I couldn't recommend Manhattan Actor Studio enough! I worked with Billy Gallo on a Michelangelo package and it was worth every cent. I moved to Los Angeles about a year ago and was working as an administrative assistant. I had a great job but had been chasing down my dream of becoming an actor through extensive training and filmmaking for many years. I quit my job this fall and couldn't figure out how to break into the industry. I had heard so many different people offer advice on how to move forward but all of it was so contradicting! A South Bay resident, I found Billy's studio a stone's throw from my place. I did my research and discovered that Billy has been a working actor, writer & producer for more than 35 years and has been a part of films and television programs that have inspired me as an aspiring actor. I needed to learn what moves to make and how to take my theatratrical training and make it translate to the art of auditions and the business side of things. Billy got to know me as an instrument, figure out what's holding me back, and teach me numerous skills to add to my actor's toolkit to feel prepared and confident going into auditions. Billy gave me ten different characters to work on each week that helped me gather clips for my profile but taught me how to bring these characters to life quickly--something I was not skilled at before. I have so many gifts that I will continue to grow into for the rest of my career. Not only did he assist me with auditioning, but he gave me advice on how to strategize my career and my personal projects. That information is GOLD in an industry where it feels like the path is made to be obscure on purpose. If you work with Billy you'll be working with an Artistic Warrior and he will challenge you to bring out the best and most confident You. I started excited to go after this business but timid, and after ten classes I feel like a confident warrior who is going after my dream with a vengeance! I am beyond grateful for Billy coming into my life as a guide and mentor. He truly loves what he does and you will feed off of his light and his passion for his love for this work. Billy--you are amazing and I am honored to be one of your students! I am forever grateful to you! read more

Billy Gallo's Manhattan Actor's Studio is absolutely a class act. If you have scrolled or stumbled upon this page then you obviously are curious, or at the very least have been bit by the acting bug. In either case; Billy, is definitely the mentor you need to hone your on-screen skills, and to land that coveted acting job. I was a new transplant to LA and like many of us, was overwhelmed by the number of acting schools, academies, private coaches etc..wondering where to go or which to choose? After auditing a few big name schools in Hollywood that were lacking the personal attention I was seeking, I decided to give to Billy at Manhattan Actor's Studio a call and asked him just one thing: "I am new in this city, I want to break into the acting realm and am looking for a guide/mentor to help me get there". Right at my first meeting with Billy two days later, I realized that I have come to the right place. Billy has 40 plus years of acting experience, and still is a working actor right here in LA. His approach towards the acting method can be traced back to 'The Stanislavski System' but concentrated towards on-screen performance, which is exactly what benefits actors in LA who are looking to focus on film & television. Everything you do at the Manhattan actor's studio is filmed on-camera simulating an actual audition, so one is thrown right into the ring from day one. The studio is well equipped with props, set pieces, white rooms etc, state of the art sound and camera equipment which is very helplful in developing one's demo-reel to market yourself in this digital age. Working with Billy, you not only learn acting techniques but also what the casting directors are looking for. Most of all, Billy at Manhattan Actor's Studio provides an environment that allows actors to really be creative, whether it's a scripted monologue, scene work, or even improvisation. He truly wants his actors to succeed. Thank you Billy Gallo for being an excellent mentor and teacher. Ari Dev read more

My Son is a successful child actor - he started very young at the age of 3 and worked consistently until the age of 9. He had a lot of success booking national spots on Network TV, Cable Television and National Commercial spots. My wife and I decided to pull him back from the industry for a bit as he was getting material that was above his maturity level due to his being rather tall for his age. At 13, we opted to get him prepped again for auditioning and were elated to find Billy Gallo and the Manhattan Actor Studio as all the industry coaches recommended by our sons agent were up in the valley or on the west side. We are South Bay Locals, and I can tell you that having a talent such as Billy and the Manhattan Actor Studio so close to home is an absolute god send. 4 Years in the life of a 13 year old is a long time - and the habits that once learned, are quickly forgotten. Billy has the patience, experience, and industry insight to show and give direction - to pull out the gems - sometimes hidden deep, as well as challenge the status quo when offered less than what is expected. The things that my son has learned, and continues to learn, through our experience with Billy, is not only good for his acting - it is good for his life. As in many ways art emulates life, and the lessons that are learned through the Manhattan Actor Studio - are ultimately proving to be very good for both. Thanks, Billy - your approach, patience and commitment to craft does not go un noticed, and is certainly appreciated.. read more

Manhattan Actor Studio is a home away from home. Billy Gallo is the real deal when it comes to acting coaches in LA. It's a breathe of fresh air to learn from someone who has actually played big roles in academy award winning films, hit television shows, and award winning plays. During my experience at MB Studio I decided to do the Michael Angelo Package. Immediately Billy took me under his wing and taught me a variety of different techniques - a lot were derived from his own interpretation of Lee Strasberg's method (who he directly learned from in the late 70's/and 80's). He also taught me his specialized actor meditation technique that I use today in a variety of settings to get me out of my head and into my body - it makes you feel great and refreshed. The meditation is very interesting - it's a mix of powerful affirmations, breathing techniques, imagery, and a little bit of hand movement near the end - you can tell it took him awhile to develop this specifically for actors and I'm very lucky to have learned it - I haven't come across anything else like it. Using the techniques Billy taught me I gained the confidence to apply for my first role in a SAG film - got the part - and nailed it on set. It was incredibly fun and rewarding. Nonetheless, I owe a lot to this guy for what he taught me and how he treated me as a student. His classes are fun and I highly recommend them to anyone interested in learning more about themselves and the craft of acting. read more

I am currently taking private lessons with Billy Gallo and I have noticed a tremendous change in the way I approach a character. I even noticed this change on the first day, which was in November of 2015. On the first day you meet with Billy, he begins by asking questions about yourself (such as your "high" and "low" moments in life) in order to use those emotional memories into your performance. When doing this with him, I never realized how emotionally attached I was to some of these memories. I never would have realized any of this if I wasn't open to sharing my stories and thoughts with him each lesson - which is a must. Vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength. By embracing my vulnerability I no longer was afraid of failing when playing a character for Billy. After all, that is what this studio is for - to be okay with failing, but always knowing that you will get back up. This studio is great for all ages (I am 18) and I have gained much confidence in my acting ability. So young people, don't be shy because you will NOT be disappointed! I now FULLY know what it means to "be" the character, rather than to "play" the character. Great exercises. Great use of several different techniques that help to challenge you. And most of all, Fantastic teacher. read more

Billy Gallo, the owner of Manhattan Actor Studio, helped me so much with my short film. As a high-school film student, I had trouble finding actors for my class project. Billy was helpful and supportive from the beginning, offering to read my script and spending time to understand my vision for the characters and film. Within a week, he had gotten my script out to his students and I had a cast! Even before meeting them in person, I could tell how kind and professional they all were. When we started shooting, I learned how talented each student was and I could see the passion they had for acting. I am beyond grateful for BIlly's help in casting my film with his talented students! My film was a great success and my teacher and classmates praised and congratulated me on the finished product and admired the talent of the actors. I owe much of the success of my film project to Billy Gallo and his students at Manhattan Actor Studio and I will definitely reach out to BIlly and Manhattan Actor Studio for my future acting needs! read more

Billy Gallo is more then just an acting coach. He is a mentor , friend, coach and so much more. I confide everything to him and know I am going to get a real straight up honest answer. I just did my first acting project for a movie and I was able to talk to Billy about everything. He helped me with all kinds of little things I would have never even thought of during production. I also have to say my acting had improved %100 since I started 2 months ago. I can now cry and tap into all sorts of emotions I had held back for so many years. Acting has helped my depression and anxiety by allowing me to express my true emotions in a healthy manner. Billy also had taught me the importance of taking care of yourself thru self-love, meditation, and creativity. When I started I was a mess and constantly doubted my talent. Now I am confident and am ready to further my career. Not to mention we have barely scratched the surface with my acting. I am so excited to see where this adventure takes me! read more

What can i say! Billy Gallo is the man ! i have been attending his actors gym (open studio) for 3 months now and i can honestly say that its the best career decision i have ever made. Not only is Billy humble, positive and supportive to his students , he also expects you to push yourself as an actor. Billy is a seasoned professional working actor and knows everything and anything there is to know about the industry. Not only has Billy brought out my confidence as an actor, he has also brought my confidence out in life as a whole. Anything seems attainable after working with Billy. His other students are the same they are all humble, hardworking, positive and care about the craft. I can 100% say i have improved as an actor in such a short time being mentored by Billy. So anyone from beginners to professional working actors i would HIGHLY recommend Billys studio. YOU will not regret it! read more

Billy Gallo's gifted teaching ability combined with his dedication and excellent teaching studio create a fabulous place to learn and grow, not only as an actor, but a human being. Billy is nurturing and thoughtfully critical at the same time, which you want in a teacher. He pushes you to keep going beyond your comfort range, and keep working on your craft to become a great actor. The exercises he has me do have allowed me to tap into and explore all parts of myself, good and bad, happy and despairing, to create characters that are memorable and engaging. His lessons, combined with the reading he assigned me, have allowed me to tap into my gifts and accelerate at a rapid pace. My daughter has also taken classes from him, and he has shown her techniques that she wouldn't learn in school or other classes I have admired Billy for decades, and to learn from him is a great honor. read more

This place is amazing!! Billy Gallo is one of the most humble and talented people in California. He's teaching methods are outstanding. I was first directed to learn and mentor under Billy by a mutual director friend of ours. And I can say 100% stake on my life. Billy made every impact possible for the good in my life today. At Manhattan Actor Studio you arnt just a student but family. The actors gym held there is top notch. From reading material writers are working on currently to working with producers on some of televisions biggest shows. If your looking to learn and grow as an actor you can't pass this place up. I learned more from Billy in 2 sessions Than the first year of New York Film Academy. Billy is a no bullshit straight to the core actor and will help you achieve nothing but success in your personal life. Billy thank you for all you have taught me and directed me to. read more

My daughter's comment: I am taking Billy Gallo's group classes and the private 12-week course (the Michelangelo set). I came into his class not knowing anything about acting, and within a few weeks, I learned so much. He is an amazing teacher, knowing how and what to do to improve your acting. I would definitely recommend his class for anyone interested in acting or any form of talking in front of people. He not only improve my acting he also made me feel comfortable talking in public. I can't thank Billy Gallo enough. Mother's comment: Ever since my daughter started taking Billy's class, something inside her changed. She is more motivated, driven and engaged in everything she does. I can tell she also gained more confidence. And now, even her academic grades have gone up! His class is life changing and we are forever thankful for his inspiration. read more

I've been to a few acting schools in the past but it wasn't until I started taking classes with Billy Gallo a few months ago that I now understand what it means to be an actor and many of my preconceived fears of acting have subsided. I've seen real, noticeable progress in a short period of time, it's quite scary. I feel more aware of myself, and way much more confident and in control when I'm in front of the camera. Billy immediately spotted my potential, he worked on the areas that needed improvement, taught me how to breathe and meditate before and after working on a character which is so important and oftentimes dismissed, and I still keep learning and growing with each class. He's truly an incredible acting coach and source of inspiration, moreover he's an amazing person that deeply cares about his students and the art. read more

After signing my 8 year old up @ Manhattan Actor Studio, in just two weeks, his reading has improved in addition to his spelling test! Never has he received 100% on weekly spelling test until now. He's showing a different focus and determination. My sons struggles with reading. He's working hard to improve but often gets frustrated. After attending only one session with Mr Billy Gallo, my son has this new excitement! He wants to work harder than ever to improve his reading because he has found a connection with meaning. I can't thank Billy Gallo enough for his kind and patient approach. Mr Gallo, my gratitude is endless! Thank you thank you thank you! We are looking forward to seeing all the positive progress in store for our son at the Manhattan Acting Studio! read more

My 16 year old son has focused on sports his whole life. I was so delighted when he came to me with the desire to give acting a try. I know nothing about acting but I am an artist so I want to support him and give him a shot. The Manhattan Actor Studio just appeared out of nowhere, it seems. My two oldest boys and I met with Billy and we came up with a plan for each of them. Each of them enjoy working with Billy and are learning some amazing life skills along with learning the art of acting. My athlete is now an artist. It is wonderful to see him in such a good emotional and spiritual space after coming out of an acting session. What Billy is doing is clearly vocational. He wants to give back and share his gift with all of us. I am very grateful! read more

There couldn't be anyone more generous, helpful, real, and truthful than Billy. I'm extremely grateful for having this studio and teacher close to home. Living in the South Bay, I dreaded the idea of driving all the way to LA for acting classes. Thankfully, I stumbled across his website. Billy keeps it real. He helps you find your truth to leave it on the stage, as he likes to tell us. It's a safe space to explore your truth. Everyone who comes to class are friendly. It has become a family. Within the two years of coming to the studio, Billy has helped me grow so much. He's helping me transform my dreams into reality. Thank you so much Billy! Highly recommend you start chasing your dreams at this studio. read more

Billy's teaching style is outstanding. I've only been to three private sessions and he's already helped me reach emotional places I've never been able to reach on camera before. Leaving this studio makes me feel like I'm leaving a therapy session, completely relaxed and filled with confidence. Billy immediately makes you feel right at home so that you can begin to take risks and explore very vulnerable places. He teaches in a way that will challenge you and push you to your limits, but he is always extremely positive and supportive. Most importantly, Billy truly cares about his students, and it shows through his teaching. I look forward to continuing my training at the Manhattan Actor Studio. read more

Billy has taken my acting to the next level in a short period of time. I started with private sessions--learning how to develop a character and built my demo reel. I now attend the Actor's Gym and it is the highlight of my week. I can now consider myself a working Actor as I have booked several commercials, a short film and am headed toward TV and Film! I have learned that Acting does not come overnight. But, the progress I have made with Billy has been immense in less than 1 year of attending the studio. Billy delivers the truth and has a burning passion for the craft. His guidance in the industry is priceless. read more

I can't begin to state how impressed I was with Billy and the Manhattan Actor Studio. I'm a director and needed to conduct a table read of a script. Billy was able to tap into his pool of student actors and cast each role and did an incredible job staging the read. His help was invaluable. As an aside, I spoke with several of the actors present and they had nothing but glowing reviews of Billy as an acting coach. The proof was evident as everyone was well prepared, committed, and great art what they did. I will not hesitate to use Billy's services in the future -- I may even take a class or two from him! read more

Manhattan Actor Studio has great creative energy! I'm surrounded by talented working actors that are inspirational, supportive & trustworthy. The biggest draw is coach Billy Gallo, a professional working actor who brings a wealth of experience & knowledge into the world of entertainment. Billy's eye for direction is phenomenal! His observations & ability to draw out your biggest strength as an actor & creative is beyond brilliant. This has been a rewarding experience. It's the best playground for me to become a seasoned polished actress! I absolutely love being a part of this studio! read more