The acting classes here are so great and the teachers are so helpful. I find the classes here are so much more helpful than just being a better actor. You get so much more out of it than that and my speech is clearer and more confident and everything. Insightful guidance in the classes. read more

I am not sure of others' experiences but after talking to someone twice, I decided the place isn't where I would pay money for my son to learn anything. No matter what the subject of any classes are, professionalism is the key success factor but these guys lack professionalism so I figured they can not teach it either. read more

Growing up in the Bay Area/San Jose it was hard to find a community that shared the same goals and creativity that I had. That was only until I did some research and found BAAS. I was so glad that they had a new class starting up the next month, I signed up immediately. I dove right in and was open and eager to learn everything I could possibly learn as an actor. I was blessed with a wonderful teacher, Karen Brelsford, who was kind and easy-going, I felt completely comfortable to let go and be vulnerable in class. Most classes were fun and some classes were intense. They definitely pushed me past my comfort zone and I knew that was what I needed. Karen helped me build my confidence on and off stage. I'm finally walking into an audition room less nervous and able to completely be myself. (Also, I'm walking into MORE audition than before!) "There's no one like you and that is your power!" I love that this is what BAAS encourages you to do, to learn how to be confidently yourself, find your tribe, and build each other up! I'm lucky to have found life long friends during my training and we continue to root for each other on this long and amazing journey! I think people expect this to be an easy one way ticket to Hollywood, but I don't think that that's what's it's all about. You really have to put in the work with the tools the teachers give to you. You have to understand that you need to build a solid foundation, that's stable, like nutritious soil in order to grow as an actor. Learning how to deal with rejection and disappointment is a big part of becoming an actor, and learning how to do it with grace and how to get back up is even more important. I'm thankful that have this community who understands this. And to anyone who is ready to take on the challenges and to work hard on becoming a better actor, but also a better human being, I HIGHLY suggest BAAS! read more

Might be great, who knows. Daniel would not return my calls after 3 attempts. Finally he calls me back, I answer and he advised me to send him an email with the details of a workshop I was conducting and he would put it on his calendar to participate. He made it sound like he was in over the phone. (I had pitched that him or one of his staff conduct one of their improve workshops that I had attended). I sent him an email. He never responded. A week went by and I followed up on the email, he never responded. I started calling him every other day as the event was getting closer. He never responded. Two weeks prior to the event, I decided to just do the activities I had learned in a class taught by one of their instructors and it went great without their help. Needless to say the event was now a full month ago and I still have never gotten a call back, response to email or apology. WHAT A NIGHTMARE.... read more

Before joining BAAS, I've always dreamed of becoming an actor. It was always my passion, but I just didn't know how to pursue it and there was no one who can help me. When I took my first class, immediately I felt this is exactly what I need. After that I continued taking the class and enrolled in many workshops. Their core class teaches the fundamentals of the Meisner Technique. We start off with basic "Repetition" where two people repeat what they observe about each other. We learn to be truthful and present which results in us being more authentic during our scene-work. As the class progresses, we take it to the next level and delve deeper which is quite the roller-coaster ride, but empowering at the same time. What I love about this class is that everyone, be it student or teacher, are very supportive and hold no judgement over anyone. If you wanna laugh, laugh. If you wanna cry, cry. You have permission to feel what you want to feel; after all, this is what you need to be a better actor. There are no words that would describe my experience other than enlightening, liberating, present, and life-changing :-). The teachers there are fantastic, and they really put in the effort to help their students succeed. Not only the teachers, but the people there are very supportive and caring. I do not know any other place that I would call home. BAAS is one big family that accepts everyone, veterans or beginners, with open arms. They also offer short classes and workshops that specifically focuses on the business side of acting for both the SF and LA market. This includes how to audition, where to get headshots, how to get an agent and things to do/not do in your acting career. Occasionally there are Casting Directors and Coaches from LA that come here and share there knowledge that is VERY informative and invaluable. It tremendously helped me shape my goals and be more specific about it. Don't even get me started on the advanced program. Christy leads this class where she really pushes her students in their craft and the business side. She helps you get even more specific and she has a gift of knowing exactly what here students need to succeed. Of course this class is entirely optional and recommended to those who really want to pursue a career in acting. All I can say is it definitely helped me on knowing what I need to do. If you're curious about acting, seriously wanting to pursue acting, want to try acting for fun, or all of the above. I would definite recommend BAAS hands down! So come take the class! Learn and have fun!!!! P.S. If someone ever asked you how you heard about this studio. Tell them, I heard it from this funny Asian guy who is a sexy bitch :-P! read more

My teenage daughter expressed an interest in acting classes last summer and we were lucky enough to be referred to BAAS by a friend in the industry. She started out by taking a one week on-camera camp over the summer and loved it so much that she decided to enroll in the Teen Meisner class and the ProKids class last fall. Teen Meisner is a weekly technique class taught by Ruth Baker, who is AMAZING with the kids. Her enthusiasm is infectious! The ProKids class is taught by studio owner Christy English and focuses on preparing kids to work in the industry by practicing cold reads, polishing audition skills and learning how to behave in professional settings. In addition to core classes, there are opportunities to learn additional skills like voiceover with the incredible Aliki Theofilopoulos of DreamWorks​ or get private coaching from​ the talented Kyoko Dole. After less a year of​ taking classes, my daughter made tons of new friends, landed an agent, and booked a recurring role voicing a character on an upcoming animated show for Netflix. Everyone at the studio is friendly and supportive, so whether you want to have a go at becoming a professional actor or just want to gain confidence and improve your presentation skills, I'd encourage you to check out BAAS! read more

After writing this review I was asked by the owner to change it. They are clearly don't want to put any effort into changing the actual program. Stay away from here. After being trained in LA and Atlanta the few years I spent here were worthless. Don't wast your time here read more

I am writing to give a 5 plus stars to Karen Brelsford --who teachers improvisation at Bay area acting studio. Karen is a gift to our community and from the moment I met her I knew she would be a great teacher. Karen is originally from Canada and does excellent imitations of Kate Middleton as they look somewhat similar. She has a website you can google. Karen excels at creating a supportive environment where people feel safe to confront fears, get out of their protective bubbles and live in the moment. I am one of those people who lives too much in my head so I had to confront fears -and just jump out and be spontaneous Karen helped me so much through my early stage and she can help you too!! Plus you can bust through your fears. In Karen's class you can develop spontaneity, learn to just let go, deepen your relationships with the members of the class and have fun.. Karen knows how to create a group where each person supports each other but she also build in challenges as people are ready. What is great is she is highly skilled in improvisation techniques so you can develop your acting skills if you want to pursue acting. I have already found the skills excellent in helping me in my day to day life. I think good improvisation can help you prepare for acting but you can also use it in your daily life and in your work environment. Again she is a gift to our community and people drive all the way from Oakland to work with her. At the deepest level you will slowly become a more creative, authentic person who can live in the moment and develop your acting skills. I am a psychologist and lots of people who are shy and somewhat introverted can super benefit form working with Karen. We meet twice a month on Friday evening from 7 to 10 Pm. I am so happy I am able to work with the talents at Bay Area Acting Studio. People are also using improvisation to help people relate in business setting so come join us !!Take the leap and come over and meet the stars at Bay area Acting Studio!! read more

BAAS is the best full service acting studio in Northern California! I began studying the Meisner Technique when I finished film school about 10 years ago. I wanted to better understand actors and how to direct them. I ended up thoroughly enjoying the technique for myself but I couldn't continue and promised I'd return to Meisner in the future. Well, 10 years passed and being older and wiser, I researched every Meisner studio in Northern California. I found BAAS and appreciated everything it offered. I decided to give it a try about 1 year ago. I started with Beginning Meiser and then added Improv 1. I moved onto Intermediate Meisner and Improv 2. To date I have also taken BAAS's Actor's Reel Workshop and BAAS's Mastermind Workshop (which included a Casting Workshop with Hollywood professional Annie Grindlay). Through all of these programs, I have been thoroughly exposed to the Meisner Technique, Improvisational Acting and the acting craft in general. I now have a solid foundation for preparation, auditioning and holding my own in a scene. Through the Mastermind Workshop I learned about the industry for the perspective of the Actor and how to manage everything from attitude, self esteem, Actor promotional materials and what to expect/how to conduct myself on set and in auditions. The experienced BAAS staff is hand-picked by founder Christy English and exude her professionalism and integrity. I intend to continue with BAAS and plan to be there a long time because I want to eventually study under Mrs. English in her Master Class. Studying the craft at this studio has informed my writing for actors, my understanding and directing of actors and has enabled me to say I am an Actor. I continue to be humbled by the required focus, commitment, creativity and strength acting requires. I think that BAAS is the best full service acting studio in Northern California. It prepares the hardworking, committed Actor for both the L.A. industry and the S.F. industry (as they differ). BAAS also has a committed network of Casting Agents, Talent Agents and Voice Over Directors that visit and present workshops of their own. I intend to take these other workshops as well. It is said that the Meisner Technique is "therapeutic but not therapy." This is because it opens the heart and trains us on authenticity. BAAS embodies a big heart and authenticity particularly because Christy English studied under Mr. Sanford Meiser himself. She and her teachers both nurture and push with a rigor that meets the student where they are at. Beyond acting, the personal growth I experienced through the classes and particularly the Mastermind workshop is profound. I highly recommend BAAS for the aspiring actor or the person interested in "acting for non-actors." Lastly, I was truly impressed with the young actors from BAAS's Teen and Children's classes when I worked with them during my Actor's Reel Workshop. read more

Christy is a genius! And all her staff (YES, every single one) are brilliant and talented! This school is just on the whole a top notch operation. How do I know? I have trained at this school for over a year and something months, and continue to today. For me, the experience has been life changing, and I continue to find both inspiration and guidance from this school and it's programs. My son trained in the teen acting classes for six months, and was stoked with a deep passion for filmmaking. We have so many wonderful and more meaningful conversations together now. I've made my share of referrals because I am that confident, and I have never heard anything but stories of personal revelation and inspiration. There is something for everyone here. Kids, teens, adults, actors, non-actors, SF, Peninsula and San Jose locations. For serious training in the craft, it's been highly effective for me and many others. The fruit doesn't fall far from the tree, and Christy was trained by Sanford Meisner's masterful self. I can see myself still coming back here to train for many, many years to come, long after I am pulled away by acting opportunites in far away places. It's my home for acting, and it is a place of constant support, motivation and energy. So for someone who spent his entire life living in his head, I now have the presence to say that I love this place, and you will too. Don't take my word for it. Find out for yourself. Explore... always. Oh... and mention my name for free hugs. ;-) read more

I can't over emphasize the profound effect the classes here at BAAS have had on me as an actor, and on myself as a person. From Jay Ruby to Beth Bemis to Karen Brelsford - and of course, Christy English, the founder - all of the instructors I've had here have been compassionate, professional, and challenging, as well as deep resources for transitioning from beginning actor to full professional. Having studied with Sanford Meisner herself, Christy's empathy-based approach to the technique has been a welcome change from other schools I've been to. And as with any training, you get out as much as you put in, and BAAS is a school worthy of consistent dedication. read more

I've been with BAAS and Christy for a long time and the classes have been amazing. It takes patience and work to get the most out of these classes. But if you put that in, you'll definitely grow as an actor and be able to feel & see the difference. The studio is a nourishing space where actors can try new things and fall (not fail) multiple times without judgement and receive guidance to get to the best interpretation of a character. It's just fun! read more

Meisner technique is powerful and life transforming. Christy is an amazing teacher and person. Her passion for her craft and her students is deep and authentic. I've had the opportunity to take her classes several times over the years and have always learned something new each time. Her technique has enriched my acting ability and my ability as a teacher and director. The work and her approach to it will leave your acting (and improv) more grounded and truthful. I highly recommend it to anyone that is acting, doing improv, or breathing. read more

My daughter has been taking classes at BAAS for a couple of years and absolutely loves the teachers and staff. Everyone is positive, fun, kind, and supportive! I would highly recommend this acting school to anyone looking to improve their craft. read more

My son Cavan has been taking acting and Pro Acting Class with Christy English for 2 years now. I absolutely love seeing him grow as an actor and a person. We were just started taking them for fun but he is completely engaged and just keeps getting better. So Glad we found a Meisner Studio close to us. read more

Shannon and Mariam are two enthusiastic and inspirational teachers who foster a very safe and supportive environment in which to learn something totally out of one's comfort zone. This nurturing environment is what makes this an A+ program, in my opinion. I signed up for Acting For Non-Actors as a way of self-development -- to increase my self-awareness, to explore humanity, to strengthen my ability to connect with others, to cultivate creative self-expression, to improve my public persona and stage presence and to bring out the fun and spontaneous side of me. I was amazed that in just a short 6 weeks I could already see marked progress toward these goals. What's more amazing is the fact that these improvements are also readily seen by others in my personal and professional circles. As a matter of fact, my mentor is recommending additional acting lessons as part of my professional development activities! Thanks Shannon and Mariam for making this a joyous learning journey! read more

Bay Area Acting Studio was some of the most fun and entertainment I've had in my adult life. The studio a place where anyone can feel safe to be themself and offers a group environment where you can let out all that anxiety and stress that builds up during the work week. It's a full body and mind workout that is arguably just as effective as a few hours at the gym or yoga studio. But above all else, it's about acting. The instructors are amazing and provide honest actionable feedback on your acting technique. And what you take away goes we'll beyond the stage. Everything learned directly translates to communication skills that are valuable I'm career and life. It's been a while since I've been back, but always looking for an opportunity and time to return. Meanwhile, I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking to learn acting, home their acting skills, become a better public speaker or presenter, or just relieve some stress and have a great time. read more

Bay Area Acting Studio is committed to giving actors the tools they need to be well-rounded actors! If you want to learn the craft of acting, if you truly want to learn how to act using your imagination, instincts, intuition and emotions, the Meisner technique is for you. This class is for anyone who has a passion to learn how to act or to improve their skills. Bay Area Acting students are booking roles in theater, film and television. This technique gives them confidence to really commit themselves to a role or an audition, not just "wing it" or "fake it". "Creativity is in our bones, in our souls and in our hearts. If we do not give ourselves permission to play in our art, who will?" Christy Wioncek read more

took my first ever acting classes here and I learned many of the fundamentals of acting and its helped boost my career. I've landed a couple of small gigs since, and things are looking better and better for me. Joining this studio put my ball into motion, I recommend you do the same for yourself. read more

My Tuesday night of complete abandon and silliness will be highly missed! The class is so unexpected, fun, and nurturing from the student teachers. Six weeks just flew by! It's amazing how good you feel during and after class. I'll especially miss the "Bunny Bunny" and the "Samurai" exercises! hhhhiiiiiiiiaaaaaaiiiiiiiiiiiiiyyyyyyyyyaaaaaaaaa!!! Thank you, Shannon and Miriam! read more

When the student is ready, the teacherS (plural) will appear! The BAAS is a haven for playing in my craft and connecting deeper to the creative core. Pam, Gio, Steve, Christy et al, are the most nurturing, honest and on point acting coaches that I have encountered. They are compassionate, insightful and attuned to each student's development. All instructors at this studio are deeply passionate about teaching the craft via the Meisner technique. The Meisner technique not only sharpens an actor at their craft, but brings greater clarity to one's regular day to day interactions. It's a tool for getting in contact with yourself. It's permission to play. It's self-discovery. It's an adventure. It's many things, all good. read more

I took the acting for non-actors class, and it was quite fun. I liked the energy and the improve exercises we were doing. Everyone was very nice and smiling. I'd recommend it for anyone who wants to try something new. The only thing that needs improvement is the introduction of the Meisner repeating exercise. Here's the problem, you CANNOT expect people who have no idea what that is or how that works to pair up with each other and try doing it. I did some research, watched some videos, and figured out what it was I was supposed to be doing, But every other person in the class was confused and wasn't feeling it at all. Neither was I. This is where people started dropping out like flies. Meisner repeating should be taught after this course. You need to pair someone who's new to it up with someone who knows how to do it! I was very tempted to just remove myself from the entire situation because it was absurd trying to repeat with people who were obviously uncomfortable and confused. That's my feedback, I hope this helps you understand why people stopped showing up after the second class. read more

Found this perfect place of learning and growing through Groupon! Signed up for the intro acting class and picked up new techniques I never would have learned or thought of on my own. I'm super shy and anxious but Kyle and my classmates made me feel right at home and comfortable to throw out whatever came to my mind. Nervous? You won't have to be here and you won't regret trying this out. read more

OMG, I signed up my 9 years old child for this summer program hoping he was going to learn and do a few acting treats. Additionally, when I read the website they promise a performance along with a take some video. Everything just stated was a lie, nothing was given and no preformance, instead the teacher play silly games with all the kids every class. It was more like a babysitting deal if you ask me. So think about it twice if you thinking about sign up your child with this people. I also asked the teach about and she did not even know what I was talking about... Good luck. read more

Very Sad. I got a group on Acting for NonActors 4 week class, with all intentions of continuing and learning. The class was taught by two guys with less then 3 years experience!!! They were more into their own posing and really how many name games do we need to do with a group of 35 or so? I will look at better acting classes. Note to the owners, if you want to sell your studio to new students, get your best most senior instructors. read more

I have been taking classes at BAAS for over a year now and I just want to say, I love this studio. As an aspiring actor I researched a lot of studios before joining and this one in particular stood out. I am enrolled in Meisner Technique and Improv for Performance. I look forward to every class! The instructors make you feel so comfortable. I have always struggled with confidence when it came to performing and I was always "in my head." Meisner technique has improved this significantly. You will not be disappointed if you go to Bay Area Acting Studio! read more

Life changing experience. I look forward to my Tuesday night Meisner acting technique with Karen every week! If you ever thought about taking an acting class stop hesitating, be brave and join this studio. (Check out the groupon for new students)Over the course of 8 month I have honed the ability to make meaningful connections with my fellow actors/ classmates and it has enriched my life. Now I don't see any end in sight it's so much fun and equally challenging and powerfully moving. I have seen improvements in my personal and professional life as a result of the confidence boosting activities we participate in class. Karen is an excellent instructor and gradually introduces the technique to her students so that we all feel safe to open up, stop thinking so much and have fun! It's hard to describe the class you just have to dive in and enjoy the rollercoaster. Another great instructor at the studio is Kyle. All the instructors are excellent dramatic and comedic actors. I highly recommend trying the Bay Area Acting studio if you just want to get out of your comfort zone. read more

Both my children have been doing the Kids Summer Academy now for 3 consecutive years and it's the only camp I don't have to twist their arms to go to! They LOVE it..from playing games, to improv, to learning about the craft, doing scene work, learning about the industry and gaining confidence for everyday life, plus at the end of it they get a recorded scene! They both adore Christy and love learning as much from her as possible...A great acting studio! read more

Bay Area Acting Studio provides an excellent foundation for aspiring actors for tv/film and commercials. Our daughter was trained by several experts at BAAS who are extremely knowledgeable and firmly grounded in the industry and as a result has landed her first role in a television series. While it takes a lot of work, due diligence and commitment, BAAS solidly prepares you for a career in tv/film and commercials. Thank yo so much Christy, Kyoko, Jay, Xavier, Karen and many more who assisted us on our daughter's journey. read more

Christy Wioncek is a great teacher. She has the desire for each of her students to be successful and the knowledge to help them make it happen. She teaches Meisner, which is the best training method I have come across. I am a high school teacher myself, and knew instantly that the Meisner system for learning acting has the strongest foundation in modern teaching theory. It is the only teaching method I've seen that truly trains the actor's emotional awareness and gives all the tools necessary for effective scene work and honest acting. There is a clear framework for the curriculum, with observable benchmarks to show when the actor is ready to step up to more complex techniques. With an inspired teacher like Christy, the Meisner system is the fastest and fullest way I've found to develop as an actor. read more

when the student is ready, the teacher appears. :-) actors are a weird breed - we get in front of strangers and spill our guts for a living so its really important to have a supportive teacher who knows how to evoke the depths of our what we have to offer as artists - our emotions, memories, hopes, and fears - without destroying our souls. Christy is one of the few coaches that truly empower actors...to follow and trust their instincts, and give their best to the world. I love how I feel after her classes. I feel more honest with myself and more authentic in my scenes. She pushes me to face the parts of myself that scare the shit out of me, and teaches me how to use it in my work. I love how generous she is with her knowledge and her spirit. How she teaches us to look at the business of the business in a nourishing, healthy way, while still being realistic. Collaborative, not competitive. She's like a gift from the universe to me :-) read more

My daughter attended a one-week summer camp and really enjoyed that experience. She wants to be an actress and wanted to learn more, so she is now in the monthly Pro-classes. We have both learned a lot about the industry -- head shots, agents, SFcasting -- and there seem to be few Bay Area places to do that. We like working with Christy English and feel like we are getting our money's worth! The other parents in the classes are also very supportive as everyone works to make decisions about the business of acting and the pleasure of film acting. Also, film acting is so different from theater, it's hard to find film instruction. We are HAPPY with our experience! read more

I absolutely love the classes here! Finally - a fun and INTENSE acting class that gets to the core of who we really are as artists, human beings, and even working professionals in the business! I always leave the studio with a sense of excitement and enrichment for my craft. All of the instructors and staff are truly artists who offer encouragement and motivation, no matter what level you are at or whether you're taking it for fun or as a career. You HAVE to experience it for yourself! read more

Great people! Shannon is awesome! Marriam is too! This program helps free your inner child deep inside. Read scripts, get Comfortable With yourself while not being judged. It is a really cool group. read more

We bring my son down every year to attend this wonderful experience. He come away with confidence, tools and and loads of fun. I could not recommend this enough. TRUE MAGIC!! read more

I've been a student at the Bay Area Acting Studio now for nearly 2 years. In that time I've not only re-constructed my acting foundation but I've become a more truthful and present individual in nearly every aspect of my life. Christy teaches not only through Sanford Meisner's vision, but through her own, which inspires, motivates and embraces the uniqueness of each individual. She believes in each of her students and their dreams and supports you on your path... Do the work and she will be right there with you... read more

My daughter attended this awesome acting camp over the last few years and couldn't rave about it more. Melissa Locsin, one of the lead directors was just amazing! She was able to make the environment comfortable and fun for kids of all ages and acting levels. In fact my daughter wanted to post a review herself, so here it goes in her own words: "I loved this camp so much! It helped me with my confidence skills and acting! It was really fun because we played games and we made videos and memorized scenes from different movies and tried to act them out like the characters! There were people of all ages and we all were nervous at first but by the end of the week we were all friends and we all learned a lot!!! I definitely recommend this camp and I hope everyone's experience is just as awesome as mine was!" -Audrey, Age 12 read more

cons- not worth the money. 250$ a month for playing name games, meisner repetition and a vague camera scene project. 3 hr classes, with 2 minutes of individual feedback total, if that. ridiculous. pros- the people are friendly. read more

Love the improv classes, very interactive and the teacher makes sure everyone gets to participate, great for me to stop thinking and just do. I would totally recommend giving it a shot. read more

Life changing experience! And I didn't laugh that much in my entire life as much I laughed during these classes. Very fun, relaxing and enjoyable way of learning to become an actor... and a better person. Shannon and Miriam are the best coaches! Carolina read more