Acting classes · Auckland
Looking for acting classes in Auckland?
Make us the next stage of your learning journey — small, screen-focused groups for adults and teens, led by working professionals.
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Auckland classes
We run a four-term structure. Adult terms are 8 or 9 weekly sessions — 34 sessions a year. Teen terms are 6 sessions in Terms 1 & 2, and 4 sessions in Terms 3 & 4. Every student works in every class, and we expect you'll rehearse with your scene partner outside of class.
For adults we offer a Foundational Acting Program and a Professional Program, plus Masterclasses for graduates and drop-in classes for visiting actors after a tune-up. Foundational classes look 'under the hood' — your preparation, as well as practice 'on your feet.' Professional classes tilt more toward practice, with extras such as Open Class, Shakespeare, Camera Showcase and Casting Director sessions. Private Tuition is available by appointment.
Your first term at ALS is probationary. If we feel you're better suited to another class or teacher, we'll tell you.
- View the 2026 Term 3 Class Content
- Download the 2026 Program Outline (PDF)
- Read about our Certificate & Diploma Programs (PDF)
All enquiries to Shannon Culley — contact her here.
- Class size
- Capped at 12 students
- Adult sessions
- 3½ hours · Sunday & Monday evenings
- Teen sessions
- 3 hours · Sunday afternoons
- Location
- Campbell's Free Kindergarten, Victoria Park, central Auckland
- Discounts
- Equity members & double-term bookings
Why us?
Your learning needs matter. We continually adapt and evolve to give you the edge you want for your acting career.
We're screen-focused, and we know voice, accent and improv all come into play with that priority too.
Numbers are capped at 12, and you get to work every single session.
You often get to choose between different tutors and content each term.
Our tutors — the likes of Lisa Chappell, Emmett Skelton, Harriet Maire and Joel Tobeck — are working professionals, with insights fresh from the screen and stage.
A place for everyone to learn together, make connections, and explore the contribution each of us makes to the performing arts in Aotearoa.
Our method
We'll pass on great ideas on how to prepare to perform and develop a character. Peter's book, 'Acting and How to Survive It,' underpins your learning and helps make sense of your experiences in class. There's no overall system you have to master, no 10-step programme — each visiting teacher brings their own perspective, and we're about what works for you.
Teaching is via the Socratic method: the tutor du jour asks the hard questions but doesn't give the answers. As they'll have to on the job, the actor must figure it out on their own. That makes for hard learning that sticks.
Your outcomes
When you join us, we'll get you used to working under pressure and out of your comfort zone. You'll get free and relaxed in your acting, bringing more of your personality to bear, and learn to live in your instincts.
Our environment is challenging but safe, giving you permission to fail. You'll work with the same group term by term, growing and bonding together — you'll learn heaps, and laugh more than you ever have in a class.
Whatever your final artistic destination, along the way you'll grow your emotional and social literacy, your communication and imagination, and explore where you fit in the world.
Adult & Teen Acting Classes
Adult acting classes
You'll perform a scene from TV, film or theatre most weeks, often taking footage home to review for more learning, and pick up practical techniques from the best working practitioners around.
Teen acting classes
Same high expectations and the same standard of teacher as our adult classes. You'll learn camera and audition technique, voice, accents, weapons combat, movement, improvisation and stunts — nurtured as performers and people, always with care and respect.