This was by far one of the best classes that I have taken in L.A. I have taken numerous classes here since I was a child since my dream has almost always been to be an actress. I also took Improv classes at the Groundlings which were VERY expensive. When I took classes at the Groundlings, it was very apparent that they basically anyone in the lower classes were just a number. They fill the lower level classes just to keep the money flowing. I found Actors Improv Studio through my agent. No it's not in the fanciest building or the best neighborhood. But that's not what you go to class for, and he usually has some licorice or candy that you can snack on during class. That definitely sweetens the deal. :) I took classes here for about a month. Bill was EXTREMELY helpful and it was very apparent that he cared about each student individually. He takes the time to critique and praise you after each exercise. He even videos during each class, and after some exercises you can watch your work. The best part of his classes was his encouraging nature. All I can really remember from taking classes at the Groundlings is all the rules they give of what you are not supposed to do. Bill presented the rules of Improv, but not in a way that makes an improvisor feel stifled and held back. I left his class feeling much more confident thanks to him. The only reason that I haven't been able to go back is b/c I can't afford the extra expense at this time. But I would recommend him to anyone who really wants to know what it takes to become a great Improvisor. Yes CDs and such are mildly impressed when they see the name of a big name Improv Studio on your resume. But that won't book and keep a job. You have to be able to deliver much more than that. Bill will help you get to a place where you can consistently deliver. read more

This is what improv is all about and I am so relieved to have finally found it in North Hollywood under the instruction of Bill Applebaum! Improv intimidates me but when I audited the class, it all melted away and we just had fun. I especially appreciated the relaxed and natural manner in which the class unfolded. Bill was in tune with what every performer brought to the table, his feedback was constructive, and it was obvious to me just how much he enjoyed sharing his passion for improv to anyone willing to listen. As it turns out, it's fun to learn from someone who enjoys what they do. Audit the class and see for yourself. read more

This is the place to go if you want to learn how to improvise well. The thought of taking an improv class was intimidating; not least because at most places the emphasis is on getting to the next "level" or competing in an organized cleverness contest. I took advantage of the free audit, which turned out to be one of the best choices of my career! Actors Improv Studio is a supportive, educational environment where the emphasis is on learning, building your skill set and having fun. Bill is a great teacher - he cares about each student and takes the time to explain, critique and praise. The intimidation factor present at the larger schools is nonexistent here. The scenes are taped so you can watch them later on, and at AIS I've never felt like a statistic or like I got lost in the crowd. The class sizes are very reasonable so each person gets a lot of stage time, and that's what we all take an acting class for, right? We want to learn! We want to perform! At AIS you learn by jumping right in and doing. The classes are for all skill levels so there's a great mix of people and everyone is having a great time. Plus, there's pretzels. Really good pretzels. My ability to improvise has improved by leaps and bounds since I started taking these classes, and it really shows in my auditions. My confidence level is through the roof because I know that no matter what happens in the room or what a CD throws at me, I can handle it. read more

I loved this place, I loved the method and I loved the fact its close to a bar so you can have a drink with people after class. Bill's methods are great, when I first took his class I did not know what I getting into but it was fun. The best part of this course is that its super hands on and you make friends. The instructor as well as the other students are super encouraging. This course is not a put on a show at the end kind of deal but instead its a learn how to think and feel improv in your bones kind of deal. I can't wait to go back! read more

I am not an actor or aspiring to be one. I am a CFO of a consulting firm. While I have had some experience as a skit performer, I wanted to explore Improv as a way too gain some confidence in my ability to think on my feet. I went to the Actors Improv Studio to improve my career communication skills. It was a very rewarding experience. Under Bill's direction, I learned to improve my listening skills, my communication skills and developed a better ability to engage productively with others in the present moment, whatever that moment turns out to be. And most importantly, I had fun. Bill is an incredibly supportive and constructive teacher with a great sense of humor. I would definitely recommend him and his classes to anyone who has a serious desire to learn Improv. read more

I have been with the Actors Improv Studio for two months and it is the best investment, I have ever made. I rather cut back on my shopping splurges and invest my money in the Actors Improv Studio. It is worth it. The class has given me more confidence. Bill gives the honest truth and I appreciate the constructive criticism. I am forvever thankful I met him at the SAG Conservatory. read more

I love this class! Bill really knows improv and he really knows how to teach. He also creates a fun and supportive atmosphere! I look forward to this class every week and for those three hours i don't think of anything else, it is truly a practice of being in the moment and learning to develop and trust your own instincts. And the class size allows for lots of time on your feet working. And lots of laughing! read more

I promised my friend in class I'd write something here, so now I am! Bill is probably one of the most amazing teachers I've ever had the pleasure of learning from. He creates an improvisational environment that is open, carefree, and non competitive. Every week I've taken classes here people are so awesome and excited. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend taking improv with Bill! read more

I've been coming to AIS for over a year not, continuously. I drive 40 miles each way to get there. Every time I go, I learn something new and valuable. I learn skills of communication, acting, improv, conversation and I discover myself in the process. It has been the one of the best experiences of my life. Bill is genuine, smart, caring, and real. His knowledge of improv challenges you to go beyond the mediocre. He is a great teacher and listener. Always giving advice, reality checks and a dose of humor. I appreciate this class and Bill very much, and I know anyone who dedicates some time with him will do so also. I'm not going to sell it to you-it doesn't need to be sold. This place is intimate and real your acting skills will only get better. read more

As a Commercial CD for over 30 yrs, and now as an Agent....I can attest to the fact that working with Bill Applebaum and his Actors Improv Studio is one of the BEST things an actor can do for their career. It's not a BIG Machine...it's honest to goodness hands on teaching ... about how to use improvisation to own any kind of material you are given, commercial or theatrical. And that is what every actor needs. So why not study with someone who actually cares about you, and not about their ego? Cross my heart. read more

Bill is a great teacher and his improv class is so much fun and such a great learning experience that teaches you to listen to your intuition and learn to trust it. I will continue to sign up for classes :) read more

A great place to workout and keep toned on your improv skills. Bill does an amazing job of guiding each students uniquely so that they can grow. Go audit the class to see if it's right for you. read more

I have been taking class with Actors Improv Studio for over two years. I cannot recommend this studio enough for both the professional and non-professional persons. Bill is a gifted, sincere and dedicated teacher. Class is fun, entertaining and educational. These classes have made a positive impact on me both in my professional career as well as my day to day life. The lessons you get from Bill and this studio can really go a long way to enhance how you interact with the world around you. Are you a professional who wanted to brush up your comedy skills in a non-completive environment where you'll get individual attention? These classes are for you. Are you a non-professional looking to get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself a little? These classes are for you. Are you someone who is looking for tools to help navigate life situations that cause you trepidation? These class may offer you a wonderful variety of resources. I feel improv is a wonderful way to connect with yourself and others. Actors Improv Studio is a safe, constructive, fun, and enjoyable environment to discover your hidden talent and transform yourself. Cannot recommend enough!!! read more

Bill is an excellent teacher. He knows what he is doing and he has the best interest of his students in his heart. He creates a safe environment that allows students to explore their creativity. He is a non-judgmental person. It's a comfortable setting. I definitely recommend him. read more

Bill Applebaum's dedication to liberating the creativity imbedded within all of us, actors and civilians alike, drives his work. We all know the difference between those who depend on a formula (lazy) and a person who trusts his or her own spirit, skill and ability to be present in the moment. The former phones it in, the latter sparks unknown possibilities in themselves, their group, their relationships. We feel it. As a civilian who presents publicly, I came away from my first class already equipped to improve my game, a lot! As a person who finds too much cleverness and not enough true creative fire both in the arts and ordinary life, I am, well, inspired. Do yourself a favor. Go to a class. Experience for yourself who you can be. Be surprised! read more

I'm not an actor, but wanted to feel more comfortable in front if a microphone and audience as I was going to be doing some media(radio) work for business. The classes were extremely helpful and fun. The feedback from Bill Applebaum, the instructor, was insightful, helpful and spot on. I am very glad I attended, it made an impact on my performance and my confidence. read more

I've taken improv with Bill now for nearly a year. I simply cannot speak highly enough of his technical mastery and artistic wizardry. His patience and experience have helped me understand the "easier said than done" ways of improvisation. That said, his class has helped me with not only with on-camera acting, not just voice acting, and not limited to my musical endeavors, but (dare I say it) life. Being present and in the moment is a gift that has literally transformed my life. If you get the chance to learn improv from Bill, do yourself a favor and take it. You'll discover not only why I've taken it, but why I continue to do so. read more

For starters I'll try to be objective but it might be challenging because Mr. Applebaum is an exceptional and generous teacher. His positivity is contagious. I come from a teaching family so when I find a good one I flip out. He's a teacher's teacher and can teach anyone improv be it artist, professional, CEO, lawyer, student, athlete, stay at home parent, or someone igniting their acting career and 1st time improviser. Beyond class you'll learn life skills like socializing, adjusting to others, living in the moment and honoring your instincts. I use improv in life, at work, w/friends, acquaintances and family. I've grown immensely as a person and artist because of his classes and cannot imagine not having taken them. As a gifted teacher he has something unique and positively special he is teaching. His style is subtle yet quick and spot on. The student is guided and nudged to accept one's strengths and let go of their weaknesses and sometimes w/out even knowing it because he's so good at what he does! He's an alum of Second City Chicago and learned and studied from the best. In class we go on stage numerous times. Ps, Why aren't there 10 stars and whoever said laughter was the spice of life was right! read more

Best kept secret in town. I've been to so many schools around town but this one was a real find. Bill really knows his actors and knows how to get the best work out of each one individually. You cannot lie here. He'll call you on it. I owe a lot of my commercial & theatrical bookings to what happens at this Studio- both Improv and Scene Study/Cold Read classes are terrific. Bill is all about his Actors and NOT about acting school commerce so he doesn't have all the glitter that comes with some of the more "famous" schools but if you want to get down & dirty & become the best Actor you can be- this is the place. Love the "pay-as-you-go" option as well. read more

I love to do community theater and my children bought me four sessions with Bill at this Improv Studio for my birthday. I was very nervous, especially when I found myself in a group of professionals or serious wanna-bes. But they were great! Bill is very welcoming, open and honest but in a constructive way. No one treated me differently because I wasn't professional or because I had never taken improv before. I learned a lot, not only about improv but about improving my responses to situations with other people--both in terms of how fast I could respond and what kinds of effects different responses have. I recommend it highly. read more

These improv classes are terrific. First, they let you audit for free. Also I had no improv experience but I felt very comfortable. The feeling in the class was different from any other class I've had. Very safe environment. I joined the class and they are not expensive either. I recommend it. read more