I have been in the studio for over 2years now and I am completely blown away by the amount of growth I have gone through . Andrew is the best coach in San Diego and probably Los Angeles! I say that because he really takes acting serious and in a good way. The entire SD Studio coaches are on point and dont miss a beat. I highly recommend this studio to all beginners and all working actors ! read more

Hands down the best acting studio to be a part of! I started with April on Saturdays and moved over to Andrew's class on Mondays. Andrew takes his time giving the necessary and appropriate notes to each actor to help build and strengthen their craft! Can't wait to see how I can grow my craft! read more

Andrew has been such a big part of my growth as an actor, I truly owe a lot to him! This studio has helped me discover parts of myself, both as an actor and a person, that I couldn't imagine having not been with them for 2 years and still being as confident and driven as I feel now. I owe so much to not only Andrew, but to the studio's other coach, Irene Muzzy, as well. She helped me face the darkest fears and insecurities that I had with myself, getting me to own them and as a result helped me break free. As a result, I was able to reach a level of vulnerability that I definitely carry into my acting. Both coaches no doubt care about ALL of their students, and work with each one individually with patience, yet are always making sure to push each one out of their comfort zone in a positive way. No matter where I am in my acting career, I am always keeping this studio in mind!! They are the friendliest, most genuine people I have met and would definitely recommend this studio to anyone no matter where they are in their acting career. :) read more

I have learned a lot so far, though am relatively new. I feel that, under Andrew's direction, I have grown and become more honest with myself and others. You don't grow unless you're challenged. He has taught me that everything is about perception and reaction. We must always speak to our truth. This studio gives you the space (physical and emotional) to do that. I've found Andrew and staff to be nothing but respectful. Expectations are very clear and he is understanding if you need to miss or leave early. read more

I went to Los Angeles Acting Studio SD for about 6 months and it changed my craft so deeply. The training is worth every penny and very reasonable. I worked primarily with Andrew and Irene and they were both fantastic. They work incredibly hard to give you honest criticism without it hurting your inner artist, if that makes sense. Only 6 months of training here has significantly improved my work. I still have a TON to learn but I'm much more confident in my abilities now. Also, the studio works very hard to bring workshops about the business side of acting as well. Brooke McCormick's audition classes are a must try if you want to get better at auditioning! If you're interested in acting, please give this studio a try! All of the coaches are well trained and wonderful people. Also, the actors at the studio are all kind. It's an amazing place to train. Can't recommend this place enough! read more

A few months ago, I audited a class with Andrew as the teacher and, plainly, I felt disrespected. A fellow actor friend of mine told me he hadn't heard very good things from this studio, but I loved what was stated on their website and wanted to check out other studio spaces around San Diego, so I gave it a chance. During the audit class, there were some minor things that rubbed me the wrong way, like some comments he would make about a couple of the women and their appearances, but I kept an open mind about the other directions he gave. However, about halfway into the 4.5-hour-long class, two adult women got up from their chairs to go use the restroom, when Andrew basically said, "Can't you wait for the break in about 5 minutes?" The break didn't happen until about 20 minutes later though. I think he realized that the break wouldn't happen anytime soon, so (I assume) he realized that what he said and how he said it was rude (it reminded me of an angry dad talking to a 5-year-old), he tried smoothing things over by saying something along the lines of, "I just meant you should only go one at a time." But it felt like he was just trying to justify his rude outburst. So if you're an adult who doesn't mind being micromanaged not only on, but also off-stage, maybe this class is still for you. For me, however, having had acting and improv teachers who are respectful and aware of how they come across (so many lovely people!), I realized in the middle of that audit session that I know what I expect from someone I choose to learn from and give money to. When I expressed to Andrew that I would be leaving before the end of the class because I hadn't prepared for the lengthy 5-hour audit session, he didn't ask if I was okay or what I meant by why I was leaving early, he basically said that I was to stay the entire time that I committed to, and would be allowed to leave when the class was over (keep in mind that sometimes people have medical issues, and after only talking to Andrew for less than 30 minutes prior to the class, those people probably wouldn't share that kind of information). I was very much taken aback by his controlling tone, that I quickly realized, "Who does this man think he is?" He can't force me to stay just because he says so. I told him clearly that I would be leaving then, and I'm very proud of myself for having left because sometimes it's very difficult for people to get themselves out of uncomfortable situations. Empathy and compassion are a choice, and I understand that he doesn't "have" to be any of those things, all I'm saying is that I choose to work with people who do express those characteristics. And the purpose of my review is to let people know that this is what I took from my own experience. On another note, there's been this idea that acting directors need to be "tough" on their students for "x" reasons, but according to The Real Life Actor podcast episode titled, 'Why do actors put up with abusive classes?' acting coach, Jeff Seymour, states, "Why pay me to kick your ass when life is going to do that..when this industry is going to do that." My advice, be careful who you choose to learn from, respect, and pay. There are so many encouraging teachers out there to choose from. The whole "tough director" bit is overrated and likely going to start phasing out. Let's set healthy boundaries for ourselves! :) I will say, many, if not all, of his students were producing great work, I just hope they too are setting their own healthy boundaries when working with this studio. read more

When I got to Los Angeles some 20 years ago I was searching for an acting coach , I met some people that referred me to Andrew , I thought I would give him a try , so I sat in one of his classes and it was at that point I knew that I had found what I've been searching for ! I trained with Andrew from that moment forward and enjoyed every minute of it ,, it was only after I started training with Andrew that I started booking roles !! My first of many was a recurring role on general hospital which I ended up doing 18 episodes . My advice to anyone that is serious about acting , and wants to become a working actor , then wait no more , you should do as I did , go check out Andrew's class , I promise you won't regret it ! read more

My life has been completely changed by Andrew and this studio. The personalized approach to each actor, the welcoming family vibe, the genuine interest and love that Andrew has for all of his students helped me blossom as an actor. Before this studio, I lacked confidence. Now, because of Andrew, I know exactly what I am capable of and I have no fear in pursuing what I love. Andrew crafts classwork specifically for each person and what their needs are. Notes are detailed and specific, and though he is always kind, Andrew never lets you get away with bullshit which is exactly what every actor needs. I look forward to each and every class, and consider this the best money I have ever spent. read more

My teen daughter really loves this class and looks forward to it every week. There is prep work for every class and she takes her craft very seriously. She has been taking acting classes since she was 7 years old but now that she's 13, she is experienced and mature enough to learn the Meisner technique. Andrew, Kimmy and Connie are a very dedicated team, they have a deep knowledge and passion for acting and have excellent preparation and organization skills. The classes are supportive, challenging, creative and inspiring. I couldn't be happier for my daughter to learn from them in a safe and friendly environment. read more

I'm mostly just responding to the review of Damaris T. I'm a relatively new student. The rules of the studio are made very clear before you get there and one of the reasons I like the class and the rules is I only want to work with people who are serious about acting. Acting is a team effort: if you don't learn your lines, and I'm your scene partner, I'm the one you are screwing over. If you are looking for a beginner class where you don't have to take the work seriously, LA acting Studio SD is not necessarily the best place for you. There are plenty of other classes offered in town - including one nearby that is basically useless - for casual beginners. The focus of this studio is to produce great actors. Andrew doesn't like people to meander in and out because it shows a lack of respect for the people who are working, and throws focus. Further, they give you frequent 10-minute breaks to use the bathroom. If you can't understand that, by all means go somewhere else and be disruptive there. I think the very long audit class - which is basically just a normal class - is partly designed to filter out people who aren't committed to working hard. It shows you what you are getting into - it is a serious commitment for serious actors. Lastly I'd like to make a comment about the Meisner method in general, which I am new to, but which I have found incredibly helpful: the method is designed to free up your instincts, so you react organically to what you observe. Think Jeff Goldblum, who studied under Meisner. As such we are encouraged to forget about being "polite" and try to throw the filters away and just react honestly, and that leads to acting which is more like life. Sanford Meisner said acting is "to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances." That is the goal. Because we are all trying to abandon our filters and just say what pops into our head about what we observe, sometimes someone may actually say something that is less than polite. I have had that happen to me, and I treat it as a gift. If you say something that accidentally insults me, or that I think is rude, it gives me something to react to with honesty and it can be fascinating to watch conflicts pop up and be resolved or not - just like life. read more

My teenage son has been a professional actor for over 5 years and after many, many acting classes and workshops both in San Diego and Los Angeles, we are thrilled that he's found the advanced teen acting class at LA Acting Studios SD. When the kids are young, the games and improv exercises in other classes are lots of fun, but as the roles mature and the material gets meatier they really need to advance their acting chops. Andrew and his team, Connie and Kimmy, develop course content and teach technique that stretches young actors past their comfort zone and the results have been evident in my son's recent bookings and his callback ratio. If you are sincerely committed to professional acting, you should really consider enrollment in this acting school. read more

Andrew gives individual personalized assignments to each student and adjusts his teaching to each student based on their needs. He takes the time to give feedback to every actor. He is an incredibly perceptive teacher and he always seems to know what students need in order to grow. read more

When I came to Andrew's studio I had little to no formal acting training. I was uncomfortable on stage and extremely self-conscious. On paper, Andrew's studio was a nightmare for me. I was not prepared to do the things he asked of me. I wasn't willing to be in focus emotionally or physically. I wasn't willing to trust my own instincts, much less those of others. But I was willing to trust Andrew. I trusted that he practiced what he preached and I trusted that he wanted what was best for me. With time, commitment, and a generous amount of patience from Andrew and Irene I became confident in myself as an actor. For the first time I really began to believe I may just have what it takes. With that sense of accomplishment, I was able to do things I never imagined. I have trained with Andrew for three years and I hope to collaborate with him more in the years to come! read more

This is the BEST Acting School on the planet! Run and audit a class! It will change your life in a magical way!

Andrew is a fantastic coach and working with the Hybrid Meisner technique is a super bonus. I'm in a 2 year program for the traditional Meisner certification elsewhere, however, when I started to work with Andrew, he knew exactly what needed to be brought out of me as an actress. His coaching is personalized and spot on and because of his class, my growth as an actress has accelerated and I have learned how to trust my instincts from his coaching. Andrew has an eye for truth and specificity which as an actress, is what I'm always striving for. He will spot what you need to work on and get it pulled out of you so you can grow not only as an actor but as a person because we need to be people first, and actors second. If you want to really grow as an actor and find truth, specificity and learn how to really listen, Andrew is your man! read more

Andrew Benne is a fabulous teacher and teaches in ways that help you to avoid "schmacting"! His tag-line is "this is really happening" -- and when you study with him, you'd better believe it! He uses a hybrid Meisner technique, which is great to add to your arsenal of knowledge and experience. His studio is a positive place where other students help you be your best, and there is a real sense of family. Everyone is invested in one another and it helps you grow in talent and in confidence. He also employs several other instructors who he taught himself, to make sure they do things "right". Personally, I HATE raw moments. Its no secret-- it's just not my thing. I know I suck at it, and I probably always will, but that said, I admit I recognize how it helps many people to become more genuine and better able to capture and express emotions, and viewpoints essential to this craft. (And the more I hate it, the more I probably need it). So, I try to preserver, even when it brings me to tears of desperation. It's ok. It's all part of the process. He brings out people's innate talent and hones in on both strengths, and weaknesses. You can't fake it. You can't trick him. He's seen it all, and will call BS if its there. If his technique and you are not a fit, he'll let you know. He doesn't falsely flatter people or do this to take student's money. He sees you, and through you, and helps you bring out your talent and your truth. He is really invested in his students, and dedicates a LOT of time and energy to each individual. It's not a cookie-cutter way of working. We are really fortunate that he has come to San Diego, and he's become one of my favorite coaches ever. read more

so let me start off by saying...i have studied from A LOT of teachers in my day. from the everything hodge podge of a college theatre degree from northwestern, to meisner in L.A. to audition technique courses, to some other fantastic studios such as John Rosenfeld and Craig Archibald...and to be honest, Andrew Benne is home. Andrew finds what is unique about you, the core of you, the you that if you know it, is what will be the reason people are compelled to watch you. The you that surpasses acting and is what you are about as a human. Through andrew, truly everything started coming together. It's meisner technique and study but it's so much more than that. He gets you to find your triggers, your depth, you'll find yourself being that dynamic actor you felt you were just wishing to be prior to studying with him. I HIGHLY recommend studying with Andrew for a lot or a little, but to make it an absolute. I've never had a teacher fight for me more. read more

Andrew is a superb teacher and coach. He has that rare combination of confidence and humility that he brings to every class. He's a consummate professional who respects the individual, yet never hesitates to challenge the actor with very specific aspects of the work. He's VERY thorough. He doesn't teach just one technique exclusively, he teaches YOU. He has a wealth of experience to draw upon: Meisner, Hagen, Adler, theater and film. He knows his stuff. He's done this for about 25 years. Andrew makes you take responsibility for your own work. Whatever your area of growth needs to be, he will provide you just the right challenge and plenty of encouragement to find your way. And when you do, you will find your confidence on your own. If you are committed and dedicated, you will learn how to do this work on your own. You will learn the craft of acting in a very thorough manner. His classes are a safe place to take risks. I like to tell him that his classes have a "contagiousness of daring", that's what I like about them. There's no doubting Andrew's undying love for the discipline that is acting. If you share that love, he is the teacher for you. He also just so happens to be a very likable guy, which makes him so very easy to work with. read more

Andrew is arguably one of the best acting coaches I've ever had the pleasure to work with. His utter dedication to the craft and teaching can not be measured. Because of Andrew I not only grew as an actor, but as a person as well. His ability to teach how to be "improvisationally" free within written scene work is amazing. What' s best about working with Andrew is that not only do you feel he is passionate about improving your performance, but you as well. He's much more than just an acting coach. He's a brilliant writer, director, and performer in his own right. I highly suggest you audit one of his classes and get to experience his skill for yourself! read more