Pre-College Actor Training
Three-Week Pre-College Conservatory
The Pre-College Conservatory [PCC] is a three-week summer program offering rigorous Meisner training—grounding students in the same disciplined techniques taught at The ߲ݴý for nearly 100 years. Designed for dedicated young actors ages 15–18 (rising sophomores through graduating seniors), the program provides professional-level instruction in acting, movement, voice, and performance preparation.
Program at a Glance
The Three Weeks
Professional-Level Summer Training
Pre-College Conservatory
The Pre-College Conservatory is a three-week summer program offering rigorous Meisner training—grounding students in the same disciplined techniques taught at The ߲ݴý for nearly 100 years. Designed for dedicated young actors ages 15–18 (rising sophomores through graduating seniors), the program provides professional-level instruction in acting, movement, voice, and performance preparation.
Curriculum
Meisner Acting
13 hrs/weekStudents are introduced to the foundational exercises of the Meisner Technique, including repetition, improvisation, and scene work. Training emphasizes truthful response, emotional availability, and listening, helping students develop authentic and responsive performances.
Acting on Pitch
6 hrs/weekA performance-based singing course designed for actors, focusing on acting through song rather than vocal perfection. No prior singing experience is required. Students develop confidence, interpretation skills, and a personal connection to musical material.
Dance for the Actor
4.5 hrs/weekMovement training focused on expressive, emotionally driven choreography used in contemporary musical storytelling. Students develop coordination, physical awareness, and the ability to communicate character and intention through movement.
Acting on Camera
4.5 hrs/weekAn introduction to on-camera acting techniques, including self-tapes, monologues, and audition preparation. Students gain experience working for the camera and leave the program with a professionally taped monologue.
Voice & Speech
3 hrs/weekTraining focused on developing a flexible, expressive, and resilient voice. Students work on breath, clarity, articulation, and vocal freedom to support both stage and on-camera performance.
Shakespeare
3 hrs/weekStudents develop skills in close reading and performance of early modern text through the study of Shakespeare’s plays. Coursework examines language, structure, performance demands, historical staging practices, and major interpretive traditions in stage and screen productions.
Singing Techniques
2 hrs/weekVocal training tailored to the needs of young actors, emphasizing relaxation, healthy production, and preparation. Students develop foundational skills that support both musical performance and spoken text.
Career Development
1 hr/weekAn introduction to professional expectations and pathways in the acting industry. Topics include résumés, headshots, auditions, agents, and navigating early career decisions.
Tuition
Tuition is $3,400, including a $400 enrollment deposit.
Prices, curriculum, instructional hours, and faculty are subject to change.
Application Information
Application Requirements
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until capacity is reached. Early application is strongly encouraged.
- Online application form
- $50 application fee
- Personal statement, up to 250 words
- One letter of recommendation
- Current photo; a professional headshot is not required
- Résumé, optional
Artistic Review
After submitting an application, selected students will be invited to a Zoom interview and audition with the Program Directors.
- One-minute contemporary monologue
- A brief song
Contact precollege@neighborhoodplayhouse.org for tuition deadlines and additional application guidance.
“Your acting will not be good until it is only yours.”
~Sanford Meisner
Plan Your Next Step
Apply
Begin your application to the Pre-College Conservatory [PCC].
Questions ߲ݴý the PCC?
Our Pre-College team can help students and families learn more about the curriculum, application process, artistic review, tuition, and summer training.