Whether you have always dreamed of being an actor, or simply want to become more effective in giving pitches or at public speaking, a school of acting in Amsterdam might just be the answer.

You don’t have to go to Hollywood, Bollywood, New York or London to become a successful actor – the Mulholland Academy in Amsterdam can help you on your way. Indeed, several Mulholland Academy students have already successfully auditioned for roles in films after just a few semesters.

Take Dutchman Max Willems, for example, who has moved from soap star to prime time in the US with the CBS comedy The Emperor of Malibu. He credits the classes with ‘truly elevating my potential as an actor.’

Classes

For others the road to stardom can be a little longer but it all starts with taking the first step. Unless you’re the one-in-a-million, natural talent with the right looks who gets scouted out on the street or you make it straight into drama school, the first step to becoming an actor is taking the plunge and signing up for acting classes.

That can seem like quite a commitment of time and money so it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into and who you’re going to trust with guiding your first steps in the world of acting and drama.

The Mulholland Academy is known for it’s informal atmosphere and the safe environment the teacher’s foster so that everyone soon feels welcome and at home in a class full of strangers. Not all actors are by definition extroverts and the first time out in front of the class, just you, out there in the spotlight, can be slightly unnerving.

Acting classes aren’t just for actors

Some students just join the classes to help develop their skills in giving presentations in their work situation or become more effective in giving pitches or at public speaking. Acting is all about being an effective communicator – whoever your audience happens to be.

‘André’s acting teaching technique (Strasberg) has given me more than just helping me deliver a truthful stage performance,’ says alumnus Oliver, from Slovakia. ‘You will also break down your protective wall and discover who you really are. You will rediscover your true feelings, emotions and memories.’

Emotional

‘All our students have their own reasons and personal motivations for joining our programmes – and in class sometimes things can get a bit emotional,’ says director Robert Hersée. ‘But it’s always wonderful to see, how after even the first few classes, strangers form friendships and how functional Whatsapp groups start growing into caring, supportive communities.’

The students themselves come from many different countries and most have ‘day jobs’ so most classes are scheduled in the evenings and the weekends. Course teachers also provide some one-to-one lessons and extra coaching where required.

But be warned, says Robert. ‘Our teachers encourage students to let go and try new things so you need to be prepared to challenge yourself and experiment with your emotions and behaviours.’

Practical information

Like many schools there are three semesters per year, starting in September through to June. These courses are mainly Strasberg and Meisner technique, Acting for Camera and Scene Study.

New this year is a special Foundation Program for students with little or no prior acting experience – a great way to start your acting career.

The school also runs various masterclasses, screenwriting and movement workshops, and open house evenings. You can browse the full programme online.

Options

If  you would like to find out more before signing up then you can send an email to info@mulhollandacademy.com and one of our teachers will get back to you to establish what the best options are.

Of course, if you want to get more confidence in front of an audience or just like the idea of experimenting with acting you are just as welcome at the academy as well known actor.

So if you’re looking for somewhere to start your acting career or just like the idea of getting some experience in front of a camera, check out the website and sign up for some classes.