26 May 2015

5 Questions to Ask When Choosing an Acting School in Australia – Screenwise Tips

Deciding on what and where to study is an important step in your acting career. It isn’t an exact science, and the decision you make must be one that is right for you.

If you’re planning on taking an acting course and are trying to choose an acting school in Australia then here are 5 helpful questions you should ask yourself.

  1. What are your acting career goals?

Are you looking to gain a wide range of skills? Being clear on exactly what you want to get out of acting school will help you make the right decision about which course you sign up for.
Not every acting course will be the right one for you – some are for more experienced actors and don’t cover the fundamentals, while others may cover basic skills you have already mastered.
Or maybe you would benefit from some private tuition, rather than a larger group class? Get in touch with the acting school directly to discuss which course is right for you.

  1. How much time do you have?

Most acting schools offer full, part-time and short acting courses. If you are looking to study full-time for the next couple of years, the Diploma of Screen Acting (10065NAT) may be the right choice for you. This full-time course lasts for two years and covers the full spectrum of the skills and training needed to become a professional screen actor.
If you can’t commit to a full–time course then several short courses may be a better option for you. Short courses can last as little as three hours and run throughout the year.
In order to get the most out of the course, you will need to consider choosing an option that is realistic for you and your personal circumstances.

  1. Have you checked the Acting School’s credentials and reputation?
  • How long has the acting school been established?
  • How successful are their alumni?
  • How successful are the tutors and are they current in the Film & TV Acting Industry?
  • Are the acting programs offered accredited by the Australian and International film industry standards?
  • Is the school a Registered Training Organisation and does the course have credentials?
  • What do friends, family and other actors say about the acting school? Asking the opinions of others can often be useful when you are trying to make a decision.
  • Do they have any testimonials on the website?

At Screenwise we’re proud of the fact that we were established over 15 years ago, and are recognized as a highly reputable acting school in Sydney, offering career-focused training for acting in film and television.
Our successful alumni include Todd Lasance (Spartacus, Fools Gold, Home & Away, Cloud Street), Chris Hemsworth (Thor, The Avengers), Yvonne Strahovski (Dexter), Meegan Warner (Turn), Stef Dawson (Mockingjay 1 & 2), and Christian Clark (Home & Away).

  1. How easy is it for you to get there? 

The location of the acting school is important. Take some time to research how easy it will be for you to travel there and investigate the surrounding areas.
Screenwise is centrally located in Sydney’s trendy Surry Hills. It is only a short walk from Central Station and a quick train ride away from the iconic Bondi Beach and Newtown, making this a great spot to study and enjoy Sydney City life.

  1. Who will be teaching you?

The quality of the teaching staff can make a big impact on your acting school experience, as the tutors who train you will be a major influence in the development of your skills and how you learn your craft.
Make sure you choose a school that gives you the opportunity to train with tutors who have varied industry experience and are still working professionals.
Choosing the right acting school in Sydney is key to your personal and professional fulfillment and success. Take the time to research the options available to you and once you are ready, get in touch and apply for the course you have chosen.
To be the best, you have to learn from the best, which is why Screenwise is a Registered Training Organisation with accredited trainers and current industry professionals including Denise Roberts (Schapelle), Gary Sweet (House Husbands), Martin Dingle Wall (Underbelly, Cops L.AC), Di Smith (Puberty Blues, Great Outdoors), Director and AFI award-winner Peter Andrikidis (Brothers In Arms, Blood Brothers, East West 101), Grant Bowler (True Blood, Ugly Betty) Peter Kowitz (Janet King) and Sara Wisman (A Place to Call Home) to name a few.

Contact us for more information on the acting courses available at Screenwise in Sydney.

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