A complete game-changer. First off, let me just say I am fairly new to acting (only 2 years doing commercials) so coming in (after hearing about the school from an actor friend of mine), I knew I had a lot to learn as far as developing proper technique, working on scenes, etc. since I have only ever done improv training. And now, as I approach my third full month of classes, I can honestly say that Playhouse West has just fueled my fire in many ways I wasn't even expecting.
Not only are the instructors here (I've had both Wolf and Holly) brutally honest with critiques so you know exactly what you need to work on for next class (- don't worry, they are both super hilarious and come from a place of love so you'll be inspired to be better as they lay out the truth to you), but they will also patiently teach you everything there is to know about the Meisner technique (-heads up, you will also have to read the book too!) and cater the course specifically to each person since they keep track of each student's progress and what they need to bring to the table for next class.
As an added bonus, of course with every acting class you get the opportunity to network with your classmates, but what I love about PHW is how they require us to meet up outside of class to rehearse, which holds us all accountable for keeping the class on track while encouraging us to really immerse ourselves into this world and to put in the work that it takes.
Lastly, something that has really made a necessary impact on me personally, has been the level of SERIOUSNESS regarding punctuality. I admit, time mgmt has always been a huge struggle for me. However, upon arriving late to both instructors' classes (my first couple of weeks at the school), I became aware that tardiness was not taken lightly and soon disciplined myself to make it to class on time, every time. Which honestly, was such a necessary adjustment I had to make to my life in general, and ESPECIALLY for acting, that for that lesson alone, I am so grateful for PHW.
Anyways, whether you are an actor looking for a school to brush up on your technique or just need some good guidance in your life, PHW is a great nurturing environment (-really, everyone there is super sweet and respectful) that truly offers an abundance of wisdom in each class. Love love love the school and so glad I found this gem. 10/10 recommend, woop! :D read more