Acting is a powerful and transformative skill that transcends the stage, offering immense value to individuals of all ages. Mastering the art of acting goes beyond simply performing in front of an audience; it involves understanding human emotions, developing empathy, and honing one’s ability to communicate effectively. These skills are not only crucial for delivering compelling performances but also offer significant benefits in everyday life, be it in the workplace or one’s relationships. So, whether your reasons to get into acting in Singapore involve professional aspirations or personal growth, these are the best schools that can teach you everything you need to know to reach your goals.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. Centre Stage School of the Arts
Centre Stage School of the Arts is a full performing arts centre offering creative programmes for children, teens, and adults. Prior to becoming the institution it has become today, Centre Stage was initially a school based in music, drama, and dance that serves to build key foundations in each child, namely communication, confidence, imagination, creativity, and group collaboration skills. Over the years, Centre Stage has expanded its courses and now covers creative and performing drama, musical theatre, and acting in Singapore, to name a few. Under the guidance of their experienced staff, all of whom are trained performers and graduates of drama schools, inspiring actors can acquire all the knowledge and skills they need to perfect their craft.
Customer Reviews:
Nabeel Akif
Enrolled our little one in Centre Stage’s Creative Drama class as we were looking for an outlet for him to display his expressive self whilst at the same time to learn and have fun with his classmates and we weren’t disappointed! He would re-enact some of the things he learned at home and entertain us to no end. Thank you, Centre Stage!
Armando Assis
My 6-year-old son has been attending drama classes at Centre Stage for nearly 2 years now, and it has been a wonderful experience for him. As a naturally shy child, we enrolled him in drama to encourage self-expression, and it has exceeded our expectations. He has grown more confident, taking the lead among his peers and finding his voice. I highly recommend Centre Stage for their commitment to children’s development in an enjoyable and engaging manner. The staff has been incredibly helpful, always ready to address my queries and connect me with the instructors when needed. It’s a fantastic place for young ones to explore their creativity and flourish.
Edward Applewhite
Before Covid I had the pleasure of collaborating with Centre Stage in my position as Head of Drama and Director of the Acting Course at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts in Herts, UK. What a fantastic experience that was working with the professional, dedicated team at Centre Stage run so superbly by Pete and Alison. The nurturing, supportive and hugely creative environment that they create enables young people to flourish and grow and deepen their love of the performing arts. Now, post-Covid, that the world has returned to normal I am very much hoping we can organise another exchange again.
Website: https://www.centre-stage.com/
Contact: 6732 7211
Location: 15 Woking Rd, Singapore 138694
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9 AM–7:30 PM | Saturday 8:30 AM–6:30 PM | Closed on Sundays
2. Zoom! Academy
Zoom! Academy has been developing and growing countless professional hosts and actors for 13 years now, improving every facet of their skill and talent, from their confidence to their self-expression and more. The school features an enriched learning environment, up-to-date curriculum, and unparalleled pedagogy that all come together to help students take their learning to the next level and ultimately start their career in show hosting or acting in Singapore. As a casting agent for production houses and local TV stations in the island, Zoom! Academy also provides a unique advantage over the competition in that it allows its acting students plenty of acting opportunities to put their learnings into action and gain real experience in the entertainment industry.
Customer Reviews:
Yadah Video
I graduated from acting course! Is fun!!! I learnt a new set of skills plus knew friends with same interest! The academy offers practical tips and secrets of acting well that would require many years of acting to accumulate. Thanks to all sincere and hardworking teachers who really want us to excel in acting and hosting! Thanks heaps.
TheBottleStore SG
I felt so happy and at home at Zoom Academy! I have learned a lot and acquired the necessary skills to pursue my dream in hosting and acting! With very sincere thanks to all my great and wonderful teachers! I look forward to attending future classes at Zoom Academy soon!!! Zoom Academy 万岁！！！
Gerald Fang
Zoom Academy conducts systematic professional training courses. After taking Zoom Academy’s junior actor training course, you can really experience the fun and skills of acting. Teachers often stress that if you want to be a good actor, you have to “listen, see and feel”. To enter the inner world of the character, we should integrate the thoughts and feelings of the characters and create a soulful and living character. When you play the opposite role, let the other person really feel the existence of the role you play, each other to play the truth, in order to play together, to reach the role of receiving and giving the play. Improvisation is a form of training in acting skills. In class, the teachers are generous to share their acting experience with the students, so that the students benefit greatly.The curriculum includes theory and practice.
Website: https://www.zoomacademysg.com/
Contact: 8113 1708
Location: 70B Smith St, Level 3, Singapore 058968
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 12 PM–5 PM | Closed on Weekends
3. KrisP. Production
KrisP Production is a film production and theatre company that provides acting classes in Singapore for everyone, from professional and established actors to aspiring individuals and everyone in between. The most popular of these is their Acting for Beginners course, which is a 4-week programme designed to cultivate confidence, sharpen social skills, and unleash one’s charisma. This is followed by the Acting on Camera class that welcomes both actors and non-actors alike. Here, students will become familiar with the Michael Chekhov technique, which is used by Broadway and Hollywood actors, and experience the transformative powers it brings to performers who master it. Last but not least, they also have classes solely focused on the Meisner Technique and are designed to explore authenticity in one’s acting skills, embrace the truth of every moment, and ultimately unlock the full potential of one’s craft.
Customer Reviews:
Cyrus Tong
I’ve always been interested in acting, but I had a career in the corporate world. Now that I’m ready to transition and explore acting, I’ve been searching for techniques to help me improve as an actor. I decided to try the Chekhov technique, and I truly enjoyed it! In such a short time, I could genuinely feel and expand my emotional range, which was an incredible experience.
Its Leiramae
Taking KrisP Production is the best decision I made as a beginner actress. I took the private acting class and it was very beneficial to me. Kristina first talked with me about what is acting, the industry. Throughout the sessions, she gave techniques on pre audition warm ups that can help me, working with monologue and even shared creative networks to start on my headshots and CV. After the session, I had a better understanding of acting, myself and got a good idea of how to start. If I need assistance again or try, I know that I can count on her and various workshops! 😊
Sharlene
Attended a private Chekhov workshop was one of the best decisions I made as a filmmaker/director! You not only learn tools to use with your actors but it helps you to understand how your actors can work. Generally, regardless of your occupation and goals, you get to be raw and open up a fuller range of emotions and imagination that can help you even in your everyday life. My actors told me this was their first time working with a director who taught them a method to help them with their character instead of just giving verbal directions, and they said in that one day they’ve learnt something new! I’m glad I was able to learn the Chekhov technique from you, rehearsals are a lot more insightful for both me and the actors and I hope next time I can use it more for future projects too.
Website: https://www.krispproduction.com/
Contact: 9117 9950
Location: 114 Lavender St., #10-86 CT Hub 2, Singapore 338729
Opening Hours: –
4. Tamasha By Deepika Rajani
Tamasha By Deepika Rajani serves to enrich people’s lives through theatre. Through its comprehensive programmes focused on speech, drama, and theatre, Tamasha strives to empower its young and mature students and nurture the confidence they need to reach their aspirations. The school’s most popular programme is its drama and theatre classes (available in English, Mandarin, and Hindi) which are centred around the pillars of ‘Progress over Perfection’ and ‘Drama Changes Lives’. The former states that true growth only happens when students accept imperfections, hence the encouragement to make mistakes and take risks to learn from every new experience. Meanwhile, the latter is the conviction of the transformative force that drama creates, which allows the school not just to empower individuals on stage but also in their real lives.
Customer Reviews:
Yogesh Yadav
Tamasha by Deepika Rajani has turned learning into a thrilling adventure for our 9-year-old boy. The Trinity College London certification classes have not only honed his skills but have also sparked a deep appreciation for the arts. Deepika’s commitment to fostering creativity in children is evident in every session. The structured and internationally recognized Trinity College curriculum adds an extra layer of excellence to the learning process. As parents, we are delighted to witness our child’s growth and passion for the arts flourish under Deepika’s guidance.
SANDEEP SAHANI
Tamasha by Deepika Rajani has been an exciting and rewarding experience for my 12 year old. The Speech & Drama classes go beyond conventional learning, infusing creativity and self-expression into each session. Deepika’s dedication to her students is evident in the way she tailors her teaching to cater to different age groups. My son not only enjoys the classes but has also developed invaluable life skills through the world of theatre. Tamasha truly makes learning a thrilling journey for kids.
bhagyashree sharma
As a parent,Tamasha by Deepika Rajani at the Speech & Drama School is a source of pride.The comprehensive preparation for Trinity College London certification has not only honed my child’s. performance skills but has also good significantly improved their life skills. Deepika’s guidance has been instrumental in fostering a confident and expressive individual.
Website: https://deepikarajani.com/
Contact: 8368 3999
Location: 90 Goodman Rd, Goodman Arts Centre, Singapore 439053
Opening Hours: Open Daily 10 AM–8 PM
5. The Improv Company
The Improv Company is the biggest school for improv theatre in Singapore, where performers can learn the ropes of spontaneous and scriptless storytelling. For those unaware, improvisation is one of the core techniques in an actor’s toolbox, as it stretches the imagination and, more often than not, leads to unforgettable performances. To the dismay of scriptwriters everywhere, improvisation has been responsible for many of the best moments in TV and cinema history. The Improv Company’s long-term classes and short but specialised workshops all teach students the secrets to creating engaging and often hilarious performances on the fly and hone their skills in teamwork, spontaneity, quick thinking, and creativity.
Customer Reviews:
Conny Martin
I attended the 2 hours taster session with Miguel, together with 15 other interested newbie’s. Super fun and great learnings – not just about improv but for life. Thanks for a great Saturday afternoon!
Sands Norms
I had a great experience at Improv Company as a student of Improv 101 and taster session. The instructor Mellow was professional and nice, and helped us unlearn learnt behaviours that were not useful. The course helped beyond improv but into the workplace and other aspect of my life. Only thing was his feedback was abit stern at times.
Stephen Christopher
The imrpov session was excellent. Imran was a very articulate and charismatic facilitator, everyone had fun and time flew quickly !
Website: http://www.improv.sg/
Contact: 8800 0651
Location: 62B South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058692
Opening Hours: By Appointment Only; Tuesday-Sunday 12 PM–9 PM | Closed on Mondays
6. Haque Centre of Acting & Creativity (HCAC)
HCAC is in the business of nurturing talents and getting them ready to step onto the global stage with its diverse array of acting courses in Singapore. These classes leverage theatre-based and Method Acting techniques to enhance learning efficiency, drive better outcomes, and further develop the skills of professional performers. In addition to their rotating selection of training workshops, HCAC also provides private coaching for those in need of more personalised attention in regard to successfully achieving their career goals. So, whether you are an experienced actor or someone who’s just getting started, HCAC is confident that everyone has the ability to act well and can help them discover the authenticity to express themselves.
Customer Reviews:
riprockmusic1
I just attended the 3-hour acting workshop for adults over the weekend. I’d say the workshop isn’t just for aspiring actors. It’s for anyone (students, corporate slaves, etc.) who need help getting out of their stifled space of mind and picking up some useful behavioral techniques you can apply to in your life. Kamil was engaging and for someone with ADD, I was not distracted at all for the full 3 hours. There is a sense of no-judgement in the room, so even if you’re not sure what you’d get out of the workshop, just know that you get a sense of euphoria and just a good time playing on a Sunday afternoon (before dinner at Bugis). I’d recommend this to anybody, from 12 to 95. Thanks Kam!
Stephanie Evans
Our company recently did a workshop at HCAC and I had a fantastic experience. I wasn’t sure what to expect as acting is not anything I have done prior in my life. Kamil led the workshop with enthusiasm and stats that tied into a theme throughout the course. He kept things fun and interactive amongst the group. Overall the workshop was really fun and challenged me to see things from a different perspective. I took away some new techniques and tools to leverage in my role and company. It was a great way to connect with colleagues and work on self development. Would highly recommend to many!
Grace Chan
I attended both the Fundamentals of Acting Workshop, and the 4 Week Lee Strasberg’s Method Acting (Intro) Workshop! The experience was golden, and Kamil Haque the instructor was also great, he was professional, and incredible engaging! I would strongly recommend both workshops to any human beings regardless of age and gender! Because beyond gaining an overall understanding of acting and how to prepare, through the process you may also gain insights on what has been holding you back, and even the courage to overcome it!
Website: http://methodactingasia.com/
Contact: 8776 4580
Location: 89A Desker Road, Singapore, Singapore, 209611
Opening Hours: –
7. Play Acting Drama Centre
Play Acting Drama Centre serves to instil confidence, creativity, and self-esteem in its quality acting courses in Singapore catered to children and adolescents. The school tailors its programmes according to its students’ requirements, and they also go beyond mere teacher-student sessions but rather provide immersive and empowering experiences through the tenets of drama. From understanding the various facets of plays to characterisation, physical acting techniques, and even basic stage combat, Play Acting Drama Centre guarantees students will get to hone every aspect of their acting skills through their classes.
Customer Reviews:
jeff Martín
Our daughter has completed trinity exams and obtained distinctions by working with Play Acting Drama and we are very happy with the high quality teaching and the awesome results that have been achieved here. There is a depth of knowledge and subject matter expertise that really pushes students forward at an accelerated rate so they can achieve great results.
Purnima Sivaramakrishnan
Wonderful experience – engaging, enriching classes culminating in a showcase of work which has really helped my son’s confidence both on and off stage. Kudos to Sangeeta and her team.
Rasika Viswanath
My daughter Drishya has had a wonderful experience at Play acting drama centre under the guidance of Sangeeta Nambiar. She has been part of many productions and has thoroughly enjoyed her journey so far . She has been succesfully completing her Trinity exams and hopes to continue with her diploma too. She has recently had an oppurtunity to direct a play too! We sincerely thank Sangeeta amd Marc for all their support and guidance and wish them all the best in the future!
Website: http://playacting.net/
Contact: 6440 5756
Location: 80 Marine Parade Rd 14-04, Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10 AM–7 PM | Saturday 10 AM–4 PM | Closed on Sundays
8. Intercultural Theatre Institute (ITI)
ITI is an independent actor-training school that specialises in training actors in classical Asian theatre and various contemporary approaches. Its foremost acting class in Singapore is the ITI Acting Programme, a three-year, full-time programme that emphasises practice-oriented and performer-centred training that develops each student’s skills in performance and original theatre-making. During this period, students will be immersed in the various traditional theatre forms of Asia juxtaposed with interactions based on Stanislavskian and post-Stanislavskian techniques. By the end, students will become proficient in stagecraft, performing in various contemporary theatre genres, and working autonomously as an artist.
Customer Reviews:
Yiseong ESSAFI
The new must “To graduate from” do on your life’s list. If you want to expand your knowledge, there is no better place where worldwide talents come to teach you in the Hill’s classroom. Buckle up! It is a well deserved and worthy but hard journey.
Christopher Tychicus Lee
The Intercultural Theatre Institute is the place to be for theatre practitioners who are seeking to have an immersive and in-depth learning of the classical Asian theatre systems, contemporary Western acting approaches, para-theatre techniques, and creative individual performances.
vikky balu
Superb.
Website: http://iti.edu.sg/
Contact: 8399 6314
Location: 11 Upper Wilkie Rd, Intercultural Theatre Institute, Singapore 228120
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9 AM–6 PM | Closed on Weekends
Conclusion
The art of acting in Singapore offers a multitude of benefits that extend well beyond the theatre. Mastering this skill enriches individuals by fostering emotional intelligence, boosting confidence, and enhancing communication abilities. These attributes are invaluable in everyday life, helping individuals navigate social interactions, improve public speaking, and develop a deeper understanding of human emotions. Regardless of age or professional aspirations, the transformative power of acting makes it a rewarding and enriching pursuit that contributes significantly to personal growth and interpersonal connections.
In such environment, confidence is a must! Enhance your public speaking skills by enrolling in one of the best classes in Singapore!