New Collective LA – Acting Studio

This a great oasis for actors in the middle of a busy city. I saw a play last night in their theatre space and I encountered some very sweet and generous people. They offer tons of classes as well. This is a really exciting find. I can’t wait to return and see what else they have in store.

I’ve seen the commercial workshops and the audition workshops — scams — but not all of them. I’m not saying these guys will change your life, but at least you’ll see acting like any other skill — as a teachable craft. This place runs like a gym of sorts, in that you can design your program to get into acting shape. Acting is a great idea if you want to improve whatever talent you sense, but what I didn’t know is that like any profession there are ways one can learn to learn. These guys just teach to you to learn, so that you can improve your stage presence by acting on stage. Using a straightforward methodology, they encourage you to practice as often as you like — alone or in their theater. Their membership system allows you to walk in at whatever frequency works for you. No need to be screamed at or forced to add drama to your every day life. You can waltz in when you’re ready or motivated, then you get to see your work on screen just like in a post-​game video. Who knew?

I’m writing this from an audience member perspective. I’m not an actor nor writer, nor attempting to be one. I just love being entertained.
That being said, I just checked out a play at The New Collective, called Frankie and Johnny in the Clair De Lune by Terrence McNally, Acted by Shawn C. Robinson, Marie Broderick, and Directed by Greg Braun.
From the very beginning I was super uncomfortable and intrigued. The play was so intimate and intense, I felt like I was spying or invading two adults passionate night together. As the story unfolded and I found myself really disliking Frankie, I mean she was B! And I left like Johnny was way too patient, kind and needed to be set up with one of my friends instead. I wanted to sneak a quick whisper, to tell him to get the hell out of that place… In other words, they sucked me into their lives, their very private moment and development. I saw a lot of my past in each of them and got lost in their lives! I forgot I was watching a play, instead I was emotionally invested and I had no idea that would happen.
I love plays that are capable of warping my reality and sucking me into a story where I want to grab the characters and shake them, tell them no don’t go into the basement. — You know the feeling. So congrats to the the cast and director. I look forward to checking out your next peace. You offer what I would like to share with friends so keep me posted on your next show!
Thank you

I love this studio! it is a haven! I was feeling stuck with my work and career. I found this school through the great Susan Batson. There is no yelling or beating points over your head. Just gentle encouragement and eye opening guidance. I’ve learned a new respect and wonder for my craft thanks to this wonderful space. The prices are more than reasonable too.