While working as a casting director, I have attended Charles' class as a guest speaker and was able to see many of the performance's in action. I have also utilized some of his actor's in projects as well as Charles himself. I have worked with many actors, coaches etc. and Charles is definitely one of the best. He has discovered some real gems in his actors and is able to be grounded and genuine with them so that they feel safe in discovering their abilities. The one word that comes to mind when I think of Charles and My Acting Studio is Authentic! read more

After many years of thinking I'd like to try a standup class, a friend talked me into getting past my fear and signing up for Comedy 4 Life and what a great experience it has been. Charles Sanchez, the instructor, is an experienced standup. He is genius at drawing out his students' authentic selves and shaping that into a set. He points out the funny stuff and recommends improvements, saying "suggestion only!" The thing I liked best is that Charles strives to get to know and encourage each student. He recognizes strengths and helps hone those skills. Every student is on stage for every class to present a 5-10-minute set which is followed by a very gentle critique--offering ways to make jokes and stage presence better. The class includes some homework--working on your set, plus a few books to read and recommendations for specific comedians to watch on YouTube or Netflix. This class definitely helped me to recognize my skills, write good jokes, and gain confidence on stage and off. I also learned about the business of standup--what it's like to go to comedy clubs, open mics, etc. I am really looking forward to taking the improv class with Charles next. read more

I have a taken a few classes here and it has been such a fantastic experience working here with Charles. He truly has a passion for what he does and years of experience and it shows. I can't wait to continue here and see how the studio can continue to grow! read more

Just completed an improv acting class here, and I loved being introduced to actual techniques that allowed me to use it for theater and everyday life. While improv is mainly associated with comedy, this class expanded my view on the possibilities of improv for the serious actor with a focus on vulnerability. I look forward to taking the foundational acting class next, and am grateful I don't have to drive through Los Angeles traffic for a great education! read more

Great instructor. He really takes the time to walk you through a process to see what's the most effective way for you.

I feel so lucky to have found this acting studio! Charles is such a kind man with a big heart. One of the best qualities he has as a coach and as a teacher is that he truly cares about you not only as a student but as a person. He creates a safe space where you can really open up and learn and grow. He will push you out of your comfort zone but in the best way and you will only better yourself from it. I come home every night from his class and feel like I'm on top of the clouds. So much good energy and good people! read more

If you really want to know the secrets of acting, Charles Tentindo is a wonderful, kind, and patient teacher. He will help you find your own inner creativity. One can feel easily comfortable and build a trusting relationship with him as your teacher. If you have not tried any of his class/workshops, now is the time to treat yourself to the secrets of acting, and self discovery. read more

Charles Tientendo is awesome. I had a private session with him to prepare for an audition. He is very insightful and was able to help me to understand the character and realize my potential. I was able to go into the audition with confidence. read more

I am a beginner in the acting world and I was so afraid of what the outcome of this class would be. I was afraid because i didn't have enough experience as some of the actors in that class, I am also the youngest, but they all welcomed me with open arms. This class is such an amazing learning experience and the energy of the environment that Charles has set up really makes you want to become a better actor. Getting to watch your self at the end of the class is truly moving and helps you improve because you can pick up on the mistakes you are making much quicker. If you are serious about an acting career i would fully recommend this class. read more

What can I not say about Charles!? What a wonderful Intuitive coach. He took his time to talk to me and figure out were I wanted to go as a performer, not only that he was very honest in a positive and effective way. My first 1on1 I discovered a part of myself that I had no idea about after 20 years in Theatre Acting. This new found discovery helped me land a contract with one of the best agencies in Los Angeles. I have no doubt his technique will help any actor new coming or experienced. If you want to start booking and learn the fundamentals of not only acting but being a standout, contact Charles and you will discover that passion within yourself you've been missing. read more

I'm a nobody, currently. I want to simply tell how wonderful Charles is... I got his information from an Improv teacher to help coach me with a Big Auditon. Did he help? YES He charged a very nominal fee for his services, more than that I gained a friend and colleague! I was auditioning for a Very Well Known film/acting studio in LA, and he took time out of his busy life to coach me on two monologues. One had to be a published comedic monologue (my weakness) and the other was a published dramatic monologue (my strength). He helped take my strengths and weaknesses to the next level X10---I got in before the "cattle call" auditions and was given merit & needs-based scholarships! I am ever indebted to his coaching. I had a hard time "reining" in my acting for the camera & he (in just a few sessions) was able to teach me how to do so. I also, had a hard time crying for a role---he helped me do so honestly. Enroll in his classes, if you are really serious! That is what I recommend :) Best of luck to you...hope you make it...I am on my way :) read more

Charles is the perfect teacher for me that I needed to start my career. With his actor and director instincts he was able to not only push me but bring out the best in me. read more

I took an acting workshop with My Acting Studio and I was very happy with the experience. Mary Meglemre and Charles Tendino are both wonderful mentors. Mary focused mainly on improvisation, which certainly pushed me out of my comfort zone. She knows how to get the best out of her students and she speaks to us like equals. Charles' advice about auditioning was invaluable. I would absolutely recommend My Acting Studio to any budding actors who want to push themselves and take risks. read more

Charles is AMAZING! I had one private training with him before I spoke in front a an audience (yesterday) and I was asked to come back to speak again! Because I had met with Charles I came in to the talk feeling confident and with some very valuable skills that kept my audience entertained while learning at the same time. Charles is very easy to work with, his direction is succinct and VERY effective. I can't believe I learned as much as I did in one hour. I feel very fortunate to be able to continue working with Charles as my coach, my goal is to become a national and international public speaker. read more

I just had to write a review for this one! Charles is the acting coach of a LIFETIME! I've had many acting coaches in my acting career thus far, and not one of them has done what Charles has. I used to get so tired of general/common sense exercises and acting practices they'd teach me. Charles implements specific acting techniques that improve your ability to act organically. One thing that amazes me about Charles is his intention of making us better people. At the end of every class, he asks, "Would you win an Oscar for the way you live your life?" He allows us to open up and be vulnerable in a safe space. He teaches us that the way we carry ourselves and treat others will take presence in our acting, so an important step in becoming a better actor is becoming a better person. He's so humble and I love him! If you're looking for an acting coach, Charles is definitely the way to go! He makes it personal man. I can't tell you guys how many times he's called me to check up on me. Seeing if I did well at an audition (he remembers) and to get an update on my latest work. I've unlocked emotions I didn't even know I could access in my work! His classes are great, and I want an Oscar for the way I live my life. read more

Been with Charles for about 7 months now altogether. I will always keep coming back because the class sizes are nice and everyone gets a great amount of time to work. I also love learning from watching my classmates. The people I've met in these classes have become friends and like family and same with Charles. I've learned so much and have completed the foundation class, scene study, camera class, and audition workshop and every class I learn something new. I've gotten my headshots and demo reels done with Charles Tentindo and I'm going to continue getting more reels made with him! So happy I found this class! read more

I had a blast participating in Charles' Level 1 acting class. Charles provides a very comfortable and engaging atmosphere for his students to explore the art form and he is very supportive in his feedback/comments. The class focuses on observation, reaction, connection with your fellow classmates/actors, and developing comfort with being onstage. It's quite a therapeutic process and the skills learned directly transfer to your everyday life. If you've always wanted to try acting but have been discouraged for one reason or another, I would definitely encourage you to visit/talk to Charles =) read more

I am really happy I tried this class out and definitely plan on going through with levels two and three. The level one class I have taken so far has great exercises to better your craft, but to also break-through personal obstacles in life. Charles is a very good teacher who actually seems to care about your success and I always look forward to this class every Monday. I highly recommend this class for anybody who is curious about learning this industry. read more

Charles is one of the most caring instructors in the business. His gentle approach is perfect for the beginning actor, but he will also push the advanced actor too. I think his on-camera class is awesome because you get instant feedback on your performance, and you get to see how you look and perform on camera. That is valuable for an actor in training who is hoping to break into TV and film. LOVE this class and love Charles!! read more

Charles is truly an amazing human being not only as an actor but a teacher as well! The foundation 6 week program I took with him was surreal and eye opening. He is always open to helping you even if it means financially because he is investing in you not the payout. The prices comparatively to other acting classes are absolutely perfect and you get well more in knowledge than what you pay for. Highly recommended if you are super serious about this art form or even if you just want to be more in-tune with yourself. I am super happy to have him as a coach/friend and look forward to working with him indefinitely. read more

I returned to Charles' My Acting Studio - which is now located IN IT OWN CUTE BUILDING @ 4412 Viking Way in Long Beach. Let me describe the new studio space: It is a FABULOUS space - designed specifically for performance work. It's like walking into another place and time - it really has a mysterious magical atmosphere. Charles has got it all rigged for performance complete with state of the art computer programmed lighting (professional & gorgeous!), gorgeous stage complete with a 'hidden' doorway exit and great props (plus a baby grand piano!) ; glass doors for entry to & exit from the stage; leather upholstered theater seats; chandelier and various orchestral instruments such as a violin. Viola, flute and his invention of the Zenriffer- hanging on the walls. Did I mentioned computerized music and sound effects- it's all so cool! He even has a 17 foot wide white screen that descends from the stage ceiling for all sorts of usages! Let me describe my class experiences: Completely professional and in depth coaching & instruction from Charles. His 12 week Foundation Acting Class covers ALL the basics: script memorization skills ; body & voice warm up; in class performances of dialogue & monologue plus on camera work - shot right onstage with you! It's so great being class with all the professional equipment right there! Charles is an extremely gifted teacher as well as an all around performance "renaissance man" - he gives us all so much individual attention - it's just a treasure! Now I am taking his newly introduced 'Performance Acting Workshop ". Man! It's a high going to class! Intense study of dialogues & monologues which are excerpts from 'Grace & Frankie" - so it's great writing to work on. He had Ms. Megan O'Toole - Founder & Creative Director of the LB Foundation theater as a special featured instructor - who spent 2 classes specifically working with VOICE - which is the heart of theater. Light bulbs were going off in everybody's head as she connected the dots and gave specific individual coaching - we all GREW so much in these past weeks - her special guest voice instruction was timed PERFECTLY for where we were all 'at' in our scenes! The class will be capped off --with a taped dress rehearsal using camera crews & sound, music, SFX -- and will tape individual interviews to record our experiences with this class - but wait there's more! That's only week 7 of the 8 week workshop! On week 8 we will perform live to a live audience and Charles has arranged a talent manager & a director to watch and critique us! It this SO COOL? I must say I am filled with so much JOY! - from the nurturing classes , tremendous instructor and warm friendly supportive class mates! If you are interested in improving your skills in acting, improv comedy, or stand up comedy - this place is IT! Charles also has various performance shows on the weekend too - full of music, opera singing and more! It's wonderful to feel part of community at My Acting Studio and really progressing with acting skills! So cool. read more

Best hidden secret in the entertainment industry in Long Beach. Charles is dedicated to improving the actor's skills as well as personal development. But it isnt all touchy-feely! He gives you the tools, training, discipline and techniques to prepare for filming on-camera. read more

I enjoy every moment of training with Charles. He is able to find those hidden triggers that every successful actor must have in order to have a prosperous career, he took my acting to another level, to place I have never been and I love it, thank you Charles. He is passionate about what his craft and translates that into a remarkable learning experience. I can't wait to finish my reel( which will be directed by Charles. He creates amazing reels) I now have the confidence to reach for the stars! The sky's the limit! So if you are reading this and are in need of some serious coaching look no further.... You have found the man for the job! read more

My daughter attends the group youth class on Sundays and absolutely loves working with Ms. Kelly and the other kids. We will definitely be enrolling for another six week session in the very near future. read more

Yelpers! This review now is after completing my 12 week foundation class, and I can't wait to take his scene study class, camera class and everything else he offers! The foundation class has helped me so much grow professionally and personally as a individual and I got exactly what I wanted when I was looking into taking acting classes. I wanted to become more confident in myself I wanted to feel comfortable speaking in front of a group of individuals and I got exactly that out of the foundation class 12 week course. I would love to keep learning and perfecting everything I've learned of acting from Charles so far! he's an amazing instructor extremely passionate about acting and that genuine passion transfers over to his teaching style every single time. He will make you feel comfortable, give you great feedback! if you're hesitant I say contact him and give the class a try! you have nothing to loose! read more

Charles is very professional, has a passion for what he does & is definitely fun to work with. I definitely recommend having your headshots taken by him!!!!!!!! read more

Charles is incredible! He is extremely caring and focuses on making the best out of you. When I first introduced myself to him he seemed so engaged in his craft. I even performed an exercise about self-esteem. It was great I had a lot of fun while learning some helpful tips. I am definitely returning for his class and I also encourage others to do so, even if acting is not in your interest I would definitely recommend those who wish to enhance their self-improvement skills. read more

A serious GEM in downtown Long Beach. If you've never had any experience acting or if you've had "bad" experiences- this is a safe haven where you can really learn and have great community support. Unlike other classes I've taken- the relationships I've built in this class are incredible. When I started My Acting Studio, I was unsure about my career and very nervous on camera. Thanks to Charles and My Acting Studio, I'm now studying at other schools out in Hollywood that previously felt way out of my league, I have a solid professional demo reel and feel equipped to take the next step in my career! read more

I absolutely love Charles and his class. If you want to grow as an actor and be pushed to be your creative best, this is the place for you. He has such a way to bring the best out of everyone. It's fantastic to watch. And it's not just classes, he offers alls the bells and whistles you need as an actor, headshots, demos etc. You really can't go wrong here. Audit a class and see what I mean! read more

Charles is amazing! I have wanted to take acting classes for YEARS and have always been too scared to bite the bullet... I finally did it and signed up for Charles' beginning foundation class and BOY am I happy I did. He made me feel extremely comfortable and welcome all while tailoring his teaching methods to fit exactly what I needed. He flexible, kind, honest and genuinely cares about the success of his students. I couldn't recommend him enough. And if you're anything like me and are hesitant on taking a class... JUST DO IT! I promise you- you won't regret it. read more

I don't even know where to start. Charles is all around amazing. He's so down to earth, funny and honest. He is so passionate about spending time to helping you with acting exercises in class and outside of class. As a teacher and coach, he makes acting so comfortable. I have met other acting coaches and they are too rigid and too rough around the edges. He has helped me with thinking outside the box when it came to auditions. Because of it, I landed an acting job that I have auditioned for . The first time in months after I took his class. He gives a lot of real life experiences and advice --- very relevant to inside the auditioning room to being on camera. He's a great man who is so positive. read more

Charles does a great job of bringing out the best in you. I highly recommend if anyone is slightly interested in taking acting classes! I took his 12 week foundation course and can't wait to continue! read more

Charles is an amazing teacher that not just teaches you what to do but how to do it. I am currently enrolled in his level one class and I feel that I am not only learning how to be an actor but how to be myself more. I can see my classmates, who are there for various reasons (getting over public speaking, getting a voice, acting, trying something new), accomplishing their goals. Everyone has been amazing and has grown from the initial start of the class thanks floor Charles' teachings. It really does feel like I am getting to see something amazing when I am in class and I know I am becoming a better person and actor because of it. I highly recommend this class. read more

I feel very fortunate to have found Charles Tentindo. He cares so much about his students and helps all of us get what we need out of each class. The community of actors is so inspired and super embracing, which was exactly what I was looking for! On top of the weekly classes, Charles also offers fantastic privates, which I found extremely helpful. I was able to work on a couple of monologues and was positively-pushed to work on writing my own material, as well. I learned a ton! Charles rocks - join his class now! read more

My 15-year-old son has been taking acting classes from Charles Tentindo since January and it has been an absolutely wonderful experience for both of us. My son loves acting but before coming to Charles' studio, he had had a recent difficult experience on stage which affected his confidence in himself and in his acting. When I picked him up Tuesday night from Charles' Foundations of Acting class my son came out of the class "on fire" with excitement and positive energy and shared the following: "What [that painful experience] took away from me, Charles and the class gave back to me again. The class made me believe in myself and fall in love with acting again." I can't think of a better endorsement than this! Charles and the Acting Studio have also helped him with headshots, coaching for auditions, and foundational acting skills for both stage and tv/film. And as I'm watching, I've seen that Charles is connecting him not just with the skill and discipline of professional acting, but with the absolute joy of being an artist. read more

you will not find anyone in southern California, or Long Beach a least, more dedicated to teaching that Charles Tentindo. On the first day I was impressed by his vitality and it fueled my commitment to acting, since then there has been a fire that drives me in and out of class. I look forward to working more with Charles in the next step and I encourage everyone to attend this class to see for yourself. read more

This class is for anyone who is ready to learn and grow as an actor. From the first class, Charles dives into training and really focuses on each individual. He is not afraid to respectfully (and firmly) tell you when something is not working for you and how to improve from that point. This is a safe environment where you will be provided the feedback you need to grow; I have become acquainted with my strengths and weaknesses while simultaneously being brought out of my comfort zone. The personal anecdotes Charles provides for his class really show that he truly has hands on experience with the craft of acting. Thanks, Charles! read more

Charles is an excellent acting coach. From the very beginning he communicates with you so you know what to expect prior to arrival. I took a private class for an hour. What I liked best is that he did not give up until he pulled my very best performance out of me. He tried several different techniques to see what worked best for me as opposed to forcing me to adapt to a generic instructional model. I plan on returning and definitely recommend this class. read more

Acting coach, director and film-maker Charles Tentindo has focused his lens on a rising talent. His considerable skills at creating impressive Audition and Demo Videos is apparent here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRbxcQZEV_s (Click or Enter in your browser to watch) In this well produced short demo video of handsome seventeen-year-old Cole Conner we are introduced to a thoughtful, creative and versatile young man talking about and demonstrating his skills in acting, singing and creating improvisational music. In a candid conversation, Cole describes a passion for merging his own sensitivity to that of the characters he portrays on stage. He reveals dichotomies of sensitivity and strength in character, along with vulnerability and conviction in performance. This plus moments of cool detachment, surrounded by warm charisma. PREVIOUS REVIEW 8/22/2016 Previous review I brought my 15 year old inexperienced and somewhat shy, aspiring actor grandson to Charles Tentindo for a series of one hour private tutoring sessions. A month later he returned to me a confident, outgoing, jubilant young man. This along with having improved dramatic acting abilities I previously only suspected were hidden beneath his quiet introspective moods. Charles has unique abilities to see within his students, drawing out the best they have, motivating them to greater achievements than even they imagined, endowing them with confidence, freeing them from previous doubts to not just dream about a future, but to go and get it. An inspirational mentor, a professional acting coach, and now an admired friend. read more

If I could explain this course in one word, I would, but it is literally impossible. With five years of acting experience, I walked into this class thinking there isn't anything that I don't already know, and that it was going to be a brush off. But boy was I wrong. There was so much, I repeat, so much that I had learn about myself as a person and as an actor. There were many different kinds of ways and emotions that I discovered that I never knew I was able to tap into. And it was Charles that made it all happen for me. I am glad to say that I have evolved and definitely became a better version of myself. Charles made me realize that there is still so much for me to learn as an actor, and that it is okay to jump back to the basics and rebuild your craft. Sometimes we get so caught up in trying to move forward and excel as fast as possible that we forget our roots, and the reason why we fell in love with acting in the first place. So I am extremely grateful to Charles and the way he coached me thru all my up and downs. He is a coach, a listener, and of course, a friend. So bottom line, I highly recommend this course. Charles is a great coach, and I gurantee that you'll learn something new each time you walk in and out of class. So don't be afraid to step foot into this class. The only person stopping you from becoming GREAT, is YOURSELF. Push forward and continue to become the best version of yourself. read more