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The 5 Best Acting Schools in Denver for Aspiring Performers

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We extensively test and research all services we review. Here's why you can trust us.

Instructor Pedigree: We evaluated the professional backgrounds of the teaching staff to ensure they have active industry experience. Studios led by working actors and talent managers received higher priority.

Curriculum Focus: A modern training facility must offer instruction in contemporary on-camera techniques alongside traditional stage methods. We looked for classes that prioritize practical audition skills and script analysis.

Career Support: Learning to perform is only one half of the equation for a successful career. We prioritized programs that provide dedicated business workshops covering headshots, resumes, and networking.

Inclusivity and Environment: The classroom must feel like a safe space for performers to take creative risks without fear of harsh judgment. We assessed each studio's commitment to supportive, constructive feedback and accessible programming.

Breaking into the performance industry takes more than just raw talent; it requires solid technique and strategic guidance. 

And so, finding and enrolling in the best acting schools in Denver is the first step to your success. Their rigorous training can help you, whether your goal is booking a local commercial or auditioning for major television networks. 

Luckily, the local training scene offers options ranging from casual beginner workshops to intensive on-camera laboratories. 

I’ve actually explored the options to identify programs that genuinely prepare students for the realities of the business. 

Read on for the top local acting schools that provide excellent coaching, community support, and practical industry insights!

How much does enrolling in acting schools cost in Denver?

Training costs in Denver acting schools vary widely depending on the format, with monthly group workshops starting around $95 and comprehensive elite programs costing upwards of $265 per month plus enrollment fees.

Program TypeAverage Cost
Weekly Workshops$95 to $200 per month
6-Week Intensives$345 to $400 per course
Private Lessons$75 to $100+ per hour
Elite Programs$297 fee + $265 per month

1. Phamaly Theatre Company

phamaly-theatre-company-logo

Website: http://www.phamaly.org/
Address: 3532 Franklin St Suite T2
Contact: 303-365-0005 / [email protected]
Hours:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Phamaly Theatre Company completely reimagines the theatrical landscape by exclusively casting and training actors with all types of disabilities. 

They treat these unique traits as powerful creative assets rather than obstacles, transforming classic stories into entirely fresh experiences. 

Through their partnership with the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA), students gain access to excellent facilities and specialized learning methods, like the Hunter Heartbeat Method. 

I like how this radical accessibility removes traditional barriers and even offers paid professional opportunities for non-equity performers. 

However, because their mission is strictly tied to disability advocacy, their educational classes are exclusively reserved for individuals who identify as having a disability. 

Furthermore, their schedule can feel slightly unpredictable. Workshops are typically offered on a limited quarterly basis rather than as a consistent year-round conservatory program.

Pros

  • Free workshops for individuals with disabilities
  • Access to professional DCPA facilities
  • Paid stage opportunities for non-equity actors
  • Specialized sensory and motor skill techniques

Cons

  • Exclusive eligibility requirements
  • Limited quarterly schedule for workshops

Customer Reviews

Disability inclusive and professional theatre. A not to miss experience! Phamaly is the only company of it’s kind in the nation – more than 30 years strong – comprising solely of actors who have some type of physical, mental, or emotional disability as defined by the ADA. Each show has a day set aside for audio description and ASL, and a sensory friendly performance for those on the Autism spectrum.

I personally performed with this amazing group in 2003 and I am friends with a lot of the cast. I have Spastic Cerebral palsy and Autism disorder and epilepsy so seeing this group perform inspires me to be a better actor and performer and person.

2. Babcock Studios

babcock-studios-logo

Website: https://www.babcockstudios.com/
Address: 1221 Pecos St #120
Contact: 310-696-9599 / [email protected]
Hours:

Monday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Transitioning from theatrical projection to the subtle nuances of film acting requires highly specific technical adjustments. Babcock Studios focuses entirely on bridging the gap between stage techniques and the rigorous demands of a television set.

This training ground is led by Todd Babcock, a veteran with over 25 years of active Hollywood experience.

Here, students participate in integrated content creation where they write and film original projects to build their professional reels. The environment even mirrors a professional set, demanding that students show up fully off-book and ready to work. 

I actually sat down with a former student who told me their rigorous on-camera fundamentals intensive completely changed how they approach auditions. 

While this high standard produces excellent results, it also creates a significant barrier to entry with long waitlists. 

Additionally, they enforce a strict no-auditing policy. Prospective students cannot sit in and observe a class before financially committing to the program.

Pros

  • Instruction from a veteran Hollywood actor
  • Focuses heavily on specific camera techniques
  • Provides career counseling and resume services
  • Specialized workshops for actors on the autism spectrum

Cons

  • Strict no-auditing policy
  • High demand; long waitlists for ongoing classes

Customer Reviews

This is hands down the best acting class I’ve ever taken. I first came here when I was 13 and returned again at 20, and in so many ways I feel like I grew up in this space. The scene study work is incredibly strong and practical, and it pushed me to grow while always feeling supported. Todd is an amazing teacher — deeply supportive, encouraging, and truly invested in every student. This class didn’t just make me a better actor, it helped shape who I am. I’m so grateful for it.

Todd has a depth of knowledge and acting experience that is second to none to anyone in Colorado. His classes rival those you’d only find in LA or NYC, and are better in my opinion. He provides hand-picked, thoughtfully curated scenes that challenge you and help you grow every week. If you’re looking for an acting home with a supportive community, inspiring instruction, and great stories and anecdote along the way, this is the place!

3. Benjy Dobrin Acting Studios

benjy-dobrin-acting-studios-logo

Website: http://www.benjydobrin.com/
Address: 209 Kalamath St Unit 10
Contact: 720-941-2468 / [email protected]
Hours:

Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Many coaches get bogged down in rigid academic theories that leave performers feeling stuck in their heads. At Benjy Dobrin Acting Studios (BDS), the curriculum cuts straight through the industry jargon. 

With their high-energy workshops, they can help you find and develop the skills needed to grow your acting career. They also treat performance as a vehicle for personal empowerment and unlocking true potential. 

Moreover, they teach the actual business side of the industry alongside emotional range and scene study. 

I remember taking one of their specialized voice-over intensives a few years ago and being struck by how supportive and direct the feedback was. 

Due to their stellar local reputation, new students frequently encounter frustrating waitlists for the most popular adult evening slots. 

Auditing an ongoing session isn’t allowed here, however. They heavily prioritize protecting the privacy and creative safety of their current enrolled actors, which is a good thing.

Pros

  • Offers dedicated classes on the business of acting
  • Provides honest and encouraging feedback
  • Features highly specialized niche intensives
  • Flexible daytime and private lesson options

Cons

  • Frequent waitlists for adult workshop time slots
  • Auditing is strictly prohibited

Customer Reviews

Benjy’s classes have been the highlight of my week every week for almost 3 years now and I can’t sing his praises enough. Since I’ve started I’ve come out of my shell socially, become more comfortable with speaking in front of others, performed in multiple productions and made a hugely helpful and talented support group in both Benjy and my peers. And I had 0 experience in acting or performing before I started!

In short, Benjy Dobrins classes have helped me in so many ways and I could not recommend him enough to new or experienced actors/entertainers.

I love the format of this class! Usually opening up with prepared monolgues, exercises, etc. that students have prepared for feedback followed by a scene exercise. All are opened for feedback from Benjy and classmates which I think is fun and unique because everyone notices different things and the feedback is always constructive & professional. It’s such a fun environment of people who want to co-create. Benjy is great!

4. Hollywood Showcase Denver

hollywood-showcase-denver-logo

Website: https://www.hollywoodshowcasedenver.com/
Address: 700 Kalamath St #4403
Contact: 720-299-4721 / [email protected]
Hours: By appointment only

Building relationships with Hollywood talent representatives usually involves expensive flights and chaotic relocation plans. 

Hollywood Showcase Denver is a unique training center that solves that problem by providing a direct pipeline to Los Angeles agents and managers right here in Colorado. 

Their core methodology revolves around an 8-week on-camera curriculum. This program heavily emphasizes the technical nuances required for commercials and network television. 

Students receive immediate feedback by watching their taped exercises play back at the end of every intimate group session. 

This focused approach is actually impressive. From what I’ve seen, it has successfully transitioned numerous local alumni into major roles on networks like Disney and Netflix. 

While the coaching is top-notch, the primary public focus of their showcase events skews heavily toward youth talent. It might feel slightly alienating for adult professionals. 

Unlike casual drop-in art classes or enrichment activities found at local preschools, the studio operates on rigid enrollment cycles that lack flexibility.

Pros

  • Direct networking events with Los Angeles agents
  • Immediate visual feedback via taped exercises
  • Intimate class sizes guarantee personalized coaching
  • Free initial consultation to discuss career goals

Cons

  • Focused on younger performers
  • Rigid 8-week schedule; lacks flexibility

5. Front Range Acting Studio

front-range-acting-studio-logo

Website: http://frontrangeacting.com/
Address: 2828 Speer Blvd # 103
Contact: 303-446-8170
Hours: Available 24/7

Navigating the logistical realities of booking professional work is just as critical as delivering a compelling monologue. 

At the helm of Front Range Acting is Brian McCulley, an active talent manager with over three decades of Hollywood experience.

This studio operates on a firm business-first training model. Students learn exactly what casting directors currently want, focusing heavily on self-taping techniques and modern networking strategies. 

I appreciate how their curriculum is delivered in a small-group collaborative lab setting. This setup encourages organic growth among serious, like-minded peers. 

The small-group “lab” setting allows for direct coaching from active professionals who know what casting directors want right now.

However, their boutique approach means the curriculum is entirely centered around McCulley’s specific philosophy, which limits your exposure to other teaching styles. 

Enrollment is also highly selective. Expect to complete a prerequisite or a formal audit before accessing their advanced workshops.

Pros

  • Heavy emphasis on modern self-taping techniques
  • Active industry mentorship from a working producer
  • Clear progression path from beginner to advanced
  • Safe and supportive community-centric atmosphere

Cons

  • Limited variety of acting methods
  • Selective enrollment requires prerequisites or audits

Customer Reviews

Best acting studio in Denver! With the help and guidance of the coaches at FRAS, I was able to find my footing in a challenging career field. Without them I would have never landed my first television role. They aren’t dogmatic and will work with you to find a method and process that works for you. They are also constantly on top of what is going on in the industry and they integrate their knowledge to best set their clients up for success as the industry changes.

Great people, great coaches and a super fun and relaxed atmosphere. I’ve learned so much about the film industry and how to become a better actor. I even landed my first two acting agencies as a result of this studio! I absolutely love everything about the studio and its leadership. 10/10 would recommend!