John PerryBreaking into the spotlight can feel pretty overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out. It’s actually a smart decision to join the best acting schools in Philadelphia to help you with your goals.
Joining these schools involves more than just reading lines; it’s about finding a community that pushes your creative limits.
I’ve seen this work for many local students who treat this like academic tutoring, looking for that specific edge to help them stand out in a crowded audition room.
Much like finding math tutors to master complex equations, finding the right coach can simplify the business of acting. So whether you’re a parent or a pro, the studios I reviewed below offer the training needed to command a stage or screen.
How much do acting classes cost in Philadelphia?
Acting classes in Philadelphia generally range from $150 to $350 per month for weekly group sessions, while private coaching and workshops vary based on duration and intensity.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost |
| Weekly Studio Classes | $150 – $350 per month |
| Private Coaching | $50 – $150+ per hour |
| Specialized Workshops | $200 – $600+ per 6-8 week session |
1. The Philadelphia Acting Studio
Website: https://www.philaacting.com/
Address: 6757 Greene Street
Contact: (267) 888-6974
Hours: Tuesday, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Stepping into the world of film and television requires guidance from someone who actually knows the industry.
This is exactly what you get at The Philadelphia Acting Studio, thanks to founder Bernard Glincosky and his decades of professional experience.
Bernard’s teaching uses cognitive practices to help students access genuine emotions on camera. I recently chatted with an aspiring actor who trained here, and they said this psychology-informed approach completely changed how they prepared for auditions.
It’s also a strong place to build connections, especially with organizations like the
The catch is the strict no-refund policy for missed sessions, so you really need to watch your calendar closely.
Greatest Acting Teacher I Have Had
Philadelphia Acting Studio, lead by the GREAT Bernard Glincosky is without question, the best training grounds for actors around. Personally, Bernard has trained, prepared and eventually helped get me into the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC, a well renowned school in the center of American theatre. With all the training I have gotten as a professional actor, I still consider Bernard the greatest acting teacher I have had. Five Stars all the way.
- Eric Hammitt | Google Review
You Get Amazing Guidance
Taking class at The Philadelphia Acting Studio was the best decision I ever made. I was new to acting and the guidance of the teachers at this school has helped me to book consistent paying work! The best part about classes here is that you are learning from WORKING SAG ACTORS!!! You get amazing guidance on monologues, advice about auditions, intensive scene study, advice about being on set and much more.
- Tariq Boston | Google Review
2. Playhouse West-Philadelphia
Website: https://www.playhousewest.com/
Address: 218 Wallace Street, 2nd Floor
Contact: (267) 202-5252
Hours: Monday-Friday, Use backstage entrance
If you’re looking for a serious training program, this official branch of the renowned Los Angeles Playhouse West delivers.
Built around the legendary Sanford Meisner technique, the curriculum focuses heavily on preparing actors for professional work in the industry.
Here, students get the unique benefit of transferring seamlessly between the Philadelphia and Los Angeles branches.
The hands-on training is intense, with twice-weekly classes that help build strong foundational habits instead of quick audition tricks.
A downside, however, is that every new student must start in the beginner-level class, regardless of previous experience. It might feel like a step back for seasoned performers, though experienced students can be reassessed for advancement later on.
Skilled Instructors with Extensive Practical Experience
Not just acting classes, but a school with a curriculum dedicated to an actor’s on-going development. Knowledgeable and skilled instructors with extensive practical experience in the business, an engaged and engaging community and a convenient location in downtown Philadelphia. Highly recommended! 🎬🎉🎭🚀
- Michelle C | Google Review
Understand the Work That Needs to Be Done
The best acting school i have ever been to. Tony Savant is the go to man. He explains everything em very well for you to understand the work that needs to be done and done correctly. He cares about the actors. He guides you to the right path for your career. If you really want to be a professional working successful actor, Play house West is the place to be. It is worth it. No other acting school is like Playhouse out there!!!
- Brandon Tabb | Google Review
3. Actors Theater for Film and Television
Website: https://www.actorstheater.com/
Address: 7201 Keystone St Loft 202
Contact: (646) 619-7777
Hours: Tuesday-Monday, 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Mastering on-camera performance takes a different skill set than projecting to the back of a live theater. Actors Theater specializes in acting for film and television, so it’s a great fit for people looking to build practical audition skills.
The training here covers everything from self-taping techniques to the business side of the entertainment industry. I actually joined one of their online self-tape workshops last year, and the personalized feedback on technical camera skills was incredibly helpful.
They also offer private coaching for deep character development and callback preparation. However, their advanced professional classes have very small enrollment caps, making it a bit tough to secure a spot if you wait too long.
My First Acting School
This was my first acting school & I can easily say 3 months in I became a better Actor. Since joining I have booked gigs in tv shows, films, and plays. I even signed with my first agency! John Pallotta is the real deal when it comes to learning the ropes of acting. Definitely worth the investment 👌🏽.
- D Alston | Google Review
This Is a Great Place to Start
The only acting experience I had before taking classes here was a middle school play. I started this class in March of this year and can see how much I’ve grown as an actor since then. I’m even able to take the lessons that I’ve learned in these classes onto production sets and apply them there. If you have a passion for acting, and/or want to learn more about it (writing, directing, seeking actor representation, etc.), this is a great place to start.
- Javannah Evans | Google Review
4. Walnut Street Theatre
Website: https://www.walnutstreettheatre.org/
Address: 825 Walnut Street
Contact: (215) 574-3550
Hours: Fall, Spring, and Summer Sessions; Camp Walnut evenings and weekends
Training at a National Historic Landmark adds a special kind of magic to your creative journey. As America’s oldest theatre, Walnut Street Theatre offers a large educational ecosystem for young kids, teens, and adults.
Their classes are led by active industry professionals, giving students a chance to learn directly from people working in the field. Students even get exclusive first consideration to audition for small roles in mainstage productions.
The networking environment is fantastic as well, with hundreds of peers enrolling each year to build their skills together.
Just be aware that standard acting courses run strictly on evenings and weekends, which might be tricky if you need a daytime program.
Teacher Was Friendly and Kind
Took my niece there for acting classes and she loved it. The teacher was friendly and kind and made the kids feel relaxed. They have water, coffee, tea and snacks for adults to enjoy while waiting for the children’s class to end and a comfortable waiting area. There is a paid parking lot next door which is very convenient
- John Crane | Google Review
5. CEG Performing Arts Academy
Website: https://www.cegartsacademy.com/
Address: 684 N Broad St (Studio A) & 1406 Ridge Avenue (Studio B & C)
Contact: (215) 236-1300
Hours: Monday-Friday, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Developing strong life skills is just as important as learning how to read a script. CEG Performing Arts Academy treats performing arts as a vehicle for personal growth, focusing on confidence alongside artistic talent.
Led by an industry trailblazer with decades of experience, the program encourages students to become well-rounded artists. For instance, you can even mix acting classes with music production to build a more diverse creative skill set.
They also offer accessible pricing options that can help fit quality training into tighter budgets.
The main catch is that prepaid lessons come with very strict expiration dates, leaving little room for flexibility if you suddenly get sick.
I’ve Taken the Best Acting and Singing Classes
Here at CEG i’ve taken the best acting and singing classes! It is very clean and organized, Cristina her self is great and i’ve learned a lot from the academy and I am definitely coming back in the fall!
- Camila Lopez | Google Review
An Incredible Teacher, Coach, Mentor
Went here as a kid, worked here as a teenager, and am looking forward to enrolling my kids as soon as they’re of age. Cristina is an incredible teacher, coach, mentor and mother. Everyone thrives in her studio, I 1000% recommend CEG Studios !!
- Siani Caban | Google Review
