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Act boldly
Acting
Classes
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September 26: Standup comedy show "Οn the shelf" (from Europe)
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September 28: Beginningy of FAMA Institute of Arts & Media academic year -1st semester
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October 24: "Hellenic Music spectacular" - music concert in Astoria NY
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November 2: Beginningy of "The Working Actor's Blueprint: Industry Strategy & Audition Craft" advance 6 course (only for second level students)
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November 21: Official screening of the film "the remainders" by FAMA Media Group. At the UWS in Manhattan (details TBA)
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December 11: Industry quest lecture for all 1st level students.
Industry Guest Lectures are an essential component of the acting curriculum at the FAMA Institute of Arts & Media, and attendance is MANDATORY for all students. These lectures are offered free of charge to students only, providing students with invaluable opportunities to engage with established professionals from the theater, television, and film industries.
During these two-and-a-half-hour sessions, the Institute hosts a distinguished guest—such as an actor, director, or producer—to share their expertise. The event typically begins with an in-depth interview conducted by a member of our faculty, followed by an interactive segment where the guest engages directly with the students, facilitating a Q&A or practical workshop experience.
Adult Classes
Acting on Camera I
The Fundamentals
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Every class begins by watching scenes from classic and contemporary films. Together, we'll discuss what makes a performance believable—not just what actors say, but how they listen, react, and communicate in the moments between the lines.
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Students then put those ideas into practice through scene work, improvisation, filmed exercises, playback, and discussion. Whether you're new to acting or making the transition from stage to screen, this class will help you become more comfortable, confident, and natural in front of the camera.
Schedule & Pricing
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Kids: Mon 4:45–6:15pm (Manhattan) $290/mo · Tue 5–6:30pm (Astoria) $250/mo · Sat 11am–12:30pm (Manhattan) $290/mo
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Teens: Sat 2–4pm (Manhattan) $320/mo · Fri 3:30–5:30pm (Astoria) $260/mo
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Adults: Mon 6:30–9pm (Manhattan) $360/mo · Fri 6–8:30pm (Astoria) $280/mo · Sat 4:30–7pm (Manhattan) $360/mo
Acting on Camera II
Scene Study & Advanced Performance
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Designed for students who have completed Acting On Camera One or have previous on-camera experience, this class takes the work to the next level. Through more challenging scene work, playback, and discussion, we'll explore character, relationships, subtext, emotional truth, and working with a director.
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The emphasis is on making stronger choices, deepening performances, and developing the confidence to bring honest, compelling work to the camera.
Schedule & Pricing
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Thursday 6:30–9pm — Astoria — $280/month
Acting for Theater I
Theater I is intended for students with no prior theater experience.
Course Structure
a) Physical Awareness & Environment
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Physical exercises to awaken the body
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Exploring space and environmental conditions through movement
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Developing spatial awareness and presence
b) Breath & Emotional Center
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Breathwork and diaphragm control
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Understanding the body as the emotional center
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Connecting breath with emotional expression
c) Energy & Movement
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Exploring the seven types of energy
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Understanding body energy: flow vs. tension
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Applying energy dynamics in performance
d) Improvisation
A core acting tool to develop spontaneity and creativity
Types of improvisation:
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Physical
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Situational
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Emotion-based
e) Communication & Observation
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The art of listening and reacting
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Building presence through attentive interaction
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Theater as a collaborative and responsive space
f) Rhythm, Musicality & Tempo
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Using rhythm in both voice and movement
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Exploring tempo as a storytelling tool
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Enhancing expression through vocal and physical timing
g) Text Analysis
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Approaching text through the methods of speech & thought, and subtext.
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Techniques for breaking down scenes and monologues
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Layering intention and meaning into delivery
h) Contemporary Work
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Practice monologues (for auditions) and scene work from contemporary plays
*At the end of the year, we will present the scenes and monologues we have worked on during the classes.
Class Guidelines:
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Wear comfortable clothing suitable for movement
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Bring a notebook and pen/pencil for notes and reflections
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Arrive at least 10 minutes early to prepare and be ready to start on time
Schedule & Pricing
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Kids: Mon 3:15–4:45pm (Manhattan) $240/mo · Tue 3:20–4:50pm (Astoria) $150/mo · Wed 3:20–4:50pm (Astoria) $150/mo · Fri 3:30–5pm (Manhattan) $240/mo
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Teens: Wed 5–7pm (Astoria) $170/mo · Thu 4–6pm (Manhattan) $250/mo · Fri 5:30–7:30pm (Manhattan) $250/mo
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Adults: Thu 6:30–9pm (Manhattan) $260/mo · Sat 4–7:30pm (Astoria) $180/mo
Acting for Theater II
Acting II is designed for students who have successfully completed Acting I or have prior acting and theater experience.
This course builds upon the techniques introduced in Acting I, allowing students to deepen their understanding and develop greater confidence, specificity, and artistic freedom. Particular emphasis will be placed on advanced text analysis and the practical application of acting techniques through the rehearsal and performance of a full theatrical production.
The play will be selected based on the size, experience, and artistic needs of the group.
Course Structure
September – Early December: Advanced Training
During the first part of the course, we will revisit and deepen the core techniques explored in Acting I, including:
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Physical awareness and the actor's relationship to space
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Connecting breath with emotional expression
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Improvisation
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The art of listening and truthful reaction
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Exploring rhythm and tempo in voice and movement
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Advanced text analysis, including:
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Subtext
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Method of speech and thought
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Breaking down scenes and monologues into playable action
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Character objectives and intentions
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Layering meaning, emotional depth, and specificity into performance
December – June: Rehearsal & Performance
Beginning in December, the class will transition into rehearsals for a full-length theatrical production. Throughout the rehearsal process, students will apply the techniques developed during the first part of the course while working collaboratively to create a fully staged performance.
The production will be presented in a theater at the conclusion of the academic year, providing students with the opportunity to experience the complete creative process—from script analysis and character development to rehearsal, ensemble work, and live public performance.
Schedule & Pricing
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Tuesday 6:30–9pm — Astoria — $180/month
Teens and Kids Classes
Acting on Camera for Teens and Kids
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A fun and supportive introduction to acting for film and television, this class helps young actors build confidence while learning the basics of performing on camera. Through games, improvisation, age-appropriate scenes, and filmed exercises, students develop listening skills, creativity, and the ability to tell a story naturally on screen.
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The focus is on learning, encouraging one another, and having fun while building real on-camera skills.
Schedule & Pricing
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Monday 4:45–6:15pm — Manhattan — $290/month
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Tuesday 5–6:30pm — Astoria — $250/month
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Saturday 11am–12:30pm — Manhattan — $290/month
Theater for Teens and Kids
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In this 36-week theatre program, children are invited to play, imagine, create, and grow through the exciting world of theatre. Every class is filled with energetic warm-ups, movement, voice work, improvisation, storytelling, rhythm, music, and creative games that inspire curiosity and spark the imagination. Through play, students learn to express themselves confidently, work as an ensemble, listen actively, and develop focus, discipline, and respect for the creative process.
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Inspired by professional actor training, the program encourages each child to explore their unique creativity while building essential performance skills in a joyful and supportive environment. As the year progresses, students will develop characters, explore short scenes, and strengthen their stage presence, communication, and collaboration. The journey culminates in a final theatrical performance, where every child has the opportunity to shine and celebrate everything they have discovered throughout the year.
Schedule & Pricing
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Monday 3:15–4:45pm — Manhattan — $240/month
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Tuesday 3:20–4:50pm — Astoria — $150/month
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Wednesday 3:20–4:50pm — Astoria — $150/month
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Friday 3:30–5pm — Manhattan — $240/month
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Wednesday 5–7pm — Astoria — $170/month (Teens)
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Thursday 4–6pm — Manhattan — $250/month (Teens)
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Friday 5:30–7:30pm — Manhattan — $250/month (Teens)
Masterclasses Open to All Ages
Theater History I
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A comprehensive survey of Theater History from its origins in Ancient Greece to the Shakespearean/Elizabethan Theater. PowerPoint presentation of the history, archaeology, philosophy/theory and aesthetics of the Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance Theater. Emphasis in the playwrights, the movements, key ideas, technology, scenery, costumes, and performance. Specific works of Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Medieval, and Renaissance Theater will be analyzed. Videos of modern performances from selected plays for each time-period will be showed in full length. A traditional/historical approach will be taken as a criterion for choosing the right performance to display based on the directing style, costumes, and set design in order for the students to understand how those approximately looked like in the times of the playwright.
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Theater History I: Weeks 1 to 12 - Introduction to Theater, Ancient Greek and Roman Theater Introduction to the theater and its origins. The study of theater and its evolution through time and culture. For the first time in a Theater History class: the origins of Ancient Greek Theater in Aegean/Greek Prehistory!!! Did the Minoans had theater and musical/dance performances? The Dionysian origins of the Ancient Greek Theater as we know it. Aristotle’s Poetics and his Definition of Tragedy. The three Greek Tragedians: Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. The political, social, and economic as well as historical factors that shaped the Attic and Athenian theater. Greek Comedy and Aristophanes will be also examined. Satiric play will be also examined. Only one satiric play has been saved in our days: Euripides’ Alcestis. Hellenistic Theater: Menander and for the first time in a theater history class: an unknown, but important Greek comedian Herondas and his Mimes!!! The Roman Theater and the Odeion.
Creative Writing I
Fundamentals of Playwriting
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This intensive 12-week course is designed for aspiring writers seeking to refine and expand their theatrical and stageplay composition skills. Throughout the program, students will engage in a rigorous exploration of essential dramatic elements, including dialogue construction, thematic development, and complex character arc creation. By the conclusion of the course, participants will have developed the technical proficiency to conceive, draft, and complete an original stageplay.
The Working Actor's Blueprint: Industry Strategy & Audition Craft
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Talent gets you in the door, but strategy keeps you in the room. This class bridges the gap between conservatory training and the daily realities of the acting industry. We will demystify the casting process, break down the mechanics of a booking audition, and treat your acting career like the business it is. You'll leave with actionable audition techniques and a clear understanding of how the industry actually operates behind the camera.
Reels for Actors
12-Week Workshop
This 12-week workshop is designed for actors and drama students who want to create a professional acting reel.
Having a strong reel has become an essential tool for actors working in theater, film, and television. It gives casting directors, directors, producers, and agents the opportunity to see your work and get a sense of your range, presence, and abilities.
Creating a professional reel can often be expensive. This workshop offers an affordable and supportive environment where participants can develop strong material and create their own reel while working with experienced theater and film professionals.
The workshop is limited to a small group of no more than 8 participants, allowing for individualized attention and material tailored to each actor.
The workshop will focus on:
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Selecting material that best showcases each actor
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Developing and rehearsing monologues and scenes
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Acting for the camera
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Exploring character, intention, and emotional connection
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Preparing material specifically for a professional reel
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Working individually and with scene partners
During the final weeks of the workshop, the selected material will be professionally filmed and edited.
At the completion of the workshop, each participant will receive an approximately 2.5–3 minute professionally edited acting reel, ready to use on their professional website, social media, casting platforms, and other professional materials.
The goal is not only to leave the workshop with a finished reel, but also with stronger material, greater confidence in front of the camera, and a better understanding of how to present yourself professionally as an actor.
Workshop Instructors
Ioanna Katsarou – Director, Producer & Acting Coach
Director and producer Ioanna Katsarou (www.ioannakatsarou.com) will serve as the main instructor of the workshop, coaching and preparing participants throughout the 12 weeks. She will guide actors in selecting and developing material, working on their monologues and scenes, and preparing their performances for the final recording.
James LeBlanc – Photographer & Video Editor
Photographer and video editor James LeBlanc (www.yourblip.com) will be responsible for the professional video recording and editing of the final reels, working with the participants to create polished material suitable for their websites, social media, casting platforms, and other professional use.
Classical Theater I
12-week Workshop
Classical theater is at the core of the actor’s craft. Some of the greatest actors of stage and screen have built their work on a strong foundation in classical training, which is why classical theater remains an essential part of the curriculum at many of the world’s leading drama schools.
Working with the classics challenges actors to develop their voice, body, imagination, emotional depth, and command of language. It introduces us to the archetypes that have shaped dramatic storytelling for centuries and teaches us how to approach heightened and poetic language with confidence, freedom, and precision.
Classical Theater I introduces students to the foundations of classical performance through short scenes and monologues from Ancient Greek Drama and Shakespeare. Students will explore the structure and fundamental principles of classical theater, learn how to analyze poetic and heightened text, discover the meaning beneath the words, and develop a deeper understanding of rhythm, imagery, thought, and language.
The goal is not simply to “speak” classical text, but to make it alive, immediate, personal, and truthful—to respect the rhythm and musicality of the language without becoming trapped by it.
The objective of the course is to give actors the tools to approach challenging texts without fear—to understand the language, uncover the human experience beneath it, and transform great writing into truthful, compelling performance.
Instructors
Classical Theater I is taught by Ioanna Katsarou, a Greek-born director, actor, and
acting instructor with extensive training and professional experience in Classical Theater. A graduate of the Drama School of the National Theatre of Northern Greece, Katsarou has worked extensively with classical texts both as a performer and director, with a particular focus on Ancient Greek Drama and the contemporary exploration of classical works.
Her approach combines rigorous text analysis and respect for the structure, rhythm, and poetry of classical language with a strong emphasis on making these works immediate, human, and relevant to today’s actor. (www.ioannakatsarou.com)