other states, and some with some commercial experience. I have been getting so many callbacks, almost booking, and just barely miss the booking. Granted i was never super serious at acting, I've solely been a model w some random/chance commercial jobs. But I've realized, why not take this great opportunity of living in LA to at least tryyy to book something and make some money. My friend told me about this class, and we took it. So with the great tips and some SERIOUS insight from two people who have so much experience and knowledge, I expect to book some big jobs this year :) thanks guys!! read more

I took just finished A-Z with Paul and Judy. It was incredible. I really learned how to attack auditions and my confidence is off the charts because of them. Thank you!! read more

I really enjoyed Judys class ! What I really loved about her was her patients she teaches you everything you need to know and more all the while taking care of her students. If I never took her class I would be completely lost. She has so many classes to offer there is no excuse why you haven't taken it yet. If you take her class she will leave you with an experience of a lifetime. I love you Judy read more

As a newer adult actor, I recently took the A-Z Commercial Technique class at Keep It Real Acting Studios, and I already feel like I am ready to go out on auditions and book the job! Judy and George both share a wealth of information about everything you need for a successful career in commercials, whether you're a veteran actor looking to sharpen your skills, or a newbie like me who needs all the nuts and bolts. Their approach, which included on-camera work, redirection and valuable feedback every class, provided a thorough understanding of the entire process, from audition preparation to the actual audition and beyond. Not only do Judy and George give instruction in a fun and supportive environment, but you feel you are learning from the masters! Judy has been a successful actors for years, and George is not only a working actor, but a casting session director. I feel like the tips and tricks we learned from them are like the secret weapons for success! I can't recommend this class enough. read more

I just finished the A-Z Commercial class and it was great. I got very good insight into skills I can use for auditions. Judy and Paul gave me great feedback on looking at myself realistically, which will help me decide which roles to audition for. Paul is obviously accomplished as a teacher as well as a performer, is direct and to the point as well as being very funny. Putting yourself on camera and in front of your fellow actors is scary--they made it fun and added to my confidence as an actor. Looking forward to other classes and workshops. read more

I took Judy's A-Z commercial class and it rocked! I've learned the most about commercials through Judy this far. And through her class I was able to get an agent. She is a professional and talented working actor, who really knows the business and sincerely wants her students to be great and work! You'll learn practical tools with tangible results you can see immediately and she won't sugar coat things. She has a great acting studio with several beneficial and affordable classes for all realms of acting, including a fantastic headshot class with her, Tom Burke and Kevin McIntyre. They teach you marketing and branding your look and coach you through a short 2 look photoshoot for a great price. I highly recommend Keep It Real Acting studio! read more

Keep It Real Acting Studio - Performing Arts Near Me

I took the Adult commercial Advanced Callback class with Judy Kain. Here is all you need to know about my very first class: 1) Had an audition for a national commercial on Wednesday 2) Had my FRIST CLASS on Thursday. Learned TONS. 3) Had a callback for that Wednesday audition on Friday. Applied what I had learned the day before. 4) Booked it. Need I say more? But if you want more, here it is: Judy is not only a working actress herself, but she's also an amazing teacher. Not everyone can teach. But Judy? Judy can TEACH. She is knowledgable, honest, kind, encouraging, and she opens doors for her students. Her special guests she had come in and talk to us had invaluable information to share, and we were able to start relationships with casting directors who weren't yet familiar with us. Hands down, BEST COMMERCIAL CLASS IN LOS ANGELES. read more

As a non actor, I needed help preparing for on camera exercise segments. I reached out to Judy and I cannot say enough amazing things. I walked into the session feeling nervous and walked out feeling confident in my material and most importantly, the delivery. This is a warm, friendly environment for anyone looking to better their talent. Wonderful experience. read more

I expected to run through copy, audition practice, and interactive exercises as you would in any acting class, but I was truly thankful I signed up for Judy's Advanced Callback class because it really was different! One thing that really made sense was when Judy talked about how much less time we have in a commercial audition to reveal the kind of good storytellers we are (or aren't) compared to most theatrical auditions (with lots of lines) and why that would support the need to spend more time in preparing to make that time most impactful. You see, I was one who was just as guilty as many fellow actors to see commercial work as "easier" with less investment required, but this class helped me see it as an artform where real-life, personal point-of-views, and intention is imperative and highly coveted. It's honestly hard to explain the major perspective shift this 4-week process was for me in terms of approaching commercial auditions and work, but even if you have already had a reverence toward commercial opportunities or not, this class is an excellent environment to deepen yourself as a professional artist and authentic performer. So, yes, it's practical, fun, and worth your precious time. read more

We continually recommend Keep it Real Acting to our adult and youth talent from both commercial and theatrical divisions and the feedback we receive has been nothing short of overwhelmingly positive. We send our talent with absolute confidence they are in good hands with top notch instructors and class formats that are productive and insightful. For actors and agents, it's truly a team effort and when solid training is part of the equation, it makes us all better. read more

Judy is the absolute best. She is not only an excellent teacher she is an amazingly kind and generous person. She gives accurate, direct feedback while maintaining a nurturing environment. She is empowering and instills confidence in her students by teaching them to take ownership over their craft and to always have an opinion about the scene, no matter how big or how small. She teaches you how to trust yourself, be professional, always put your best foot forward, always be prepared, and take charge at any audition while still remaining humble and normal, and not over compensating in some weird way. She is amazing and I could go on about her all day. I am so grateful to know Judy and I recommend her classes to any working actor or better, any actor who wants to be working more! read more

Was looking for a new acting class for my daughter and Heard about keep it real on Backstage West thought we would give it a try so we did the freebie Friday awesome, and from their took the headshot class STOP the best headshot we have taken to date. Kevin McIntyre,Tom Burke, and Judy Kain have put together a valuable class teaching the actor about branding themselves while coaching them through the detailed steps of getting a great head shot, That's exactly what we got a great headshot and the knowledge behind getting a great shot every time.Thank guys, She will now be taking the advance call back class can't wait so happy we found this place we now call home. read more

Judy and Francene are some of the best teachers around! This place is wonderful!

When I signed up for the A-Z Commercial Class I had only been in Los Angeles for two months. I knew I wanted to be in commercials and was fortunate enough to find Keep It Real Studios. I had a class size of about 14 and we were all extremely different. Paul Hungerford really picked us apart on the first class and told us exactly what we needed to work on. After 5 weeks of training, including an improvisation class, Paul and Judy teamed up for our last and final class. Both of them together were a dynamic duo: Paul addressing the men and Judy sharing her knowledge about wardrobe for the women. After completing the workshop I began to see results right away. A week later I booked a Fresh n' Easy commercial and a month later I booked a national Taco Bell spot as a female sous chef! Aside from that I am also very proud to say that I was put on Avail for Comcast and got a callback for Boost Mobile! I thank Paul and Judy for giving me the confidence to attack these auditions. Thank you for your goody bag full of tricks! I appreciate you both. :) read more

This commercial class and advanced class is among the top classes in LA! If you are new to the game or just want to round out your style, you should lets these pros help chisel you to book work in LA LA Land. Much love!!! read more

I took the A-Z commercial acting class with Judy Kain and George Ketsios. Both instructors are great. I took a commercial class before from a different school and I knew from the first class at Keep It Real, I was in the right place. All of the classes are recorded, so you get to see your progression and faults to learn and grow. The last class has an agent in it, and it's held as a call back audition, which can potentially get you representation if you are seeking any. Not all classes offer that. That alone is pretty sweet! There are valuable tips you learn that are absolutely necessary in order to be successful in the commercial world. Anyway, I can't recommend this class highly enough. read more

NEW CLASS AT "KEEP IT REAL ACTING." Just completed The most valuable investment you can make in your career is your HEADSHOT. HEADSHOTS are your introductions to AGENTS and CASTING DIRECTORS. HEADSHOTS open the door to auditions. How much to do you know about achieving the right HEADSHOT, the one that will cause a CASTING DIRECTOR to take a second look at you? You'd be surprised at how little you really know. WELL, there is a NEW CLASS that will take you by the hand and lead you thru the whole process from A-Z. IN fact the name of the class is HEADSHOTS A-Z. Learn the secrets from top professionals in the industry. Both JUDY and TOM have and are working in the industry, They both are well established and know what works and what doesn't. They will provide you with a wealth of information about what you should look for and do for great HEADSHOTS. You'll learn what is unique to you that sets you apart from others, what is the right wardrobe, what are your best colors, what you should be thinking before you step in front of the camera. There is time to ask questions , ( I should tell you they do give you one on one information about YOU) There is general information for all and then individual information, Plus at the end there is a private photo shoot. HEADSHOTS are not about stepping in front of the camera,smiling and looking good. HEADSHOTS ,I found out, take know how, preparation and work. It's not as easy as you think. I would say invest in your career where it counts. Take the class. It's worth it's weight in GOLD. I wish I had this knowledge before I got my HEADSHOTS. BUT.......I do now. And thats what counts.. Thanks Judy and Tom for making me smarter and better equipped to move forward in such a competitive industry. It's important to have knowledge and know how before jumping into something that has a profound effect on your career. read more

You know a teacher is good when another teacher recommends them. My wonderful theatrical coach sent me to Keep It Real for their commercial class due to her respect for Judy Kain. I took A-Z Commercial Technique and enjoyed Paul Hungerford's energy and good natured teaching approach. He knows his stuff and knows how to translate that to his students. Following that, I had a private coaching session with Judy to prepare me for an agency call. I'm not sure the results of that yet as it was just today (and I release my attachment to the results), but Judy was a joy to work with and made me feel at-ease and prepared for the call. Both Judy and Paul show that they really care. The openness of Judy's heart was apparent in our coaching session, and I always appreciate people who have a true nature of caring about others. Thank you, KIRA. #KIRAwinning!! read more

I have only tested the waters at Keep It Real Acting with the All-In-One Headshot Class but I will say I'm a fan. The workshop was pretty direct with having each actor specify their particular type and essence. This way, when it was time to take headshots we were prepared. Tom's coaching definitely enhanced my session enabling me to stay focused and concentrate on my goal. The best part was when I later followed up with Judy & Tom. I was a little weary that I wasn't portraying my desired looks. Each of them took time out of their busy days to go through the pictures and tell me which one worked best. They also provided amazing feedback of my strengths and what I need to work on moving forward. THANK YOU to both Judy & Tom. I cannot wait to see where these headshots will take me. read more

Just finished my class at Keep It Real (literally 2 days ago) and I really, really loved it. I have taken quite a few different commercial acting classes, mostly to get info and instruction from different sources, but I learned the most with Judy. I learned the "how" not just the "what" to do before and at an audition. I feel far more skilled and practiced in knowing how to look at copy and make it mine. The environment is really great for actors, there's zero judgment and I know everyone in my class felt very comfortable and I saw everyone grow. Paul Hungerford is also a really great teacher and the short time we spent with Tom Burke was invaluable. Haven't done any theatrical classes yet, just focusing on commercial, but as of now, wouldn't spend my time or my money anywhere else. Thanks, Judy! read more

I always have a great time at Keep It Real Acting. I'm currently in the Meisner Theatrical Class and it's great. I'm glad I took this class and especially with Keep It Real Acting. I won't go anywhere else now! read more

I am completely new to the game and have taken the "Castable Actor" workshop and am currently enrolled in the AZ Commercial class. Both are amazing! Judy and Tom are so knowledgeable and worth every cent! I really love Keep it Real and would HIGHLY recommend to anyone looking to take a class - they really know what they're doing. read more

I went to Tom Burke's "Castable Actor" workshop. The whole idea is understanding how the industry will see you. "They won't get you until you get you." He teaches you how to be very specific about your type. It's an honest and kind assessment that he walks you through with the class. I highly recommend it, especially if you're planning to go out for commercials. It's all about marketing. The staff who runs the office is awesome too. I've talked to Jessica, Nicole, and Beau- all super helpful. read more

I call this comment, " snowball of awesomeness" because 2 years ago while attending an audition my daughter wasn't qualified for, I received some advice from the producer. He said get her in a bigger agency and get her into some acting classes. My plan was to immediately get her into acting classes when she turned 4 in October of 2014, for whatever reason I waited until Jan of this year. Jordyn had a great time meeting and making new friends and loved her acting coach Donna Rusch. There was a showcase on the day of the last class where a industry Manager Myrna Lieberman came and watched the kids. She answered all of the parents questions and offered some excellent advice. To our surprise Myrna contacted us a week later inquiring about working for Jordyn! We met with her at her home in the Hollywood Hills, loved her, signed with her, got a meeting with one of the top LA agencies and signed with them yesterday! It's all too exciting! read more

Keep It Real Acting Studio - Jordyn and her friends at acting class! - Performing Arts Near Me

What a wonderful place to take class! I have tried many different teachers and studios over the years and have never come across such a professional and educational way to approach my work. I have taken the Meisner Repetition Class and Theatrical Technique Class both with Jeff Kober and Stacy Edwards. I can't recommend both classes enough!!! Seriously, if you would like to book more work, take these classes! I did and I have. read more

I took the a-z commercial class with Paul Hungerford. I can't recommend it enough, Paul is hilarious and really cares about the success of his students. The class is informative and insightful. It'll delve deeply into the the proper way to approach a commercial audition. Paul gave me great direction and feedback and really helped me find my most castable self. I will definitely be going back for more advanced classes! read more

My kids took the youth commercial acting class with Donna and really enjoyed it. They feel more comfortable in the room now and they thoroughly enjoyed each class! My only complaint is the thumb drive with their class work on it was never accurately dubbed so it was never useful to go over with them because it never recorded properly. I'd recommend this class to others, Donna is great and has wonderful energy!! Doug seems awesome too! read more

Hands down one of, if not the absolute best commercial class I have ever taken. Judy Kain is very professional, and has an unparalleled knowledge of the business. She pinpoints exactly what you need to work on from the first class and really gets you excited to go out and audition! Not to mention she is one of the nicest people you will meet:) I look forward to joining the Wednesday Commercial Workouts to stay sharp and would recommend Keep It Real to any actors/actresses wanting to get serious about their auditions and have a great time in the process. read more

This is my second review, and I have even more good things to say about Keep it Real. I have taken classes from multiple schools, coaches, and teachers, and Keep It Real's offerings are consistently the best. I have taken both the A-Z Commercials class with Paul Hungerford and Judy Kain, and was impressed with the experience, insightfulness, and genuine care for their students that both of them demonstrated. That class took me from knowing nothing, to being able to book any commercial for which I audition, inside of six weeks. It was the best investment I could have made for a commercial class. Next, I took the Castable Actor workshop with Tom Burke, and was once again wowed. Tom's experience allows him to read any actor as soon as they walk in the door. He was able to tell me things about myself that I barely knew, and what's more, he made me believe that they are worthy and the world needs to see them. Four hours changed my life. Thanks Tom. I can't say enough good things about this school. The teachers are top-notch, the staff is friendly and professional, and the prices are reasonable. There is a reason they are consistently awarded Backstage Readers' Favorites awards. They are AWESOME. Keep up the amazingness, Judy and gang! FULL DISCLOSURE: I have sometimes worked out a work-for-class deal with this school, so I can be seen working in the office. I am not a formal employee, and have no interest in inflating the reviews I give of this school. Quite the contrary--I think my insider's view gives me a unique perspective into Judy's real personality, and I can tell you for a fact that she cares about her students, has WAY more experience than most of the teachers out there, and keeps booking work. read more

Completed the A-Z Commercial class and the Business of Acting class. I learned so much from Paul and Judy! Their teaching is excellent and their style is super relatable. After each class, we were given copies of our work done on camera. It's rewarding to see yourself progress from week 1 through week 6. I think I grew as an actress and believe this was a huge step towards booking jobs. Great studio, great opportunities, awesome teachers!!! Excited to get back in there! read more

I just finished the A-Z commercial class. I truly feel that the information that was given to me will help me move forward with my career. my confidence in myself and being in front of a camera has changed dramatically! I feel that I have been given the tools to take on any Commercial audition thrown at me. Thank you again everyone at Keep It Real Acting!!! read more

I've known Judy since I think 2006 maybe earlier. I auditioned for her once. I have audited a few of her classes and go to her Christmas party every year. She has created a safe and professional and "friendly" place for actors. In the future i hope to do her drop in camera class. The acting community needs community and Judy is one of the women in this town cultivating professionalism the mentally healthy way. Thank you for all you do. read more

I highly recommend taking a class at KIRA! I recently completed the Advanced Callback class, and Judy was such a wonderful teacher. Judy knows what she is talking about, and she truly wants to draw the best out of her students. Her feedback was personalized and invaluable; I grew quite a bit over four weeks. I ended her class feeling confident and ready to book. read more

Just finished the 4 week improv workshop with Paul Hungerford, he's an improv GENIUS! I learned so much this last month..and was able to showcase my growth last night at a super fun show. I can't wait to take the next round of improv with Aimee. If you're looking for a safe space to hone your craft, and have fun doing it then seriously look no further and sign up! read more

I took Judy Kain's Advanced Commercial Callback Class and it has helped me IMMENSELY. Not only does she enhance, refine and help develop your technique she instills confidence in knowing you are enough when you enter that audition room, which is absolutely critical in a successful actor. I am genuinely excited to get out there and audition with my new skills! read more

I have been working as an actor in commercials for many years now but know I can always learn more so I invested in Judy's Advanced Callback class. First off let me say Judy is an excellent teacher. Every class you work on camera and Judy coaches you through the copy, making excellent points and giving you ways to perform that you might not have thought of on your own. It makes it so much fun, it's like playing! For those that audition you know this mentality is invaluable, so many people make auditioning a stress and it needs to be more about having fun but alas, that is easier said than done. With Judy it is fun as well as super informative. Every week the class is starts off being run like a callback so not only do you get that experience but you also get the added bonus of a surprise guest who not only adds to class by a great Q+A but is also working in the industry so now you have a connection - because I am sorry to have to say this but it's sooo true -- it's not just WHAT you know, it's WHO you know. Actor friends, commercials are a totally different beast than film and TV so you should treat it as such. You owe it to yourself to take one of Judy's classes that focuses specifically on this aspect of the business. To borrow from a current campaign running - If you're a commercial actor, you take class with Judy, it's what you do. If you want to save 15% or more on car insurance, you switch to Geico*. (*not in any way an endorsement for Geico) read more

I have nothing but good things to say about this place. They are so helpful and truly invested in helping your child. My 5 yr old daughter had an interview with an agent coming up so we signed her up for one 5 or 6 week session. Needless to say she was signed right after. This studio gave her confidence and taught her great auditioning skills. She always came out so happy and ready for the next Saturday. So even after she signed we continued on for another session. Even if you live far away (I drove 2 hrs there and 2 hours back) it is totally worth it. You get video clips of them to bring home and practice. The class is an hour and a half which I looked at as a plus since most classes around me are only 45 mins long. You have to give this place a shot. You won't be disappointed. read more