People always ask how I got into improv because it seems like such a weird thing to do and I'm not…read moresomeone who was ever into theater or performing arts. Honestly I don't even remember anymore - I think I saw an internet ad for "QUICKTHINKING Improv", remembered that "Who's Line is it Anyway?" show and decided to try it. There is no commitment and the first class is costs $20. It was terrifying at first - basically think of public speaking combined with trying to be funny at a moment's notice. But I saw how much fun other people were having and decided to stick with it. Two years later and I'm really glad I stayed. I've performed in several shows on stage and met some great friends. John, the instructor, runs two levels of classes - the first level is practice of different improv games and the second level is rehearsals for a show that we run several times a year in small theater off-Broadway. You can go on to second level when you feel ready. John is great instructor and he makes everyone feel very welcome. Practically everyone in QT is an amateur with a day job. If you are professional actor you'll probably want to look elsewhere but if you are a beginner or just doing this for fun, there is no better improv class than QT. If I can do it, then with a little practice, I think absolutely anyone can do improv and have great fun. Look me up when you're there and see you at the next show!

Letter of Marque is the definition of Ensemble…read more They foster such community, their improv classes are the best I've ever taken, and their shows continue to be innovative and amazing. Take an improv class, see a play reading, ask them about their lieutenant labs. And their fundraiser parties are out of this world. And if you have any interest in soundpainting- it's the place to be.

I started taking improv classes with Letter of Marque in 2018. I went to a drop-in class, and…read moreimmediately felt like this was the best place for someone like me. If you're a shy, introverted or anxious person, LOM will support you and help bring you out of your shell. You'll get out of your head and shake off self-judgment with ease. As an anxious person it can be difficult to stay present, but LOM keeps me engaged. Not to mention, improv is a great skill to have. Connecting with other people and making new choices is good for the soul! You don't need to have any improv experience for a drop-in class or Level 1. You won't be the only one and you'll make new friends! Nothing cures a bad day or a bad mood like hanging out with like-minded individuals playing games and laughing til it hurts. Everyone involved with LOM is so welcoming and so unique. It's a beautiful community of artists and it's honestly changed my life. I can't say enough good things about them (truly!)!

I feel so blessed to be able to be part of these experience. All the teachers are professional,…read moreexperienced, and truly know what they are doing. The training prepares us well for what is coming next in the world. It is an artistic home, and the atmosphere truly encourages personal and artistic growth. I have been honored to be a student of Barbara Marchant, and I feel proud to be called her student. She is an extraordinary teacher who brings out your best artistic self.

I read these 2 negative reviews of Barbara Marchant and wonder what planet these students are on…read more She is the best acting teacher I know. Nothing abusive, if anything she was too nice and accommodating to students who don't the work, or miss a lot of classes. My guess is these 2 students have their own issues. Some actors can't take "critic," and see it as abuse (it will hurt your feelings if you let it), but we need to hear the truth about our acting to move forward. We all get it in our heads we are good, but a better teacher who is honest with you (many just take your money and say great things) will see the difference, open your eyes if you allow it. Don't blame the teacher. She's trying to help you. You need a think skin in this business. You should be so lucky to have Barbara as your teacher.

This is a great spot for dance studio rentals in NYC. I have used Gibney multiple times for…read morerehearsals, filming self tape auditions, and even filming a section of my dance reel. It is super easy to reserve these online, but be sure to do it in advance because they fill up quick! You can see pictures of every studio with dimensions on their site. They do a great subsidized rate for artists and non-profits. Be sure to email about it to get more info and see if you qualify. You pay in advance and can go right in at your scheduled time! It is my go-to spot for studio rentals now in NYC!

The staff are caring, kind and attentive. I thought I lost a tutu I'm one of the studios and…read moreHearty, one of the employees, really cared to look for it. This made my day. Xox, Nadine

I attended ThinkingVine's Printmaking event a few days ago, and it was super fun and really well…read moreorganized! The event was held at a Breather room, which was spacious, had some couches for relaxing, and had a huge table that could accommodate the whole class. There were also some snacks & wine, which was very thoughtful. The art teacher, Liza, was clearly very knowledgeable. She took the class through a demo of how to make prints, including how to mix colors, apply textures, etc. We spent about 45 minutes making individual prints, and then got together as a group to cut them up and collage them for another 45 minutes. This was a great way to unwind after work & add some creativity into my week. Highly recommend!!

I attended the play The Dutch Masters at this venue on May 24, 2025. So, this review is both for…read morethe play and the venue. First let's talk about the play. Any play involving only two actors are tough. On a stage with multiple actors, the audience has multiple subjects to process. Any imperfection could be hidden among the actors but not with two actors. Having said that, it was an awesome performance by the actors. The story took place on the D train leaving Rockefeller Center going uptown (in 1992 New York according to the synopsis). Written by Greg Keller and directed by Calvin Atkinson, Isaiah Brown portrayed Eric a tall black young man who had a chance encounter with Steve, a white bookish young man played by Eoghan O'Casey. Eric started a conversation, but Steve appears nervous and uncomfortable. After all, they were in a closed environment and as any New Yorker, unexpected encounter or someone who pushed their way into someone's personal space is always suspect. What does Eric want from him? Steve was extremely nervous thinking he is about to get robbed but was surprised that Eric seems to know a lot about him. Steve was scared when coerced by Eric to get off the train at 145th Street to buy some marijuana to smoke in a park. They took turn smoking and Steve was clearly getting high. Eric studied a cigar ring apparently on the loaded cigar which he bought. Eric looked at the cigar ring and mumbled Dutch Masters --which for Eric was interpreted as the slave masters but for Steve it was interpreted as the Dutch paint masters (like Vermeer and Rembrandt). It brings up two awkward different worlds for Steve and Eric. Steve still scared followed Eric to his apartment. And here is where the plot thickens. Without spoiling the plot for others, the ending plot was a surprise and explained how Eric knows so much about Steve. Both actors performed admirably well. Isaiah Brown was very strong in portraying a young man dealing with inner turmoil and a complicated childhood. Eoghan O'Casey was believable as a nervous white young man. All in all, both actors were excellent. The lighting and sound effects are appreciated with authentic PA announcement as the train pull in and out the stations and the door chime as the door closes. A five stars from me on the play. As far as the venue, it was a nice, clean, intimate and cozy environment at a prime location. Uniquely white in decor which made the actors and props stand out. It was a little hard having to climb stairs to the third floor with my bad knee, but this is the building fault and not the venue itself. The building apparently is not very well maintained since the elevator was out and the sink in the bathroom has no water. You might say that's a harsh review for a broken elevator but if you look at other plays, as early as Tuesday May 20 to all the way to June 1st, they all have the notation that the elevator is under repair. That's over twelve days of a non-working elevator. The building was either not serious about getting it repaired or lack of care about an important equipment to comply with the Federal ADA rules. While I would give five stars for the venue/studio, the building only deserves a two star. At the end of the day, a pleasant experience and an excellent must-see play.

This review is primarily for a play we saw there today, "Boys of a Certain Age". The performance…read morespace is small and the seats weren't comfortable, but the play was *terrific*; not only did all four actors give wonderful performances, but the writing was also really great. There was lots of humor, and also some seriousness underlying everything. Performances will continue through February 25. As an aside, the (small) waiting area was rather attractive and a friendly woman worked at the concession stand.

I recently took the Act & Sip class and it was SO much fun! It was a great group of 30 people and…read moreeveryone brought great energy. Cathy was amazing and she was such a fun instructor. I would highly recommend this to anyone - no prior acting/stage experience required! This is so fun for a birthday, date night, or even just a random weekend activity!

Catherine Russell is a dynamo. Her energy is boundless and contagious…read more Cathy is a true business owner. She never hesitates to jump in and accomplish what needs to be done, no matter what job it. Any business whose owner is there at all times , will provide you with top service.

Gene Frankel Theater to me can be described as intimate. It was perfect for my friends one man…read moreshow. I feel the spirits in the walls and atmosphere of the historic theater and building. There's plenty to do in the neighborhood if you want to wander around or get a drink (or bite to eat) before or after your show. Get your tickets in advance and allow yourself time to look around inside so you can soak up the vibes.

Where do I start?…read more Trilogy 2 , Producer: Garry Batson & Dir. Evria Waldron Theatre seats about 30 -40 ppl. Address: 24 Bond St, take #6 to Bleecker St / Lafayette then walk north (2) blocks to Bond St. Voila! Theatre has golden ppl climbing up building. Google it. All (3) shows were entertaining very life prevailing. I went to this show March 19th 2023 a referral by a friend William. All actors were Awesome! I totally enjoyed this show. ILL Winds: My focus was taken by actors Eugene Daniels & Matthew Watson. Matthew really captured an individual who suffers Muscular Dystrophy which is not easy to do. His father also portrayed a former Boxers Life w/complications as they age-out. Nicole aka wife made show heartfelt. Fort Knox: Tell-of a familiar everyday situation with some young people today. Unfortunately, we read about; to often. All actors done a great job. Flight Risk: A jubilant playful show until the element of surprise is thrown into the mix. I didn't see it coming. Element of Life. Cons: Theatre, need neon light strips on wall floor throughout Theatre & near seating to assist in finding seat bc it's a very dark Theatre. A flashlight assist by staff would've been helpful. Big Issue: How do you not have enough Play Bills for paying customers. I had an issue w/ this. Also during intermission where they sell wine, candy & chips I was shocked they didn't go to bank before hand to get singles & $5 change for purchase. We live in a world of credit & debit cards. So, if u don't take Apple Pay, Venmo, CashApp etc then at least have change. Although, there were these cons. The show with more financial support could actually be a hit on Broadway. It's an Off-Bway show with lots of On-Broadway potential. Last Broadway show I saw w/a friend was Tina aka Tina Turner. I recommend this show.