We Held an Audition for the Top Acting Schools in Houston and These Are the 10 That Made the Cut
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the spotlight, Houston is the perfect place to begin your acting journey! The city boasts a range of acting schools that cater to every passion and skill level, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft.
As someone who knows how daunting it can be to take that first step, I’ve rounded up some of the best acting schools in Houston that offer more than just classroom lessons!
These schools provide real-world experience, hands-on training, and the chance to connect with industry professionals who truly care about your growth.
Whether you’re interested in film, theater, or musical performance, these schools can help you build the confidence and skills you need to shine!
Next Actor Studio
Media Credit: nextactorstudio
Website: https://nextactor.com/
Address: 2406 Quenby St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 532-2867
Tuition: One time classes for $100; Multiple classes for $250
Next Actor Studio is the city’s only SAG-AFTRA signatory acting school that offers a full range of training in acting, filmmaking, voice work, screenwriting, and production — all under one roof!
Students train in the Stanislavski method, focusing on emotional and sense memory to build authentic performances. The studio offers a variety of classes, from film acting to voiceover work, all taught by industry professionals.
The classes here aren’t just theoretical — students apply what they’ve learned by participating in live productions, short films, and collaborating with other filmmakers.
One of the key features of the school is its emphasis on real-world production experience. They even host their own annual Next International Film Festival of Houston (NIFF) to give students even more exposure!
Their alumni casting group also keeps students informed about auditions and job opportunities–a real advantage in the competitive world of acting.
In addition to classes, students can participate in script readings, movie nights, and collaborative rehearsals, providing opportunities to hone their craft and build their portfolio.
Pro Tips:
- Take advantage of Production Work! Participate in as many productions, screenings, and script reads as possible. It’s a great way to network and build your portfolio.
- The studio emphasizes dedication, and students who stick with it, especially those who enroll in the more intensive sessions, can gain significant experience and exposure!
Next Level Acting Studios
Media Credit: nextlevelacting
Website: https://nextlevelacting.com/
Address: 1963 W T C Jester Blvd, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 548-0499
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 7 to 10 PM;
- Tuesday – 1:30 to 10 PM;
- Wednesday – 7 to 9:30 PM;
- Saturday – 10 to 11:30 AM;
- Thursday to Friday, Sunday – Closed
If you’re looking to take your acting skills to the next level, Next Level Acting Studios offers hands-on training with Hollywood-level expertise! The studio is ideal for actors of all ages and skill levels.
Founded by Deke Anderson, an actor and director with over 40 years of experience, you can get a unique opportunity to learn from someone who’s worked from both sides of the camera on major projects like Green Lantern and Friday Night Lights!
The studio offers engaging, practical classes for both adults and youths. The Adult programs focus on audition techniques, camera work, and improvisation. They also simulate real-world acting scenarios, including casting director pre-reads, on-camera auditions and callbacks.
On the other hand, youth classes emphasize confidence, creativity, and communication through acting exercises and mock auditions. It’s perfect for young aspiring actors or those looking to improve their communication and leadership abilities!
Pro Tips:
- Next Level may be better for people with some basic acting experience. The classes are dynamic and intense, but they may not cover basic techniques for complete beginners.
- Acting requires continuous practice! Regular lessons here will help improve your skills and increase your confidence in auditions and performances.
Film Acting Academy
Media Credit: filmactingacademy
Website: https://www.filmactingacademy.com/
Address: 1900 Kane St #116, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 606-2438
The Film Acting Academy offers a hands-on, practical approach to acting, perfect for anyone looking to pursue a career in film, TV, or commercials. The school is led by Lee Stringer, an experienced actor with over 30 years in the industry.
This acting school offers classes for all experience levels and interests. In their Film & TV Acting Classes, you’ll work with material from current productions, gaining real-world experience to help you nail auditions and book roles.
If you’re looking to improve your versatility, the Improvisation Classes are perfect for learning how to think on your feet and bring spontaneity to your performances—skills that are especially useful in commercials and theater.
The academy also offers Audition Taping Services to help you create professional audition tapes. Just bring in your scene, work with a coach, and leave with a polished video ready for submission.
For more personalized attention, you can book Private Coaching sessions, where you’ll get one-on-one feedback tailored to your needs, whether it’s audition techniques, script analysis, or camera work.
Pro Tips:
- If you’re new to acting or want to focus on specific skills, their private coaching is a great way to get tailored feedback and personalized advice.
- Improv skills are a must for anyone serious about acting. These classes can help you build confidence and flexibility in your performances.
TUTS Humphrey’s School Of Musical Theatre
Media Credit: tutshouston
Website: https://www.tuts.com/humphreysschool
Address: 800 Bagby St, Houston, TX (in Hobby Center for the Performing Arts)
Contact Details: (713) 558-8801
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 4 PM; Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Tuition: $230 per student/course
The TUTS Humphreys School of Musical Theatre (HSMT) in Houston is a gem for young, aspiring musical theater performers! Since its founding in 1972, the school has built a reputation for developing talented performers who go on to shine on stage.
They offer classes in acting, singing, and dancing that cater to every skill level and are designed to be both fun and educational. Their open Enrollment courses welcome students from ages 4 to 18 who want to improve their skills!
Younger students can enjoy the Create & Explore classes, which focus on creativity, song, and dance, culminating in a live performance showcase.
For older students, more specialized classes like Theatre Dance and Music offer the chance to develop technique and gain confidence. These classes help students develop not just their performance skills, but their overall presence and creativity as well.
And for those who are serious about pursuing a career in musical theater, the school also provides a comprehensive, 20-week curriculum that prepares students for professional work.
Additionally, they also offer online Masterclasses for adults! Taught by industry professionals, it’s great for both aspiring and experienced performers, directors, and choreographers looking to hone their craft.
Pro Tips:
- The school offers scholarships, so check the website for more details if you need financial assistance.
- Tuition for open enrollment courses is $230 per course, with payment plans available. TUTS subscribers get a 10% discount, so don’t forget to register with your subscription account!
Spotlight Acting Academy
Media Credit: spotlightktx
Address: 22764 Westheimer Pkwy Suite 410, Katy, TX
Contact Details: (832) 913-6884
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday – 5 PM to 8 PM;
- Tuesday – 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM;
- Friday to Sunday – Closed
Tuition: $175/month
Located in the Katy/Houston area, Spotlight Acting Academy is a supportive space for young actors and filmmakers. Since 2012, it has been a trusted place for students to build confidence and enhance their performance skills.
The academy offers acting classes starting at age 8, focusing on natural, emotional performances through scene study. As students progress, they can move on to the Master Class to further develop their craft.
For teens ages 15-18, specialized TV and film acting classes dive into on-camera work and real-world scenes, giving them valuable industry experience.
Here’s what’s awesome–at the end of each semester, students can showcase their work at a fun red carpet screening event to celebrate their progress!
Thanks to the small class sizes, every student receives plenty of performance opportunities and personalized feedback to help them grow both in confidence and skill.
Pro Tips:
- Get footage of your work after each class to track progress and build your acting reel.
- If you join after the first of the month, reach out for prorated tuition, or apply a credit to the next month’s payment.
DD’s Showbiz
Media Credit: ddshowbiz
Website: https://ddshowbiz.com/
Address: 507 N Sam Houston Pkwy E, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 510-9530
Tuition: $150-$350
If you’re looking to kickstart your acting journey, DD’s Showbiz is an excellent place to begin. This hands-on school offers a range of classes designed to help you develop your craft and build confidence.
At this school, you’ll receive expert training in both theater and film, taught by experienced industry professionals. The comprehensive curriculum covers everything from audition techniques and character breakdowns to cold reading and on-set protocols.
Beginners will feel supported with classes focused on building self-esteem, communication, and creative expression. For more experienced actors, the focus shifts to professional techniques like script analysis and emotional depth.
DD’s Showbiz offers flexible options, including weekly group classes and personalized coaching. The popular six-week group program covers key acting skills, such as auditioning, character analysis, cold reading, and stage and film techniques.
Pro Tip:
- If you’re looking to take your acting career to the next level, consider the actor consulting service could help you get personalized guidance for auditions, building a resume, and even breaking into the entertainment industry.
- For parents, the Youth Filmmaking Camp offers a great opportunity for your child to explore their creativity behind the camera! This will help build skills in acting, directing, and screenwriting.
John Casablancas Center
Website: https://www.jcasablancas.com/
Address: 8700 Jameel Rd #130, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 996-9600
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 1:30 PM to 9:30 PM;
- Saturday – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM;
- Friday, Sunday – Closed
If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming an actor, John Casablancas Center is a great place to turn that dream into reality! The school provides aspiring actors with the skills, confidence, and industry connections needed to succeed in the competitive world of entertainment.
One of the school’s standout features is its strong ties to the entertainment industry. Directors have built relationships with top casting directors, agents, and professionals, giving students access to valuable networking opportunities and career-building connections.
The curriculum covers everything from audition techniques to perfecting your performance in front of the camera or on stage. Students learn to bring characters to life, embody emotions, and connect with audiences in both drama and commercial work.
Audition practice is also a key part of the training, with expert guidance on what casting directors are looking for!
Pro Tips:
- Be open to the learning process! If you’re willing to invest time and energy, the program may help you grow beyond just technical modeling/acting skills.
- Whether or not you choose to enroll, investing in good headshots and building your own portfolio outside of school can help you land casting calls.
Invicta Company
Media Credit: invicta_arts_training
Website: https://www.invictatrainingcenter.com/
Address: 14520 Memorial Dr APT 59, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 585-3433
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM;
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM;
- Sunday – 2 PM to 6 PM
For aspiring Broadway actors in Houston, Invictus Company offers training led by industry professionals! Their goal is to help you grow into a “Triple Threat”—a performer who can act, sing, and dance with equal skill!
Their Invicta Level Up Program is a training opportunity for students ready to take their skills to the next level. Whether you’re into dancing, acting, or singing, you’ll receive expert guidance from professionals with real Broadway experience.
Serious students can also take part in performance opportunities, including an End of Semester Skills Showcase and a Spring Showcase featuring musical solo performances, duets, and group numbers.
A key benefit of training at this school is the mentorship through their Masterclasses! This gives students the chance to learn more in-depth directly from Broadway professionals.
Pro Tip:
- Spaces are limited for several programs, so it’s recommended to inquire early for upcoming sessions or classes.
- Network with fellow artists! Learning at Invicta also means connecting with other like-minded performers. Build those relationships—you might just find opportunities there!
John Lansch Studio For Actors
Media Credit: plusmodelmua
Website: https://johnlansch.com/
Address: 350 N Sam Houston Pkwy E #220, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (281) 300-4613
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM;
- Monday, Sunday – Closed
John Lansch Studio for Actors is a well-established acting school in the city, with over 30 years of experience helping actors succeed in film, TV, commercials, and theater. The studio offers programs for both aspiring actors and seasoned professionals looking to improve their skills.
At the core of the studio are the group acting classes! The teaching style of the coach, John, is very hands-on and focused. The group setting also gives you the chance to perform and be directed in front of others, simulating real-world experience.
For those who want more individual attention, private lessons are available! These sessions are customized to meet your specific needs. If you’re preparing for a role or working on a technique, this is the way to go.
The studio also offers audition taping services! They’ll ensure your audition tapes are professional, providing expert feedback on everything from delivery to camera presence.
Pro Tips:
- For group classes, participate actively and ask questions! The environment is designed to encourage growth, and the coach’s feedback is both constructive and motivating.
- For private lessons, bring specific goals or roles you want to focus on, and coach will tailor the session to meet your needs.
On-Going Acting Classes with Crystal Martinez
Media Credit: team_ogac
Website: https://www.ogactingclasses.com/
Address: 3217 Montrose Blvd Houston, TX
Contact Details: (281) 790-4324
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – 7 to 9 PM;
- Wednesday – 9 AM to 9 PM;
- Thursday – 12 to 9:30 PM;
- Friday – 9 AM to 9 PM;
- Saturday – 12 to 8 PM;
- Monday, Sunday – Closed
On-Going Acting Classes (OGAC) with Crystal Martinez offers a flexible, hands-on way to sharpen your acting chops! With over 20 years of experience in film, TV, and commercials, Crystal brings both expertise and a personal touch to every class.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced actor, this school is designed for all levels, with no auditions or waiting lists to join—just sign up and start right away!
This approach means you can jump into film/TV or commercial acting classes at any time. The coach focuses on practical, on-camera training, breaking down scenes, analyzing characters, and helping students bring their own personalities into their performances.
With small class sizes (8-10 students), you’ll get plenty of individual attention and feedback. For even more focused training, private coaching and audition taping are also available, giving you personalized feedback and the opportunity to prepare for any upcoming opportunities!
Pro Tips:
- Start anytime! OGAC classes are designed for flexibility, meaning you can jump in and start anytime, making it easy for those with busy schedules or uncertain start dates.
- This school operates on an “ongoing” format, meaning there’s no need to wait for a new session to begin. You can jump in at any time and continue your training without interruption.
