Best Performing Arts Classes Near Me: Find In-Person & Virtual Training

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Whether it begins as a calling, a curiosity, or a creative outlet, the path into the performing arts is rarely one-size-fits-all. Many study theatre, dance, comedy, or other disciplines to build careers, though countless others devote a lifetime to the performing arts as a hobby that provides connection, confidence, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others. While driven by passion and craft, a performing arts career requires adaptability, collaboration, and no small amount of creative hustle. This article guides readers through the major sectors of the industry, popular jobs in the field, and some of the current trends shaping the performing arts today.

Top Industries and Employers for Performing Arts Careers

Theatre and Live Performance

Though Broadway and the West End still carry prestige and financial pull, contemporary theatre is increasingly shaped by regional houses, experimental venues, and community-driven productions that prioritize story, accessibility, and social relevance. From devised work in black box spaces to large-scale tours that bring classics and new plays to wider audiences, the range of opportunities in live performances is as wide as it is evolving. Meanwhile, comedy clubs like The Second City and The Comedy Store continue to launch improv and stand-up careers, while contemporary circus companies like Cirque du Soleil push physical storytelling into new creative territory.

Dance and Choreography

Both classical and contemporary dance companies provide steady roles for dancers and choreographers trained in a range of techniques. Artists in this realm also work in commercial dance for music videos, tours, and theme park shows. Meanwhile, choreographers are in-demand to provide artistic and technical movement direction for theatre, television, and film productions. Many dancers supplement their income by working in dance education, with many dancers discovering a rewarding long-term career option in this sector.

Film, Television, and Streaming

While TV roles were once confined to a few major networks and cable dramas, the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ has created a massive demand for performers for everything from fantasy epics to feel-good reality shows. Voice acting has also grown into its own thriving field, with talent lending their voices to animated series, audiobooks, dubbed international films, and blockbuster video games. And for those interested in exploring the high-tech world of performance capture, opportunities abound for actors with the talent of bringing digital characters to life through physical movement and subtle expression.

Education and Community Arts

Many performers enjoy leading workshops or creating programs designed to build skills and confidence through creative expression. While teaching artist positions are commonly part-time, positions typically feature a high hourly rate, and opportunities are abundant at K–12 schools, universities, and arts nonprofits. As the wide-reaching benefits of the arts are increasingly recognized by government organizations and sectors ranging from healthcare to the corporate sphere, community-based performance opportunities are on the rise. Grants and other local arts council support make community-based performances available, while the global rise of social prescribing is creating more arts and health opportunities than ever.

Performing Arts Career Pathways and Salaries

Salaries in the performing arts vary widely by discipline, employer type, union status, and experience, among other factors. Entry-level performers often supplement their income with teaching, commercial work, or freelance gigs.

Role	Typical Annual Earnings (USD)
Theater Actor (Equity)	$30,000 – $100,000+
Film/TV Actor (SAG-AFTRA)	$50,000 – $1,000,000+
Choreographer	$45,000 – $120,000
Stand-Up Comedian	$20,000 – $300,000+
Dance Instructor	$35,000 – $70,000

While high-profile performing arts professionals may see salaries reaching six or seven figures, most performers build sustainable careers through proactive networking and upskilling combined with versatility and creative flexibility in their day-to-day work. Performers commonly supplement their income through teaching, producing, digital content creation, and other eclectic applications of their skills.

Skills for Success in the Performing Arts

Performing artists rely on a blend of technical training, creative instincts, and personal strengths, with the specifics varying considerably depending on their chosen disciplines.

Technical and Performance Skills

Acting Techniques: While Method acting and other more traditional approaches are still widely taught and used, actors have more methodologies to choose from than ever before when training in essential techniques. Many are drawn to newer, holistic approaches to acting that prioritize the actor’s mental health rather than breaking down the performer or asking them to use their own trauma to create authentic moments on stage.
Dance and Choreography: Movement-based performing arts like dance and musical theatre require extensive dance training, with ballet demanding training from a very young age to succeed at a professional level. Learning multiple styles of dance is a smart career move, broadening employment options in companies, musicals, and commercial productions.
Voice and Vocal Performance: Actors, singers, and other performing artists who rely on their voice train for both range and vocal health. Many supplement their skills with diction, dialect coaching, and breathwork.
Improvisation: Comedians, hosts, and stage performers use improvisation techniques to build character, respond in real-time, and engage audiences by meeting them where they are. Strong improv skills are a must to perform in comedy troupes like The Second City and Upright Citizens Brigade.
Self-Taping and Digital Auditions: Since the pandemic established self-taping and Zoom auditions as a norm, actors and other performing artists must have the skills to prepare for these auditions, sometimes with just a few hours’ notice. Strong camera presence, video editing skills, and knowledge of lighting and sound setup are now industry expectations.

Performing Arts Soft Skills

Resilience and Stamina: A career in the performing arts involves frequent rejection, intense schedules, and a variety of physical demands. Professionals must figure out what mental and emotional tools work to help them regulate during the many highs and lows that come with working in the field.
Collaboration and Communication: Whether working with a creative team, giving notes, or leading a rehearsal, communication skills and emotional intelligence are essential to thrive in the performing arts.
Cultural Literacy: Artists who understand diverse cultural frameworks and performance traditions are better equipped to work on inclusive productions and international projects.

Certifications and Education

Formal Degrees: BFA and MFA programs in acting, dance, or musical theatre offer structured training and professional networking, though many agree that graduate programs aren’t necessary for a performing arts career unless the individual’s goals involve teaching at a college level.
Union Membership: SAG-AFTRA, Actors’ Equity Association, and AGMA (American Guild of Musical Artists) provide access to professional opportunities and workplace protections.
Specialized Credentials: Performing arts professionals can expand their versatility and income potential with certifications in areas like stage combat, intimacy direction, or mental health coordination.

Factors Shaping the Performing Arts Today

Innovation and social change continue to influence how, where, and why the performing arts are created and consumed. From tech-forward experiments to social justice-driven initiatives, the field’s evolving landscape is overflowing with opportunities for those who are proactive in looking for or, better yet, creating them.

Digital and Hybrid Performances

Live Streamed Productions: Digital shows, concerts, and readings allow performers to reach global audiences in real-time. Hybrid performances that combine in-person and online elements are increasingly common across the performing arts scene.
VR and AR Integrations: Virtual reality platforms are expanding the boundaries of live performance, with more and more casting calls for these projects appearing across the globe. Actors and dancers are both in-demand to collaborate with developers in creating immersive experiences that invite audience members to participate in the storytelling experience.
Content Creation Monetization: Many artists are taking their careers into their own hands by building audiences on major social media platforms by posting skits, monologues, choreography, or voice reels. YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok offer actors and other performers the opportunity to create revenue streams, showcase their talent to agents and producers, and share their craft with an audience as an end in itself.

Industry Shifts and Social Movements

Equity in Storytelling and Casting: There’s a growing commitment in theatres, film studios, and comedy clubs to not only diversify casting but also broaden the stories told. Organizations like Geena Davis’s Institute on Gender in Media and movements such as We See You White American Theater are pushing for more inclusive representation, ensuring LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, and neurodiverse artists are visible in narratives across all platforms.
AI and Emerging Technology: From AI-driven voice replication to immersive experiences built with virtual and augmented reality, new technologies offer pioneering performing artists opportunities to create fresh forms of collaboration and audience engagement. At the same time, artists and institutions are actively questioning the ethical implications of AI in creative spaces, as it sheds light on the irreplaceable role of human creativity and presence in the arts.
Mental Health and Sustainability: Performing arts companies, with theatre leading the way, are adopting trauma-informed practices, prioritizing rest, and rethinking scheduling norms to support artists’ mental health and long-term careers. Arts and health partnerships are also gaining traction, with public health organizations turning to performance as part of social prescribing programs that recognize the arts’ power to support well-being.

Janine Ashley

Janine Ashley is a writer, educator, and digital content specialist with a background in graphic design, video editing, web development, and arts-based education. She holds a BA in Theatre and English from Harding University and an MA in Folk Studies from Western Kentucky University. Since 2016, Janine has created educational content on graphic design, front-end web design, motion graphics, and digital tools for creative professionals and learners of all ages. At Noble Desktop, she writes on a wide range of topics, including video editing, UX & UI design, and coding. She has built websites and led branding efforts for several theatre companies and nonprofits, and collaborated with various companies on photography, design, and digital storytelling through social media.

Performing Arts Courses by School

Here are some of the top schools offering Performing Arts training, including 92nd Street Y (53 courses), The Barrow Group Acting School (27 courses), and Actors Technique NY Kids & Teens (21 courses).

The Barrow Group Acting School

NYC location: 520 8th Ave,, New York, New York

The Barrow Group Acting School is a New York City acting school founded in 1986 by Artistic Director Lee Brock. They offer classes and workshops in a variety of acting disciplines, including scene study, monologue work, and audition techniques for actors of all levels. The school's alumni include Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway, three-time Emmy winner Jennifer Landon, and Emmy winner Tony Hale.
- Beginner Acting I: The Basics
  - 30 Hours
  - $545
- Alexander Technique for the Actor I
  - 8 Weeks, 2 hr/wk
  - $395
- Beginners Acting I: The Basics
  - 10 Weeks, 3 hr/wk
  - $425
- Beginners Acting II: Getting Specific
  - 10 Weeks, 3 hr/wk
  - $495
Acting School for Film and Television

NYC location: 150 West 46th Street,, New York, New York

The Acting School for Film and Television is a New York City acting school that offers classes and workshops for actors of all levels including scene study, monologue work, and audition technique. The school was founded in 1984 by Artistic Director Michael Howard and is known for its practical approach to training actors for the film and television industry.
- Full Term 03
  - 99 Hours
  - $4,950
- Half Term 01
  - 49 Hours
  - $2,400
- Half Term 02
  - 49 Hours
  - $2,650
- Get Your Act Together
  - 123 Hours
  - $8,300
Kissin Improv

NYC location: 2067 Broadway, New York, New York

Kissin Improv is a New York City-based acting school that offers a variety of courses to students of all ages. They focus on improvisation, comedy, and acting, and classes are available both online and in-person. Taking advantage of their improv classes and workshops will develop public speaking skills, build confidence, and help unleash creativity.
- Tuesday Improv - Night Time Special (Class + Coaching)
  - 2 Hours
  - $99
- Sunday Afternoon - Performance Improv
  - 2 Hours
  - $75
- Tuesday Improv - Daytime Special (Class + Coaching)
  - 2 Hours
  - $99
The Actors Circle

Los Angeles location: 11282 Washington Blvd, Culver City, California

The Actors Circle in Los Angeles is a professional school for young actors in training. They offer a range of classes and workshops for students of all levels, including acting, improvisation, audition technique, and scene study. Through their unique approach, they provide an opportunity for students to develop their skills and gain confidence in their performance.
- Acting for Adults
  - 3 Hours
  - $54
- Kids Acting (5-11 yrs old)
  - 2 Hours
  - $40
- Teens Acting (12-16 yrs old)
  - 2 Hours
  - $48
Improvolution

NYC location: 115 Macdougal Street, New York, New York

Improvolution is an acting school in New York City specializing in improv-based courses. Students can choose from offerings such as one-on-one coaching, scene workshops, and comedy improv, all taught by professional improv actors. With a focus on building both confidence and creativity, Improvolution provides a supportive learning environment to help their students find their inner comic.
- Intro to Improv
  - 2 Hours
  - $50
- Launch Into 'Yes!' Improv
  - 10 Hours
  - $195
- Intro to Improv
  - 2 Hours
  - $50
- Level 1: Core Improv
  - 30 Hours
  - $495
Russell Acting Studio

NYC location: 210 W 50th ST, New York, New York

Russell Acting Studio is a New York City acting school that offers classes and workshops for actors of all levels. They offer classes in a variety of acting disciplines, including scene study, monologue work, and audition techniques. The studio was founded by actor and director Russell Davis, who has worked in the industry for over 30 years.
- 8-Week Advanced Intensive Acting
  - 8 Weeks, 2 hr/wk
  - $300
- Beginning Acting for the Non-Actor
  - 6 Weeks, 2 hr/wk
  - $240
DBA Flappers University

Los Angeles location: 102 E Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, California

DBA Flappers University, located in Los Angeles, is an esteemed acting school that offers a diverse range of courses designed to hone the skills of aspiring actors. With a commitment to providing top-tier instruction, the university offers comprehensive acting programs, improv workshops, and stand-up comedy courses. Whether participants seek to refine their acting techniques, develop their comedic prowess, or explore the art of improvisation, DBA Flappers University provides a nurturing environment where students can unlock their creative potential and thrive in the performing arts industry.
- Intro to Stand Up Comedy
  - 3 Hours
  - $25
Acting Class Now

Los Angeles location: 3932 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, California

Acting Class Now is a Los Angeles- based school dedicated to teaching students of all levels and backgrounds how to hone their acting craft. The school offers an extensive range of courses such as Beginning and Intermediate Scene Study, On-Camera Acting, and Improv Acting. Each class focuses on developing skills in improvisation, scene study, character development, and audition techniques.
- IK Connection Method: Moment 2 Moment
  - 3 Hours
  - $25
AbelCine Training
Locations:
- Los Angeles
- NYC
AbelCine Training offers a range of educational courses for the media and entertainment industries, from online film classes to hands-on workshops. With an emphasis on digital media and emerging technologies, AbelCine specializes in cinematography, digital cinema production, visual effects, sound design, animation, and color correction. Their goal is to help professionals and students transform their ideas into realities.
- AGITO Academy Standard
  - 7 Hours
  - $550
- ARRI ALEXA 35 Bootcamp
  - 14 Hours
  - $800
- ARRI ALEXA 35 Bootcamp
  - 14 Hours
  - $800
New York Jazz Workshop

NYC location: 265 W 37th St, New York, New York

New York Jazz Workshop offers several courses to help jazz musicians hone their skills. They offer classes in improvisation as well as advanced courses in jazz harmony and jazz theory. The courses are taught by working professionals who are alumni of prestigious music schools.
- Jazz Singing with Michelle Walker
  - 4 Weeks, 2 hr/wk
  - $335
- Let’s Sing with Elana Hedrych
  - 4 Weeks, 1 hr/wk
  - $180
- Let’s Sing with Jocelyn Medina – Online
  - 4 Weeks, 1 hr/wk
  - $180
- Let’s Sing with Olivia Foschi – Online
  - 4 Weeks, 1 hr/wk
  - $180

Showing 10 of 48 schools

Performing Arts Topics

Acting

Acting classes provide you with acting skills and techniques to develop your performance abilities. You’ll practice voice projection, emotional expression, and character development.

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Film

Film classes give you the technical and artistic abilities used in film production. You’ll develop practical skills in writing, directing, cinematography, and editing, as well as gain an understanding of film history and theory.

Improv

Improvisation classes teach you to build spontaneity, creativity, and collaboration skills through exercises and games that encourage you and your fellow actors to think on your feet and create in the moment.

Explore Improv Classes

Comedy

Comedy classes teach you proper comedic timing, improvisation skills, and stage presence to help you deliver humorous performances.

Music

Music classes explore the intersection between music and live performance and help you master the techniques, theories, and practical skills required to excel in various musical genres.

Explore Music Classes

Screenwriting

Screenwriting classes teach you the fundamentals of storytelling and scriptwriting for film and television. You’ll learn to write compelling narratives and develop strong characters across series and movies.

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Bollywood Dance

Bollywood dance classes teach you vibrant and energetic dances that combine classical Indian dance with contemporary movements. You’ll feel heavily immersed in the infectious spirit of Bollywood films.

Hip Hop Dance

Hip hop dance classes provide a dynamic and energetic environment to learn and master various dance styles rooted in hip hop culture. Each class focuses on rhythm, body movement, coordination, and self-expression.

Twerk

Twerk classes offer you the opportunity to learn the techniques behind this popular dance style, letting you express yourself through dynamic dance movements and rhythms.

Dance

Dance classes encompass a broad range of dance techniques and styles, giving you the opportunity to develop your physical skills, creativity, and performance abilities.

Explore Dance Classes

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Learn More About Performing Arts Courses

Top Industries and Employers for Performing Arts Careers

Theatre and Live Performance

Dance and Choreography

Film, Television, and Streaming

Education and Community Arts

Performing Arts Career Pathways and Salaries

Skills for Success in the Performing Arts

Technical and Performance Skills

Performing Arts Soft Skills

Certifications and Education

Factors Shaping the Performing Arts Today

Digital and Hybrid Performances

Industry Shifts and Social Movements

Performing Arts Courses by School

The Barrow Group Acting School

Beginner Acting I: The Basics

Alexander Technique for the Actor I

Beginners Acting I: The Basics

Beginners Acting II: Getting Specific

Acting School for Film and Television

Full Term 03

Half Term 01

Half Term 02

Get Your Act Together

Kissin Improv

Tuesday Improv - Night Time Special (Class + Coaching)

Sunday Afternoon - Performance Improv

Tuesday Improv - Daytime Special (Class + Coaching)

The Actors Circle

Acting for Adults

Kids Acting (5-11 yrs old)

Teens Acting (12-16 yrs old)

Improvolution

Intro to Improv

Launch Into 'Yes!' Improv

Intro to Improv

Level 1: Core Improv

Russell Acting Studio

8-Week Advanced Intensive Acting

Beginning Acting for the Non-Actor

DBA Flappers University

Intro to Stand Up Comedy

Acting Class Now

IK Connection Method: Moment 2 Moment

AbelCine Training

AGITO Academy Standard

ARRI ALEXA 35 Bootcamp

ARRI ALEXA 35 Bootcamp

New York Jazz Workshop

Jazz Singing with Michelle Walker

Let’s Sing with Elana Hedrych

Let’s Sing with Jocelyn Medina – Online

Let’s Sing with Olivia Foschi – Online

Performing Arts Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

Performing Arts Training Map & Top Locations

83 Courses Available in NYC

Performing Arts Topics

Acting

Film

Improv

Comedy

Music

Screenwriting

Bollywood Dance

Hip Hop Dance

Twerk

Dance

Performing Arts
Corporate & Onsite Training