I audited the improv beginner class with Brandon. He's was super cool and it was a crazy experience haha, I've never done anything like that, tons of fun! I was actually going to sign up but they let you audit multiple classes so I decided to audit the advanced class with Shannon just to see what I'd be working toward. The class was very impressive and the students were suuuuper talented. If you're into drama stuff I'd say absolutely go for it and check this place out. Me personally, there were a few things I didn't really vibe with during that advanced audit that ultimately changed my mind but it wasn't anything against the class itself, it just wasn't really for me. Overall it was a really cool experience! read more

Out of all the steps I've taken to move forward in my acting career, Speiser/Sturges remains at the core of my technique. Shannon has been such an amazing teacher and guide. She not only pushes me to take risks with every role, but also find myself in every character. Whether you're laughing or crying at the end of a scene, you're always having fun, knowing that you're walking out of each class better than you came in. Her approach is so solid, that even when you're at home taping an audition, you feel like you can hear her guiding you through it. I'm grateful for every opportunity that Shannon has allotted me to push myself out of my comfort zone with such a diverse group of students, and I know Speiser/Sturges will be a part of my journey forever! read more

You MUST take technique with Indrani if you can! She was the first teacher I took with at Speiser/Sturges and she truly helped me blossom into the actor that I am today. It was absolutely technique based, but Indrani helps you feel comfortable enough to fail. She gives you permission to be a hot mess so that you can pull back your inhibitions and get to the real you which is where your best acting work is. Acting imitates life and Indrani will help you put your life into the art. I also took Scene Study 1 with her and I swear my acting excelled beyond my wildest dreams. I studied with Shannon as well and she is great! She's also a star, so I stan. Not only a skilled teacher, but she has A LOT of on set experience as an actress and a coach, so she knows what she's talking about. What can I say about Aaron Speiser ... he is the man, the myth, and the legend. Very blessed to have studied under him for about a couple years in Scene Study 2. He is a very tough teacher, but no one gets under a character like Aaron. There is a reason for EVERYTHING a character does and Aaron literally knows ... all of those reasons. Do what he says and you will excel not only in his class, but in your LIFE. I was a hot mess when I came here. Seriously. No agent, no real training. Now I am still a hot mess in my personal life, but I am a FAR better actor than when I came and now have theatrical agents on both coast, a voice over agent, and a commercial agent. I am now auditioning at least 3Xs a week and I use the skills I learned from this studio every single day. Speiser/Sturges is a MUST for beginning actors and seasoned stars. I stan. read more

My only regret is that I didn't start sooner! Any person who's received serious training in anything knows that a knowledgeable, and honest coach is key to growth, and development! Speiser Sturges is full of great coaches but I must say from my first scene with Indrani I knew she was the coach for me. Indrani will ask you (what seems to be) the most random questions after running a scene but the questions ALWAYS make sense, always serve not only the actor but the scene, your scene partner, and adds your capabilities as an actor. I haven't had the pleasure of working with Shannon but I've sat in on a few classes of her's and she's also phenomenal! (She also works with some of the industry's best.) If you're in need of training that will prepare you for booking and working on set look no further! read more

After graduating with a BFA in theatre I moved to Los Angeles to purse Film and TV. Not only do I feel my time with the studio has improved my skill on camera, it has also giving me an irreplaceable feeling of confidence and self worth I believe my more traditional training chipped away at. I looked at several other studios before committing to Speiser, and after meeting Shannon I felt certain it was the right move to invest in. I would certainly recommend it for both the community it builds and the instruction it gives. read more

I love this acting studio. Every teacher cares about their students and pushes them towards achieving their goals. They take pride in students when they have to leave the studio because they got booked on a show or film. Every teacher teacher is fantastic and loving. Go take classes here. read more

I cannot say enough about this acting studio and the people that make it a community. I have been attending Speiser/Sturges Acting Studio for almost four years and have worked there as a "Key Student" for about 3 years. I have been through other acting studios in Los Angeles but have not been able to call any place home like I do Speiser/Sturges. Along with providing some of the best training in Los Angeles, Speiser/Sturges Acting Studio provides a community and ultimately a family like no other studio in Los Angeles. Aaron Speiser, Shannon Sturges, and Indrani DeSouza are consummate professionals who will push you to your bests in productive ways that fit your individual needs. They ultimately care about your success just as much as you do. The students at Speiser/Sturges are some of the nicest, most down to earth people you will ever meet. We are passionate about the work and love to see our fellow students' successes. I whole heartedly recommend Speiser/Sturges Acting Studio. It is the best place in Los Angeles to take your skills to the next level and find a family along the way. read more

Great place to workout your acting muscles!!! It is up to you how you make the best out of what the supportive coaches offer.

Indrani is an incredible teacher who I've had the pleasure of working with for a year and half!! Take classes here you won't regret it !!!

I've been with the studio on and off for 2 years now. I've worked with Shannon, Indrani, and Aaron. They are all extremely capable coaches and they will challenge you both as actors and as people. I'm currently working with Aaron. He's the greatest acting teacher I've ever had. Week after week, Aaron demonstrates through various techniques how we (as actors) must approach the craft. Every class we discover a new way to approach a character, either cerebrally or viscerally. He shows us how to suck the most out of a script and then take it even further with our own imagination. His stream-of-consciousness style of speaking is probably what makes him so valuable to me personally. Its an easy way for me to absorb and adapt how an actor must THINK about things (both professionally and personally). Listening to him talk to every student has really rubbed off on me in a very healthy way, both as an actor and as a person. And he's funny as hell too, so you're not just sittin there waiting for the bell to ring. My brother, who has watched me perform pretty much my entire life, tells me that I've clearly taken my craft to the next level. Under all 3 instructors, I've watched actors grow before my eyes and its both impressive and inspiring. It turns me on. It pumps me up. I leave class hungry to work towards getting better every week. read more

If you are reading this, you are trying to decide on an acting studio. Stop! Look no further. You probably have already checked out at least ten of the hundreds of acting studios that are offering their services to make you a star. They all promise wonderful things. So how does one decide? This one works for me and it will probably work for you if you are serious about learning the craft and putting in the work. I'm not going to write a detailed review of why Arron Speiser and Shannon Sturges are giving me the insight, tools and skills to have a chance of success In this crazy business. Just my taking the time to write this should give you some sense of my motivation. Want more detailed reviews? The 24 reviews that you can read below mine will do that more eloquently that I can. So, complete your review and investigation - make a decision that (no pressure here) may have an effect on the rest of your life. I chose Speiser / Sturges. You should as well. Thanks for reading this. read more

Speiser/Sturges Acting Studio - Just your average, friendly mature guy! - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I'm giving a one star because of the customer service. I tried to audit a class and did not receive any return contact. I called and some kid answered the phone and was not knowledgeable about any scheduling that goes on there. I was so exited to participate in these classes but the customer service is terrible. read more

This studio is the best! From the instructors to the students, everyone I have encountered at the studio has made me feel welcomed, and like family. It is a safe place to grow as an actor and as a human being. Shannon and Aaron are phenomenal instructors and great people! They have the best staff, Mariana the office manager is absolutely wonderful! I have taken the Technique Class and all the classes up to the Masters Class and have grown so much as an actor. They really do focus on developing you as an artist. With the assistance of this studio I have reached all of the goals I have set for myself and even surpassed them. I can't tell you how gracious I am for this studio, it has been a strong foundation for me and I know I am in the best hands here. They are honest, kind, funny, and true masters at their craft. read more

Can I be honest here? OK! Aaron and the Aaron Speiser Acting Studio truly changed my life. I learned so much about myself and who I really am in ways I never could have imagined. Aaron's ability to bring out your truest you, is remarkable & priceless. To have a coach who is as passionate about acting as you SAY you are really pushes you to be your best you... on and off set. I am so thankful for this place. The quality of training and the other actors that you get to work with and learn from just heightens the overall experience. If you are looking for a place where you can learn, grow and be challenged to develop into the actor you have to become to do what you came here to do then this place is for you! Thanks, Aaron for everything! My life will NEVER be the same! :) read more

I walked into this studio with problems memorizing my lines and it was something that I was very self conscious about. After going to this studio, I have seen my acting skills drastically improve. I just finished shooting my first short film and it went great. I couldn't have done it without Indrani. She's insightful, full of energy, and truly cares about her students. I love her! read more

There's nothing pretentious about this class. At the end of the day it's about an honest performance. I can't give you an actor's perspective because I'm not one but I do work in the industry. I audited this class to see what actors go through to hone their craft. Aaron is captivating to watch with his students. A lot of the actors are top notch. Throughout the night there were certain scenes that stole the room, when the lights went down and came up I was left wondering why certain actors were even there when it was clear they didn't need improvement. That was until Aaron stepped in. He's definitely seeing things from an angle that non of us are and manages to improve even the best actors. I also felt ignorant for assuming that the really talented actors were just naturally talented after later talking to a few of them and finding out that they had been in his class for quite awhile. While driving home later that night I was thinking about what I had just experienced. Many directors step in and try to craft a performance only to get negative results. The key to teaching an actor is not making them feel like they're being taught, which is much easier said than done. Acting is about embodying honesty. Aaron somehow creates an environment that embraces reality and I watched the phenomenon happen several times that night. read more

This place is so bad. Trained performing artist should look elsewhere. I got kicked out for following instructions and when I was physically threatened by a white student because I followed instructions that the teacher apparently did not explain correctly .The student got so mad at me that he threatens to punch me. As a result I got kicked out of class. If I would have threatened a fellow student "Quote" that I will punch in your face", because you interpreted a exercise on stage, in school wrong, than the aggressor usually gets expelled not the victim, not the other way around. This left me traumatized and angry until this day and I don't have the courage to go back in this discriminatory setting. Coming from Europe I am not used to this kind of discrimination. I have a bachelor in performing arts toured with many theaters around the world and my level of performance is strong and I know my way around a stage and how to conduct with professionals. So when working with some amatures on stage intimidation becomes evident on Inexperinced young students.And the teacher was afraid to hurt a fragile mind of a white student rather than protect the values of performing arts on Stage. This place a shameful place. After a short break when I was trying to enter the building again I was told by the secretary that I am not allowed to join the lessons anymore. I than asked to talk to the teacher (Indrani de souza)because I do not understand why I am being kicked out of class. But she refused to see me and talk to me and explain why she did what she did. Im sure they have some good teachings just the teacher and schools attitude was utterly unprofessional in this situation on how it was handled. If black, I would consider a school with more mixed enthicities so the teacher dosen't fell pressured to expelled the minority and side with the white majority in class. read more

Been coming here ever since I moved to LA in October and honestly I love this studio. All the instructors are great, but one certain instructor holds a special place in my heart and that is Indrani, she teaches the majority of the technique classes and scene study classes as well, and she is just the best, everything a teacher should be. Caring, and honest. She is so knowledgeable about the craft of acting and is always so generous with her knowledge and treats every single student with such love and care. She is a one of a kind human being and this studio is very lucky to have her as apart of there team at this great studio!!! read more

Do not be fooled by this "great acting studio". Although it seemed like a great class at first and a great networking opportunity, it's basically a 4 hour period of toilet humor between the teachers and students. Aside from the nonstop sex and fart jokes, the teachers do not offer any constructive criticism, particularly Shannon. I remember from doing their homework exercises, all she would do is say a bunch of interesting things and make a ton of jokes, also saying what I did well, but no indicators on how to get better whatsoever. They also try to fool you by constantly telling you stories about the famous actors they taught but could really care less about your acting journey, because they just want to take your money. If you're serious about pursuing acting, DO NOT take classes here. read more

As a new actor living in Los Angeles, I spent countless hours researching the seemingly endless number of acting teachers and studios in the area. After auditing the Technique class taught by Shannon Sturges at the Aaron Speiser Acting Studio, I knew without a doubt I had found the right place for me. Six months later, having completed the Technique program, I have had the pleasure of studying under Aaron's tutelage in the Scene Study I class. Aaron is not just an extremely accomplished acting coach, but a thoughtful and dynamic teacher that cares deeply about his students. Committing to the Aaron Speiser acting studio will not only help you to become a better actor, but a better human being as well. I could not be happier with my experience. read more

Okay folks, here it is... Aaron was recommended to me by my agent, when I asked for teacher recommendations. For me, when I was there, it was good as it could have been. I felt part of a studio. Learned from doing work in class, and from watching others do work in class. Aaron has been at it for a while, has worked with some big names, and unquestionably knows his stuff... While his approach may not be everyone's cup of coffee, I found that he was pretty spot on with notes and adjustments... And calling people on their BS or bad habits. But the truth is that there is no perfect acting studio. What may be a good experience for one person, might be a horrific experience for another. The only way to really know how it will fit you, is by trying it on... However, the second best way to see how you may jive with a class is by auditing. The third best way is talk with former students. See how classes and the studio are run, how the teacher teaches, speaks, how the class reacts to the teaching, the quality of the work being done, and if the teacher is simply just fluffing his/her students up with praise, tearing them down with criticisms, or a balance in-between. I have had a plethora of teachers over the years, and have even taught a class or two. The most important thing regarding acting schools is how you connect to the teacher, to the method, to the techniques, to your classmates, if it works for you, and how it serves you on your artistic journey. If someone loves everything about a school or teacher, they probably haven't been to enough of them... And if someone hates everything about a school or teacher, they probably really weren't listening or open to learning. In my worst acting school experiences I have gained things that have helped me, and in all of my favorite acting classes, or favorite teachers I have found things that have either rubbed me wrong, annoyed me or I haven't completely agreed with. Learn what you can, where ever you can learn it, then use what works for you, toss out what doesn't. There is no magic bullet that I'm aware of, it's self-discovery, artistic expression... It's not ordering a hamburger and it shouldn't be one-size fits all. I may be wrong, but I truly believe Aaron enjoys what he does and loves seeing his students improve and succeed in their artistic journey. read more

I've been with the Aaron Speiser Acting Studio for about a year and half now. Even though I had 3 years of prior training from another studio in the Los Angeles area, I decided to start with the beginning technique class so that I could get the full experience of Aaron's Studio. I am now in the advanced class and the journey so far has been a lot fun. Both Aaron and Shannon have a way of working with their students that brings out the best in the students. And when they practice a little "tough love", which may seem harsh from an outsider's view point (outsider = auditor), what they are doing is teaching their students a stronger work ethic which will only serve them when they start booking. Aaron and Shannon's truth, honesty and insight are invaluable. If you are ready to do the work, then you will learn a lot from the Aaron Speiser Acting Studio. Audit a class to experience it for yourself. read more

As a film producer, I can honestly say Aaron is the best acting coach I have ever seen on a set. His easygoing manner along with his commitment to being the best enables him to create magic that brings out the best in everyone on the set - not just the actor he is coaching. I've witnessed firsthand many times the brilliance with which he stepped in and worked (played!) with Will Smith to get to the truth of a scene that even the writer and director were surprised to discover. I advise any actor who wants to work with the best and who wants to take his or her personal life to the highest potential possible to enroll in Aaron's classes immediately. Jump in and see for yourself. And be ready to laugh and cry and feel life in a way you haven't felt it before. You'll thank me afterwards. read more

Having too much fun everytime come here. It does not feels like a class I just laugh so hard for 3 hours and get involved all the activity. Hey we can all be actor one of these days. Things are start happening to me lately . Thank you ! I learn myself more coming here taking work shop. It has been a journey read more

I started at the Aaron Speiser Acting Studio about a year and a half ago and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. This class has brought such joy to my life and I have grown as both an actress and as a person. Shannon and Aaron are more than just brilliant teachers, they genuinely care about and invest in their students. read more

Aaron Speiser is the person you should see regarding acting whether you are a beginner or advanced.

Hands down "The best acting coach" Amazing!! I've learned more in the past year than all the years I've been an actor. I'm truly thankful and lucky to have found him... read more

Rarely do you find a teacher that is affordable, fair, professional, intelligent and extremely good at their job . Aaron stands at the top of the heap. His ability to communicate and articulate his method makes it so easy to grasp and get involved. He has a wonderful sense of humor and creates an encouraging environment that makes exploring the craft fun and simple. If you've been discouraged by teachers in the past, are new to acting or have tons of experience and want to improve you'll find a warm home at Speiser Sturges. They are more than fair and make a diligent effort to help and communicate with students both in and out of the studio. I don't have enough words to describe my satisfaction with these guys. read more

What can I say? Aaron and Shanon are my absolute favorites. From the moment I audited his class ( which was a referral from a fellow east coaster, who mentored me in stand up comedy and assured me Aaron's studio was the real deal. Ya never know in this town and I'm very conservative with my funds!!) From tech class to now entering into the masters class- I've been able to feel myself as an actor and human being transform into a much more confident and free being. He and Shanon are SO fantastic at teaching the craft that my previous employer, Ms. Paula Abdul saw a clip of my acting reel & asked me to please introduce her to him so she could start studying with him also. Regardless of who you are- that's the thing- everyone is equal. Aaron will not sugar coat anything! His honesty coupled with his kindness make you dig deeper and really challenge you to grow.... He and Shanon are a gift to any actor really willing to go past their comfort zone and "do what you came here for!" Shanon was there for my first major breakthrough- and I'll always appreciate her challenging me with her binder slaps! She pulled out the genius in me and I never felt more amazing! I just adore them both! I was told by my friend who referred me "you can't go to the Olympics with out a coach," - I'm so so so grateful to have my coaches!!!! Audit..... Trust me! See you in class ;) or on TV xo Break a leg! read more

I've been with this studio for about 6 months now, for the past month I've been in scene study 3 with Aaron and I can honestly tell you it will change your life for the better. My whole life I have wanted to be an actress and I was terrified of it. I knew it was what I was born to do, I knew that in the deepest part of my soul but I didn't know what I was doing, I was lost but I am not anymore. I always thought acting was just a talent, something you have and pursue in life but it is so much more than that. You will learn that at this studio. You will learn what it takes to create a character that is apart of you, that you can truly portray in his or her truest form. Every single one of the teachers at this studio will help you learn about this industry, about acting, but most importantly about life. Because isn't that what acting is? Portraying the most true and real behavior to whomever you're portraying, freely outside of your minds limitations? Learn to get the hell out of your mind and learn to become one with your character. This is where you go to follow your passion and dreams. This is where you gain confidence to do what you were born to do. This is where you go to learn what it takes to make it in this industry. Thank you Aaron, for helping me gain the knowledge and confidence to become someone in this industry. I can't wait to learn more from Aaron and his incredible teachers, including the amazing students that go to this studio! read more

For an honest and straightforward approach to acting for film and television, Aaron is your man. You can feel his passion for teaching and dedication to his students instantly. I've never met anyone more knowledgeable in human behavior nor anyone more brilliant in translating human behavior. He forces you to question your relationships, objectives, dreams and actions in real life so that you can be a better artist. He teaches us more than just acting; we learn how to dissect human nature. read more

If you are considering a career in acting for television & film, DO NOT COMMIT TO ANYONE ELSE UNTIL YOU ATLEAST SETUP AN APPOINTMENT TO AUDIT THE AARON SPEISER ACTING STUDIO! I promise you that you will not want to go anywhere else! I've been training under him for 2 1/2 years which is relatively short if you respect the craft of acting. In that short time, I've seen A-list celebrities and directors come in just to watch him teach. Even if you aren't an A-list celebrity or director, Aaron prides himself for giving the same exact level of top notch quality coaching and attention to any actor who studies under him regardless of their experience. His ability to help actors better themselves so that they can work speaks for itself. Sure he's worked with several big names. But what's even more impressive are the names that you don't hear about because they aren't in the limelight. There are hundreds maybe even thousands of actors who consistently work and make a wonderful living because of Aaron's teachings. If acting is living, then Aaron will first help you improve your life so that you can then bring it to your acting. As for me you may ask? Well in my short time training with Aaron, I am now signed to a top notch commercial agency of which I have several auditions a month. I get callbacks frequently. My first national commercial just started airing. Theatrically, I am still working on representation because I don't have much experience in the industry yet. However when the time comes, I know I'll be ready because of the tools Aaron gave me. read more

There is NO BETTER ACTING SCHOOL PERIOD!!! This is by far the BEST! Being coached by Aaron is the best thing that ever happened to me because I learned so much from him it's unbelievable. And Shannon Sturges is the best teacher he could have teamed up with. I would highly recommend this school because I have studied there myself for 13 years. Would never see myself go to another because I always aim for the top of the top and I found it. read more

I've just finished Technique with Shannon and it was so amazing! Technique completely caught me off guard, but in the best way possible. It's weird, fun, and the most bizarre thing ever. Shannon had a gift for teaching, she really does. She's able to give precise feedback in a way that just clicks. I just paid upfront for my next 3 months of classes and I can't wait to learn from Aaron in Scene Study 1. I highly recommend read more

Finding this studio has been blessing. I can truly say that each time I go to class whether it may be Technique with Shannon or Scene study with Aaron, I become a better actor. If you allow yourself to be open, Aaron and his team will inspire and transform you. Not to mention, the studio has an amazing culture filled with great people. read more

This studio and its staff are truly amazing. I attended a performing arts high school, CalArts, and several acting studios throughout Los Angeles and I can honestly say I've grown more in my short time at Aaron's studio than anywhere else I have studied. Living in LA, we tend to get caught up in the hoop-la and business side of acting that we actually forget to the most important thing of all: knowing how to act! Aaron respects the craft of acting and views all his students as Picassos. This studio will help you no matter if you are advanced or a beginner. I always leave their classes feeling inspired. I have come to view Aaron not just as an acting coach but a life coach as well. Once you start moving up to the scene study classes, you can still attend the "Technique" class (taught by Aaron's amazing protege, Shannon) as well as the "Homework" class (Taught by the wonderful Indrani) so that's up to 3 classes a week you can participate in! For $275 a month, I consider that quite a deal. read more