Frequently Asked Questions

 
 

TRAINING AT THE STUDIO

WHO CAN STUDY AT THE STUDIO?

Our training is designed for professional, trained, and aspiring actors aged 18+.

We also offer a one-year Youth Program for actors aged 14–17.

  • Entry requirements: Admission into our major programs (Full-Time, Part-Time, and 10-Week Essential) is by application and/or audition.

  • Scene Study: Open only to actors who have completed a Core Program (Full-Time, Part-Time, 10-Week, or Youth) and requires a separate application process.

  • Professional Series & Events: Some workshops, masterclasses, and intensives may also require an application process, while others are open enrolment.

WHERE AND WHEN ARE CLASSES HELD?

  • Brunswick, Melbourne (permanent studio)

  • Core Programs:

    • Full-Time Program: Wed, Thur, Fri 9:30am‑5:30pm (core contact hours), plus some evenings/weekends.

    • Part-Time Program: Wednesdays 6:30‑9:30, Saturdays 10:00am‑2:30pm. Some additional classes outside core hours.

    • 10 Week Essential Acting Program: Mondays & Thursdays 6:30pm‑9:30pm, plus two Saturday vocal intensives.

    • Youth Program: Sundays 2pm-5:30pm

  • Professional Series & Events: Short courses, workshops, and masterclasses run throughout the year. These may be held online, at our Brunswick studio, and occasionally in Geelong.

WHAT IS THE FOCUS OF THE TRAINING?

Our training is built on the principles developed by Howard Fine and refined from Uta Hagen’s work. We aim to create actors who can work at the highest professional level. For deeper insight, we recommend Fine on Acting: A Vision of the Craft (Howard Fine) and A Challenge for the Actor (Uta Hagen).

WHO TEACHES AT THE STUDIO?

Our unified Los Angeles and Melbourne faculty are award-winning actors, teachers, and industry professionals. Learn more about them on Our Team Page. Howard Fine personally teaches in the Full-Time and Part-Time programs, with lectures featured in the 10-Week and Youth Programs. The LA faculty contribute via Zoom.

I’M NEW TO ACTING, WHERE SHOULD I START?

We recommend beginning with a Core Program (Full-Time, Part-Time, or 10-Week). New students are also encouraged to attend a free sample class, lecture, or audit a Scene Study class.

CAN I AUDIT OR OBSERVE A CLASS?

Yes. Prospective students can observe selected classes or attend a free sample class. Book via admin@howardfinestudio.com.au.

 
 

MORE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Do you offer HECS or VET Fee-Help?
No. Currently, we do not offer government subsidies. Payment plans are available, please contact admin@howardfinestudio.com.au for details.

Do you have scholarships?
No. Scholarships are not currently offered. Payment plans can be arranged, email admin@howardfinestudio.com.au.

STUDIO SPACE

Can students hire studio rooms?
Yes. Current students can book practice and rehearsal space. See Room Hire for details and rates.

Can external groups hire the studio?
Yes. The Brunswick studio is available for external hire. Please email admin@howardfinestudio.com.au with your preferred dates and times. More info: Studio Hire.

INTERSTATE AND OVERSEAS

Do you offer classes interstate?
At this stage, no. All in-person training is held in Melbourne. However, we regularly offer online events and workshops, check the What’s On section for upcoming opportunities.

Does studying with you qualify me for a student or work visa?
No. Studying at Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia does not qualify students for visas. For details, visit Study Australia.

 

HAVEN’T ANSWERED YOUR QUESTION?

 

Email your question to admin@howardfinestudio.com.au