Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop

Based on auditing the class, reading his book and seeing his Youtube reviews, I think of Anthony as the «Tony Robbins» of acting. So it’s not the kind of environment that breeds great acting, instead «acceptable» level acting at the best. If rehearsals aren’t encouraged without the kind of in depth research that comes from that you can only expect mediocre results and even that less often.

I learned more at this studio that made me a better actor in the six weeks intro then in my combined experience at other top studios. Every week every student is able to take giant leaps forward in honing their craft. I can’t say enough. Love you Tony you ROCK!

This studio has changed the way I live life in general… in a more positive way, that is! Through exercises both inside and outside of class, I’ve become more truthful to myself, others, and more open to new (even if intimidating) experiences. Haha.
There are a number of teachers, and each of them has a different way of teaching the lessons and providing direction/​criticism. There’s a teacher for every learning style, so everyone is bound to find someone that works for them.
I guess you could say that AMAW teaches you cold reading techniques, but more importantly and more decisively, it guides you into getting to know who you are and become more confident and compassionate as an actor and a human being. At AMAW you learn how to put your best foot forward and land the acting jobs you deserve.

I actually learned about AMAW though Unilocal,so went I to audit a class and loved what I saw and how I felt being there. Even though, after auditing there’s a bit of a wait period, once I was in it changed my life for the better. Since I’m sick right now and don’t want to write a novel about how much I love this place on cold meds I’ll use bullet points.
1. The students
I’ve never been in a such a supportive environment before. Whether they are famous, working away, or just starting off, egos are left at the door and everyone is there to support each other and help one an other to improve. When you don’t have to worry about what others think of you, you feel free to experiment and try things which helps you grow as an actor. I’ve learned, that good things happen when you are in a place where you are comfortable to f-​up. It’s actually hard and I’m still working on it. I became Facebook friends with my classmates, and while some of the messages on the on going message chain are hilarious and disturbing, it’s amazing to feel connected.
2. Teachers
I’ve had a few different teachers so far and have not been disappointed once. Each teacher has their own style and insight which is awesome. Each of them are so precise in what you are going through and your particular needs it’s pretty phenomenal. It’s great when you don’t to worry about disappointing them with your performance because they don’t care so much about what you did wrong more so than what can be done to make the scene a million times better.
3. The Insight
I’ve learned from this school that acting is more than technique and practice it’s also SO mental. Even though it can get a little emotional in class, it’s so interesting to see how much an actor changes for the better once psychology comes into play. Usually the teachers are the ones to notice it, but it’s so crazy to see when an actor does a scene that could be better and after a few questions from the teacher about the actors life, fears, and opinions the actor revives something about themselves that conflicts with being able to do the scene fully. Even though it feels invasive at first, you start to think about yourself differently afterwards and learn how to over come your personal conflicts so that you can contribute all of yourself for the character. There are other thoughts coming from this school that I enjoy as well, but the psychology aspect for me seems to be incredibly innovative. Oh yeah, and I’m now a better listener. which can be good and bad depending on who I’m talking to. :)
Other than that bring a sandwich and hide your coffee… I mean water, since no food is allowed in the classrooms and class can run long sometimes.

I felt the need to update my review to address some of the things the negative reviewers say. The point of not rehearsing outside of class is so that you’ll be PRESENT and LISTENING during the scene instead of waiting to speak and waiting to do whatever thing you practiced for hours the week before — it’s the difference between realism and the actors simply «talking at» each other. And we still work on scenes for a month usually, so it’s not like we’re not exploring deeper each week, but it’s just different than what everyone else teaches. Whatever, this place has a crazy long waiting list and amazing students anyway, and it’s not like I need any more competition, so good luck and good riddance to those cranky folks. (who, strangely enough, either have no other reviews or very few – REAAAAAL trustworthy) Anyway end rant.
Also, Sean has saved my life. I adore adore adore him.

I’ve made it in to the Intro class, and it’s been 4 weeks and wow. I’ve broke through walls I never knew I had and my acting is day and night! Like I’d mentioned in my early review, I’ve taken other acting classes, but this one just blows them out of the water. The teacher really pushes you out of your comfort zone and makes you face your fears. But the best part is, this place is so safe and you feel like you can go all out and just be in the moment. I really love this place and can’t wait to get back in there next week! This is definitely becoming a second home for me. LOVE IT!

This studio was in the top 3 when I typed in «Meisner» to Unilocal but when I audited the class it was anything but Meisner technique. Anthony seems to teach an anti-​technique because when answering questions he said that he wouldn’t recommend a class that required rehearsals outside of class. My great teacher in NYC would roll over dead if she heard that. Of course cold reading is a great skill where you think on the fly — but scene study classes should have a lot more substance.
I commend a studio that is supportive and clearly has a loyal student following, but I’m looking for an environment that asks for consistency in your performance and demands something out of you every time you work. The approach at this place is «lets work with what you bring today» which shouldn’t be acceptable, especially in a business as competitive as this one. From what I observed students are complacent about their work but think they are improving slowly by just being present.
Anthony seemed like a nice guy, but I’m looking for a great teacher, not someone to be my friend. I’m looking for a teacher really rooted in technique — an incredible Meisner teacher will get you to deep emotional places fast. This is not the place for me. :(

Did the intro class and now ready to move on to a real acting studio. Teachers are very supportive but only direct scenes never really teaching students how to get results. We are encouraged to not memorize lines and avoid rehearsing, which to me just sounds like they are telling lazy students what they want to hear, great for beginners. If you do the intro class prepare to stay on book for the whole 6 weeks.
The Arthur Murray of acting.

As a career consultant for actors in addition to being an actress myself, it is my job to learn what acting classes are out there for my clients. Having taken classes at or audited over 30 studios in town, I’ve discovered that AMAW is THE place for new and seasoned actors to create breakthroughs in their craft.
I was sold when I audited last year and I saw a cold reading of a Shakespearean scene (most scenes in class are contemporary) which was better than most rehearsed performances of Shakespeare I had seen.
Through working with Tony, I’ve come to realize that «I am enough,» and that everything I needed was already inside myself, I just had to get out of my own way. I discovered that I was actually a bit of a comedian! Under the keen guidance of Tony and amidst such inspiring actors in class, I’ve reconnected to the joy of performing again.
After one of Tony’s lectures on going towards what we fear, I came across information about the Miss California USA pageant. My first thought was, «Oh, I could never do that. That’s impossible.». However, after replaying Tony’s words over in my head, I then realized, «Shit. That means I have to do it.». After being chosen amongst 5000+ candidates, I achieved what I formally thought was «impossible.». Thank you, Tony, for reaffirming for me that impossible just doesn’t exist.

Tony is a master. Do not let his wonderfully child-​like demeanor and flamboyant joyfulness mislead you into thinking that he is lackadaisical in the craft. The way they work the craft here is subtle, but fundamentally significant, and this is the nature of acting: to listen with your being. This studio will teach it to you if you are open.
Tony has the heart of a child, but the wisdom of a snake. Listen carefully to what he says, and also to what your partner says for god’s sake, and you will find a window into your soul. Get some of that bacon, you beauty.

I just realized my comment from months ago. I was on the waiting list to get in the intro class for nearly 4 months. Finally, I started the first class last week, and I’m so happy to be here. I feel empowered and I’m so glad I came here.

I came to AMAW thinking it was just another studio where I would just go up and do a few scenes. But after the first class that was clearly not the case. Anthony gets you to work from a place of truth, pushing you to be open to whatever comes up without judging it. He’s so invested in his students and it shows in their work. I have never come across an acting studio where I felt safe enough to be as free as I’ve been here at AMAW. I’ve learned so much from each teacher and I only wish I found the studio sooner. Best studio in Los Angeles!

a good studio for beginners. he is extremely supportive and positive and it’s good vibes all around.
i did the intro class, and i’m glad i did, though now i’m looking for another studio that is grounded in a specific technique.
he’s a really nice guy, and his assistant is very helpful. this is a good studio if you’re new to the city, or shy and want a low-​pressure way to learn.

If you want to better yourself as an actor in Los Angeles, this is the spot to be! I audited several different places, but when I came to this class, it was a no-​brainer. Anthony is the most passionate and inspiring teacher I’ve ever come across. Every class is uplifting. The studio encourages students to stop masking how you feel, and feel what you feel in the moment… both in class and in your daily life. This has been challenging, but VERY liberating.
Whether it’s a cold read or a scene you’ve read a thousand times, students will learn to commit to whatever they are feeling. During a scene, the teachers will help students to release any judgements they have about themselves, and just learn to commit to the moment. The class becomes a nice mixture of scene study, improv, and cold reading.
The studio is also a great place to get results. In the few months I’ve been here, I’ve met casting directors, got an agent, and started booking roles!
I cannot recommend AMAW enough. It is a good place to grow as a person and actor. Audit a class and you’ll see what I’m talking about!

Anthony’s passion & joy for acting is inspiring. His studio is filled with impassioned actors of all ages and types; from teenagers to seniors, leading men and ladies to character actors alike. As a teacher he has the uncanny ability to cut right to the core of what you are contending with in the work and push you to face it head on. His approach to acting is beautifully simple yet challenging.
As a working actor I have studied at different studios over the years and I have never witnessed such amazing growth in actors in any program as quickly as I have seen them with Anthony Meindl.
You can audit a class for free, what have you got to lose?

The lessons you learn here are not exclusive to actors; they’re for anyone looking to know themselves better.
The instructors and students here are among the most genuine group of people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and working with.
You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll be scared shitless. But you’ll never feel uncomfortable.
Enrolling in Anthony Meindl’s Actors Workshop was the best investment I’ve made in myself.

By far, the best acting class i’ve had in LA since i’ve moved out here 4 years ago. i’ve been to a bunch of different workshop studios and classes and Tony’s is by far my favorite. reasonable prices and class sizes, talented people, teachers who actually get to know you and care about your progress, great CDs and agents brought in on a constant basis and the best part (for me) is that i don’t have to wait an hour on the 101 to get there (i used to take a lot of classes in studio city).
Finally, the most important quality i take away from AMAW is the method of making actors be comfortable. other places have tried to drill new vocabulary, methods and cultish ideas that suggest if your not crying or shouting, then YOU’RE NOT ACTING. that kind of stuff was never for me and Tony’s (along with his staff) simplistic and unique approach helps people remember why they love acting, taps into your truthful voice and doesn’t muddy everything up with the typical BS that plagues so many other studios.
do yourself a favor and audit.
seriously. do it.

I feel so blessed that I found Anthony. I am only 3 weeks into the introductory class, but I feel like I have already grown more in my work and in my personal life in these 3 weeks, than in the last year. This class scares and excites me all at once. I cannot recommend this studio enough!!! I also really enjoy the once a week «observation class». Watching the Master class is such a treat! Anthony, whatever you are doing, don’t stop. And for goodness’ sake, write a book!

Ok, look. L.A. will chew you up and spit you out. Taking Anthony’s class is one of the best decisions I’ve made since moving here. He has not only changed the way I think about acting and my career… he has seriously changed my life. For Real.

I will TRY to keep this brief…
I met Anthony when I was 15 and began training there, only to stop when I was admitted to the Theater school at UCLA. Without any preparation or training other than Tony I made it into the top theater school in the nation. People have always commented on the truthfulness of my roles in plays and scenes: and that is all Tony.
Once college was over I came right back and now can’t stand the 6 days in between classes. Tony, Jonathan, and Lindsay have such different ways of opening us up and allowing us to explore and discover parts of ourselves we didn’t know were there, or maybe were afraid to face.
AMAW has become more than just my acting studio. It is my home and my sanctuary.
Anthony is my guru.