Yes. We operate as a boutique studio and limit class sizes to provide actors with a highly personal, individualized experience. Our B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR class has a maximum of 12 people, and all classes are similarly sized. The maximum number of students accepted into upper level classes range from 8 – 10.
THE STUDIO FAQs
Do you limit the number of students in each class?
January 21, 2012
After I complete a class, do I automatically advance to the next level?
January 21, 2012
No. Your work and professionalism will be evaluated at the end of each class. To advance, you must receive instructor approval.
What is the Black Box Method?
January 21, 2012
The Black Box Method of training follows a regimented and stream-lined curriculum based off of the Meisner Technique. The Black Box Method unleashes physical and emotional impulses, frees the imagination, builds stamina, focus and endurance while training actors to live truthfully and fearlessly under imagined circumstances. The Black Box Method trains actors to uphold integrity and consistency in all work. We train you to Work Hard and Be Fearless.
What are Meisner and Viewpoints?
January 21, 2012
Sanford Meisner advocated fully immersing oneself in the moment of a character through commitment to the scene’s circumstances. Viewpoints is based on work by Anne Bogart and Tina Landau and gives you the tools to discover how your body can fuel your acting process. Simply put, at Black Box we use the Meisner Technique and Viewpoints to teach you how to “not act.” You will learn to live fully on stage as yourself, follow physical impulses and commit fully to the given circumstances of a script.
Do you require previous acting or Meisner experience to enroll in your classes?
January 21, 2012
No. We work with both beginning actors and seasoned professionals.
What experience do your instructors have?
January 21, 2012
All Black Box instructors are both artists in the theatre and film industry as well as practicing students. They are individually invited to interview for the Black Box Teacher Training Program. After graduation they participate in ongoing teacher trainings. Black Box instructors hold themselves to the same standards as their students, so don’t be surprised to see them in class with you. For a more detailed look at our instructors, visit our TEAM page for bios and testimonials.
Is training at Black Box for everyone?
January 21, 2012
No. Black Box Acting and the Meisner Technique are best suited for people with a willingness to change, a passionate work ethic and a fearless attitude.
What classes do you offer for advanced students?
January 21, 2012
Every class at Black Box is applicable to those with extensive training and/or experience as an actor. Students receive an individualized experience that is tailored to their abilities. All of our classes are repeatable and consistently challenging. Our advanced students retake classes whenever they want to brush up on their process. Additionally, our series is designed to enhance and continue challenging advanced Black Box students.
Can non-actors take classes?
January 21, 2012
Absolutely. Our classes teach not only a technique, but a whole new level of honesty, bravery and communication.
How is B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR an advanced class if non-actors can take it?
January 21, 2012
B1 is considered advanced because it is an entirely new way of working. It requires an immense amount of commitment and bravery. At Black Box, everyone at the starting line is a beginner.
How old are your students?
January 21, 2012
Our students range in age from 18 to 60+, with the majority of them being in their 20s to 30s.
Do you offer classes for children or teens?
January 21, 2012
No. Because the Black Box Method requires a great deal of emotional maturity, we cannot offer class to anyone below the age of 18.
How do I enroll?
January 21, 2012
Send us a message through The STUDIO Contact Page and we’ll get back to you within two business days to schedule your interview.
Can I audit a class?
January 21, 2012
Yes. However, auditors must commit to the entire class session. Because so much is learned through observation, the fee for auditing is half the cost of tuition. New students are eligible to audit B1 – HUMAN BEHAVIOR and THE AUDITION.
The class I want to take is sold out. What should I do?
January 21, 2012
Contact us to join the wait list. It is not unusual for people on the wait list to get into class.
What forms of payment do you take?
January 21, 2012
You can pay for your class using a credit/debit card (online or over the phone) or checking account (online).
When is my STUDIO tuition due?
January 21, 2012
A $100 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your space in class. At the time of your enrollment, the remainder of your tuition will be scheduled to automatically apply to your account one week before your class begins.
If I need to drop my class because I get cast, can I get a refund or transfer my deposit to a later class?
January 21, 2012
If withdrawing from class MORE THAN 4 WEEKS PRIOR TO START DATE, the amount of the tuition paid, less the deposit, will be credited back to the original payment method. Your deposit will then be available as Black Box credit for one year.
If withdrawing from class MORE THAN 7 DAYS PRIOR TO START DATE, the amount of the tuition paid, less the deposit, will be credited back to the original payment method. At this point, the deposit is non-transferable.
If withdrawing from class with 7 DAYS OR LESS TO START DATE, the amount of the tuition, less the deposit, will be available as Black Box credit for one year. At this point, the deposit is non-transferable.
If withdrawing AFTER START DATE, total tuition and deposit are forfeited.
I want to switch classes. Can I transfer my deposit?
January 21, 2012
Your deposit is transferable only to another class in the same session and only if space permits. Once class begins you cannot switch classes.
