IN REVIEW
Our actors WORK. Below is a small selection of films, TV shows, and networks AAS actors, alumni, and faculty have made an appearance in over the past year.
An Evening in Conversation
W/Michael White of The Characters Talent Agency
Join us for an evening of conversation with Michael White from The Characters Talent Agency to discuss bicoastal representation, the Toronto market vs. the Vancouver market, where you should be located in 2024, what is shooting right now, and much more. Following this discussion, participants will have the opportunity to ask Michael their own questions during a final Q+A.
Michael always knew he wanted to work with creatives. Stemming from his days as a “child actor” gracing the cover of math books everywhere he went on to complete a double major in Multimedia and English at McMaster University and a diploma in Paralegal Studies. This led to his shadowing one of the top Music Lawyers in the country and later The Characters Talent Agency. Rising quickly from intern to Talent Agent and Manager, Michael now manages the careers of a select number of rising stars who are working in Film, Television, Theatre and in New Media and Video Games.
Your opportunity to speak with one of Canada's most notable agents, and become equipped with all of the knowledge you need on bicoastal markets as a Canadian actor.
REQUIREMENTS:
There are no requirements to attend this workshop.
AGES 19+
UPCOMING SESSIONS
FEBRUARY 16TH
6:00PM - 8:00PM EST
$89+HST
Now available to attend via ZOOM for those who are not in Toronto. Please note, the time of the workshop is in EST.
WELCOME TO AAS 13-18
with Studio Owner and Youth Division Head, Sarah Gnocato
Armstrong Acting Studios is offering a FREE Introduction to AAS for new youth actors. These workshops provide the opportunity for actors to check out the Studio, meet and work with our Studio Owner + Youth Division Head, and experience the caliber of training that AAS has to offer.
*First 12 Registrants for a session will have the opportunity to audition and receive feedback on their work*
*Youth clients may be accompanied by one parent/legal guardian.*
REQUIREMENTS:
Open to NEW actors OR actors who haven't trained with us since 2019.
AGES 13-18
UPCOMING SESSIONS
FEBRUARY 11TH
4:00PM-7:00PM
Welcome to AAS 19+
with Artistic Director, Susanna Fournier
Armstrong Acting Studios is offering a FREE Introduction to AAS for new actors. These workshops provide the opportunity for actors to check out the Studio, meet and work with our Artistic Director, and experience the caliber of training that AAS has to offer.
*First 12 Registrants for a session will have the opportunity to audition and receive feedback on their work*
REQUIREMENTS:
Open to NEW actors OR actors who haven't trained with us since 2019.
AGES 19+
UPCOMING SESSIONS
MARCH 11TH
6:30PM-9:30PM
reframing your work
Bookings Start Here
Looking for feedback on your work? Tired of sending self-tapes into the void and wondering how your work's translating?
Armstrong Acting Studios is offering a dynamic, in-studio screen test for actors looking to get immediate and personalized feedback from AAS Artistic Director, Susanna Fournier. You'll get useful insights, fresh ideas, and a reinvigorated sense of purpose of your work.
REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must provide their headshot, resume, previous on-screen experience and/or training, or previous theatre school or AAS training.
AGES 19+
UPCOMING SESSIONS
TBA
$99+HST
SUMMER
YOUNG ACTORS
CORE INTENSIVE
16-18
Young Actors Core Intensive is a Foundational to Intermediate Level on camera training course. Although there are no mandatory requirements for enrolment, actors and parents alike should consider this class an introduction to the industry. Young actors should be prepared to learn text, develop character and embrace the discipline associated with auditioning and working in Film and TV.
REQUIREMENTS: There are no mandatory requirements for this class.
24hrs | $699+hst*
*$400 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
July 6 - July 21
Saturdays & Sundays
12:30PM - 4:30PM
SUMMER
YOUNG ACTORS
CORE INTENSIVE
10-12
Young Actors Core Intensive is a Foundational to Intermediate Level on camera training course. Although there are no mandatory requirements for enrolment, actors and parents alike should consider this class an introduction to the industry. Young actors should be prepared to learn text, develop character and embrace the discipline associated with auditioning and working in Film and TV.
REQUIREMENTS: There are no mandatory requirements for this class.
24hrs | $699+hst*
*$400 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
July 23 - Aug 8
Tuesdays & Thursdays
9:00AM - 1:00PM
SUMMER
YOUNG ACTORS
CORE INTENSIVE
13-15
Young Actors Core Intensive is a Foundational to Intermediate Level on camera training course. Although there are no mandatory requirements for enrolment, actors and parents alike should consider this class an introduction to the industry. Young actors should be prepared to learn text, develop character and embrace the discipline associated with auditioning and working in Film and TV.
REQUIREMENTS: There are no mandatory requirements for this class.
24hrs | $699+hst*
*$400 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
July 15 - July 31
Mondays & Wednesdays
9:00AM - 1:00PM
CORE intermediate
16-18
This is an intermediate on-camera training course focused on both audition technique and partnered scene work. Actors will build stamina and agility by working on a higher volume of projects and scenes. Ideal for actors with previous experience specific to Film and TV. Actors who are represented and actively auditioning will be considered for enrolment.
REQUIREMENTS:
Agent representation, professional headshot and resume, previous theoretical and practical experience specific to Film and TV, or successful completion of Core Acting I.
36hrs | $900+hst*
*$500 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
Jan 21 - May 5*
Sundays
12:30PM - 3:30PM
*no class on Mar 10, Mar 17, Mar 31
CORE ADVANCED
16-18
This is an advanced on-camera course focused on both audition technique and partnered scene work. Actors will build stamina and agility through a specific focus on how to use scene structure to shape dynamic performances, explore and expand their casting hits, and gain confidence bringing more spontaneity to their work. Ideal for actors with previous Film and TV experience. Actors who are represented and actively auditioning will be considered for enrolment.
REQUIREMENTS:
Agent representation, professional headshot and resume, previous theoretical and practical experience specific to Film and TV, or successful completion of Core Intermediate.
36hrs | $900+hst*
*$500 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
Jan 21 - May 5*
Sundays
4:00PM - 7:00PM
*no class on Mar 10, Mar 17, Mar 31
DEAN ARMSTRONG
Dean Armstrong is a screen test advisor, pre-production, and on-set acting coach for various networks and feature film production companies including HBO, HULU, SHOWTIME, The CW, NETFLIX, AMAZON, UNIVERSAL and DISNEY. His collaboration in this capacity has not only influenced the critical acclaim of many stars, but his direction has also served as the basis for casting and the subsequent development of national and international talent.
Founder of Armstrong Acting Studios, Toronto (1997), Dean maintains an active commitment to the support and development of aspiring and established actors across North America.
An actor himself, Dean's credits include recurring roles on CHAPELWAITE, SUPERNATURAL and Showtime's QUEER AS FOLK as well as a Broadway debut in Jonathan Larson's Pulitzer Prize + Tony Award winning musical RENT.
Fall Term Internship
The AAS Toronto Team is looking to welcome a Studio Intern for the Fall 2022 Term! In this integral role, the candidate chosen will gain exclusive Industry experience at one of Canada's leading Acting Studios. Be a right hand to the Studio Manager, and the Director of Partnerships and Studio Development, while networking with Industry professionals.
MONDAY - THURSDAY
1PM - 5PM
EARN AAS CLASS CREDIT
IN-STUDIO (9 Davies Ave, Toronto)
START DATE: October 3rd, 2022
END DATE: December 22nd, 2022
REQUIREMENTS
-
MUST BE AGED 18+
-
YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF AT LEAST DOUBLE VACCINATION AGAINST COVID-19
To apply, please send your RESUME and COVER LETTER to the link below.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
I started working with...Armstrong Acting Studios in 2005. 17 years later [the] Studio continues to discover, build and launch International Film and TV stars. [They're] about as good as it gets. The training offered is both relevant and practical. Actors who work with [them] get work. It’s that simple...
Nina Dobrev
Actor
Love Hard, The Vampire Diaries
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"Dean gets results. Simple as that. My first session working with him I booked a lead in a feature. He finds things I miss or overlook and uses my strengths to make my work just that much better. Also I LOVE working with him! He's so professional, experienced and all around awesome dude."
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"Armstrong Acting Studio helped prepare me for the industry in every aspect and through every step of the way: from finding an agent to auditioning to being on set. I not only recommend the studio to others but urge actors who are looking to seriously pursue acting because AAS produces great actors!"
SPRING
CORE intENSIVE
16-18
This is an on-camera training intensive focused on both audition technique and partnered scene work. Actors will spend time on camera every class and receive all of their footage. Ideal for actors with prior training and experience specific to acting for film and television.
REQUIREMENTS:
Previous on-camera training, experience auditioning for film/television projects.
AAS COVID-19 POLICY
All group course participants are required to provide proof of double vaccination.
Masks that cover the nose, mouth, and chin are required to be worn during class. Masks may be removed when the actor is performing on camera - there will be at least 6 feet of space between the performing actor and all other class participants. For any questions or concerns about this policy, please contact the studio.
18hrs in-studio | $500+hst (-10% ACTRA)
UPCOMING SESSIONS
Mar 26 - May 7*
Sundays
12:30PM - 3:30PM
*no class Apr 9
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"The first time I worked with Salvatore was for my audition for Bad Blood which I booked from that tape, and there were things we tried out in that audition session that stuck with me, that I used until my last day on set. The atmosphere Salvatore creates in the room is of passion and excitement for the role and project you're going in for. Because of his approach, when I leave the room I often not only feel confident in the work, but observe I experienced joy doing it, and that for me is what this is all about."
Anna Hopkins
Bad Blood, Shadowhunters
SUMMER
Screen acting intensive
w/Executive Studio Director Salvatore Antonio
An advanced-level on-camera training intensive. Emphasis is placed on building up each actor's individual strengths, identifying blind spots/deficiencies, and challenging actors to deepen their practice and open pathways to greater range. Current and contemporary TV & Film scripts will be used in class, in both audition format and as partnered scenes, to help develop and sharpen a dynamic command of the frame, and greater confidence in characterization and technique. This intensive stresses the importance of spontaneity, personalization, and activating story from script breakdown to performance.
Only serious actors looking to push themselves and be challenged should apply. Those who have secured professional work on-screen including large principal, guest-starring, recurring and leading roles in episodic and feature films will be considered for enrolment.
REQUIREMENTS:
Agent representation, headshot and resume, previous theoretical and practical experience and/or successful completion of Core Acting III. Admission at the discretion of the intensive instructor/ Executive Studio Director, Salvatore Antonio.
AAS COVID-19 POLICY
All group course participants are required to provide proof of double vaccination against COVID-19.
Masks that cover the nose, mouth, and chin are encouraged in-studio, but not required. For any questions or concerns about this policy, please contact the studio.
36hrs | $900+hst (-10% ACTRA)
UPCOMING SESSIONS
June 1 - June 29
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:00PM - 10:00PM
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"The first time I worked with Salvatore was for my audition for Bad Blood which I booked from that tape, and there were things we tried out in that audition session that stuck with me, that I used until my last day on set. The atmosphere Salvatore creates in the room is of passion and excitement for the role and project you're going in for. Because of his approach, when I leave the room I often not only feel confident in the work, but observe I experienced joy doing it, and that for me is what this is all about."
Anna Hopkins
Bad Blood, Shadowhunters
DEAN ARMSTRONG
Studio Founder and Director, Dean Armstrong is an actor, on-set and pre-production coach with over 20 years experience of launching and developing international stars.
SALVATORE ANTONIO
AAS Toronto Executive Studio Director and Lead Advanced-level Instructor, Salvatore Antonio graduated from the National Theatre School of Canada (where he also taught Acting for Camera). In addition to his 20+ year acting career, he is also an award-winning published and produced writer.
SUMMER
YOUNG ACTORS
CORE INTENSIVE
10-12
Young Actors Core Intensive is a Foundational to Intermediate Level on camera training course. Although there are no mandatory requirements for enrolment, actors and parents alike should consider this class an introduction to the industry. Young actors should be prepared to learn text, develop character and embrace the discipline associated with auditioning and working in Film and TV.
REQUIREMENTS: There are no mandatory requirements for this class.
AAS MASK POLICY
Masks that cover the nose, mouth, and chin are encouraged in-studio, but not required. For any questions or concerns about this policy, please contact the studio.
24hrs | $699+hst*
*$400 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
July 11 - July 27
Tuesdays & Thursdays
9:00AM - 1:00PM
SUMMER
YOUNG ACTORS
CORE INTENSIVE
13-15
Young Actors Core Intensive is a Foundational to Intermediate Level on camera training course. Although there are no mandatory requirements for enrolment, actors and parents alike should consider this class an introduction to the industry. Young actors should be prepared to learn text, develop character and embrace the discipline associated with auditioning and working in Film and TV.
REQUIREMENTS: There are no mandatory requirements for this class.
AAS COVID-19 POLICY
All group course participants are required to provide proof of double vaccination against COVID-19.
Masks that cover the nose, mouth, and chin are encouraged in-studio, but not required. For any questions or concerns about this policy, please contact the studio.
24hrs | $699+hst*
*$400 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
July 10 - July 26
Mondays & Wednesdays
9:00AM - 1:00PM
SUMMER
YOUNG ACTORS
CORE INTENSIVE
16-18
Young Actors Core Intensive is a Foundational to Intermediate Level on camera training course. Although there are no mandatory requirements for enrolment, actors and parents alike should consider this class an introduction to the industry. Young actors should be prepared to learn text, develop character and embrace the discipline associated with auditioning and working in Film and TV.
REQUIREMENTS: There are no mandatory requirements for this class.
AAS COVID-19 POLICY
All group course participants are required to provide proof of double vaccination against COVID-19.
Masks that cover the nose, mouth, and chin are encouraged in-studio, but not required. For any questions or concerns about this policy, please contact the studio.
24hrs | $699+hst*
*$400 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
July 8 - July 23
Saturdays & Sundays
12:30PM - 4:30PM
AAS COVID-19 POLICY
All group course participants are required to provide proof of double vaccination against COVID-19.
Masks that cover the nose, mouth, and chin are encouraged in-studio, but not required. For any questions or concerns about this policy, please contact the studio.
The Girls With Grit Scholarship
Once a year the Girls With Grit Foundation gives an opportunity to young women all around Toronto and the GTA to apply for a 3 term (1 year) scholarship at Armstrong Acting Studios. In addition to the scholarship, there is a mentorship meeting at the conclusion of each term with the Foundation’s Director to check-in on your progress and artistic endeavours.
SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITY
-
Passionate about the arts
-
Able to travel to Armstrong Acting Studios. NOTE: Due to COVID-19 online option is also acceptable
-
Demonstrate determination and excitement toward the craft
-
Want to inspire change in the community
-
Require financial support to enroll in class
-
Must fit into two streams: YOUTH (Age 13-18) or ADULT (Age 19-35)
To learn more and/or apply for the
GIRLS WITH GRIT SCHOLARSHIP
click the button below.
SARA MITICH
Sara Mitich continually inspires and guides her students and private coaching clients to recognize that to be an effective and magnetic actor, one has to do the work first.
LAURA NORDIN
Laura Nordin holds a BFA in Acting from the University of British Columbia and her MFA from the esteemed American Repertory Theatre at Harvard University and the Moscow Art Theatre School. She is a co-founder of Filmcoop, a not-for-profit mentorship program for professional filmmakers in Toronto.
SUMMER
ADVANCED SCENE STUDY INTENSIVE
w/Artistic Director Susanna Fournier
This advanced level intensive will target individual actors strengths and areas for growth through scene study deep dives, audition technique, chemistry tests, and genre/style specific approaches. Our continued emphasis will be on what is possible between the story as written and the performance we co-author in real time with our scene partners. Contemporary material from film, television, and live performance will be used in this course, including reading material assigned to participants in between studio sessions complimenting sides/scene work. Please consider this preparation time when applying. Actors who have secured professional work on-screen including large principal, guest-starring, recurring and leading roles in episodic and feature films will be considered for enrolment.
REQUIREMENTS:
Agent representation, headshot and resume, previous theoretical and practical experience and/or successful completion of Core Acting III. Admission at the discretion of the intensive instructor/Artistic Director Susanna Fournier.
36hrs | $900+hst
*$550 deposit upon enrollment
10% ACTRA discount available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
May 28 - June 25
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:00PM - 10:00PM
