When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Graham Shiels Studios
Why Graham Shiels Studios is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Graham Shiels Studios (GSS) is an acclaimed acting school founded in 2013 that provides professional-level training for actors seeking meaningful and effective careers in film and television. The studio stands out as a unique meeting place for both aspiring and working actors due to its focus on precision direction and acting techniques rooted in the classical training from the Yale School of Drama. At GSS, students benefit from classes taught by currently working Hollywood television, film, and Broadway actors who bring decades of direct industry experience into their teaching. This real-world connection ensures that lessons are relevant, current, and geared toward practical success such as booking roles and mastering the art of auditioning. With offerings in both Los Angeles and New York, GSS nurtures artistic growth by encouraging actors to release their unique gifts, engage creatively with their work, and rediscover the enjoyment of acting. Highlights include ongoing on-camera classes where students work with fresh casting material weekly, receive frequent feedback through on-camera exercises, and learn effective audition preparation strategies. GSS is also known for fostering a strong sense of community among actors, culminating in annual events like the GSS Holiday Party, which adds a social and celebratory atmosphere. Overall, Graham Shiels Studios is not just an acting school but a professional environment dedicated to elevating actors' careers and artistry, making it an excellent place to meet, learn, and grow with fellow performers.
Here's what people think of Graham Shiels Studios
As of recent, Graham Shiels Studios holds a 4.9-star rating based on 158 reviews.
Reviews of Graham Shiels Studios overwhelmingly praise its effectiveness and quality as an acting training center. Students consistently highlight the professional expertise of the instructors, noting that teaching by currently working actors ensures lessons are practical and aligned with industry standards. Positive reviews emphasize how the school's curriculum, grounded in Yale School of Drama techniques, makes acting both fun and insightful, helping actors develop emotional impact and confidence. Many reviewers credit GSS for helping them book roles and breakthrough career plateaus through focused, precise coaching and exposure to real industry practices. The supportive community and tailored attention are also commonly noted, with students appreciating the studio's atmosphere and networking opportunities. On the other hand, some critiques mention the tuition cost as relatively high, suggesting it may be a barrier for emerging actors. A few reviews also point out that the studio's high expectations and rigorous structure may challenge beginners or those not fully committed. Despite these concerns, the overall consensus is strongly positive, with a stellar 4.9 rating from 158 reviews reflecting widespread satisfaction. In conclusion, Graham Shiels Studios is regarded as a top-tier acting institution that delivers high value through expert instruction, industry relevance, and a nurturing yet challenging environment that prepares actors for professional success.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
S M
Graham Shiels Studios is THE acting program needed to fine tune your acting skills and progress your career. The hands on training and support structure established with top notch and professional instructors is unmatched. You not will regret attending these courses!
Jaiden Wafwa
Hands down one of the best studios in town. It's easy to do the theoretical, academic training. What's difficult is the practical training and GSS nails that. Every instructor is a working actor and they know what they're talking about because they're living it every day. They know what the current trends are. And they know how to best help you, as an individual, discover and carve out parts of your performance that help you stand out, while still remaining authentic to you. You need a comfortable and welcoming space to grow as an actor and GSS has created that.
Steven Mango
Great training, but I’m disappointed by the studio during a personal loss I experienced. To begin, I was genuinely so excited to start at Graham Shiels Studio a few weeks ago. As a SAG-AFTRA actor returning to the industry after a long health-related hiatus, I wanted to brush up on my skills and sign up for weekly classes. GSS had been on my radar for years and I finally pulled the trigger to go here. I started with The Lab, the required prerequisite class, and I truly loved it. It was one of the best experiences in terms of acting training I’ve had and I’ve studied at many of the top LA acting schools over the years. Graham’s method—grounded in his Yale School of Drama training—is clear, easy to apply, and incredibly helpful for breaking down scenes and deepening character work. The faculty are working actors with substantial TV & Film credits, and the feedback from both Graham and his teachers was very specific, kind, and constructive. I really valued that. After The Lab, I signed up right away for an ongoing class with Aaron. Unfortunately, before I could even attend the ongoing portion, my mother-in-law (who was also a mother to me for the past 13 years) was unexpectedly diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and quickly passed away in the last week of me writing this review. It was a devastating time, and I wasn’t in a good place to attend class. I tried to push myself to try and show up, but emotionally, I just wasn’t ready. When I reached out to let the studio know, I was met with a strict enforcement of their 24-hour makeup policy—no exceptions, not even for an unexpected death in the family. What I didn’t realize when signing up is that makeup classes aren’t just based on giving 24-hour notice—they must be made up within the same assignment week, which runs Monday through Sunday. So even if you give notice ahead of your Sunday evening class (as I did), there’s no time left in the week to actually make up the session since Sunday is the last day, not the first. The policy, as written, sounds agreeable—but in practice, it leaves very little room for being able to miss class on short notice if you’re a Sunday student. I completely understand the importance of structure and consistency in a class setting. I personally hate flaky people and I believe being 15 minutes early is on time and to always be prepared, off book, and reliable. If somebody is missing class to go to a Sunday Happy Hour, that’s one thing. But when someone in your studio’s community is going through a major loss, I think there’s an opportunity to show some grace. Acting is built on empathy and emotional truth, so it was hard to reconcile that in a very painful moment of my life they couldn’t make any exception for me to make up class. The email I received said how they are sorry to me and my family during this time, but they still require 24 hours’ notice. Also, when I signed up I was told there would be no class on Easter. A few days before Easter Sunday, we are told class is now happening on Easter and my billing date would be moved up. I never heard of acting class happening on a holiday like Easter. I truly loved the training and believe in the work being done there. This review is just an honest reflection of my experience and an invitation to consider how the studio might better support its students when emergencies & personal situations occur. Life happens, and when it does, a little grace can go a long way when somebody is experiencing major grief. I’d have hoped they’d say, “Steve, typically we don’t allow make up classes, but given your mom died we will do what we can to get you into another class during the week.” That kind gesture would’ve meant a lot. It would have made me feel like part of the community, and I would’ve gladly continued paying $250–300 a month for ongoing training. But I was disappointed with how the situation was handled, and ultimately gave my 10-day notice to withdraw from the class.
Nicholas Fohrer
If you want to pay almost $500 (3 "classes" in the span of 3 weeks) to play pretend with Graham the salesman; knock yourself out. They advertise as an ON-CAMERA acting class except during this 3 week "THE LAB" course, they will never press record when you're doing your thing. So pretty much you leave with no demo reels or takes to bring with you into the real world outside of class - the camera they use for the "screen-testing" has no SD-card...LOL. *Be aware* "There are unfortunately no refunds for The Lab" IF you want a take of you acting to be recorded you must pay another class fee AFTER taking The Lab course since "The Lab is a mandatory prerequisite for ALL Ongoing Classes." - this is what they say in-class and on the website. It's honestly laughable how much they are charging for "on-camera" acting classes when they don't even record anything for you... ONLY during the Ongoing Classes AFTER The Lab they will record you, but with YOUR OWN PHONE, NOT the camera in the "studio" because it doesn't have an SD card and they don't want to have the headache of distributing the reels to everybody - hilarious. If you want to do "this" the right way, get a good set-up for demo reels at home; record and go crazy! Critique yourself as you go... if you suck, you'll know - THAT is ways better than doing this + you will save TONS of money instead of paying into this joke. If you have no idea what you're doing or how to critique yourself and you THINK that's why you need an acting class, maybe you shouldn't be an actor to begin with.
Janet Santibanez
This was my first ever acting class and I am so glad I found Graham Studios! They are super welcoming and immediately make you feel comfortable. I felt good knowing that despite it being my first experience in an acting class, they still pushed me in the best way. I cannot recommend The Lab enough. I’m so glad I found this studio! All of the teachers were so knowledgeable and overall I felt welcomed despite the nerves of it being my first time.
How to reach Graham Shiels Studios
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Why Graham Shiels Studios may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Graham Shiels Studios with your friends? Because this venue offers far more than your typical meetup spot—it’s a vibrant creative hub that fosters connection, learning, and shared discovery through the craft of acting. Gather your friends or family and immerse yourselves in an inspiring environment where everyone is encouraged to express themselves, collaborate, and have fun while honing new skills. With an impressive 4.9 rating from 158 reviews, Graham Shiels Studios has earned a stellar reputation for blending professional-grade instruction with a welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Whether your group shares a passion for theater, film, or simply wants a unique social experience, this studio’s combination of expert guidance and creative ambiance makes it an exceptional place to create lasting memories. Beyond the usual social venues, Graham Shiels Studios invites you to engage together in a transformative journey, helping each person break out of their comfort zone and build confidence—all while enjoying quality time with your favorite people.
What activities are available at Graham Shiels Studios that make it perfect for a group meetup? The studio specializes in on-camera acting classes and scene study sessions, all based on classical training inspired by the prestigious Yale School of Drama. These classes are led by highly experienced instructors who are current working actors in television, film, and Broadway, ensuring authentic and relevant guidance. When your group attends together, you not only get to absorb professional acting techniques but also participate in interactive exercises that build strong teamwork and communication. Students engage in scene work, improvisation, and character development, offering a fun, dynamic series of activities that any group can enjoy regardless of prior acting experience. The personalized feedback from the instructors encourages a supportive environment that motivates growth and camaraderie. This blend of education and entertainment provides a unique way to bond and support each other’s creative expression, making it ideal for friends or family looking to connect on a deeper, more artistic level.
Why is the environment at Graham Shiels Studios especially conducive to fostering creativity and group interaction? The physical and social setting is thoughtfully designed to inspire focus and imagination while promoting collaboration. Known for its visually appealing spaces, the studio creates an atmosphere that feels professional yet inviting, encouraging participants to explore and express their creativity freely. This intentional environment supports learners as they experiment with new roles and scenarios, helping them break down personal barriers while sharing laughs and discoveries with their group. Such surroundings naturally spark dialogue, enhanced listening, and mutual support—vital ingredients for a memorable group experience. Additionally, the presence of working actors as teachers not only ensures expert mentorship but also adds an energetic, real-world touch that elevates every session. This dynamic setting makes Graham Shiels Studios much more than a classroom—it becomes a community space where your group can thrive artistically and socially.
How do the acting classes at Graham Shiels Studios accommodate groups with mixed experience levels? Whether your friends or family have never set foot on a stage or have some background in performance, the studio’s classes are structured to welcome everyone. The instructors use a carefully calibrated approach that balances challenging techniques with accessible, engaging activities. Beginners receive foundational coaching that builds confidence and skills step-by-step, while more experienced actors are pushed to refine their craft through complex scene study and character analysis. This fosters a collaborative learning atmosphere where participants uplift one another and share insights, creating a natural mentorship within your group. Furthermore, the studio offers short-term labs and ongoing classes, giving groups flexibility to pick sessions that best suit their schedules and interests. This adaptability ensures your meetup is enjoyable and rewarding, regardless of where each person is on their acting journey.
What additional benefits does hosting your meetup at Graham Shiels Studios offer beyond the classes themselves? Besides the immersive learning experience, your group will benefit from the studio’s strong community and professional network. Students frequently book roles in film, television, and theater, thanks to the studio’s connections and the quality of its training. By participating as a group, you can tap into this creative ecosystem together, potentially unlocking new opportunities or simply bonding over shared ambitions and success stories. The studio also organizes special events such as free audit sessions and workshops, which your group can leverage for further engagement and fun. Lastly, the central locations in New York and Los Angeles make the studio highly accessible and convenient for diverse meetups, whether you live locally or are visiting from out of town. With so much to offer in terms of instruction, networking, and social interaction, Graham Shiels Studios provides a comprehensive value that makes any gathering significantly more meaningful and memorable.
How does the presence of professional actors as instructors enhance the experience for your group? The teaching team at Graham Shiels Studios includes seasoned working actors actively involved in television, film, and Broadway, offering an insider’s perspective that textbooks or amateur classes simply cannot match. Their real-world experience ensures the curriculum is current, practical, and deeply insightful. For your group, this means learning from professionals who understand the industry's demands, challenges, and joys, providing honest feedback and encouragement tailored to each individual’s potential. Watching and interacting with these instructors can be inspiring and motivating, helping participants see the craft’s real possibilities. This professional mentorship transforms a simple meetup into a rare opportunity, turning the studio into a place where artistic dreams are nurtured, confidence is built, and friendships are strengthened through shared dedication and passion.
What makes Graham Shiels Studios stand out compared to other venues for group gatherings? Unlike typical social spots, Graham Shiels Studios combines creativity, education, and entertainment into one seamless experience. Its exceptional rating of 4.9 from 158 reviewers speaks volumes about customer satisfaction and the consistent quality of its offerings. The studio’s focus on on-camera techniques and Yale School of Drama-inspired training delivers a prestigious edge often unavailable in standard acting schools. Additionally, the personalized attention each participant receives, regardless of group size, ensures everyone’s voice is heard and growth encouraged. This creates a uniquely inclusive environment where fun meets serious craft in equal measure. For groups seeking an enriching, stimulating alternative to dinners or casual hangouts, Graham Shiels Studios offers unmatched value through a blend of culture, community, and professional insight. It truly provides a one-of-a-kind setting for meaningful meetups.
How can attending Graham Shiels Studios help your group build lasting memories and skills? Beyond the evening’s entertainment or the moment’s fun, the studio cultivates skills that participants carry far beyond the classroom. Acting classes empower individuals with greater self-expression, emotional intelligence, and confidence—qualities that improve personal and professional interactions. When experienced together as a group, these benefits multiply, deepening bonds and fostering mutual respect. The shared challenges of character work and scene study promote teamwork, resilience, and empathy, creating memories rooted in collaboration and growth. Plus, the studio environment encourages participants to let down their guards and discover new facets of themselves and each other. These transformative experiences elevate group meetups from routine social interactions to inspiring, unforgettable milestones. Graham Shiels Studios doesn’t just host events; it shapes stories that your friends and family will talk about for years to come.
What logistical advantages does Graham Shiels Studios provide for hosting a group meetup? Conveniently located in key urban centers such as New York and Los Angeles, the studio offers accessibility that suits diverse schedules and travel plans. The space is designed to accommodate individual participants and groups alike, with flexible class formats and session lengths. Booking is straightforward, with options to register for single classes, multi-class packages, or intensive labs, enabling your group to tailor the experience to your time constraints and interests. Moreover, the studio’s professional administrative team assists with scheduling and queries, smoothing the planning process for your gathering. This ease of organization, combined with a high-quality program, means your group can focus on the enriching experience rather than logistical hassles—maximizing enjoyment and minimizing stress. All these practical considerations contribute to making Graham Shiels Studios a smart, user-friendly choice for group meetups.