In-Person vs. Online Acting Classes

Whether you’re enrolled in formal education or taking acting classes, showing up consistently has always been crucial for learning. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, we found ourselves confined to our homes for safety. The world came to a halt, and we needed to establish a sense of normalcy while protecting ourselves from the virus. To adapt, online acting classes were introduced for those who wished to continue learning, as a result, actors began taking advantage of these virtual classes to keep honing their skills while stuck at home. As we gradually return to pre-pandemic life, a significant number of people are still opting for online classes due to their advantages over traditional acting classes. Here’s why:

In-person acting will remain the standard, as it allows for physical interaction between the actors.  Also, because of the actors’ proximity to each other, in-person acting offers a more intimate conscious experience between actors.  It offers a physical way for them to share the common consciousness we are all a part of.  It is why live theater can be more exciting than film or television.  Physical beings in a physical space can enjoy a more stimulating experience, then can physical beings in a cyber space. What gives in-person acting its advantage, also creates its disadvantage in the internet age. Casting online has totally revolutionized the audition process for actors, resulting in a far more convenient experience, which is still effective enough to suffice for initial casting call purposes.  

Another advantage of online acting is that it allows an acting student to study with a teacher who is non-local — a situation which also is sufficient to teach and learn all the principles of the art. Also, because of the close-up you get with online acting, it is especially good training for film and television. A disadvantage however, is that you won’t get that close-up unless you are the one who’s speaking.

Moreover, online acting classes are more convenient to fit into a busy schedules. Some actors have to work full-time to support their education, while others are busy with their careers but still want to learn more about perfecting their acting skills and continuing their education. Therefore, online acting classes are great for actors who are always on the set and on the go because they can hone their craft without sacrificing their schedules. 

Join our virtual acting classes! Contact the Heller Approach Acting Studio if you want to learn more about our acting classes and us. Make sure to check out our YouTube channel and website for references.