What this training is
The training is built on a set of object exercises, from basic endowment through to full circumstance work, and on transference, where the actor substitutes a real relationship or condition for the fictional one. Hagen's writing gives the approach an unusually clear structure, and studios teaching it tend to be exercise-driven and practical.
Who it suits
Actors whose work is vague or general, and actors who want technique that produces specificity quickly. The object work in particular is a reliable correction for performances that float.
What these listings show
Counted from the verified records on this page when the site was last built, on 2026-08-15.
- Published pricing. 5 of 8 publish enough pricing to place them in a band: $$ (3), $$$ (1), $$$$ (1). The other 3 do not publish rates, so you have to ask.
- Audit or trial. 3 of these 8 offer an audit or a trial class, which is the cheapest way to judge a teacher before committing.
- Audition required. 2 require an audition or placement before you can enroll, so plan for a step before the first class.
- Levels. 8 accept complete beginners and 8 run advanced work.
- Online options. 7 of 8 offer an online format as well as in person.
- Private coaching. 7 also offer one-to-one coaching alongside classes.
- Young actors. 5 of these serve kids or teens as well as adults.
- Where they are. Concentrated in North Hollywood and Studio City (2), Santa Monica and the Westside (2), Hollywood and Mid-City (1), across 6 areas of Los Angeles in total.
- How established. 4 publish a founding year, the earliest 1988 and the most recent 2005.
How to compare them
Ask whether the exercises are actually run, since it is possible to teach Hagen's ideas without the practice that makes them work. Ask about lineage. Ask class size, because exercise work needs individual attention.