I attended the 5 day intensive for the experience and it sure was intense - long days but well worth it. As with all things creative you have to allow for flexibility and some changes to the program. I loved it I was lucky enough to be with a great group of people that were all lovely and supportive. The staff at TVI are truly warm and caring. It really is a tester for all things to do with casting, directing, VO etc. My love of acting and the craft and biz has only increased. I flew from Australia to do this, I am going to be back in LA and will no doubt enrol on another course at TVI. I had so much fun and learnt a great deal - thank you all. read more

Have been waiting for a refund of $535 since March for a class I never took. Have been going back and forth with Alan and keep getting told I will get it back but it has yet to happen. read more

I took Mark Teschner's TV/Film auditioning class (Oct/Nov 2024) at TVistudios last month and it was worth every penny. Mark is a fantastic teacher. He is funny, kind and I could tell he really cared about his students. Mark has a direct, no -nonsense critiquing style with a keen eye for even the minutest detail, without the unnecessary chatter, intimidation, rude or self aggrandizing behavior. He had so many returning students in the class and now I know why, I will certainly be among one of them. The course work was well organized and the expectations were clearly explained. The studio facility was clean and the front desk folks were helpful and respectful. They are also very quick with email responses to queries. Thank you Mark for a great experience, and keep up the good work, us actors need supportive folks like you in our corner. All in all a great experience. Thank you Sumit N PS: Stay hydrated :) read more

TVI Actors Studio was paramount in building my confidence and self esteem, in regards to understanding and learning the business of acting. I met my first agent at TVI and took countless classes which were extremely beneficial to my growth. I took on-camera commercial classes, developing monologues, meetings with casting directors and agents! I really credit TVI for helping me book my first acting job. "All My Children." I incorporated everything I learned and funneled that energy, which led me to book a contract role on the show. Thank you TVI Actors Studio! read more

TVI Actors Studio - Specialty Schools Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

I have been a professional actor since the mid 1970s and taken many classes during that time with a variety of well-known and well-regarded teachers. One of the reasons I have taken Mark Teschner's classes at least four times is because not only is he a multiple Emmy winner for casting, but he is an excellent teacher as well. No matter how much work you put into the scenes you're assigned in his classes, or how thorough you think you've been in making choices for your character, he always manages to give you redirects that make the characters more alive, more interesting, more organic in an enjoyable, even entertaining way. He never seems to feel it necessary to tear actors or their individual methods down and treats them with the utmost respect. His newest four week class format focuses on the different types of roles an actor may be called in for on his show, General Hospital, as well as other daytime dramas. Under 5s, day player, and contract roles are focused on in this latest class and the final class (contract roles) is taped, with copies of the scenes given to the participating actors. All scenes are done with Mark reading opposite the actors (i.e., just like a real casting session). Worth the time, energy, and the money. read more

TVI Actors Studio - Specialty Schools Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

I took the Command Your Audition, Intensive with Mark Teschner last Sun. Love it when I perform and am actually reviewed by the CD. Then, after he gives an adjustment, do it again! Hooray, what a great class. read more

TVI Actors Studio - Specialty Schools Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

Avoid. Booked a self-tape appointment, only to have it cancelled 2 hours later via automated email. "We have to take that down from the website," Alan said when I called to ask why. He said the studios are closed, and he hasn't updated his website, despite having had two years now to do so. It still books appointments, takes payments, and then Alan will cancel them without so much as a courtesy call (and refunds are not immediate). I can only assume that TVI Actors Studio is unaware that actors in this town eventually need to land work, and scheduling a convenient taping session can be a hassle. My whole morning has been wasted because I thought I could count on them. I have a big audition due at the end of the week, and now I have to start all over. TVI has been in business for a while and they have some good reviews. If they've been of genuine help to actors in L.A., I'm glad for that. But some of you 5-star people should teach them how to update a website. This level of apathy does not portend well. If this is the kind of attention Alan gives to his own profession, what sort of attention will TVI give to yours? This town is too big to waste on flakes. read more

This place totally changed my career I came to do the 5 day with no expectations and ended up getting signed with an incredible management company. The classes during the 5 day course were phenomenal and the teachers outstanding! read more

TVI Actors Studio - 5-day Aug 2019 - Specialty Schools Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

I did a weekend intensive with Mark Teschner and Marnie Scieta in April 2023. I learned a ton in a short amount of time from both instructors, as well as from watching the work of the other artists. Each of the instructors brought their extensive experience in the business and a unique teaching style which made the process that much more beneficial. Also, the format is great especially if you can't commit to a longer class at this time. read more

I had been taking Mark Teschner's class at TVI Studios for about 3 weeks when "the plague", Coronavirus, caused us to self isolate. Mark, Alan and Pam, immediately rushed into action and set us all up on Zoom. They didn't even miss a beat. Mark has a genuine concern for his students and wants us all to be the best we can be. His individual critiques of each of us in our scenes are incredibly detailed and then we have the opportunity to make adjustments and do the scene again. Class on Zoom is really no different and Mark's passion for teaching is truly engaging! read more

I hate having to be brutally honest - but I just have to warn people about what to expect at this place. Just call me inspector Yelp! This is my first time to this location but not my first time patronizing the business. I attended and paid for a four week commercial acting class and sat in on a few other free classes. I feel like this is the type of business that would have you pay your way into the industry. My experience with this place is If you pay (in upwards of $275-$600 a class) and keep attending the classes on a regular basis, seems they'll help you get a manager and an agent etc., otherwise tough luck. I arrived early today to make sure I was able to secure a good parking spot, which by the way sucks and the girl told me on the phone that there were plenty of spots on Saturday, not true at all. When I walked in, I was greeted by a pleasant lady named Diane who was busy helping the owner set up the studio seating and she yelled from the other room to me and another gentlemen that walked in with me, that she would be right with us. In the meantime we took a seat on a bench facing the office. Sitting on that same bench towards the end of the hallway sat one of the employees, who seemed a bit disgruntled as she aired out a lot of dirty laundry about the business, her apparent dislike of the owner and her unhappiness with the way her acting career was going. She didn't whisper and didn't seem like she cared who heard it but I digress. The class was suppose to start at 2 and end at 5. The class was being taught by a Graham Sibley. Well, it didn't start until 2:45, they were still checking people in at 2:25. It was a free class, but so what my time is just as valuable. When the class started, Graham talked about his background and read a poem out of what appeared to be a life coaching book, and did a lot of bragging about Shonda Rhimes investing a load of money into a theater company he and his friends started. Anyway, then he has us to do an exercise where he asked that we write down answers to a about six questions and about four or so statements he gave us to complete relating to our personal life. When we were done, he asked us to get with someone who we felt we could connect with and read to that partner what we had written and vice versa. Once we were done, he asked the entire class who felt like they connected with their partner. Seems like the entire class raised their hand. However he seemed to be more interested in who didn't connect and he found a set of girls in the back who claimed they didn't connect and asked them to step to the front of the class to do an exercise. Of course one of those girls just happen to be that same actress from the front office out there complaining but this time she was all smiles and her partner you ask, someone who she claimed to have known for a long time - set up. Then right after the exercise he says he has nothing else and ask us to join his 9 week class, at a cost of $475 no less. And the class was over at 4:00 and he seem to be in a hurry to leave. His phone rang during the class and he looked at a few times while talking and then again while he rushed us through our responses. After class, I asked him if a person had to audition to be apart of his theater company because I expressed to him that theater was my passion and he first replied yes while he seem to hesitate to give me the information but he went onto to say that they were pretty full and had all the people they needed for the next three or four productions and encouraged me to come and pay and watch the plays explaining some lengthy process - again with the time and money to go further - and then he offered this advice - his exact words - "but there are plenty of other theater companies that I'm sure would be happy to have you." Wow!! DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY AT THIS PLACE. Towards the end I was trying to ask the owner a simple question and he kept insisting that I make an appt to sit with the disgruntled employee to go over my resume, take classes and become a paying member. No thank you - no sucker here. I'll keep putting in the work until it's my time but this place is a disgrace. read more

TVI Actors Studio - Waiting for the class instructor with actor Graham Sibley - Specialty Schools Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

I highly recommend TVI Actors Studio and taking Mark Teschner's class. Mark is an expert at helping actors improve their scene-work/auditions and is amazing at allowing actors to experience/feel his adjustments/notes to their work within the scene. He also assigns great material. Take class with Mark Teschner! read more

The 5 day immersion course was so educational and eye opening for me! I now have a better idea of how to handle my craft as a business. It was great to be taught by the guest casting directors. They were kind of enough to show what's their casting process. Now I have better idea of what's controllable and what's truly not when it comes to casting. I definitely feel I can communicate to my agency with an understanding of the terminology that they use. Honestly, I prefer to pay what I paid then to go in this industry not knowing how it operates. The knowledge was worth it but being able to perform in front some of the busiest Casting directors was an added bonus. TVI Actors Studio crew is amazing! Thank you Alan for offering this program! Also Tami, Rachel, Emma and Kelly are awesome and extremely helpful! read more

I took Mark Teschner's acting course and it was wonderful. I learned so much from Mark and now I apply those acting techniques in all my projects. The owner Alan is helpful too as well. I recommend the classes at Tvi studios for anyone who wants to enhance their acting acumen. 5 stars!! read more

Mark Teschner is one of the greatest acting teacher I met in this town. He is truly sharp in seeing what you need to advance as an artist and an actor. Thank you Mark! read more

Thank you Alan from TVI Actors Studio for providing a creative space for us actors to keep evolving and growing as actors and people. Such an incredible experience as an actor to have been a part of this past weekends Quadrant 4 classes with caring, talented, mega Casting Directors who are rooting for us actors because they are passionate about their craft to help us shine as bright as we can when we step into an audition space and to super shine when on set to give our all in the realest form. I am so beyond grateful and humbled by the gem that was given to us this weekend by CD/ Mark Teschner, CD/ Paul Ruddy, CD/ M'saada Nia, CD/ Vicki Goggin. They gave us their all and gave us so much that'll last me a lifetime. These Casting Directors are giving their all and you can feel the exhilarating energy. This is a must CLASS AND STUDIO TO BE A PART OF. read more

TVI Actors Studio - TVI Actors Studio is awesome! Thx Alan for providing such a beautiful creative space for us ACTORS. Thx to all the magically talented CD's - Specialty Schools Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

This place is a complete scam - one that I fell for for over two years. It's a pay to play scheme, acting style - that's all. I'll explain. TVI offers classes with top casting directors as well as one-on-one meet and greet sessions with CDs and Agents. They claim that these classes and sessions will help actors hone their skills while making connections with players in the industry who have the power to cast them in legitimate projects. Sounds good, right? Don't be fooled. This is simply a scheme dreamed up by Alan Nusbaum, the founder, to trick actors into paying for auditions. TVI is hardly alone - there are plenty of groups in the city that do this. What makes TVI slightly worse than the others is their "Membership" racket, which is designed to get actors to pay even MORE to play. A while back I went to an information session at TVI regarding possible employment with them. Mr. Nusbaum was there to explain what TVI was all about and what they were looking for in their employees. He was a completely arrogant, condescending jerk, but that's not surprising in this business. What WAS surprising to me was his 30-minute lecture about how actors were fools to believe that they could actually expect to get noticed by CDs at the workshops TVI offered - even though that's their entire sales pitch. He said what his company REALLY offered was "guided career advice" to members from their staff of "Career Coaches". I can tell you one thing - in the two years I was involved with TVI I never once heard a word from any of their "coaches" if it wasn't to try to sell me on another $400+ class. And while he may be lauded for being honest, it was still rather galling to hear Mr. Nusbaum call me a fool to my face for falling for his marketing strategy. I maintain that TVI exists for one reason; to make money - for Casting Directors and Agents who get paid to come to their studios after work and hold general auditions for actors they would otherwise have to see for free in their offices, and for Mr. Nusbaum himself. Actors should not have to pay to audition. Period. The fact that this has become standard practice in New York is ridiculous. But TVI in particular should be avoided, as their offensive membership "deal" goes above and beyond exploitation and into full on rip-off territory. read more

SIMPLE REVIEW: The cost does not equal the benefits. Slightly more in-depth review- (The ad hominem nature of some of these reviews, specifically by the 5 star folks, is a little off putting. I will do my best to give you a factual breakdown of what to expect.) I hope this helps. Finding an acting school or a casting workshop is daunting to new actors to the LA area. Having been one I can tell you that without the experience of what is available in Los Angeles TVI looks very appealing. The staff, in my experience, was nice and VERY attentive. The Building is generally well maintained and you almost never have a hard time parking. Sadly these characteristics do not make up a quality acting school. Most of my peers were like me, fresh off the boat arrivals to LA with a dream in their heads and a lighter wallet in their pocket. In all my classes I can't recall there being anyone who wasn't new to TVI and the LA acting experience, in-spite of "Auditioning" into their advanced levels. Admittedly this could have been a circumstantial "fluke." I have no issue with the teachers or casting directors who were there to do what they were paid to do. Most were fun and seemed to enjoy what they were doing. That said please don't be fooled by the concept of TVI exclusivity with casting directors. If its a busy office that office is likely sending associates to other places - plus its just good business sense to diversify your income streams and do workshops all over the place. They are getting paid for this and justifiably so. So why only two stars? My issue is simply there are much better alternatives. What I have learned is that training, in addition to actually educating you, can be an important piece of your resume. There is no denying that certain institutions carry certain gravitas on a resume. Ivy League Schools come to mind here. They may not get you the job but they often open some doors that might not have been yawning otherwise. Its the same with actor training in LA. I can say from personal experience that my improv training, as an example, has opened loads of doors that would have been closed. Having Groundlings, iOwest (I still can't keep from calling it Improv Olympic- Im old that way) The Second City Conservatory, or UCB on your resume will carry more weight than TVI. Studying with Jeff Perry, Tom Irwin or frankly any of the staff at Steppenwolf classes west will be a better resume piece than TVI. LINDA LOWRY personally does a workshop there because she knows the talent is worth her time. There are loads more options and that is my point. People have varying needs and certainly opinions on what makes good training. The only constant to you is cost. My simple belief is that the cost to benefit numbers do not add up to TVI being a place to spend your money. I believe that there have been success stories to come out of there but lets face it those were talented people to begin with. Meryl Streep was Meryl Streep before she went to Yale. Post script Judging from the reviews I see that many people are taking what others experienced personally. I can't help you there. What I can offer is some further insight or my time should you have any questions regarding this review. I put my picture on the site and used my real name. read more

TVI is just like the other casting "workshops" in L.A. I'm going to use terms like "most of them" or "many times" because there will always be an exception or rare occasion that something good happens. I don't want to say "absolutely never" but that's almost the case with these kinds of things. I was a paying member for a while. I do have some legitimate insight to this particular studio. They are ready to take your money for your shot at getting in front of a REAL casting director!!! Oh wait. I forgot. More often than not, it's just a casting assistant or casting associate. Many times, these associates and assistants don't have years of experience. Most times they know as much about on-camera acting as your Aunt Dorthy who told you to move to Hollywood because you have "what it takes!" What you are truly paying for is to personally hand your headshot/resume to the assistant/associate and hope that it ends up in an actual file (and not the garbage can). When you attend the workshop, you will hear a brief introduction from the guest. They will talk a little about themselves, and drop names of the projects that their casting office has worked on. You will get some side for a scene- sometimes with a partner, sometimes you'll just read with the guest. You'll do your scene. You'll get a little generic feedback. You'll be on your way. You'll have great expectations. You'll sit around waiting for that casting office to call you. You'll wonder if the money would have been better spent with a pragmatic marketing plan- LIKE MAILING OUT POSTCARDS TO TARGETED CASTING OFFICES ON A REGULAR BASIS. Now, you can be guaranteed to bypass the associate/assistant and work with a real casting director if you opt for the MUCH more expensive "classes." Those run in the hundreds of dollars. I never felt so desperate that I dropped $400+ on one of those. There are hundreds of ways to get work in this town. This is one of the easiest ways to spend the most money trying. (meaning it's not worth paying money to meet casting directors) It's their job to find you. If more actors boycotted this type of racket, then casting folks would have to do what they did "back in the day." That's when they did a little something called "general meetings." I've given this two stars because I do know that some people have actually procured legitimate work from casting workshops. It's just mostly a huge waste of money. If you really want to study, go take an ACTING CLASS from a good teacher. read more

Head's up, the reviews with 1 star are coming from people who took one workshop, probably the only they've ever taken before or since, and are shocked that the result is not instant stardom. Get real people. This is an acting school, with a full slew of teachers who are fantastic casting directors. And the fact that they have several heads of casting who teach only at TVI should tell you something. I came to TVI before I knew anything about anything, let alone how to get cast or even remotely pursue acting as a career. I was 18 when I walked through their doors. After 1 meeting, they helped me put a resume together (even though I barely had any credits), helped with cover letters, recommended agents and classes...and were beyond helpful. Years later, after having studied in New York and London, I came back to TVI and have them to thank for finding an agent, getting incredible recommendations from casting director workshops as well as getting called in for several auditions, and taking classes that I've learned so much from. If you think that taking one workshop or one class is enough to make things happen for you in LA, think again. This is not an overnight success business. It takes years of contacts and classes and more work than complaining about whether or not the casting director you saw called you in. And one of the best resources for getting those contacts and classes is TVI. Definitely recommended. read more

Whether you are just starting out as an actor or have a solid resume, TVI Five Days in LA is a great way to understand what casting directors and agencies look for in potential talent. Much of what goes on behind a casting directors door is out of your control but there is vital information that can steer your career in the right direction. Some of that knowledge includes the criteria in which a casting director either dismisses or accepts your submission. I got to see the selection process for high level television roles and commercials. I came out of the class with a plethora of adjustments needed for both my resume and resources such as Casting Network so that I can get an edge on the stifling competition. Finally, it is not just one casting director you meet but several. So if I ever get into a room with one of them, at least they remember my face and have that common experience. read more

I had a wonderful time at TVi Studios. It's not everyday you have the opportunitty to meet 4 different casting directors giving their Best and Valuable information to every single actor that was in the room; yes, every single actor had the chance to "perform" and be constructively "evaluated" by the casting directors. I was simply "amazed" how they truly "care" about every actor that was there. And TVi Studio staff was also lovely. As a Brazilian actress who's been travelling, studying and working around the world, I'm confident to say this place is GREAT, and the casting directors I had the pleasure to meet are simply Fantastic. Thank you!!! read more

To be honest, looking at some past reviews had me a little worried. But I kept reminding myself, our experiences could be totally different. And that they were. I attended the 5 Day Immersion Program; TVI 5 days, and thoroughly appreciated and enjoyed the experience. I was told when inquiring that the days would be long, and that held true. But hearing feedback and the perspectives from casting directors, agents, and working actors was well worth it. Every one of those people kept it real and made you feel comfortable, strived for you to feel comfortable, and gladly answered questions asked. A true learning experience all the way around. Definitely gives you a taste of what it would be like to live in LA, if you're not already living there, taking classes to continually improve, and work with those who want the same for you. That, and take aways on what you should improve upon while not in LA. I definitely do not regret attending :) read more

TVI Actors Studio has continued to impress me over the years and this weekend's Casting Quad was top notch in every way. It was fantastic getting an opportunity to glean amazing information and then work one-on-one with 4 of the best Casting Directors in the business - all in a supportive environment. My experience has always been that Alan brings in Casting Directors that have a heart and passion for what they do! read more

I am an international, professional actress with over 15 years of stage and on-camera experience and a BA (Hons) from BSA, a prestige Drama School in the UK. I have taken dozens of acting classes and workshops worldwide. Having said that, last weekend's Audition Technique Intensive with 4 Casting Directors at TVI Actors Studio was AMAZING! I loved the atmosphere and the passion that everyone, including the CD's and TVI staff, brought into the room. And the opportunity to read with and for Casting Directors with multiple Emmy awards and receive their notes was very special. This was a very well invested weekend to work on my craft and carried the additional benefit of networking and making new friends. THANK YOU! read more

My time with Mark Teschner and TVI Actors Studio thus far has exceeded all my already high expectations. Everyone that works there is incredibly friendly, helpful, and supportive. They are all literally there because they are invested in each and every student. Mark genuinely wants the actors and students to succeed. His approach on coaching includes, but is certainly not limited to, invaluable lessons on mental frame working as an actor; something I have personally taken very limit time to invest thought in up until now. Everyone there is just so much fun and make you feel completely at ease. While I have not personally required any of this to-date; I have witnessed that they are also extremely generous with flexibility should you need to leave early due to a longer commute, get sick, book a gig, etc and allow make-up classes. Working with Mark and TVI is an incredibly humbling and rewarding self-growth experience. read more

I actually don't know where to start, and I still get a hangover of the program, meeting all these amazing people. I personally feel that I was happy and felt great taking this course. I just finished the Intensive 5-Day Immersion program TVI has offered. This is very helpful for someone like me who has a background in acting, but also somewhat starting, and understanding the business and hearing different views from different reputable casting directors, agents, managers and so on. You can always hone and work on your craft, but it is essential understanding the business which will help you strategize and brand yourself. Your talent and wisdom of the business should work hand in hand and this is what TVI offers. The people were very very very caring and helpful! I would like to thank our sisters/friends Rachel, Tami, Emma for looking after us, for taking care of us! I call them sisters because I don't see them as "staff" because I felt like a family to them. And of course Alan, our daddy (lol) I highly appreciate in checking on us PRIOR to our arrival. I came from the Bay Area and I have classmates coming from across the countries and it's really valuable to have someone check on you and make sure you are safe and sound. I don't know what else to say, but thank you! read more

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I had a truly fantastic experience with tvi during their five day program over the passed week thanks to the tireless effort provided by the helpful and friendly staff. The partners of the company that came in for the workshops consisted of casting directors, agents, managers, and actors that offered a ton of advice/insight on the industry that would have otherwise taken years to learn navigating on your own. Not to mention that some of these connections made were with a rank of people who would be very difficult to get in touch with any other way. I am very grateful that I have had the opportunity to learn and grow as an actor through such a wonderful experience, and would definitely recommend it to anyone else with similar interests. I will definitely be looking into becoming a member with TVI in the near future, and can't wait to continue working with them moving forward! Thanks for everything staff!! read more

This Acting company scammed me out of $3000 when i was 18 which was a very long time ago and a whole lot of money for me... I was so excited to go and learn to act but when i got to LA and walked into that first class it became VERY apparent that TVI actors studio was a fraudulent business. Their instructors had no idea what they were talking about and the majority of the students couldn't speak ANY English, I asked for my money back as i didn't feel like i would benefit from their classes and they refused. I spoke with their "manager" and i was told they didn't do refunds. I ended up exhausting myself trying to get my money back and i ended up taking classes elsewhere. As someone who has worked in the industry for over a decade now, maybe longer!!! I have to say that I never forgot this company. Do not go here and do not send your kids here! it is a scam!!! I have never heard anything good about this company and they have no reputation in the entertainment industry. read more

TVI Actors Studio is awesome. Always had a great experience. I took Christy Dooley's class. A friend of mine was booked on Bold and the Beautiful. I still attend. Great school. read more

There are many acting classes and workshops offered in Los Angeles but the TVI Actors Studio is best suited for actors who truly desire to nurture their craft in acting. This performing arts school is one of a kind providing workshops since 1986. Alan the founder, is hospitable, caring and a wonderful support for actors. The Casting Quadrant workshop which I participated has given me the proper tools and techniques in learning from the best of the seasoned Casting Directors in the industry. Whether you're an aspiring or working actor you'll be glad to be a part of the workshops offered. It has absolutely been a wonderful experience. Thank you! read more

SCAM, watch out. I don't know anyone who has come out of this place with a positive experience and after 20 years of living in Los Angeles working for CAA, UTA, WMA, The Firm, etc...I've known ALOT of struggling actors. The place is owned and run by a crooked husband and wife team. He is the brains behind the business and she is the mouth-piece. I had the misfortune of signing up for classes and paying up front (about $300 for some commercial camera technique bullshit with some casting letch from Paramount, turns out the guy was fired and NOT a working casting director at all), when I was warned by someone that the place was a scam I asked for my money back. I was told by the girl working the desk that the wife would call me back, which she did the next morning. She left a message on my phone accusing me of breaking into TVI through a backdoor and stealing cameras. She said that she and her husband wouldn't call the police and have me arrested IF I just left and let them keep the money. I was 22, had just moved to Los Angeles to try to become an actor and this was my 3rd, AS IN THIRD, scam that I got taken by. I never called them back, never asked for my money and was totally freaked out that someone was suggesting I be arrested by actual policemen. And NO, I did not break into their place and steal cameras, this goes against my good-neighbor policy that I learned from my small cow-town upbringing. But I did call them back and tell them that I was aware that they were a scam operation and that I would do my best to spread the word. So consider the word spread. their "guest" instructors are all morons who would sell their own souls for a quick buck. They wouldn't give honest input to Jesus Christ himself if he came down to earth to start a career in commercial acting. Stear clear. read more

Had the most horrible experience with this company. Long story short I no longer wanted to do the full-time hybrid conservatory program and worked out that I would do shorter workshops. They then threatened me by saying if I don't pay for the course then I'm in breach of my student visa, so I called customs and worked out I can leave the US temporarily and then come back on a regular tourist visa. Silvia and Linda at TVI told me that despite what the authorities said I would be breaking the law. Needless to say I did it and came back in as a tourist with not one issue at board security, and hours after arriving I received an abusive phone call from the actual owner of TVI saying I either pay the rest of the money I owe for the course (which I've never attended) or he will call Homeland security and have me arrested and deported. I just got off the phone with HS and they said my paper work checks out and he is no doubt trying to intimidate me to get more money. I have currently paid about $1000 for the other stuff which they will not let me partake in because they are worried about getting audited (red flag much!?) and the owner yelled at me over the phone and said I'm never seeing that money again. It's a shame because I was interested in doing their courses, but they treat people so horribly and after this experience it is clear to me that are after one hing... $$$$money$$$$. That's what drives this place and it trumps all compassion. The owner told me he would go out of his way to file a report against me if I don't pay. Furthermore, as I'm from Australia he said he knows agents and directors in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane and will Personally call all of them and make sure they don't use me for work. It is this vindictive and abusive nature that derailed me the most. I'm a young Aussie out in LA trying to break into a tough industry and they treated me like I was totally worthless. Such a terrible work ethic and I would strongly recommend everyone to steer clear of TVI! read more

scam do not go to acting school here! i signed up for a class on a weekday morning. they changed the day and time of the class without any warning. i could not make the new time of the class and they would not refund my money! are you kidding me? a paying customer signs up for a class on a certain day and you change the day of the class after taking their money and then when they can't make the new class date you refuse to refund the money! fail fail fail epic fail! don't waste your time. many of the "teachers" that "teach" here are just struggling actors themselves. read more

Their are better places to go. Period! Firstly, the casting directors I spoke to were not friendly at the workshops, the vibe was awful and Ive found if you're going to take a chance on spending money to go to workshops only do it when you can afford to, dont make it a habit. And dont waste your time here. Reel Pros has been pretty good as well as Actors Key. None of these places will guarantee you a job, but at least some of the people that come in are sincere and you make connections. I recommend you focus more on making connections, acting classes, student films, etc. I went to two classes and I couldnt stand this place. uck read more

i succumbed to this place when i 1st moved to LA and i can see nothing has changed there. 1. don't got to "casting director workshops" biggest scam in the biz! 2. TVI is a big SCAM that just takes your money and teaches nothing. 3. start out doing student films and get experience on that and find real places to study that just help you grow as an actor and don't promise you unrealistic claims such as these places. this place is a number 1 big SCAM in la. avoid! read more

Just had my first -- and last -- interaction with TVI. I do workshops all over (and get called in from them) and normally accept them for what they are: A chance to meet CD's, some of whom are great and interested, some of whom not. Nature of the beast. I signed up for a one-day workshop that is taking place in 3 weeks, only to be emailed a contract that says the cancellation fee is about the same price as the workshop -- unless I have a Dr.'s note or a signed note from a union shoot. Since my schedule isn't steady at this point, I called to cancel as soon as I saw the contract (about 10 minutes after signing up). That's when I was told I can't. After much argumentation, they said that my consultant is the only who can help me, but that he's in class and is "done for the day." I wouldn't hear from him until Monday. I asked to speak to anyone (it's during bsns hours, for crying out loud), only to be put "on hold" for very long. I hung up and called again and got my consultant. IT'S A MIRACLE! Guess he was available after all! HE (Corey) was very nice and agreed to refund my payment. He's also the ONLY reason this place is getting 2 stars instead of the one it deserves. Waaaaay too many options around (Actors Key, Actors Link, Actors West, etc.) to put up with this. read more

Here's the blunt truth. To give yourself a chance making it as an actor, talent, luck and connections are all important factors. IF you are a talented actor with real skills and training but don't have any connections-- TVI can help. You need to create relationships with casting directors-- that's the best thing you can do for your career. Ultimately, relationships with casting directors is even more important than your agent (in most cases.) So, think about this from a casting director or "associate" casting directors perspective. They don't make much money for the most part. This is a way for them to pad their income a little bit. Suspend your judgement for a moment. You want to be an actor, yes? Then you need to understand human psychology. Nobody likes to think of themselves as a scam artist or taking advantage of people (well, most people anyway.) What does that mean? That means when the CD shows up to this "class" they would very much like to find the next Marlon Brando or Meryl Streep, they would be thrilled to have an unknown genius stroll into the class. Why? Two reasons: 1. They get to "discover" that person. 2. This helps them feel good about taking people's money for these classes. If they actually can find someone and help their career, it helps them rationalize being there. A lot of the people on this thread have a lot of complaints. Let me address a couple of them. First, I see complaints that the CD is actually just the "associate" or "assistant" casting director. To which I say: "who do you think runs the world?" Assistants everywhere in every profession run the world. They still have energy. They make recommendations for things to the CD, who is often too lazy or burnt out to go out and meet new people. Also, associates aspire to advance, and they like to have their own stable of people-- and if they are the one to discover Meryl Streep-- that's good for them, it makes them look good and shows they are good at their job. Another complaint people have is that the "classes" with the casting directors aren't really "classes." To which I say, why do you want to learn to act from a casting director anyway? That's not the point. The point is to get in front of them. So, if you had a bad experience and no response from these things, it's probably because you don't have talent, charisma, OR you don't have skills. If you're looking for acting chops, this isn't the place, go take a real acting class from Stella Adler, Strassberg or Meisner. But if you want to make connections and get feedback from decision makers after you've developed your skills about how to present yourself AND how to conduct yourself in a high stress environment-- this is a great way to do it. If you are a real actor and interesting you will stick out at these things, like the diamond in the rough. The casting directors will be so relieved to see you because mostly, they are meeting people who either aren't ready or who don't really belong in the business. So, if you think that's you-- ignore the complaints below. I paid for a year long membership over a decade ago when things were slow for me. All the casting directors I met were happy to meet me and several called me in. One of them started using me as a reader for one of the flagship theaters in NYC. I did that for several years. During one of the sessions I was reading for, the director of the show offered me a role on Broadway. This was one of two Broadway shows I booked from being a reader for that office. read more

I recently finished the 16 week Full Tim Hybrid Conservatory at TVI Actors Studio. People seem to be giving them a bad wrap for the content of classes, casting directors etc. You will only get out what you put in. People seem to think that doing one or two workshops with a casting director will cause them to be "discovered" as so many people desire. I came to TVI through a friend back home in Australia who did the 8 week course in New York. She loved it and suggested that I would love it. And you know what, I did!! The teachers were amazing, so friendly and helpful, they were all people working in the industry teaching techniques that are invaluable as an actor. Bear in mind, I've been acting back home in Australia for 5 years, so I am not a newbie, but it IS a very different ballgame. You should never stop learning as an actor, no matter how long you have been doing it. TVI is another option for anyone who needs to refresh themselves. Of course there are other places out there, as an actor the key to success is to NETWORK!! But by doing the full time program, I have met amazing actors, casting directors and teachers all of which will help me grow as an actor. You can read these reviews all you want, but in the end, don't knock it til you've tried it. Go in with an open mind and give everything you've got. Even if you don't succeed as much as you think you might, that's a part of life... it is a learning experience. To the team at TVI, thank you so much for your help and kindness. Keep up the good work! read more

I had audited other schools before deciding to become a member at TVI Studios. I did not have to join as a member but the student benefits are great. You get discounts on classes and showcases plus you are assigned a career coach. I love being able to come to the school and meeting with my career coach who not only goes over my resume and how to get all my acting tools in place but she also helps me prep for any scenes I need memorized. If I need to complete a self-audition I can simply make an appointment with my career coach and come to the studio and use their HD camera to film it. I have paid to be in the 5 day Actors Showcase. It included performing for 10 Agents and 3 Managers along with meeting 5 Casting Directors. As a bonus the showcase included a photographers panel and a 3 hour Business of Acting Class. I have not heard back from any agents or mangers from the showcase BUT this is the entertainment industry and individuals need to remember image is almost everything. If the agents and managers already have a talent on their roasters that I match, they will not take on a new client that would compete with their already signed client. It was a good experience and the knowledge I gained from the showcase was worth the money I paid. I love my acting teacher and how my class isn't just scene study but he also gives us cold readings and reviews audition techniques. All important in gaining work. Now for why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5. The location sucks. You need to find street parking which isn't too much of a problem. The building that the school is located in always smells like pot. I do not have a problem with pot, but the individuals who hang around the lobby area make me feel uncomfortable. The bathroom is nasty but could honestly be a lot worst. The actually area the school is located in could use a good cleaning, new carpet, painted walls, and decorations. But I've also worked in a recording studio that I would have said the same thing about, and the owner always responded with he could have invested on upgrading but he'd have to charge more for his services. Cost is important. Even when paying the monthly membership, this school is cheaper than other acting schools. read more