Acting School in LA
The Michelle Danner Acting School prepares actors for film opportunities by offering a rigorous, multi-faceted training program that blends acting techniques, on-camera skills, and industry readiness.
By combining on-camera training, practical film experience, and industry-focused guidance, the Michelle Danner Acting School ensures actors are well-prepared to seize opportunities in film and deliver standout performances that capture the attention of casting directors, filmmakers, and audiences.
Here’s how the school equips actors to thrive in the competitive world of film:
1. Mastering On-Camera Acting
• Actors learn the essential skills for on-camera performance, which are critical for film.
• Through on-camera scene study classes, students practice acting for close-ups, medium shots, and wide shots, focusing on subtle, naturalistic expressions required for film acting.
• Scenes are filmed and reviewed to help actors refine their performances and develop an awareness of how they appear on screen.
2. The Golden Box Technique
• Michelle Danner’s Golden Box method teaches actors to draw from multiple techniques (Meisner, Stanislavski, Stella Adler, etc.) to build layered, believable characters.
• This approach allows actors to deliver emotionally authentic performances that resonate with film audiences and directors.
3. Scene Study with Film Scripts
• Students work on scenes from classic and contemporary film scripts, learning how to break down material and make strong, creative choices.
• Instructors simulate real film environments, helping actors rehearse as they would on a film set.
• Focus is placed on pacing, emotional depth, and storytelling, which are vital for cinematic performances.
4. Short Film Production Experience
• The school gives actors opportunities to perform in professionally produced short films.
• Students gain hands-on experience with real film crews, cameras, lighting, and sound equipment.
• These projects often become material for actors’ demo reels, a critical tool for landing film roles.
5. Audition Techniques for Film
• Actors are trained in on-camera audition techniques to book film roles effectively.
• Classes emphasize:
• Breaking down film scripts quickly.
• Delivering compelling cold reads.
• Understanding how to adjust performances for self-taped and live auditions.
• Students learn what casting directors and filmmakers expect in film auditions.
6. Film Acting vs. Stage Acting
• The Michelle Danner acting school highlights the key differences between acting for the stage and for the camera.
• Actors learn to:
• Scale down their performances for the intimacy of film.
• Use subtle facial expressions and internalized emotions.
• Hit marks, maintain continuity, and understand framing.
7. Improvisation for Film
• Improvisation classes help actors stay present, flexible, and spontaneous, which are key skills for working on film sets where changes happen frequently.
• Directors value actors who can adapt while staying in character.
8. Demo Reel Development
• A strong demo reel is essential for actors looking to secure film roles.
• The school helps students build professional reels featuring their best on-camera performances, which are tailored to showcase range and film-readiness.
10. Networking and Industry Exposure
• The school hosts industry showcases, where students perform in front of casting directors, agents, managers, and filmmakers.
• Workshops and Q&A sessions with industry professionals help actors understand the business side of landing film opportunities.
11. Private Coaching for Film Roles
• Michelle Danner offers one-on-one coaching for actors preparing for film auditions or specific roles.
• Private sessions focus on character development, script analysis, and delivering powerful, on-camera performances.
