The 12 Best Drama Schools in Toronto [2022]

Best Drama Schools in Toronto

Acting is a common dream career for many people. Unfortunately, most people never take the time to hone their skills and sharpen their acting chops. If you daydream of monologuing on a theatre stage or showing off your acting prowess in front of a camera, becoming a student at one of the best drama schools in Toronto is the first step.

At these Toronto acting academies, you can improve your acting in a welcoming environment that also promotes your growth as an actor. At these schools, you will not only meet like-minded fellow students but also work with high-quality teachers who can help you unlock your full potential. 

We chose these academies based on reviews from their happy and successful students, and prestige. If you decide to make your dreams a reality, these Toronto acting academies will help you reach for the stars, literally!

As an actor, you’re going to go for a lot of auditions. It’s important you make a great first impression. You can look your very best by buying chic clothes from the best vintage clothing stores and booking an appointment with the city’s best makeup artists.



Summary

What's the Average Cost of Acting Classes in Toronto?

The average cost for most full-time acting programs has a term tuition fee of between $3000 – $5,000. These programs are either 12 or 18 months long with 5 or 6 terms each. Individual classes are usually priced from $100 to upwards of $1,000. Final prices are determined by class sizes, the reputation of the teacher, and location.

Some other important factors to consider are the costs of living in Toronto and having enough money to pay for your other bills and expenses. The cost of living in Toronto is relatively high as it is one of Canada’s most populous cities. Make sure you have a part-time job or some source of income while attending classes.

Don’t let the high cost of living in Toronto or the cost of acting classes dissuade you from your dreams! These expenses are an investment in your future.

The Best Drama Schools in Toronto

Now that you know what it takes to be an actor in Toronto and the average cost of acting classes, you’re ready to start your journey at one of the city’s best drama schools.

1. Milne Acting Studio

Milne Acting Studio is the place to go for professional acting classes. You’ll learn from some of Canada’s most successful and respected actors in a fun, supportive environment with plenty of opportunities both on-site at their studio as well as through private coaching sessions. 

Milne’s Actors Studio offers both in-studio and online acting classes to help you be more confident on stage. Their state-of-the-art facility gives actors access to advanced technology such as multi-camera live editing which really helps put them in the shoes of the character they are studying. 

This is an experience you cannot get anywhere else. Milne Acting Studio is the best choice for committed actors who want to take their craft to the next level.

Business Information:

milnestudio.ca
brad@bradmilne.com
+16477824888
550 Queens Quay W Suite 300, Toronto, ON M5V 3M8, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Working with Brad was amazing! Being part of his class took me to places as an actor I didn't even know were there to explore. I learned so much about the craft of acting and about myself as well. I notice that I feel more present and grounded in my everyday life and with my work. It was such a great experience!”

Pros

  • In-studio and online classes
  • Classes are for teens to adults

Cons

  • After any class pack or course, seminar, bootcamp or workshop is purchased the fee paid is non-refundable

2. Alza Acting Studio

Alza Acting Studios is a world-class acting studio with an unmatched history of success. Their faculty have over 50 years of combined experience in film, television and theatre – are all designed by professionals who will help you achieve your goals.  They offer classes for beginners through advanced students at their prestigious facility in downtown Toronto.  

Actors who are looking for a place where they can be themselves and improve their craft should consider Alza. They specialize in acting classes that will help you grow as an artist.  Their private coaching sessions allow you to devote yourself to developing skills in character development.  

Business Information:

alzaactingstudio.com
+14168508936
7 Hayden St Suite 207S, Toronto, ON M4Y 2P2, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I really enjoy my classes with Alza Acting studio. I appreciate the feedback from the coaches and love how there are different coaches each week so you can get a well rounded learning experience. They are very good about treating everyone equally and giving ample time and feedback for their scenes.”

Pros

  • Over 25 years of experience in acting
  • Offers programs for beginner to advanced levels
  • Operates through the whole week

Cons

  • 50% refund if cancellation is received more than 2 weeks before acting class start date

3. Cindy Tanas Actors Studio

At Cindy Tanas Actors Studio, she understands that every actor is different. She creates a space where actors feel supported while exploring what inspires them creatively; helping each individual find themselves through her approach. 

Private sessions at Cindy Tanas Actors Studio enable you to receive one-on-one personalized guidance in a comfortable environment tailored to your specific needs. They also offer virtual lessons for those of you who prefer to work from the comfort of your own home. The attention and focus of these sessions are ‘you’. 

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to take your craft to the next level, Cindy Tanas Actors Studio is the perfect place for you.

Business Information:

cindytanas.com
cindy@cindytanas.com
+14165655005
643 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 1Z9, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I started training with Cindy during the pandemic, she’s one of the most wonderful people I’ve met. The way she teaches is so pure, I have grown as an actor and especially as a person. There’s so much love in her teaching and I’m so grateful that I started this journey with an amazing teacher like Cindy.”

Pros

  • Offers different acting classes in-person and online
  • 1 free consultation

Cons

  • No refunds once you’ve paid and registered for the Scene Study

4. EVN Film Studios

Whether you are an experienced actor, or just starting out in your acting career, enrolling in a course at EVN Film Studios will help you be more successful on camera. The studio offers a range of courses that cover different techniques for getting into character, studying scenes, and analyzing scripts with film-toned readings. 

This hands-on approach ensures that all students get plenty of opportunities to practice their craft in a professional setting. So whether you’re looking to take your first steps in acting or hone your existing skills, EVN Film Studios is the perfect place to start.

Business Information:

evnstudios.com
earlnanhuevnstudios@gmail.com
+14165366939
2465 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1X3, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“These classes go beyond acting. You will feel supported and pushed to go past your comfort zone and inspired to learn more about yourself and others. Earl creates an environment conducive to growth as a person. His knowledge inspires you to keep learning!”

Pros

  • Different levels of classes
  • Operates throughout the week

Cons

5. Talent INC Canada

Numerous gifted entertainers have found their start with Talent INC Canada. The company provides top-notch instruction, invaluable career guidance and exposure for successful entertainers in television. Their community gives you a chance to build relationships with other professionals through live performances or film roles while learning how your talents can shine bright on any stage! 

If you are looking to get into the drama world, Talent INC Canada is the perfect school for you. All of the teachers are professional, kind people who make you feel at home during your time working together! 

The environment here treats each student as an individual with equal opportunities to succeed. That’s why Talent INC Canada should be your first choice when considering a school for your future entertainment career!

Business Information:

talent-inc.ca
info@talent-inc.ca
+16477487200
550 Queen St E G120, Toronto, ON M5A 1V2, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I can't say enough about Talent Inc and their staff. They are extremely friendly and treat my daughter like family. My daughter has learned so much with Doug and his team and has already signed an agent within her first year from what she has learned! I would highly recommend Talent Inc Canada to everyone.”

Pros

  • Has programs for youths and adults
  • Offers scene study, improv, monologues,voice over training and lessons for acting on TV and commercials

Cons

  • Closed during Friday and Saturday

6. Bongo Productions

Michael Caruana is one of the best character coaches in the business. His one-on-one sessions are highly focused and challenging, but he does so in a supportive environment. The material covered includes auditions preparation for actors as well as coaching them on how best to respond during monologues, on-camera technique, dialects and character development. 

Michael has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field of acting, and he is able to share this with his students in a way that is both helpful and inspiring. If you are serious about taking your acting career to the next level, then you need to work with Michael.

Business Information:

bongoproductions.com
bongoproductions@rogers.com
+14167669092
2142 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6S 1M8, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Working with Michael has been such a wonderful experience. Classes are always filled with fun and focused energy. Michael has really helped me understand, sharpen and develop my acting skills, in 1-on-1 and group sessions. Michael creates a very comfortable and professional environment that leaves you with many quality scenes, that are perfect for a demo reel!”

Pros

  • Variety of group and private classes
  • Can get agent referral with the completion of the certificate program

Cons

  • Agent referral costs is not included in the certificate program

7. Miriam Laurence Studio

Miriam’s techniques help actors find their inner performers. Her methods integrate Linklater/Alexander warm-ups with Stanislavski, Meisner, Adler and Hagen approach that allows for an actor’s full range of motion on camera as well in personal exploration to make complex characters come alive.  

Actors in her studio have found that studying with Miriam for over a year or two builds their technique and forces them to take risks more effectively than going from one school to another. The depth of training offered, like working on stage, leads to an intuitive acting style for theatre performances as well as film roles.  

Business Information:

miriamlaurence.com
miriam.laurence@gmail.com
+14163999457
693 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1L5, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I have trained with Miriam for a few years. She has empowered me to grow and seek out opportunities. With her guidance I was able to put together a reel, find representation, and start booking work!”

Pros

  • Coaching for set roles, theater auditions and zoom call-backs
  • Offers coaching and filming for self tapes

Cons

  • Closed from Tuesday to Friday

8. Armstrong Acting Studios

Here at The Actors Co., they know that the industry standard of today’s largely uninspired performances and wages doesn’t have to remain stagnant. Their mission is simple: collaborate with you so that your work can meet or exceed what is currently out there in terms of quality as quickly but also effectively possible. 

They’re very specific when placing actors in a class to ensure that they are not only growing and challenging themselves alongside their peers, but also getting their work up to industry standard as quickly as possible.

By doing this, they know that they can make sure your work is not only competitive but also making a positive impact on the industry as a whole. So if you’re looking for a truly inspiring and effective acting class, look no further than The Actors Co.!

Business Information:

armstrongactingstudios.com
office@armstrongactingstudios.com 
+14164830056
9 Davies Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2A6, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Absolutely amazing acting school! I’ve been taking classes at AAS for several years now, and most recently their Demo Reel class with Dean Armstrong. I recommend this school to actors of all ages/ experience levels. They offer a wide variety of classes to choose from including coaching and workshops.”

Pros

  • Located at Toronto and Los Angeles
  • Offers discounts
  • Has scholarships

Cons

  • Currently not offering the Jahmil French Legacy scholarship

9. Bravo Academy for the Performing Arts

The Bravo Academy for the Performing Arts has been a leader in performing arts education for over a decade, attracting students from all over Toronto. They offer private music lessons, musical theatre programs and production experiences, as well as camps that encourage children’s love of learning through fun activities like swimming or movies after class. 

They focus on developing skills such as confidence building along with artistic exploration. With 12-15 full musical productions and nearly 100 events each year, the Bravo Academy is dedicated to providing a well-rounded performing arts education for their students. 

Whether your child is interested in singing, acting, or dancing, the Bravo Academy is sure to have a program that will ignite their passion for the performing arts!

Business Information:

bravoacademy.ca
admin@bravoacademy.ca
+16473507464
77 Samor Rd Unit#4, North York, ON M6A 1J2, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“We have been very happy with Bravo. The caliber of instruction is superb. Our daughter was accepted to a high school vocal program and we asked if she wanted to continue with Shannon in which she replied absolutely. She adores Shannon! Her acceptance into the program is due in no small part to Shannon's expertise, dedication, and commitment to excellence.”

Pros

  • Programs for youth of all ages
  • Lessons for voice, piano and guitar
  • Has troupe, theater and music writing programs and opportunities

Cons

  • Limited variety of instrument lessons

10. Children's Arts Theatre School

Children’s Arts Theatre School is a leader in the field for the professional training and development of young actors. They provide an environment that fosters creativity, imagination as well as personal growth through their welcoming nature to students, who come from all over Toronto. 

Designed to inspire today’s youth, their innovative curriculum aims for the development of self-awareness and personal growth. They do this by providing them with creative opportunities that aid in building team skills as well as critical thinking abilities— allowing you to become more than just an actor on stage, but a confident individual off stage as well.

From monologues to musicals, there’s something for everybody at CATTS. Visit their website now and explore the numerous opportunities available to help you or your child learn and grow in the wonderful world of theatre!

Business Information:

catsdrama.com
infocatsdrama@gmail.com 
catsytc@gmail.com  
+14165382121
4 Morningside Ave, Toronto, ON M6S 1C2, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“My daughter has really enjoyed her theatre class at CATS. The teachers are wonderful. Their drama exercises are a lot of fun and a great way for the kids to get to know each other. And the experience of performing has been great for building up my child's self-confidence. We will be returning, for sure.”

Pros

  • Offers scholarships
  • Has youth theater, online lessons, summer camp and drama programs
  • Free trial classes
  • Costume rentals

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays

11. Toronto Academy of Acting for Film and Television

The Toronto Academy of Acting is a private career college that offers vocational programs. They were established in 1998 and since then they work hard to bring new talents into the industry. Toronto Academy of Acting Schools offers revolutionary and hands-on training for Canadian, American as well international film actors. 

The school also has part-time classes that cover children’s acting needs along with providing teens with an opportunity to study further into their careers in Hollywood. The academy not only provides students with world-class facilities and instructors but also puts them in touch with some of the most influential people in the industry. 

The graduates of the school have gone on to do great things in their careers, making the Toronto Academy of Acting one of the most successful schools of its kind.

Business Information:

torontoacademyofacting.com
admin@torontoacademyofacting.com  
register@torontoacademyofacting.com  
+14165368574
219 Dufferin Street, Unit #1D, Toronto, ON M6K 3J1, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“This is a wonderful program for anyone serious about a career in film and television. You will experience a comprehensive curriculum that will allow you to feel work ready. The instructors are industry knowledgeable and are more than willing to share their time, attention and expertise with each student individually or in a group. “

Pros

  • Acting lessons for all ages
  • Training in Hollywood courses for teens and adults
  • Has diploma programs and certifications
  • Offers scholarships

Cons

  • Closed during the weekends

12. Reel Talents T.O

Reel Talents T.O is a unique program that helps young people develop their artistic skills while exploring what it means to be an artist at this stage in life and connecting them with professionals who can guide the process from inception to completion. 

They offer a variety of classes like In-Depth Film and Television Training, Audition Techniques, Demo Reel and Intro to Commercials, and Film and TV Acting. This course will prepare students for the film industry with an emphasis on professional procedures and set behaviour. 

Focus is placed heavily upon how one should act while filming commercials, as this is often the bread-and-butter work for many actors. The course provides an excellent foundation for those seeking to enter the field of television and film acting.

Business Information:

reeltalentsto.com
info@reeltalentsto.com 
bridgetogundipe@gmail.com  
+14168583987
477 Jane St, York, ON M6S 4A1, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“One of my first workshops was with Bridget and I definitely would not change that if I could. Reel Talents is an amazing place to start and to continue growing into the industry. Bridget challenges us to find our inner abilities and enhances the natural aspect when it comes to acting, making it become a "Reel Talent" that we must learn. She is super cool and I enjoy her classes very much.”

Pros

  • Has classes for voice, movement, script analysis and audition techniques
  • Offers acting retreats

Cons

FAQs About Drama Schools

There are several different types of acting classes available in Toronto. These include: 

  • Scene Study
  • Meisner Technique
  • Improv Comedy
  • Audition Prep
  • On-Camera Acting
No, you don’t need to have experience to take acting classes. However, it is recommended that you have some experience in order to get the most out of the class.

Drama schools provide specialized education for people who are sure they want to be actors. Their instructors are experienced
and provide hands-on training on stage and in front of the camera.
Drama schools are also a great way to network.

Many industry insiders view universities as inferior to drama schools. This is because universities are more likely to admit students as long as they meet certain requirements. Drama schools often have longer, more rigorous admission processes.

Final Thoughts

The acting industry is a cutthroat one. There are millions of aspiring actors, but you can stand out from the crowd by going to one of these Toronto drama schools. With their teachings, you’ll notice your acting getting better and a newfound level of confidence. Take lessons with these industry professionals and you will be booking gigs in no time!

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