Introduction

Welcome to Thespian's Forge Academy, a cornerstone of acting education in the heart of Los Angeles. Founded on the principles of passion, dedication, and artistic excellence, we are committed to providing aspiring actors with the tools, techniques, and unwavering support they need to succeed in the dynamic world of performing arts. Our academy is more than just a school; it is a vibrant community where creativity thrives, talent is nurtured, and dreams are forged into reality.

Located in the historic Melrose District, Thespian's Forge Academy boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious rehearsal studios, a fully equipped black box theatre, and dedicated spaces for voice and movement training. Our central location provides students with unparalleled access to industry professionals, casting directors, and performance opportunities throughout Los Angeles.

At Thespian's Forge, we believe that every actor has a unique voice and story to tell. Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to empower students to discover their individual strengths, overcome their challenges, and develop a distinctive artistic identity. Whether you aspire to grace the stage, command the screen, or create your own original works, Thespian's Forge Academy is here to ignite your passion and guide you on your journey.

Our Mission

The mission of Thespian's Forge Academy is to cultivate the next generation of versatile, innovative, and ethical actors. We are dedicated to:

• Providing rigorous, comprehensive training in acting, voice, movement, and performance theory.
• Fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can take risks, experiment with new ideas, and develop their artistic voice.
• Connecting students with industry professionals, providing them with valuable networking opportunities and career guidance.
• Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our academy, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
• Instilling in our students a lifelong commitment to artistic excellence, professional integrity, and social responsibility.

We strive to be more than just an acting school; we aim to be a catalyst for positive change in the performing arts community, empowering our graduates to create meaningful and impactful work that reflects the diverse experiences of our world.

Our History

Thespian's Forge Academy was founded in 1975 by renowned stage actress, Vivian Holloway. Inspired by her own experiences navigating the challenges of the acting world, Vivian envisioned a school that would provide aspiring actors with the comprehensive training, unwavering support, and industry connections they needed to succeed.

• 1975: Founding Vision

  Vivian Holloway establishes Thespian's Forge Academy in a small studio in Hollywood, focusing on classical acting techniques.

• 1980s: Expansion and Recognition

  The academy expands its curriculum to include voice and movement training, quickly gaining recognition as a leading acting school in Los Angeles. The school also purchases new properties at 5757 Melrose Avenue.

• 1990s: Integration of Film and Television

  Thespian's Forge integrates film and television acting into its curriculum, adapting to the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. Notable alumni begin to emerge, making their mark on stage and screen.

• 2000s: Modernization and Innovation

  The academy undergoes a significant renovation, adding state-of-the-art facilities and incorporating new technologies into its training programs. Thespian's Forge embraces diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all backgrounds.

• 2010s: Community Engagement and Outreach

  Thespian's Forge partners with local organizations to provide free acting workshops and performances to underserved communities. The academy strengthens its ties to the industry, inviting guest speakers, casting directors, and agents to share their expertise with students.

• 2020s: Adapting to the Future

  During the COVID-19 pandemic, Thespian's Forge swiftly adapts its programs to online learning, ensuring continuity and accessibility for its students. The academy continues to innovate and evolve, remaining at the forefront of acting education in Los Angeles.

Our Dedicated Team

At Thespian's Forge Academy, our faculty and staff are more than just instructors and administrators; they are passionate mentors, dedicated advocates, and experienced professionals who are committed to helping our students achieve their dreams.

Eleanor Vance

Head of Acting, MFA Yale School of Drama

Eleanor Vance brings over 25 years of experience as a professional actress and director. Her expertise lies in classical theatre, Shakespearean performance, and actor training. She has worked with renowned theatre companies across the United States and is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of talent.

Marcus Bellwether

Film & Television Acting, SAG-AFTRA Member

Marcus Bellwether is a seasoned film and television actor with credits in numerous critically acclaimed productions. He specializes in on-camera technique, audition preparation, and the business of acting. Marcus provides students with practical insights and industry connections to help them succeed in the competitive world of film and television.

Seraphina Thorne

Voice & Movement, Certified Fitzmaurice Voicework® Instructor

Seraphina Thorne is a leading expert in voice and movement training for actors. She is a certified Fitzmaurice Voicework® instructor and has extensive experience in physical theatre and movement pedagogy. Seraphina empowers students to develop vocal clarity, physical presence, and expressive freedom on stage and screen.

Our Core Values

At Thespian's Forge Academy, we are guided by a set of core values that shape our curriculum, our community, and our commitment to artistic excellence:

• Passion: We believe that passion is the driving force behind every great performance. We encourage our students to embrace their love of acting and to pursue their artistic dreams with unwavering enthusiasm.
• Dedication: We are committed to providing our students with the highest quality training and support. We expect our students to be equally dedicated to their craft, working hard to develop their skills and reach their full potential.
• Collaboration: We believe that acting is a collaborative art form. We foster a supportive and inclusive community where students can learn from each other, share their ideas, and work together to create meaningful and impactful performances.
• Integrity: We are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in all aspects of our academy. We expect our students to be honest, respectful, and responsible in their interactions with each other, with their instructors, and with the wider community.
• Innovation: We embrace new ideas and technologies, constantly seeking ways to improve our curriculum and enhance the learning experience for our students. We encourage our students to be creative, experimental, and open to new possibilities.