My experience at the Terry Knickerbocker Studio was nothing short of life changing. I feel truly blessed, and honored that I was selected to attend, and complete the 2 year conservatory program. The Terry Knickerbocker Studio provided me with a wonderfully warm, and generous artistic home when I wasn't sure I would ever be able to find one. They made me feel welcomed from the first moment when I reached out in 2019, to attended their Fall Meisner Intensive, till the day I graduated the 2 year program in 2022. I learned so much about acting during my time at the studio but I also learned so much more about myself and the kind of artist I wanted to be. Terry, along with the other incredible faculty members, really care about the collective as well as the individual. They take time to provide individual feedback and also create space for people to share a thought, a discovery, or a question. They continually, and gently invite you to give a little more, dig a little deeper, reveal a little more, encouraging you to find the deeper meaning within relationships and circumstances. The work you do here is an ongoing conversation of artistry that Terry and the other faculty members help facilitate while guiding you through the journey that is the training. The training was everything I hoped it would be, and everything I wanted for myself. I wanted to be a part of a high quality, rigorous training program surrounded by others who we're committed and focused as well; I found that at the Terry Knickerbocker Studio, while also finding an artist home and friends that will last me a lifetime. read more

Terry Knickerbocker Studio - Art Schools Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I would like to start by saying everyone who assisted me in the studio was helpful and polite. The voice and movement professors, John and especially Onye, were encouraging and friendly. However, as the name on the door is Terry Knickerbocker, my rating is one because I can't give zero. Numerous extremely uncomfortable episodes happened during the time I was there. In some of these episodes, Terry made extremely disrespectful comments about a specific young black student. In my case, because I'm big and muscular, all the criticism was focused on my appearance and how bad my acting was, comparing me to Vin Diesel. I know the intention was to offend me, but thinking about it, Vin Diesel is at least actually acting and not coaching actors. I can't speak for other people or other classes, but as I read on the website that people from minorities have had problems in the studio in the past, there's a good chance this isn't an isolated case. Terry often demands reverential treatment but treats it rudely and impersonally. He demands punctuality but finishes class 40 minutes later. He demands that you answer his comments ( because he doesn't like feeling like an ATM) but interrupts you when you try to express yourself, and especially, like every narcissist, he will shut you down if you disagree with anything or point out any contradictions in the feedback he has given, which happens constantly because In one class he will tell you to be sweeter. On the other, he will complain that you are being too sweet. An art environment, especially for beginners, should be more encouraging, inclusive, and, why not, fun! But Terry seems to have a personal interest in making everything extremely uncomfortable, oppressive, and frightening. Terry has interests other than making the beginning student grow, as he says, "I don't like teaching, but my name is on the door." What he forgets and should be a priority is that the name on the card that keeps his studio open is that of the student. I'm still shocked at how despicable some interactions were, but deep down, I understand that all this sadism comes from a deep resentment for not having been able to have a career as an actor. But even understanding the source, I don't think it's fair that because of his inability to be an actor, he tries to kill the spirit of those starting out and still having a chance to realy make art. I understand that some people will say something different and even publicly defend Terry, most artists, especially actors and actresses, have deep insecurity and seek recognition from this type of sadistic figure or are just afraid of losing opportunities by criticizing a figure who, for them, is a gatekeeper, but, If you want to know what people there really think, ask someone personally. For me, being a veteran, having been born in the projects, the son of a black man, and an immigrant, especially as an artist who creates his own opportunities and directs his own films in his own country I don't need to kiss anyone's ring and I don't need to lie about how disrespectful, uncomfortable and counterproductive my time in Terry's class was. In short, I have never dealt with a more toxic and narcissistic person in my life. read more

Fantastic studio! Such a great experience and dedication to your needs. Will definitely recommend to my friends and family!

Great acting instruction !! Would recommend :) the classes are invigorating and engaging! I loved my experience

I tried to write this review as honestly, directly, with as much compassion and kindness as humanly possible. While I confess that Terry knows a bit about acting, his methods for delivering instruction took too many liberties, and it felt as though he abused his power. The acting space is a weird gatekeep-y place, where it feels like a few individuals have the power to decide your fate. It creates a scarcity mindset that you have to please the ones at the top so get anywhere. The way that Terry name-drops his biggest clients, and the way the studio markets their celebrities, made me feel, at times, that I needed to please him to make strides in my career. I saw many others suck up to Terry and fail to stand up to him when he treated people poorly. Terry does a great job masking his insecurity in language that suggests he's emotionally intelligent. When I was in his classroom, he made myself and others feel deeply afraid. We were afraid to make mistakes and afraid to show up as ourselves because he would criticise us for not conforming to the way he thought we should be. He would often try to play therapist in the classroom, asking us to divulge more about ourselves than we might feel comfortable sharing, and when we wouldn't share, he would put us on blast, suggesting that we weren't "open" or "generous." This kind of manipulation worked on many students, and it reflects the unhealthy lack of boundaries that exist in this space. Upon some years of reflection, I realized that Terry was just really fragile. He often asked the question "what about me?" when he felt like an interaction or dynamic didn't center him enough. I didn't have a chance to respond in the moment because I didn't have the language then, but I would probably respond to him now by saying, "Terry, this dynamic doesn't have to center you, but I promise we'll center you at some point...just not now." I think the myth that he was taught that he needed to be acknowledged or recognized in every single reaction felt like that was something from his past and is something a white person would say because white folks struggle to not center their own experience. For people of color, I would suggest seeking out one of the other teachers. While the Meisner Technique offers things that one cannot find in a regular scene study class (because it focuses on foundational level principles), the technique was created by a white man in the 1920/1930s. There is one exercise called the POV (point-of-view) exercise in the second year, where an actor "takes on" a view that is not their own. I heard at least one person take on the POV of a racist and flippantly use the N-word. There was no conversation around how this activity would be activating nor dialogue around what responsibility looked like. Terry merely said, "I do not train saints." And we wonder why all of our stories center around the same narratives of violence. Will we ever evolve to tell different stories if the artist cannot evolve him/herself to take responsibility for what material we're putting out into the world? I really liked my movement and voice teachers. I thought the script analysis with Pandora was mediocre at best. I think she has a good heart, but she's not the best teacher. Script analysis and theater history are classes that have great potential for conversation. Because very few people read the material, it was hard to have great conversation. Pandora could better facilitate the conversation. Matthew Dudley and Kana Sato are great teachers. As are the other Meisner instructors. I know that the last few years, the studio was doing work to promote more diversity and equity at the studio. It felt like it was a response to George Floyd. The studio got more BIPOC teachers who are on a lot of the marketing materials. I hope Terry is paying them what they're due, especially as Terry is advancing in age and probably doing less teaching as time passes. I worry that Terry might be exploiting the labor of his teachers, who aren't as privileged as he is. I pray that these teachers are better compensated, insured, given paid-time-off, and treated with incredible kindness and little white fragility BS. Lastly, I had multiple friends who wanted to quit acting after their two years at the studio. A lot of this was due to Terry. I believe a teacher's responsibility is to shepherd a student's learning. I think in the arts especially, it is important to create a space where people can try things and make mistakes, where they feel safe to explore and discover. Exploration and discovery are my favorite things about acting and while I did do some of that at TKS, I did feel poorly treated, uncared for, and at the end of the day, like I didn't really matter, based on the way I was spoken to and treated by Terry Knickerbocker. I hope things have shifted at the studio because I did meet a handful of good people. read more

It upsets me to read Lola's review of the studio. I can't really comment on it because I don't know the context of her situation. But I will say this: The work done at this studio is incredibly challenging and not for the faint of heart. You're not going to have teachers who shower you with praise or settle for "good enough" when they see that you can go much further. The ongoing conversation is always "how can I (as the artist) make this better?" When you go to the gym, in order to put on muscle, for any exercise, you want to hit your max weight, then add on 5-lbs and continue onwards. Do that consistently for a couple of months, and you'll notice the progress. That's what training at this studio offers. An opportunity to find yourself at your cliff's edge, and then stepping over day in, day out. It's not supposed to be easy, and growth never really is, but just like working out, if you treat it seriously, you will find yourself putting on some noticeable muscle by the end of it. There's a reason I keep returning to take classes. It speaks to the kind of actor you aspire to be. One that rises to the occasions and demands of great storytelling, or lesser. read more

I don't think this class is for everyone. If you're looking for an ego boost or someone to just take a casual acting class with..this isn't for you. Terry is honest, which is the main element missing in a lot of acting classes and studios. There's no extra fluff with him, just support and investment with his actors.. Which makes sense you know..it doesn't help anyone telling you. "oh you're such a good actor". How are you gonna learn from that?? but if you have someone tell you "Don't be lazy and rely on your emotions" that might wake you up a bit. It woke me up because I wanna be a smart and creative actor. I honestly was just excited and grateful to be there each day and absorb like a sponge. You start to realize that not all teachers are real with you.. because when you show actors their flaws that means you have to fix it. That requires skill and dedication. You can't just wing that. I lovedddd working with him. He made the whole acting thing kind of easy as long as you're prepared and willing to take his lead. I'm a much better actor now and that was a four day Master class.. I'm jealous of the students that have two years with him..(I'm like can you imagine???) The atmosphere in our master class was inviting and warm. We were all so supportive with one another, which is a rare thing in this competitive city. Also, the staff as a whole are amazing. Kristan, the manager at TK studios Was so patient and answered all My annoying questions and worked with my schedule at one point. You can really tell she loves her job and who she works for. Love love love Terry! read more

Taking the Master Class with Terry Knickerbocker is by far one of the best things I have done for my acting career. He has such a great sense for what each individual needs to work on in order to take their acting to the next level. Even though I hadn't worked with Terry before, he knew exactly what was missing and/or not 100% authentic about my work. He helped me improve by suggesting techniques and encouraging me to dig deep within myself for more of a connection with the character. Watching the other actors' work and watching Terry work with those actors was extremely inspiring and not to mention FUN! I can't wait to put everything I've learned into action! Thank you Terry, I hope to work with you again soon:) https://terryknickerbockerstudio.com read more

I recently audited one of Terry Knickerbocker's class on Zoom a few years after completing his Second Year Conservatory program in person and was reminded of the powerful teacher that Terry is. He is invested into the quality of the work and provides you with tangible steps to be the best actor that you can be. I like to say it's not just an acting class but a psychology class all into one. I've learned so much about myself and found my why for acting through his classes. I am eternally grateful to have been part of his class and can't wait to be in his next Scene Study class. If you're truly looking to work on your craft and inspiration, I highly recommend this impactful studio. read more

When you study with Terry you get a dedicated teacher who not only inspires with his passion for acting, but also for his philosophy on life. He will work with you to where you want to go, and will realize that everything been inside of you all along. He understands that in order to truly dive into others we have to unpeel ourselves so to say. Additionally his newer facility in Brooklyn is exactly what you would want as an artist. It's clean, the ceilings are high, its by the water, and it's a space that felt very warm to me. Didn't expect anything less. read more

Just wrapped Master Class on Zoom with Terry, and it was an incredibly meaningful experience that has reinvigorated me and my work. Can't recommend this space enough to deepen your acting and humanity. I'm very proud of what we accomplished together, and can't wait for the next round. Thanks a million for opening me up and guiding me through as always, Terry. Run don't walk, peeps! Xx read more

I participated in the Summer Intensive & it was one of the best decisions I've ever made! I am more fully self expressed, allowing my inner self to match my outer. Terry, Nate, Matt & Kana are some of the most high integrity teachers I've had the pleasure to learn with. If you are on the fence, just take the leap, you will not regret it! read more

Terry Knickerbocker Studio - Art Schools Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

It's taken me a few times to write this because I honestly don't know where to start when describing the impact working with Terry has had on me. Right off the bat, working with him has been one of the most important and rewarding decisions I have ever made.  I have had the good fortune of studying with some of the "best" acting teachers in NYC.  And although working with them was informative and enjoyable, I always felt like something was missing.  I didn't leave these experiences with the confidence that if you handed me a script, I could reliably deliver high caliber work. I felt like I had a random bag of "acting tricks" that didn't add up to much. After working with Terry and his amazing staff, I don't feel this way any more. I feel like I could go into any room and know that I have trained with the best teachers, and know that I have the skills to deliver. Terry's ability to teach the fundamentals of acting, while also tailoring the two year Meisner program to each person, all the while bringing incredible depth and humor (I think he was a comedian in a past life) is incredible. His generosity and patience sets the tone for his classes.  And it's all about the work. Make no mistake about it, it's about being the best actor you can be.  If you are thinking of training, then you agree that training is valuable.  And if you think this is true, then why not train as hard as possible to get the most out of it? Terry's desire for excellence has instilled in me a standard for acting.  It's about shooting for the stars...and maybe hitting them!  But in a concrete way.  It's pushed me past my comfort zone.  In aiming for excellence, I was able to learn a deeper value to acting and what it means to be an artist (as opposed to just an actor).  It's about obsession.  It's about giving it your all.  And Terry can help you.  Why?  Because there is no other choice.  Terry invites you to confront all the issues that are blocking you from being the most fully expressive actor possible.  You want to act, this is the place.  The end of the road.  And I am almost envious of students who haven't studied with Terry because of the profoundly rich experience that they have no clue awaits.  "Almost" envious, because there is a master class which allows graduates to continue their mad pursuit of excellence. Lastly, Terry's studio is about the joy of acting.  He says that "if it's not an adventure, it's not acting."  It's very important to learn the fundaments of acting; voice, movement, script analysis, etc.  But if you are not having fun, you ain't doing it right.  There are academic elements, but overall, this is not an academic field.  It's acting. It's art.  I feel incredibly indebted to Terry for his acting training.  And I enthusiastically recommend anyone who is seeking training to study with him.  Good luck! read more

The thing I desire most in life is to be a working actor, and to be the best artist I can be. Our paths are all so different to fulfill our desires and dreams and yet we think there is a singular secret way of getting there. The only secret is finding yourself mentors/teachers who help to bring the best work out of you and to bring you on a journey to be the best actor you can be. I truly believe Terry Knickerbocker has been a gift to my life as an actor and a human being. I worked with Terry for both the 2018 & 2019 LA Master Classes and his passion and love for the craft is insanely inspirational. His collaboration and insight constantly pushed me to work harder and dig deeper into myself as an artist. What he sees and feels through the material you work on together is a revelation. It completely changed the way I approach my work and the questions I ask myself as an artist. I could go on forever but I will simply say if you are serious about acting and want to be the best you can be go to The Terry Knickerbocker Studio. You are investing in yourself and it will pay you back in the future. https://terryknickerbockerstudio.com/ read more

I worked with Terry Knickerbocker prior to his development of this new studio, and after a visit I was inspired to jump right back and to study here! Terry is the most incredible teacher, his commitment and dedication to each individual artist is invaluable. And from what I can see, he has filled his studio with plenty of teachers who are just as excellent. The space is clean, well-lit, and spacious; a gem in the area. The wide array of classes offered is eclectic and enriching, and the front desk service is incredibly friendly and organized. I 100% recommend Terry Knickerbocker Studio for any actor - from beginner seasoned vet. read more

I first crossed paths with Terry at NYU in 2013 and I have constantly found ways to work with him since. I studied in the six week summer intensive, his April 2018 LA Master Class, his March 2019 NYC Master class, and soon his April 2019 LA Master Class. Terry is passionate, clear, and committed. That kind of energy and collaboration continuously pushes me to be passionate, clear, and committed in my acting. The energy to work hard and "play" hard is alive amongst the students and within the studio walls. The growth I feel within myself and I see within others over the course of the four day master classes is nothing short of remarkable. I love the Terry Knickerbocker Studio and I am beyond grateful for every opportunity I get to work with Terry. I am currently based in LA, but I couldn't resist jumping into his NYC class while I happened to be already scheduled to come into town this month. I am already counting down the weeks to his master class in LA next month. https://terryknickerbockerstudio.com/ read more

I finished studying with Terry more than two years ago, but he remains an influential figure to me today. There is a short list of teachers that I've met in my lifetime that have had a profound impact on how I saw the world. Terry Knickerbocker is on that list. Over the two years that I worked with Terry, he took me on a journey. I had originally only signed up to do a summer intensive with him so that I could add something else to the tool belt. By the time I finished the summer, I had a taste of being immersed in work that was so rich, I could not possibly avoid continuing on for a two year program. Terry has qualities that I feel are very important for a teacher to have. He is firm and has full control over the classroom, yet his individual instruction is patient to the actor and unique to him or her. He will challenge you and stretch you in ways you cannot imagine, but will bring the best out of your work. You will go into this studio to learn the craft of acting, and over the course of working with Terry I'm confident you will do so. Incidentally, you will also learn lessons in humanity, listening, and life that I'm sure you will end up a better person. read more

The growth and profound self exploration experienced through taking this journey with Terry is unparalleled; I've never felt so connected to who I am, and who I am becoming. It has opened my eyes, mind and heart to the deepest aspects of my persona, and I couldn't be more grateful to have found TKS. Not only is the work challenging and highly rewarding, the space created is a safe haven, which allows an openness to experiences that are free of judgement. The keen awareness that Terry and faculty have into each student's essence allows you to flourish both as an artist and human. If you're looking for a comprehensive training that explores all facets of who you are mentally, emotionally, physically and even spiritually, you've come to the right place. This studio is everything. read more

One of the most amazing experiences I've had as a human and an actor. Terry creates an environment that made me feel comfortable to explore and discover aspects of myself that I was afraid of and didn't even know existed. Gentle & insanely honest. I continue to learn from Terry and look forward to doing so for a long time. Inspiring! read more

I haven't felt this inspired, up for any challenge, ready to take the best care of my instrument as a whole, ready to dive in deeper than ever, in a long time. I forgot so many wonderful parts of actor training, voice, movement...details and basics that I needed to get back to. This class challenged me, made me feel encouraged, inspired, and like I had found someone so special to work with. Terry has a flare and style that is all his own, I love his humor and candor. I wish I could work with him every week, I KNOW that he will make me a better actor. Until next time. Run, don't walk! Www.terryknickerbockerstudio.com read more

I've yet to meet anyone more in love with the art of teaching actors. Terry may first strike you as simply gifted, with some special knack or intuition - and, yes, he is unmistakably gifted - but that would belie the fact that no one works as hard as he does. And that is what makes him not only a brilliant teacher but, more importantly, an unceasingly reliable one. Of course, he's not a superhuman. I'm sure he has what he thinks of as 'off days' - but I've never seen him have one. I've been studying and coaching with him for over eleven years now. Terry always knows which parts of you to encourage: when to push or when to back off. He knows when to let you fall flat on your face and when to hold your hand. When to ground you in technique and when to coax your imagination into flight. His depth of knowledge of acting, theatre, film and all the arts is apparently bottomless. His breadth of knowledge covers so many differing facets of life that it hurts my head. Honestly, the man knows more about everything than anyone I've ever met, which impresses me mostly because it's indicative of just how interested he is. Most importantly: he knows when to leave you alone. That, to me, is the mark of a truly great teacher. One who actually wants you to not need them anymore. He has given me my most useful tools as an actor - the bedrock of every second of work I will ever make. I recommend him unreservedly to anyone who wishes to grow as an actor, artist or human being. https://terryknickerbockerstudio.com/ read more

Terry keeps it real, shows you constant love and support and is not afraid to challenge his students. I never knew what to expect for each class and that kept it truly exciting. What I learned through the six week summer intensive was so valuable, and I am grateful for the experience. This craft takes passion, discipline and a positive attitude. Terry is a true master at what he does, and gives incredibly honest individual attention in each work session. He has genuine intuition that makes you feel safe and understood when working in class. Terry's studio is an amazing place to find yourself as a person and allows you to nurture the artist you want to be in life and your career. I recommend Terry and all the teachers on his faculty if you are looking for the top training in NYC! You won't regret it! read more

I did a two year acting program with Terry a few years ago at his old studio. Never did I think that it would not only be an artistic endeavor but also something that would have such a huge impact on me as a person. I am not sure what life has in store for me in terms of acting but through Terry I was able to shed a lot of things that were not useful. He cares. He cares about people, the art and is really working hard to keep integrity and truthfulness in acting-no BS. Be ready to work and to give, not just take. I was a bit lost for the past couple of years because of personal issues and just the business side of acting taking it's toll but after just finishing another master class with him, I am reminded of why I love acting, what I am working towards (which is NOT just getting an agent!) and to be honest, I also feel very renewed because through his teaching I see what my challenges are (something I wasn't able to figure out on my own). I was SO stuck (no words to describe how stuck I was) so I am just really inspired and grateful that he cared enough to call on me to step up to the table. www.terryknickerbockerstudio.com read more

Terry Knickerbocker Studio is an excellent studio. I have pages of great things to say but most people don't read that long so here are the bullet points. At TK Studio, you work closely and personally with Terry. He takes the time to get to know you and your work. He offers HONEST critiques of your work with advice to improve, and that to me is priceless. Terry invests his time with each of his students. I participated in the Master Class and Terry was very careful and thorough working with everyone each week. TK Studios offers small class sizes which means individual attention. I must say the air of competition and business that comes along with acting studios located in Manhattan is not here at all, and I do believe location does play a role in it. TK Studios is a bit off the grid in Gowanus Brooklyn, which for me allows more focus on the work and the craft than being in a studio in the busy city full of other acting studios that feel like desperation and competition. At TK Studios you can relax. You work with your peers and you're invested in their success because it is made clear everyone's journey is their own. There isn't any competition rather we learn from each other and are inspired by each other. The quality of students at TK Studios is also top notch. You will not run into lazy actors or someone not as enthused about the work as you are. Everyone from staff to students is there for the shared love and passion for acting. I would recommend TK Studios if you are passionate about acting, if you want to build your craft, try something new, or just keep your work fresh and honest. read more

Terry is one of a kind Mentor and Teacher. This studio is the epicenter of great acting training with a compassionate but no bullsh*t leader at its head. If you want to be a REAL actor that is committed to only the most EXCELLENT form of technique and acting THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU. I have known and studied with Terry for many years and I would not be where or who I am without him and his training. This studio fosters true actors and artists with a well rounded but specific approach. The work and artists who come out of this place are truly amazing. Many people go on to booking series, commercials, plays, creating their own work, etc. I have met some of my closest and dearest friends here. This community at the Terry Knickerbocker studio is not only talented but real, genuine, and welcoming! Technique and training wise I always believe that this work fosters my best acting, hands down. Don't get me wrong you have to be willing and WORK for it but with Terry by your side it becomes with in reach. This studio and the man behind it are wonderful. I'm so glad I went through this training and still come back to take classes. There are alot of acting studios in NYC but the Terry Knickerbocker Studio is one of a kind due to Terry. Honestly, there is no other teacher like him. read more

I cannot say enough positive things about my experience in Film & TV Level 1. I initially took the class in order to find a way to bring the technique I learned into the form of camera work. Alberto and Elizabeth present these tools in a generous and empathic way while maintaining a standard for excellence. I entered the class feeling insecure about my on-camera auditions, and have left feeling more confident and with a clear set of tools and a work ethic I can use to prepare for auditions. I appreciated that they used current material and provided an accurate simulation for the audition experience, and that they also used examples from their own auditions to help demystify the experience. They were also generous with their time, and available before/after to class to answer any questions. I would definitely recommend this class to anyone looking to improve their on-camera craft, and look forward to continuing on to Level 2. read more