Queens, New York, is one of the most culturally diverse boroughs in the world—home to thriving arts communities, independent theatres, and world-class performers. Whether you’re an aspiring actor seeking professional training, a parent looking for affordable programs for your child, or an adult hoping to sharpen your stage or screen presence, Queens offers a wide range of acting schools to choose from.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the top acting schools in Queens, the programs they offer, tuition fees, training quality, and reasons they stand out. All information is crafted to help students make the best decision for their career and budget.
Top 10 Acting Schools in Queens and Fees
1. The Secret Theatre Academy – Long Island City
Estimated Fees: $350–$850 per term
The Secret Theatre Academy in Long Island City is one of Queens’ leading performing arts institutions, offering acting, musical theatre, and performance training for both children and adults. Their academy stands out for its modern teaching approach and connection with the award-winning Secret Theatre, giving students unique exposure to live productions.
The acting program emphasizes scene work, character development, vocal projection, cold reading, and memorisation skills. Students also get opportunities to participate in stage showcases, which help them gain confidence and real performance experience.
Why it’s a top choice: The Academy’s connection to a professional theatre space ensures students have a real stage to train on. Their classes are affordable, accessible, and great for beginners and intermediate actors.
2. Queens Theatre Education Program – Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Estimated Fees: $250–$1,200 per program
Queens Theatre is one of the borough’s most prominent cultural institutions, and its education program delivers a wide range of acting classes for youth, teens, and adults. From theatre fundamentals to improvisation and advanced performance workshops, the curriculum caters to all levels.
The theatre’s acting instructors are experienced theatre professionals who help students explore expression, movement, stage presence, and improvisation. Seasonal workshops and summer intensives offer intensive training and culminate in student showcases.
Why it’s a top choice: Students train inside a world-class theatre venue with professional lighting, sound, and staging—ideal for those who prefer a polished, performance-driven environment.
3. Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) – Astoria
Estimated Fees: Free–$600 depending on the program
APAC is known for its strong community connection and award-winning productions. In addition to professional theatrical performances, they offer acting workshops, youth theatre programs, and seasonal acting classes for adults. Their curriculum emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and performance fundamentals.
The youth acting programs are particularly popular, offering hands-on training at affordable rates. For adults, APAC organizes workshops led by guest artists, providing industry insights and intensive scene study.
Why it’s a top choice: APAC is ideal for aspiring actors on a budget or those looking for high-quality training in a community-focused atmosphere.
4. Garden Players Theatre Program – Forest Hills
Estimated Fees: $300–$900 per term
Standing strong for more than 30 years, Garden Players is one of the top youth acting programs in Queens. They specialize in musical theatre training for kids and teens, offering classes that blend acting, singing, and stage movement.
Students in this program get the rare opportunity to act in original musicals, written specifically for the school’s annual productions. This allows them to build confidence, creativity, and stage experience.
Why it’s a top choice: A nurturing environment perfect for younger performers looking to develop talent early.
5. The Acting Studio – Long Island City (Queens Branch)
Estimated Fees: $400–$1,500 per course
The Acting Studio—one of New York’s top professional acting schools—has a Queens branch offering Meisner-based training. Their classes include:
- Acting for film and TV
- Meisner technique foundations
- Intro to acting
- Scene study
- Audition preparation
The Queens location is perfect for local residents wanting Manhattan-level professional training without the commute.
Why it’s a top choice: Ideal for actors pursuing professional careers in theatre, film, or television.
6. Forest Hills Theatre Arts (FHTA) – Forest Hills
Estimated Fees: $250–$950 per session
FHTA offers one of the most well-rounded performing arts programs in Queens. Their acting curriculum is designed for beginners and intermediate actors wanting to sharpen their on-stage presence. Classes cover improvisation, acting technique, monologue study, and performance prep.
They also offer musical theatre classes, making it a suitable choice for students exploring both acting and singing.
Why it’s a top choice: Provides a supportive environment and accessible pricing—great for teens and adults alike.
7. LIC School of Theatre – Long Island City
Estimated Fees: $500–$1,200 per term
The LIC School of Theatre is known for its structured curriculum, tailored to help actors build strong foundations in:
- Voice and movement
- Script analysis
- Ensemble work
- Stage performance
- On-camera acting
Small class sizes ensure personalised attention, and students participate in seasonal stage shows.
Why it’s a top choice: Well-rounded professional instruction for adults at reasonable prices.
8. CCTA Queens – Community Theatre & Acting Program
Estimated Fees: $200–$750 per session
The Children’s Community Theatre of Astoria (CCTA) provides budget-friendly acting programs for children, teens, and adults. Known for its friendly environment and experienced coaches, CCTA focuses on creativity, teamwork, and confidence-building.
Their acting curriculum includes:
- Improvisation
- Scene study
- Stage direction basics
- Group performance
CCTA’s flexible scheduling makes it great for students balancing school or work.
Why it’s a top choice: Affordable, flexible, and excellent for beginners or younger students.
9. Not Just Art Acting Workshops – Bayside
Estimated Fees: $250–$800 per program
This family-friendly performing arts center offers acting, drama, and creative expression workshops primarily for kids and teens. Their acting classes focus on emotional expression, storytelling, and stage confidence.
Not Just Art emphasizes creativity and imagination, making the program ideal for young performers rather than aspiring professionals.
Why it’s a top choice: A creative and nurturing entry-level program for children and young teens.
10. Drama Kids International – Queens Branch
Estimated Fees: $250–$700 per term
Drama Kids International is a global acting program with a strong Queens branch offering classes across the borough. Their curriculum specializes in developmental drama—helping children build communication skills, confidence, and public-speaking ability through acting.
Programs include:
- Intro acting for kids
- Drama for teens
- Creative play for young learners
- Stage performance workshops
Each term ends with a showcase for parents and families.
Why it’s a top choice: One of the most structured and child-friendly acting programs in Queens, perfect for beginners.
Breakdown of Acting School Fees in Queens (Average Range)
Here’s a quick summary of typical costs:
| Program Type | Estimated Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Kids acting classes | $200–$700 per term |
| Teen acting programs | $250–$900 per term |
| Adult acting workshops | $400–$1,200 per course |
| Professional acting programs | $800–$1,500 |
| Summer intensives | $300–$1,200 |
The cost largely depends on the school’s reputation, instructor experience, course length, and whether classes include stage showcases.
How to Choose the Right Acting School in Queens
Selecting an acting school requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors:
1. Define Your Acting Goals
If you want to be a professional actor, choose a school with industry-level scene study and on-camera training. If you just want to boost confidence or explore creativity, community programs may be enough.
2. Compare Fees and Financial Options
Some schools offer sibling discounts, early-registration discounts, or need-based scholarships.
3. Consider Location and Commute
Queens is large—Astoria, Forest Hills, and LIC all offer excellent programs, so convenience matters.
4. Look for Showcases and Performance Opportunities
Live showcases help students build stage confidence and experience.
5. Ask About Class Size
Smaller classes often mean better coaching and personalised attention.
Why Queens is a Great Place to Study Acting
Queens boasts a unique blend of:
- Diverse cultures and artistic influences
- Proximity to Manhattan’s theatre district
- Community-based theatres
- Affordable training programs
Students in Queens can enjoy high-quality acting education without the high Manhattan price tag.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a youth acting class, a budget-friendly workshop, or a professional acting program, Queens offers some of the best options in New York City. Each school on this list provides unique strengths—from professional stage opportunities to community theatre settings and creative youth programs.
By comparing the fees, curriculum, and teaching approach, you can choose the acting school that best matches your goals and budget.