Discover the Best Acting Schools in Vancouver
Vancouver is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, and its acting schools are no exception.
Whether you’re a budding actor looking to break into the industry or a seasoned performer seeking to hone your craft, Vancouver offers some of the best acting schools that cater to all levels of experience.
From intensive conservatory programs to part-time workshops, these schools provide a variety of training options designed to help you reach your full potential.
In this article, we’ll explore the top acting schools in Vancouver, highlighting what makes each one unique and why they stand out in the industry.
How Much Does Going to an Acting School in Vancouver Cost?
Enrolling in a full-time acting program can be a significant investment. To help you plan your budget, here is a list of fees for some of the leading acting schools in Vancouver:
Acting School | Fee |
---|---|
Railtown Actor’s Studio | $540-$550 per class |
LeBlanc School of Acting | Kids Classes: $375-$425<br/>Tween Classes: $425<br/>Teen Classes: $550<br/>In-Person Classes: $550<br/>Private Classes: $425-$675<br/>Workshops: $275 |
Story Institute Acting School | Diploma Program: $10,900 |
Vancouver Institute of Media Arts | $22,750 |
Vancouver Academy for Dramatic Arts | Dramatic Arts Program: $12,500<br/>Part-Time Programs: $520 |
Vancouver Film School | Art Essentials Program: $7,750 – $10,750 |
Vancouver Acting School | Acting FTV Diploma: $11,400 – $13,400 |
Vancouver Young Actors School | Fundamentals: $169.99 |
Many of these schools offer scholarships and discounts, so be sure to inquire about available financial aid options.
The Best Acting Schools in Vancouver We selected these schools based on various factors, including their reputation, the success of their graduates, and the comprehensiveness of their programs. Here’s our take on each school:
1. LeBlanc School of Acting
Address: 196 W 3rd Ave #204, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1E9, Canada
Contact Number: 778-867-5227
Website: leblancschool.com
Specializing in classes for kids and teens, LeBlanc School of Acting offers engaging and innovative group and private classes. Their students have found success in popular shows and movies, and they also offer specialized workshops for those not ready to commit to a full program.
Pros: Expertise in children’s acting classes Offers specialized classes and workshops Private one-on-one coaching Successful and popular students
Cons: Limited to child actors Currently limited to digital classes Testimonials: “The classes are engaging, active, innovative, and fun. My kids love the group classes and private coaching.” – Jenn Sellers
2. Railtown Actor’s Studio
Address: 1037 Broadway W Unit 4, Vancouver, BC V6E 1M3, Canada
Contact Number: 604-602-1312
Website: railtownactors.com
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 10am-4pm
Founded by renowned actors John Cassini and Kate Twa, Railtown Actor’s Studio offers a non-judgmental environment for beginners and intermediate actors alike. Their scene study class is excellent for those wanting to dive deep into character development, while their film set preparation class is perfect for aspiring film actors. They also provide the Railtown Lab for artists to showcase their work.
Pros: Non-judgmental environment Various types of acting classes Dedicated lab for artists Open to beginners without resumes Scholarship funding available
Cons: No diploma or certification classes No classes for child actors Testimonials: “After the class I feel confident and back on track. I highly recommend Railtown Actors Studio to actors of all levels.” – Natalie Harris
3. Vancouver Acting School
Address: 210-112 E 3rd Ave, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5T 1C8
Contact Number: 604.564.7242 / info@vancouveractingschool.com
Website: vancouveractingschool.com
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9am-10pm, Sunday: 10am-5pm
Vancouver Acting School provides a range of programs for aspiring actors, writers, and other professionals in the creative industry. They offer student services like financial aid and housing assistance and have partnerships with several reputable organizations.
Pros: Student aid programs available Highly certified and recognized curriculum Experienced professionals
Cons: Fluency in English is expected Testimonials: “Great instructors, solid programs both full and part-time. Outstanding Theatre conservatory.”
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4. Vancouver Institute of Media Arts
Address: 333 Terminal Ave #400, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C1, Canada
Contact Number: 604-682-2787
Website: vanarts.com
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm
VanArts offers a one-year program focusing on film and television acting, voice acting, and stage performance. Small class sizes allow for personalized instruction, and students gain practical experience through full-length plays and short film shoots.
Pros: All-around media arts school One-year program Practical application of acting lessons Immersion with industry professionals Small class sizes High placement percentage
Cons: No after-hours and weekend schedules Limited to acting for recorded media No classes for youth and child artists Testimonials: “The small classes allow for in-depth one-on-one work with incredibly knowledgeable instructors.” – Cole Farquhar
5. Vancouver Academy of Dramatic Arts
Address: 900 Helmcken St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1B3, Canada
Contact Number: 604-633-1525
Website: vadastudios.com
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm
VADA boasts a high actor-to-agency placement rate and offers a unique curriculum that includes technical training in camera operation and lighting. Their program includes a trip to LA for industry exposure and networking.
Pros: High acting agency placements Technical training in acting Trip to LA included Scholarship opportunities
Cons: Limited to acting for recorded media Testimonials: “All of my coaches were professional actors, so we were getting firsthand information from pros who were actually out there doing what they taught.” – Florence
6. Vancouver Film School
Address: 198 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6B 1H2
Contact Number: +1 604-685-5830
Website: vfs.edu
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm
Vancouver Film School offers a wide range of programs in entertainment industry production. They provide comprehensive student services, including housing assistance and ESL support, and have a reputation for producing successful alumni.
Pros: Accommodates students from various continents Specialized courses Comprehensive student support services
Cons: Tuition may be higher for foreign students Testimonials: “That year and a half was probably the scariest time in my life… it was also the absolute best.” – Emilie Ullerup
7. Story Institute Acting School
Address: 640 W Broadway #320, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1G4, Canada
Contact Number: 778-222-8677
Website: storyinstitute.ca
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9am-11pm
Story Institute offers a comprehensive diploma program that covers film, television, and voice acting. They provide free audition coaching and demo reels for graduates, and their tuition assistance program rewards students who volunteer.
Pros: Holistic diploma and part-time classes Voice acting classes Tuition assistance program Provides demo reels and audition coaching Offers youth acting classes
Cons: Classes have varying schedules Testimonials: “First class and I already know I’m in the right place to enhance my skills and further my opportunities.” – Shelley Williams
8. Vancouver Young Actors School
Address: 210 – 112 East 3rd Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5T 1C8
Contact Number: 604-568-5449 / info@vancouveryoungactorsschool.com
Website: vancouveryoungactorsschool.com
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-8pm, Saturday-Sunday: 10am-5pm
Vancouver Young Actors School specializes in training kids and teens in acting. They offer free workshops and mentoring, and their small class sizes ensure personalized attention.
Pros: Individualized attention and lessons Free workshops and mentoring Employs latest techniques in acting
Cons: Limited class slots
A Guide to Finding the Right Acting School for You
Choosing the right acting school can be challenging, given the many excellent options available. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
Budget: Evaluate the fees and available financial aid options.
Program Type: Decide whether you want a full-time diploma, part-time classes, or specialized workshops.
Curriculum: Look for schools that offer courses aligned with your career goals.
Reputation: Consider the school’s reputation and the success of its graduates.
Environment: Ensure the school provides