OUR MISSION
The New York Drama Center was founded on the core belief that training directly with master acting teachers should be accessible to all who are interested.
Zelda Fichandler once famously said “a school is who you invite to study, and who you invite to teach”. For us, Zelda’s wise words burn brightly as we devise each dynamic course offering, and as we assemble each unique ensemble.
WHO WE INVITE TO STUDY:
We are interested in actors from all training backgrounds and all walks of life; those who are interested in exploring, expanding, and discovering a deeper and fuller connection to themselves, others, and the texts that capture the human spirit.
We are looking for the generous, the curious, the courageous, and the open-hearted. Most of our students have formal acting training; however, not all of our courses require previous acting training or performance experience.
WHO WE INVITE TO TEACH:
Combined, our faculty have trained Academy Award winning, Emmy Award winning, Tony Award winning, Golden Globe Award winning, and Grammy Award winning artists. Our faculty members teach at the most esteemed MFA and BFA Acting programs in the United States and abroad.
Long ago, the League of Professional Theatre Training Programs defined a master teacher as "a person with a comprehensive approach to talent development and a record of preparing working artists." Since its inception, The New York Drama Center has used this definition as the primary guideline when deciding who to invite to teach.
All faculty members invited to teach have a significant roster of former students working as professional performing artists. We invite teachers who are interested in the uniqueness of each individual students, and who, rather than adhere strictly to one methodology, offer a holistic, integrated, and joyful approach to acting training.
*The New York Drama Center is an anti-racist institution founded on the principals of inclusion, access, and opportunity for all. We offer scholarships when we are able, AND Payment plans are always available. Please reach out if tuition FOR CLASS is EVER cost prohibitive. We believe high quality arts education is a human right. Our door is open to all thoughts, feedback, and conversation. IT IS AN HONOR TO SERVE THE ARTISTIC COMMUNITY.
