An essential part to an actor’s performance is their employment of various skills to communicate a character. Having a knowledgeable outsider’s perspective can provide points of improvement that actors wouldn’t normally see when practicing alone.
In this article, we list the best acting schools in Dublin that can help give guidance, resources and opportunities.
How much do acting school courses cost?
The cost of these courses depend on the background of the teacher, equipment or location used as well as the size and format of the class.
Below is a list of different prices from various courses in acting schools we found in the Dublin area.
Top Acting Schools in Dublin
We assessed the schools based on the following criteria:
1. StageScreen Classes
| Courses | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Variety | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Depth | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Events and opportunities | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Availability and pricing | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Student feedback | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Overall experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
StageScreen Classes has some very enticing features that make studying and exploring their courses more convenient for prospective students.
It’s run by Conor Armstrong Sanfey who has a substantial background in teaching at theatre schools. He’s also an award winning producer, director and co-founder of the Elevation Indie Film Awards.
If you’re looking for someone who is very experienced and well-versed in the film and theatre industry, Conor Armstrong Sanfey can offer some incredible guidance.
What we really appreciate about StageScreen Classes is that their features, terms and conditions all make it more convenient for applicants.
Students are able to join in any of the three terms throughout the year and there are friends, groups or sibling deals that can amount to discounts. Also, class sizes are kept small to give proper attention to each student.
We highly suggest discussing with them any arrangements in terms of discounts because fees are due in full before the first meeting.
Their courses, while admittedly more limited to kids and teens, have pretty in depth and detailed overviews. Adult courses are arranged by topic, with applicants being able to choose from filmmaking, diploma courses and others.
We also like that for their kids and teens program allows students to learn about various topics like script writing and vocal techniques.
Although not the largest acting school, StageScreen Classes has accommodating payment and scheduling arrangements as well as detailed and engaging courses.
Pros
- Class sizes are kept small to attend to each individual progress
- Students can join in any term, three in a year
- Also engages students with writing and directing, holistic program for kids/teen courses
- Have productions and also provide an optional agency service
Cons
- Mixed level class for adult performance course may be intimidating
- Screen acting course may be infrequent and short
Customer Reviews
Brilliant Teacher, Highly Recommend it
The course is amazing. Conor is a brilliant teacher. After each term, we presented a play in the theatre, which was great, because we were able to put into practice everything we learned in front of the audience. I also obtained my Diploma in Speech and Drama Teacher through Stage Screen Classes, where Conor helped me with absolutely everything I needed to pass the audition. I highly recommend it. -Fernanda Mammana
Great Experience to Explore One’s Aspirations
This review is based on the summer course for beginners (acting for camera). Total of 7 weeks, 3 hours every week; plus some lightweight homework. Teacher was very accommodating. It’s a great experience to explore one’s aspirations: whether you did some acting before or completely new, you will find value here. The combination of small classes (6-8 people) and customized teaching approach makes it a highly recommended course. -Ehud R.
2. Bow Street Academy
| Courses | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Variety | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Depth | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Events and opportunities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Availability and pricing | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Student feedback | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Overall experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Bow Street Academy is a professional’s dream, with a roster of expert tutors and an excellent variety of programs to choose from. The Academy itself had a unique start, initially being a creative space for both filmmakers and actors.
We were very impressed with their facilities, having multiple studios available at affordable rates. They also have an audition room which is fully equipped and overseen by the experienced Conor Sweeney who gives helpful notes.
Another aspect we’d like to highlight about Bow Street Academy is their impressive selection of tutors and special guest speakers.
Their tutor range is varied, with experts in the field of dialects, movement, directing and much more. Some notable names included in their previous guest speaker list include Hugo Weaving, Saoirse Ronan and Richard Dreyfuss.
If you’re looking for expert guidance and tutors with a lot of experience in creating movies, we think you’ll be very pleased with what they have to offer.
We were also very impressed with the curriculum they had for their full time and part time programs, as well as their workshops. From improvisation to script analysis and even branding, it’s a thoughtfully curated selection.
We highly suggest checking out their website as they even have helpful tips on the audition process.
Admittedly, however, their options for younger participants are more limited to camps and weekend workshops, but nonetheless still of good quality.
Bow Street Academy really offers the students amazing opportunities for both guidance and auditions.
Pros
- Good amount of program variety to choose from
- Great studios and quality facilities
- Very knowledgeable and experienced tutors
- Workshop programs are varied and very detailed
Cons
- Offerings for younger individuals are more seasonal
- Part time course is done two consecutive nights a week which may be limiting
Customer Reviews
Amazingly Good
I was blown away by the incredibly high standard of the students. Amazingly good. -Ros Hubbard Casting Director
Forever Carry this Year with Me
Undoubtedly a life altering year. A time in my life filled with challenge, joy, hard work, fun, laughter, tears and much more. I will forever carry this year with me. -Rodrigo Ternevoy
3. Gaiety School of Acting
| Courses | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Variety | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Depth | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Events and opportunities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Availability and pricing | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Student feedback | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Overall experience | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
Gaiety School of Acting was established way back in 1986 in an effort to address the lack of full time acting programs at the time. It has since expanded to include a variety of courses to engage all ages.
What we think potential students will appreciate is that they can try out select courses for free before the incoming new terms. This is a great way to get a feel for the atmosphere of the school and its programs.
Keep in mind, however, of the high demand for both the free-to-try classes and courses themselves. It would be best to schedule earlier.
The Gaiety School of Acting has a lot of unique opportunities and programs available for both students and even businesses. This includes their study abroad program, which is a good occasion for international students to explore Irish theatre.
On the other hand, their GSA in Business helps staff members explore applicable skills in the workplace like storytelling and effective communication. We like how versatile this school is able to apply their teachings.
We would also like to commend the school’s excellent range of youth courses as they both develop and apply the skills to shows . They have a course on the acting industry as well as theatre camps on various productions, like Mamma Mia and Harry Potter.
In the same vein, their part time and full time adult courses make a point to include different levels of learning including masters.
We think they make the best choice if you’re looking for programs that really help you grow and advance.
Pros
- Have try for free classes before each new term
- Well themed programs for students
- Offers an MA in Theatre Practice in partnership with UCD
- Have programs available for different levels of training
Cons
- High demand for try for free classes
- Need to have prior experience to apply for Young Gaiety Companies
Customer Reviews
Children Thoroughly Enjoyed their Experience
My 2 teenage children throughly enjoyed their Mamma Mia Camp in The Gaiety School of Acting. Great to hear them singing and practicing at home for their end of week performance which was very enjoyable. Highly recommend -Trish Brady
Well Planned and a lot of Variety
I did The Confidence Edge course here with Charlie. The lessons were well planned, a lot of variety and Charlie has electric charisma which really made the course a lovely experience. Despite there being a lot of room changing I highly recommend this course with Charlie. -Nathan Allison
4. The Lir Academy
| Courses | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Variety | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Depth | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Events and opportunities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Availability and pricing | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Student feedback | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Overall experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Located at Trinity College Dublin, The Lir Academy offers a balanced selection of courses to learn, expanding to both acting and production.
They offer undergraduate, postgraduate and short courses, allowing students to choose the appropriate program according to their level. On top of this, what we like about their options for courses is that they explore different levels of challenge.
For example, under their short course selection, they have introductory classes like those for playwriting and dance. However, they also have more intensive options like those for musical theatre and US accents.
It allows applicants to both gradually heighten their knowledge and eventually challenge themselves to more advanced classes.
We did notice that most of The Lir Academy’s courses are for 18 and up so it may not be the best place to look for a wider variety for younger actors. Still, they do have some camps and programs for those aged from 15 to 17.
What also impressed us about The Lir Academy is that they have a lot of unique events and shows. Previous shows have included classic adaptations and exhibitions.
We highly suggest checking out their schedules as it provides both students and theatre goers an outlet to explore.
All in all, The Lir Academy provides an excellent experience, with a variety in different levels of courses and shows which allows students to learn about both the production and performative side.
Pros
- Have more targeted, unique and specific programmes
- Can choose between introductory courses and intensive options
- Excellent amount of events and opportunities for the students
- Balanced amount and variety of classes
Cons
- MFAs available do not include one particularly on acting
- Most course options are for those aged 18 and up
Customer Reviews
Team Enjoyed the Workshop
I organized a workshop for my team (coming from one of the GAFAs) as a way to stimulate team communication, trust and organization. We opted for the stage combat and do not regret it. It was amazing. It started gradually from no contact to contacts but no danger and even adapted to people with injuries. Even shy people did like it a lot and opened up. We were 20 people with 2 instructors for a workshop of 2 hours. -Béné Launois
Love Studying Here
I’m a current student at The Lir and I love studying here -Colm Lombard
5. Dublin Central School of Acting
| Courses | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Variety | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Depth | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Events and opportunities | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Availability and pricing | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Student feedback | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Overall experience | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
Dublin Central School of Acting provides well thought out courses tailored to beginners and teens. It was founded by Gillian Reynolds, a casting director and now course director for the school.
We were very impressed by their roster of tutors, who have a wide list of credentials in various topics which include writing, acting, photography, and directing. Many previous students have praised how insightful the experience was working with these experts.
In terms of their courses, admittedly they are more limited and less specific compared to what other acting schools offer. We still however find the four options that they do have, to be well designed and thought through.
For example, their “Teen Film Making and Acting for Camera” course, allows students to explore the different roles that make a movie. They cover topics like artistic vision, how to light a set, and editing.
Their other courses are equally detailed in terms of which topics are discussed. We really appreciate how well rounded these courses are formatted.
Another aspect that students will appreciate is that Dublin Central School of Acting has more affordable fees compared to other acting schools. They also offer both online and in person options.
This makes them one of the best options out there for students on a budget and are farther in location.
With great features and detailed course designs, Dublin Central School of Acting is a solid choice for all types of students.
Pros
- Both online and in person course options
- Have a great team tutors
- More affordable fees and prices
- Teen course explores the different perspectives, from actor to crew to writer
Cons
- Courses can get completely booked
- Much more limited selection of courses
Customer Reviews
Extremely Insightful Course
Can highly recommend Gillian’s class! The course is extremely insightful and she taught us a lot about film and tv acting techniques and some of the technical aspects of it. Having Ronan come in and add his Directorial advice and experience was brilliant! Met some really wonderful people in class as well! If you’re thinking of doing an acting course, think no further! This is the one! -Morné Hechter
Learned so Much
Lovely experience, met lovely people, and Gillian is amazing professor and mentor, I learned so much from her and grateful for everything shes done for all of us. I highly recommend everyone who wants take this path in life to join in. -Zeljka Vlahovic
FAQs about Acting Schools
There’s so much to learn when it comes to acting and in person experience and advice is an invaluable asset to the process.
We hope our list helps you explore the options out there and if you would like to read more we also have an article on the best music stores in Dublin.