I Have been taking Acting Classes with David Rotenberg at Pro actors Lab for the last ten years. I am an Actra member and I work in the field on part time basis. I am a psychiatrist the rest of the time! Classes start and end on time. The lab is very well organized and well managed and the space of the lab has a wonderful creative feel. I find working on Camera with the chance of reflecting back on the scenes in the presence of other actors and with David's guidance incredibly useful. I find that Rotenberg has a very rich understanding of human nature and is incredibly gifted in seeing the nuances of each performance and being able to point out what works and what does not. He helps the actor become aware of their strength and weaknesses, he does not hold punches! He helps at times by making general comments about each performance that is useful to others in the class, ( if one is open and curious to take in the comments and apply it to ones own work) he shares his theory on how an actor can modulate his character to fit what is required for the scene. he helps differentiate between acting on the stage and acting in front of the camera. He never spoon feeds you! It took me a while to slowly get a deep understanding of what his method is. I wanted initially to just be given a straight direction on how to act... the frustration of not getting spoon fed has slowly allowed me to own the changes I had to make to become a more compelling actor. David Rotenberg's approach has many similarities to the contemporary psychoanalytic understanding of relationships. He values and stresses the importance to have authentic attention in the here and now to ones own emotional reality( to be grounded), openness to be affected by her acting partners' emotional reality and acting choices , while understanding and staying true to the author's text of the scene. David does go on at times in a lengthy way giving anecdotes of his life and his work... for many that is irritating and a waist of time... for me its incredibly essential to know in detail my teachers personal biases and perspectives ( I see life and humanity differently that Rotenberg and in many instances I disagree with him) only then can I appreciate better why is he seeing in me what he sees, why is he teaching me the way he does, so to make my own choice for what works best for me. He is very open to agreeing that we can disagree .... In my opinion it is only through this genuine sharing of differing opinions the tension between various apposing ideas that one can have affective teaching... leading to compelling performances. read more

It took several years of searching and taking workshops in Ontario and Quebec to find a teaching style with results. David's method's/materials are used and appreciated by actors of various backgrounds. I always find it interesting to see someone auditing his class after graduating from a known school, then going on to study there. I've met so many students who would travel 4-5 hours, like me, from another city just for class. Trust me, its worth it...proof... his Advance level and Master Class level students are working actors in T.V. and Film, booking regularly. As far as class... If you are going to class to simply get affirmation as an actor, this is the wrong spot. If you are going to learn, grow, swallow your pride and be challenged, this is a safe place. I've had many people ask me if he's as mean as they've heard....uhm no!! If its not good and you are capable of better, yes he will tell you that but gives you ideas and suggestions. In case you're wondering, in the last 4 years, I have never heard him yell or shame anyone....but, sometimes constructive honest truth hurts the big bad pride. Reputation from veteran actors... I have been on set with some of Canada's veteran actors/ working actors and when they learn of who I'm studying with, I get instant respect and they usually have a warm message to send back to him. Agent's, Casting Director's and known Photographers have the same respect for him. It always amazes me how his method's reach every actor on every level and every background. I've read opposite "Method" actors and non-method actors. He gets to know a person in order to help them find what works for them as an actor. For example, I've witnessed David giving special notes to Musician's that only a musician would understand. I've seen the same with singer's, faith based actors and actors of different cultures or unique experiences. Basically, if you are not sure, I encourage you to audit a David Rotenburg class and even check out some other teachers at the Pro Actors Lab. read more

I have studied at the Pro Actors Lab now for several years with David Rotenberg, and I can't think of another acting coach who has cared more for my acting career than this talented instructor. His classes are always filled with insightful and constructive critique and I feel as though I learn just as much watching the other talented actors that train in his studio, as I do when I'm in front of the studio camera myself. If you aren't able to handle honest and direct criticism, then this isn't the place for you. However, if you want to improve as an actor and an artist in an industry that is becoming increasingly demanding, then I could not recommend this studio and David Rotenberg highly enough. He will address the issues that are holding you back as an actor and help you work through these problems. He will help you understand that acting is an art form, but is also part of a business. Furthermore, he will give you the necessary tools to use on set when you encounter the inevitable roadblocks that arise during shooting. I've grown so much as an actor studying with David at the Pro Actors Lab, from his new students class to his master class, and I would recommend the studio to anyone that is interested in working hard and tackling the worthy challenge of excelling in this competitive arena. I think of this place as a gym where I can practice against some of the best actors in the city, and it's through my failures in the studio that I have become a better actor and I'm truly thankful for the tutelage I have received here as I know it has made me a better artist. read more

Been studying at the lab for two years and can only say that its benefited me immensely in my growth as an artist. The lab is a creative, safe, and comfortable room. A room that David and his staff encourages each artist to be open, free and they will guide you in finding your voice as an artist. The bar is set high, as it should be, and it's because these teachers at the Lab CARE. It's about the art and working to be honest in it. David and the teachers instil that into the students and challenge you to achieve it through inhabiting the character and playing the scene. This is a lab where actors train to be better. The less you think about what critique you will receive and just focus on being in the moment and letting the scene play out, the more results you will attain. It's hard work and studying at the lab has been therapeutic for me with whatever ups and downs, good and bad days I have, I leave that class motivated and driven to only be better as a human being and that will play into my work as an actor. David has an innate understanding of the human condition and imposes that on you, the artist, to explore. I have studied with Bruce and Rae and they are also fantastic, dedicated and compassionate in guiding you to hone your craft. If you want to push yourself and grow in the long run, this is the place to train. read more

I have taken many acting classes and workshops around Toronto, and The Pro actors lab is the one where I have been able to do my best work, and allow me to grow as an artist. It is great to be able to work on full scenes on 2 cameras, with an acting partner and not a reader. Before The Pro Actors lab, I was in classes where I felt that I was being "taught how to act" as if there is a right way and everything else is the wrong way. I was pretty frustrated to say the least. Here, they focus on film and television, which is what I want to be working on. Also, they allow the actor to BE an actor, and not a STUDENT of acting. They allow the actor to work, and slightly adjust or tweak the scene to see where else it can go. This is what I love above all. Since training with Bruce and David, I've had the busiest time of my career. The auditions are getting more and more, but the real change is the bookings are getting more and more. If you are curious about the classes, I encourage all actors to audit their class and see what they do. This is MY experience and the journey I'm on. It might work for you and it might not, but I can attest that they have really worked for me. Thank you David and Bruce! read more

I have been studying at the pro actors lab for around 4 years now. I started by studying with a phenomenal coach by the name of Marvin Hinz. Marvin's class helped me become comfortable with the technical aspects of working on camera and I found Marvin to be extremely encouraging and knowledgeable. To this day I am incredibly thankful to have wandered into his class. He focuses firmly on the strengths of each individual actor and he has a good eye for authenticity. After working with Marvin for around 10 months, I moved into David Rotenberg's advanced class. David is the best coach I have ever worked with. He has an incredible eye for what is compelling and he does not pull punches when it comes down to what each actor's week point is. David has absolutely improved my all around ability to make choices, find moments and work off of my scene partner. He has mixed reviews throughout the city, most likely because of his brutal honesty, but in my experience his feedback always touches on weaknesses that need to be fixed in order to progress. My favourite studio in the city! read more

I am a trained theatre actor who was looking for more on camera training when David was recommended to me, about a year ago. David is an incredible teacher. He is very honest and offers valuable industry insight. He is direct and thorough when he critiques your work which is extremely useful to the actor and is a rare quality to find amongst Toronto acting teachers. David is also wonderful because he actually cares about his actors, even outside of class. He is quick to respond to emails and is there for his actors whenever he is able. The care and time he puts into his work as an acting teacher is insurmountable, and because of this his students receive an education of the highest quality. If you put the work into his class and show up in your scenes, you will find he is the best teacher, and that your acting will improve greatly. I do understand however, that not every actor is going to click with every teacher, which is why I highly recommend taking his new students class. It's a great way to get a feel for his style and see if it's right for you. read more

I've been working with David for the last 10 years. He has helped me immensely with my art and confidence. David is a patient, understanding teacher who has a sharp eye. He knows exactly what technically and emotionally will help his students make a scene better, book a job and just improve their craft over all. As kind,understanding and patient as David is - he will tell you the truth, push you past your comfort zone and tell you when you're not as good as you can be - something we all need as students. As well as working with David - I have worked in Rae Ellen's voice class. She's is amazing. She is intuitive, smart, caring and loving. You will feel safe and supported in this class as well as David's. This is the studio to train at. read more

"I've had the privilege of working with David for over six years now both privately and in class. He is a kind and insightful coach that creates an incredibly safe and professional environment to work on your craft. He works patiently along side actors to challenge them to dig and explore for greater emotional depth and authenticity. This studio is about just that, the opportunity to learn and practice the basics of getting to know your emotional landscape and applying it to your characters. I recommend it for any actor at any stage of your career. Full of compassion and encouragement, you could not find a better coach/studio to establish a solid foundation and continue to grow and excel. read more

Trained with David Rotenberg for years, from the New Students Class up to the Master Class, and the work I've booked and the growth I've made in my on-camera work wouldn't be possible without my time training at the LAB. If you want to act in film and TV in Toronto, and play leads, this is the place to train! I wouldn't be half the actor I am or have nearly the confidence in screen I do today without David's class. Coming from Theatre school, this was a great fit to go from professional Theatre work into professional film work. I highly recommend PAL! Also, Rae-Ellen Bodie has got to be one of, if not THE, most talented voice coaches in the country! Great teachers all under one roof! read more

David Rotenberg with his years of experience in the craft teaches it just that way. This is a craft and it is for actors who are devoted to taking their career to the next level he has a wonderful eye and knows what the industry is looking for. With an honest and generous approach David guides you through the work. There are no short cuts here the work is hard but the rewards are great. David spares nothing when it comes to helping his students in or out of class. He understands the business is difficult and will do what he can help you maneuver it. I have studied with many teachers and David has made me feel the most comfortable and confident in my craft, I thank him for that. read more

I have studied at the Pro Actors lab for years now. It was definitely challenging and difficult, but all in the right ways. David Rotenburge never gave me the answers but rather guided me to having a better understanding of my own strengths and what I bring to the art form. David is honest with his feedback; never wavering in his standard which I found refreshing. I wasn't coddled and had to work to better myself. I am constantly challenged to be better and work deeper and think in more interesting ways. I thank all those who I have worked with at The Pro Actors lab for helping me on my journey. read more

I have studied with David for years and much of the success I have achieved in this business is due to his training, and his belief and support in me as an artist. He gave me a language and a method to approach the work - a way "in". He is honest and challenging and he knows how to draw out your most compelling performance. The tools I've learned from David have and will continue to stay with me for the rest of my life and he has been an invaluable influence on me. If you want to be coddled, study elsewhere. If you want to grow, study at Pro Actors Lab. read more

It is a pleasure working with David. His acting system is very intuitive and practical. Despite all his years of gathered experience and knowledge, you don't feel like he over complicates or over explains things, which is sometimes the tendency with seasoned professionals. On the contrary, he sticks to the bottom line, is observant of the needs of the actor and adjusts his approach accordingly. Most importantly, he cares about the actors and their success and this for me is one of the main reasons I like working with David. read more

Incredible classes and workshops. David Rotenberg is one of the most knowledgeable and honest acting teachers you will find. He legitimately cares about the success of his students and takes great care in helping them reach the next level of their profession. The work can be extremely challenging in the beginning because what he teaches isn't what you get in traditional acting classes, but the methods and approach he uses will ultimately not just make you a better actor, but a more successful one too. read more

I've been taking David's classes for a few years now and it has improved me no end.one of the best decisions I've made in my career. His technique is very easy to adopt. He drops in these subtle trinkets of advice that can chance your whole perception of a scene. David has great insight and is very knowledgeable about the industry and his advise is invaluable. I cannot speake highly enough of the Pro Actors Lab and of David. read more

I've been working with David for the last 3 years now and it's been a saving grace for practicing my craft. He provides a great place to work, play and fall on your ass and make mistakes. The specificity in his methods really made me find the joy in creating compelling, interesting characters. I'd recommend studying with him if you want to push yourself to the next level in your career. See you in class! read more

Studying at Pro Actors Lab changed the way I work as an actor, and helped me take my career to the next level. I found more detail and honesty in my camera work. I discovered bad habits I had and was unaware of and David helped me break them. I left his studio strong and I use his technique to book work. You learn a new vocabulary working with David. I highly recommend him and the Actors Lab. read more

I am studying under David Rotenberg and Rae Ellen Bodie and love both of their classes. They provide the best acting training in the city and there is an excellent caliber of talent in the room. You can also audit classes before signing up, which is a great opportunity to get a taste of the work before committing to a full session. read more