What can I say about this class that would appropriately describe its value. For starters, as a native Angeleno, I once held an internalized contempt for this city; I used to think everyone was either a jaded transplant or an apathetic native, and the acting culture seemed undeniably vapid. Well, lo and behold Lifebook Acting Academy. I joined Lifebook on a whim after getting back into acting in early 2020, and after a global pandemic and two industry strikes, it seemed like an easy way to keep my acting chops polished. In short, Lifebook has not only revitalized my passion for art, but my passion for community. Everyone I have met at Lifebook is a quality human being; there are no airs of pretentious, just fellow artists willing to uplift each other through scenes and student-run showcases. I have made friends that have gone above-and-beyond for me in ways other people in my life have not; they all celebrate each other inside and outside of class; and the genuine love for the art is there! Every student is both passionate AND talented! As for the instructor, Allen Levin, he's an energetic, direct, and knowledgeable creative. Allen doesn't oversell what the industry has to offer and gives raw critiques that push us to grow past memorizing lines and yelling out in forced expressiveness; Allen isn't one to feed your ego, he will give you the needed words for you to look past said ego and bring out the good and bad elements of your life that create characters and moments between scene partners. Allen will tell you that once the bookings come, your attendance will likely drop because you'll be busy on set. As for me, the friends/family I have made at Lifebook will keep me returning for years to come--it's my second home. . read more

Lifebook Acting Academy - Class photo! Love these folks! - Art Schools Near Me - Studio City, California

Please try another more professional, less seedy acting class! I will say the teacher here does know some of his stuff. He has a lot of insight into the business side of acting which I found really useful. However, I did not find the exercises particularly helpful. It was mostly improv (freeze tag) and cold reads, but none of it was filmed. I was only auditing a class, but I don't know how you could justify not having things on camera when most of the students are presumably pursuing a career in film/tv. Very different from other acting classes I have taken! However, my lower rating stems mostly from some of inappropriate behavior I witnessed from the teacher. I found a lot of his jokes to be kind of offensive. He made a lot of racial and misogynistic comments. He said because he was a minority, he could use slurs. He said he was in an open relationship and made several overtly sexual statements. He also made It clear students were banned from dating each other. The weirdest part was when he insistently urged new students (some as young as 18) to join his nude comedy show (that's right--stand-up routines without any clothes). He also mentioned a cuddle company he was looking to start, where students would be required to audition with him (that is, cuddle with him one on one and see if they were adequate enough to be hired). The whole vibe made me very uncomfortable, and the girl I was with felt the same way. I don't know if he could tell, but I was writing notes on all of it. I have just never seen anything like this in any other acting class. It's a shame because he did give some genuinely helpful advice, and it does seem like a really cool community of people, but I would suggest a more professional class. read more

I just completed a wonderful first year at Lifebook and I can't express how much I've learnt and grown and the amount of fresh joy I've found in life as a result of the class and the supportive community that surrounds it. Allen has an incredible eye for talent, potential - and his ability to identify and communicate opportunities for improvement in scenes, auditions, career endeavors is unmatched and invaluable. Feels like the most important thing: I've booked more roles in the last year than I ever had before. Actual most important thing: I can't imagine feeling this supported in any other theater in LA. read more

Allen Levin is one of the most talented acting teachers that I have ever worked with. His insight, discernment, passion, structure, and consistency is so impressive. I never agree with 100% of anything, but I cannot think of one time where his judgment and creative input have been less than superior. I've seen him bring amazing things out of the most inexperienced actors. Lifebook is one of my favorite places to study. Being a member truly changed my life. read more

After moving from Australia to LA in 2016, the loneliness of LA that I was warned about and brushed off so many times, quickly set in. A friend who I had previously worked with recommended his acting studio - Lifebook Acting Academy, and I am so glad he did. I'm one of the lucky few that found her community very quickly in LA. Allen welcomed me into the community and made me feel safe to explore what we are all so passionate about. The talent in the class was impressive, and many of which had been going there for years - which said a lot. Over the 2 years I was in LA, I learned so much more about my craft (even after 25 years in the industry), and also about myself - giving less fucks (can I say that here?) about what people think. This empowerment led me to comedy, which I previously hadn't dabbled in!!! Drama was my forté. What I knew. What I was comfortable in. But what Allen taught me about comedy, and supported and encouraged, even pushed me to do, made me realise that comedy isn't scary. "If it scares you, you have to do it" he says. To do your best work, you take risks. To take risks, you need courage. Courage is something Allen instills in you. I really felt like I was in an environment I could explore, try things out, not be judged. That sort of environment is where you can grow, discover and better yourself and your craft. I forever have fond memories of Lifebook, and am so thankful for being a part of it. I have no hesitation recommending it to any friend in LA looking for their acting community. read more

I attended Allen's acting class from the summer into the winter of 2021 and I was beyond impressed with the professionalism, collaboration, direction, and atmosphere that Allen created in Lifebook. The class consists of a diverse portfolio of people of all backgrounds and ages, from newbies to internet personalities to well seasoned, actively working actors to writers and even aspiring directors- all of them collaborating and sharing their passion for the art of acting in one room. The class itself consists of students presenting scenes on stage that they have worked on together outside of class. The teacher gives critiques based on his own personal experience in the industry, which is extensive. In addition to providing a healthy atmosphere that encourages the students to interact with one another, Allen is also a huge advocate for learning outside of class and pushes students to educate themselves on the art of acting by providing them access to an extensive library of acting books. This class is very much self-motivated, and the amount of time and energy you put into it not only in class but outside of class will determine what you get out of it. One of the most important parts of a class is the teacher, and Allen Levin is a great example of an amazing, dedicated, and professional instructor. Along with the extensive advice he provides on acting, he cares deeply about every single one of his students and wants to see them succeed. He won't tell you what you want to hear, he'll tell you what you need to hear in order for you to become a better actor. If you ask for his opinion, he'll give it to you minus the sugar coating, which is, in my philosophy, what every artist needs to hear. Honest feedback is essential to improving your craft. He rarely boasts or brags, and when he does, it's most often by telling an anecdotal story connecting back to a lesson to help his students improve their acting. In my opinion, the best part of this class, besides the acting direction that Allen gives, is the community. Los Angeles is a hard place to make friends, especially in the entertainment industry post-covid. It's even harder to meet good, talented, motivated people if you've just moved to the area, and I'm speaking from experience. I can say with certainty that if you invest time and energy into this class, you will not only learn how to act- you will make amazing friends and memories. Overall, this acting class is well worth the time and money, but like most things in life, you get what you put in. If you're looking for an acting class with a great instructor, students, and atmosphere and (this last one is the most important) are ready to dedicate lots of time and energy to improving your craft, then this is the class for you. I look forward to attending again soon. read more

Thank you for the wonderful class last night, I was wholely inspired by you and all the performers. Whatever you said totally resonated with me, I made a lot notes last night. You really are master with full charisma and deep broad knowledge！ read more

Lifebook isn't your typical Acting Class that takes your money, sits you in a room, and yells at you what you should be doing and gives you crap for not being the right kind of student in that room... I've been to those. I've left those. Lifebook instead, is the place you go to actually make progress not only as an actor, but as a human being who is trying to turn their performance art into their life. Allen Levin is the kind of instructor that doesn't care about anything except you being amazing. Having a bad day? Broke up with your girlfriend? Dog ran away? Lost your job? Or even much much worse? Allen is the only acting instructor I have ever met that brings you into that class room and turns the worst day of your life into the greatest day you've ever had on stage, and you'll feel it... and you'll smile despite the day you've had... and you'll want more. You'll learn to indulge in life and all the lessons it teaches you, because "Life gives you the best lessons." Allen is there to make sure you get what you need out of those lessons. When I started Lifebook, I was an idealist with some talent, little real drive, and dreams of grandeur... now, I am a very talented idealist with dreams of grandeur, and the passion and drive to commit myself to those dreams and ideals... and make them happen. Quite simply, the most amazing class I've attended. I am not just a better actor now, and I assure you I am a better actor, but I am also a better Me. read more

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The overall energy of the class was alright, if you are a starting actor just interested in taking an acting course or looking to just flex your acting muscle then I would understand taking a free class. However, I felt as though the person leading the class was unprofessional as he made several sexual remarks, was arrogant within himself and his teaching, and left almost no room at the end of class to actually work on a scene. Also during critiquing of a class I felt as though his feedback was vague and indirect. The people taking the class were wonderful, the workers did a good job of facilitating a supportive atmosphere, but I will not be returning. read more

Allen is fantastic. The workshop I audited had a little bit of everything. We played a game to loosen up, some people performed monologues, someone worked a scene with a reader, and we each had a commercial audition. I had done a great commercial auditions workshop at the AFI Conservatory the night before and wanted to try that one again. The feedback he gave me was invaluable. I'm planning to sign up with another acting instructor as soon as I can afford it, but Lifebook will be the next one, this spring. read more

Allen is everything you could hope for in an acting coach and mentor. Allen's love for acting is obvious, and his passion for the craft excites and motivates actors around him. Allen goes far above and beyond just coaching. He is authentically interested and invested in his actors' careers. He has great experience in this industry, which allows him to help us actors navigate through our careers. He is a strong believer of collaboration and community, which is why so many actors have worked with him for many years. Allen regularly throws events and arranges classes for our Lifebook Community. I'm extremely grateful to have stumbled across Lifebook and Allen last year. read more

Best acting school in LA! Allen Levin WILL get you to the next level. If you're serious about your career, this is the place to make it happen! read more

Let's be real. As a creative in LA, it's hard to know who/what is worth your money and time for things like classes, headshots, agents etc. Personally, I need to be sure of what I'm getting into before I get involved. The first time I walked into Allen's class I knew undoubtedly it was a space I could learn and be successful in. Not only have I grown immensely as an actress, but I feel I've become more holistically aware of myself as a person. Allen is a freakin genius people. He is so positive and uplifting as well as a brilliant teacher, mentor and supporter. I could write about this class forever, but instead I'll keep it short and simple: for whatever reason you are interested in acting (just for fun/trying something new or to enhance your long standing acting career), your mind, heart, and soul will always be full at Lifebook. P.S: Think I'm being cheesy? Try out a class and you'll understand the hype!! read more

I found Lifebook through a Backstage review, "Top Acting Schools in LA." I had a few negative experiences at other studios and stepped away from the craft for a couple years. There are and always will be acting coaches that would rather be acting than teaching and that was very apparent in some of the other acting classes I took. Allen is not one of those people. His passion is coaching actors and that shows. While it's fine (and healthy!) for an acting coach to continue acting, it's REALLY REALLY REALLY important for you to find a coach that has a passion for teaching. If you don't feel safe, inspired and look forward to class, maybe find a new place. I didn't realize it at the time, but I was at a very low point creatively and finding a community of actors and an instructor that genuinely loves coaching revived me. For me, Lifebook is as an actor's gym. Think of Allen as your personal trainer and yourself as the client. Just like a gym there are group fitness classes, and for the actor that means vocal warm-ups, stretches/relaxation techniques and improv games at the beginning of class. Ever been in a fitness class where they assign you a workout buddy? You hold each other's feet down while you do sit-ups and other partner workouts. Hence, cold reads. Allen will cast you in scenes with other students, and you'll do your best that night to interpret the script, make a few choices and start exploring. You'll be "cast" and get to put up your work in front of the class with stage time, but you've maybe spent thirty or forty minutes on this. So you did your sit-ups with a partner. Yay! You showed up when most people can't even make it to the gym. Does a personal trainer normally evaluate you after every group fitness class? No way. You want thirty minutes of a professional's time to tell you good job? Kind of silly. But you've been working out for a week or two now. You've put in 5+ hours of your own time. You want a weigh-in. You NEED an outside party to give you some feedback because it's nearly impossible to see yourself from the outside. For the actor, that's the work you do on your own (outside of class) with a monologue, stand-up set, etc. or the rehearsal time with a scene partner. Every class all students have the opportunity to sign in work and put it up for a critique. I love that I can bring in my own content and work with whom I choose at my own pace. I once took a scene study class that was 8 weeks of the same scene that I had no say in picking. I wasn't allowed to bring in an audition or just put up a monologue. So no, you won't get reviewed after your cold read "exercise." You'll be given a generous amount of time toward critiquing any work you've actually worked on. That seems like a fair trade to me. Lifebook has a lot of other perks too, but you'll just have to audit a class (it's free!) to hear more about them. And remember, there is no perfect acting studio. There is no perfect teacher. You have to try things out yourself and only you can determine the value. If the audit feels good, sign up for a month and give it a whirl. Here's the description from Backstage article I read: Allen Levin's acting academy prides itself on being more than just a school; it's a community built by the dedication and dreams of each individual student. Cultivating a collaborative, creative environment, Lifebook establishes long-lasting relationships both on- and off-camera, borrowing from Stella Adler in that it values authentic, day-to-day moments, and teaches actors not just to act, but how to be people. Source: https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/top-acting-schools-los-angeles-7361/ read more

I'm so happy I found this class and community! Having never taken acting class but always wanting to I felt nervous to start but everyone here is so welcoming. I've studied at Lifebook on and off for the better part of a year and I can attest that Allen is a awesome teacher who really cares about his students. I've heard stories of terrible LA teachers so I'm so glad I found a teacher like Allen! Everyone at Lifebook is like minded in the way that you feel safe and open to be creative and yourself. Allen always makes sure everyone feels comfortable and tries to encourage you get out of your shell and try new things that really help you grow as an actor. Highly recommended Lifebook whether you're a beginner or seasoned actor! read more

Why I don't quit This is a monologue I wrote about my acting experience here at Lifebook. The entire thing couldn't fit in the review box but here are some screenshots :) read more

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I've been in Lifebook for over six months and I have to say it's been THE BEST acting class experience I've had. Having checked out a few schools in the past, I was wary it was going to be the same old thing: you know, egotist teacher, fame-whore students, pretend you're a tomato, etc. Not with Allen's class. You do monologues; you do scenes. You can find one or you can write one yourself. After you put up your scene, he gives you appropriate and honest notes that you can incorporate and then decide whether or not you want to put it up again. Regardless, you always learn something. Being a writer, his letting you write something and put it up is like a creative playground. And, honestly, all ambitions aside, I believe you should be having a ball as you study this craft. Yeah, you're putting yourself on the line, and yeah, it's scary at first, but you get over that stuff quickly at Lifebook and you focus on the work. A big part of that is because you can tell Allen digs what he's doing. He says it himself: he loves teaching. And trust me, you'll catch the vibe right away. Anyway, that's my two cents about Lifebook. And if you're still on the fence, you can audit a class. After seeing the comfortable and fun environment Allen fosters, I was sold. I jumped in and didn't think too much about my fears. Oh, and just one more thing: this might go without saying, but I said it's a creative playground and it's fun... but it is a serious class and it's designed for people who are dedicated to the becoming working actors. A very cool community. Thanks for reading. read more

The good: Teacher seems to be very personal and helpful even late into the night when he should be tired. Community seems very friendly and it's sort of like a second family. I don't know if these classes are expensive cause I have nothing to compare, but I don't think they are super expensive. Bad: Teacher asks for "donations" on his website--um, it's a forprofit business!! People wouldn't be able to get any tax deductions from gifting you toilet paper, and why should they when they are starving actors? Also I heard he tells people to do maintenance work on his theater for free! Why? Just because it is such a privilege to be there? He needs to figure out if he is a nonprofit or for profit, you cant have your cake and eat it too. It's really off putting. Groupon for $25 to to try out a class--but you can audit them. For free. I didn't need to pay $25 at all. Kind of a swindle. read more

Life happens. As artists, as dreamers- we get the joy of interpreting and sharing what we discover along the way. Even what can be harsh experiences in life, are beautiful for art. This is a part of what Allen aims to instill in us as actors, that one is simply a person in a place. Just as in life. I remember my urgency to jump into a scene study class: "If the audition of a lifetime were handed to me tomorrow, am I confident that I would knock it out of the park?" The humbling truth was 'no'. I've been studying with Allen for under a year and I have finally found that tangible success I constantly yearn for in this pursuit- the confidence and recognition within myself that I understand what I'm doing...and I'm good at it. With every rehearsal, scene, improv, monologue, audition- I know I'm one step closer to making my dreams a reality. "Technique is what works," Allen says. To me that made sense. It has been more valuable than anything I've read in a book. read more

I'll keep this short and sweet. If you want an acting class where you actually get to act, go to Lifebook. If you want helpful, insightful, and challenging critiques, go to Lifebook. If you want to meet a great group of actors who will work with you to help you become the best actor you can be, go to Lifebook. If you want to cut through the pretentious BS that hangs around too much of Hollywood like a pestilence, go to Lifebook. Basically, go to Lifebook. read more

I bought a Groupon for one class to Lifebook. Truth be told, I have no interest in acting, but taking an acting class was on my "30 before 30 list" since it's something out of my comfort zone. I really appreciated how open and welcoming everyone was. The students here take their craft very seriously but were not in any way dismissive of an "outsider" like myself. I doubt I will be back, since acting is definitely not my thing, but I have no hesitation recommending this business. read more

I have been taking classes here for just under 2 months now. The class is a great way to really challenge yourself as an actor. You are encouraged to put scenes, monologues, etc. up in front of the class as often as you want. Unlike some classes, the students really decide how a class will go each night. Allen Levin offers honest, constructive, and most importantly INDIVIDUALIZED feedback. He doesn't beat around the bush, which is great. Someone blowing smoke up your ass never helps you get better nor does someone who just tells everyone the same thing. The students in your class will help you further your career. I spend more time working on scenes, in special admin groups and other outside activities with fellow students than I do in the actual 3 hour class. If you want to build your confidence as an actor, challenge yourself and get a better grasp on acting as a profession; this is the class for you. Only complaint: It is so much cheaper than other classes that soon we will be fighting for seats. Haha. read more

I've been here for a month at lifebook two roads theatre and Allen has only been awesome! He has made me look at my getting into character completely different! Taking risks and being more open! Allen is definitely challenging you to get inspired and get your work on because acting is a REAL job! Thanks Allen for tapping into my acting soul read more

I've been a student here since last summer, and I keep coming back. It's such a positive, uplifting atmosphere, and Allen really pushes me to live up to my potential. Another plus is that there are varying levels, from Amateur to Intermediate to Advanced, so I can't outgrow the classes, only grow with them. Advanced students put on free showcases, make short films, and are about to start working on a show! read more

I started my quest with the Lifebook Acting Academy 4 weeks ago. During that time, I have obtained a great deal of practice and useful acting strategies. The professor is practical in the teaching methods and the students are united in one mutual goal... SUCCESS IN ACTING AND MAKING IT BIG! The price is comfortable for any individual willing and able to go into the Acting profession in the first place. I highly recommend this theatrical school for all inspiring newbie and current professionals. Listen to your heart and follow you passions! 11/02/2011 read more

I've been in this class for almost a year and I love it. The positive energy is a very refreshing change from all of the jaded actors in LA who tell you how impossible it is to get an agent, book a job, or do anything for that matter. I always leave class feeling jazzed and motivated! The scene study and improv exercised have helped me immensely in auditions. I am much more confident and not nervous anymore to improvise a scene or perform my monologue. The class is ongoing every Thursday night which helps really build a community. I love everyone I've met in class and we're getting together to create our own projects now too, so I feel very fortunate to be a part of Lifebook! read more

I started at Lifebook in May, hoping to get myself kick-started back into acting a little bit. Didn't happen. Instead, I have found my passion again, opened up my heart and mind again, re-discovered why I love to be on stage and found an amazing instructor in Allen Levin and a great bunch of people to play with. I have attended classes on two different evenings and found the people in both groups to be friendly, supportive and fun to work with. I am busier now with projects, both on stage and on film, having to do with Lifebook and elsewhere, than I have ever been. I am having so much fun keeping up with the work that I've had to reschedule a lot of my formerly just okay life to do all the outstanding stuff. Do yourself and your artist's soul a favor: come check it out. read more

LifeBook Acting Academy is truly the best acting class, It is not just and acting class, it community of family, everyone supports, pushes, and help each other, to get to their goals, it's a must check out and join, come and be part of a great community!!! read more

It's always an awkward situation walking into a new classroom... maybe it's the horrible reminder of the things you stored from your childhood in the back shelf for a reason... the same reason why you rather not try something new, such as another acting class.... the truth is that this isn't just any acting class.. it's real people expressing their selves in front of persons that share many walks of life... and are graciously there to help... I highly recommend the experience. read more

Allen's classes can be good for beginner actors looking to try different styles. However, the jam packed 40+ people each class means you won't get to play as much, and he's always got his class pets. Also, the racist stereotyping can be sickening sometimes for ethnic minorities trying to get away from the industry racism. Audit first and see if it's worthwhile, given the steep prices and no refund policy. read more

All around amazing. I think it's important to work on different aspects of acting and this class does just that. From improv, to scene study, to monologues, to audition technique and more, being able to call on any of these categories has helped me book a ton of work thanks to this class. Aside from the different exercises listed, you also get personal time where you can work on what ever you want to work on. So if you have a video audition or meeting with an agent, or a scene you're about to shoot, you get to work on it! That's what sets this class a part from the rest. Highly recommended. read more

Allen is a very insightful teacher who will force you to maintain an eye on life and reality while honing the craft of acting. His instruction has provided an incredible foundation for my understanding of theatre and performance. His passion is inspiring and he creates a very safe environment where I felt comfortable to make the mistakes necessary in order to learn. Great for beginning actors (which I was) and veterans as well. read more

Before we get to the reasons why Lifebook Acting Academy is such a phenomenal and FUN school, let me say that I've only been at the school for close to a month going on my fourth session, and Lifebook classes are the MOST affordable of ANY acting school on planet earth. Bottom line, Allen Levin gives us actors a unique opportunity to literally audit his school for free while getting some fantastic instruction on the craft of acting and some incredible, priceless insider information on the business side of the industry and what casting directors want to see....no one else in Hollywood is doing what Allen does for his students. This is THE BEST acting school I've ever attended, hands down. I've gained a new found motivation and passion for success thanks to Lifebook Acting Academy. Allen is a very positive, uplifting, magnetizing person who fosters a communal environment and brings actors together with humor, candor, great advice and a sincere desire to help each and every one of his students. Anyone looking to succeed as an actor needs to meet this man in person. You need to know him and know that he will point you in the right direction on your road to success and self-realization. Simply put, Allen Levin and Lifebook Academy rocks the %$#@ing house! read more

This place is a home. The talent and passion that all of the actors here possess is motivating. I studied there for about 6 months with Allen Levin. He sees so much and will take the time to go over scenes with you. This place is personal and fantastic. Being that most new actors are on a tight budget it is great that love of the theatre over-rides dollar signs. Don't get me wrong...PAY YOUR DUES! However, if anyone will work with you it's Allen. Also, if you meet Kate, she is greatness...Tell her I said hello. read more

Coming to Hollywood with a dream becoming a star or, at least, a recognizable name in the business and/or constantly working actor/actress, one has to find a workspace to work on the craft and "train the muscle". It can be a challenging task in a city with a number of schools, workshops, and academies, to find just a place where one can feel comfortable enough to open up, surrounded by goal-driven talent, and feel like it is, indeed, the right place to learn and grow. I am saying this because it's been my personal challenge. I found Lifebook AA and I am very happy I did. The very first class left me with a great amount of information I needed. Allen, and his gentle approach in his guidance, generates huge amount of trust in my own potential. Don't we all seek that while being trained? I highly recommend new comers to come, learn, and explore while WORKING every time You come. As well as You, an established working actor, who wants to polish the adopted techniques and practice new ways and ideas. There is plenty of time and space to do it all. You All will be equally happy to be in a room filled with enthusiastic talent eager to move forward and a great leader behind You... read more

I was drowning in life... had lost the ability to continue my chosen career as a professional wrestler and was falling quickly down the spiral. Then a series of very fortunate events lead me to the Two Roads Theater and Lifebook Acting Academy. That is where I met Allen Levin and a whole slew of new people that have quickly become like a family to me. I have since found regular work performing in a Stunt Show at a popular theme park and the lessons that I have learned at Lifebook have prepared me to propel myself toward my dreams... I have become an unbreakable, unrelenting pitbull charging triumphantly toward freedom. read more

This class is very special and I recommend anybody to try Lifebook Acting as it is an amazing experience. I came in without prior knowledge and no previous acting practice. I literally found Lifebook Acting online via Google search and reading exactly these yelp reviews. I guess that was supposed to happen as it was truly inspirational. Allen is an amazing coach who somehow succeeds in making everyone leave his lessons feeling energized, motivated and full of ambition. There's plenty of stage time, support and motivation for being creative and working on everything from acting to writing and plenty of advice on which books to read and how to successfully build an acting career and actually enjoying the whole process of it while avoiding much of the pressure, guilt or negative emotions. He tries to teach you to be the best version of yourself. My goal for myself was to push me out of my comfort zone. No only has it done that but it has given me plenty motivation and inspiration to continue going after my dreams, trust my gut and allow myself to stay positive in the process. Allen Levin teaches more than acting. It's a mindset and that's why we all love it. And many students have been working with him for many years - no matter what level of experience or career they have. I went out of every class feeling motivated and inspired. After the first class I was hooked. Studying at Lifebook Acting also comes with being part of an amazing community of actors who are working hard to make their dreams come true. This community is like a family and people are encouraged to support each other, create together and take destiny into their own hands. It's a great environment. Met so many people during my time at Lifebook. Workshops, Showcases, scene studies, audition practice, free guest speakers and tons of other activities make for plenty of opportunities to learn and grow continuously. Also the location is great and intimate to allow plenty of free expression. Whenever I'm in LA, I will be sure to attend classes at Lifebook Acting. And the fact that they are filling up more and more every week is proof for their growing popularity. read more

I figure I have had enough time to write a proper review for this place so here we go. It is my third month at Lifebook Acting Academy and I have no intention of going anywhere else. Easy access right off Melrose Ave and directly across the Sacred Fools Theater it is an easy find. It's a delightfully small theater that holds roughly 36 people. The stage has three or four doors that act as various exits and entrances for scene work. I want to hit on one VERY important thing here. This community is unbelievably supportive. Those who attend this class are not the typical backstabbing, swagger wagging, pretentious pretenders. I've made so many friends in such a short amount of time, friends who want to hear how your audition went and want to know if there's anything they can help you with. Be it some snapshots, demo reel material, or a scene partner. Literally the best group of people I have met in Hollywood. On the actual classes, they don't seem like traditional classes which I love. Allow me to explain. You are going to get a lot of great information on the industry including who/what to avoid. In terms of in class exercises you are only going to get out of it what you're willing to put in. You can do improvised scenes with fellow students or even the instructor Allen Levin (more on him later), you get asked questions by the class and casted as characters from TV/Film, with those castings you pick scenes from those shows/movies rehearse and perform them in class with critiques from the instructor. Bring in sides for an audition and actually practice the audition and get feedback. There are so many other exercises, but those are some of the main points. The big thing is, you need to be proactive and sign up and prepare these exercises Allen isn't going to hold your hand and drag you on stage. There are three levels of classes: Acting for first timers/non-actors. This is a less intense version of the above paragraph. There is a stronger focus on improv and the fun of acting. Intermediate is for those who are seriously considering acting as a profession and the expectations are high but doable. I've only ever heard rumors of the advanced class, an audition or meeting with Allen is usually required to get into this class. This class has really taught me where to focus my career. Before I wasn't sure what I should be doing in terms of my "break in" point. However, after a few months under Allen's training, I know where my head needs to be in an audition and finding belief in my work is becoming easier than ever. As a closing example for this review I did an improv exercise called "opening line," pick a line from a fishbowl and that line starts the scene. My line was "My balls are numb! I can't feel my balls!" At first I thought there was no way I could find belief and make the scene real for me, but after a minute of giggles I took a breath and not only believed that first line, but maintained a steady character throughout. Now I feel like I can believe in anything. I certainly believe in Allen Levin and Lifebook Acting Academy. "Bring the life, book the job." read more

Lifebook Academy exceeded my expectations in every way! With the encouragement and support of the Lifebook community I now know that that nothing in this industry is beyond my reach. Allen Levin shows you how to transform desire into action, one scene at a time. If you're looking for a positive, supportive place to grow and perfect your craft as an actor, then Lifebook is the place to be! You ROCK Allen:-) read more

I really like Allen Levin's approach and method!