Minneapolis, Minnesota, has long been one of America’s most creative cities — a place where theatre, film, and performance arts thrive. From small independent theatres to professional film sets, the Twin Cities are bursting with opportunities for aspiring actors. Whether you’re just starting out, preparing for auditions, or looking to turn your passion into a full-time career, choosing the right acting school can make all the difference.
In this post, we’ll explore the top 15 acting schools in Minneapolis — including their program highlights, fees, and why they stand out. We’ll also share practical tips on how to choose the right school for your goals.
Top 15 Acting Schools In Minneapolis And Fees
1. Lundstrum Performing Arts
Location: 1617 N 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Website: lundstrum.org
Phone: +1 612-521-2600
Fees: Around $225 for a 10-week session
Lundstrum Performing Arts is one of Minneapolis’s most respected performing arts academies. Designed mainly for youth aged 9–18, the school offers a structured curriculum in acting, scene study, and on-camera performance. The 10-week sessions are perfect for both beginners and young actors preparing for auditions.
Students learn voice projection, character development, and the fundamentals of stage presence in a creative and supportive environment. Lundstrum also provides scholarships and mentorship opportunities for talented young performers.
Why choose it: Affordable and focused on youth development, with a nurturing environment for early-stage performers.
2. Star On!! The Acting Studio
Location: Minneapolis Area
Website: starontheactingstudio.com
Fees: About $235 per month or $645 per 4-week session (+$50 registration fee)
Star On!! The Acting Studio is a boutique acting school that focuses on small-group instruction — usually no more than four students per class. This allows for personalized feedback and intensive performance training. The school caters to both children and adults and offers specialized workshops on audition technique, film, and commercial acting.
Why choose it: Excellent instructor attention and real-world preparation for on-camera work. Great for actors who want to build confidence before larger auditions.
3. The Green Room Acting Studio
Website: greenroomactingstudio.com
Fees: $55 for a trial class | $220–$260 per month for ongoing classes
The Green Room Acting Studio brings a professional edge to acting education in Minneapolis. With coaches who have real industry experience, this studio is perfect for students preparing for TV, film, and commercial auditions. Classes are taught by working actors and casting directors who provide insider guidance on audition success and performance delivery.
Why choose it: One of the best acting schools for film and TV preparation, with small classes and strong industry connections.
4. Minneapolis Community Education – Acting & Improv
Website: minneapolis.ce.eleyo.com
Fees: Between $79–$169 per course
For young beginners and hobbyists, Minneapolis Community Education offers short-term acting and improv programs that are both fun and affordable. Designed for students in grades 6–9, these courses help build self-confidence, teamwork, and creativity through performance games and short skits.
Why choose it: Budget-friendly and ideal for beginners or teens interested in trying out acting before committing to a professional program.
5. Curtain Call Studios
Website: curtaincallstudios.com
Fees: $15–$20 per class (~$60–$80 per month)
Curtain Call Studios is known for its flexible and affordable acting and voice training options. Students can take weekly group classes that focus on acting, musical theatre, and stage performance. The studio also offers private coaching for those preparing for roles or auditions.
Why choose it: Great for part-time learners and hobbyists who want affordable, consistent training in a supportive environment.
6. TalentInc The Studio
Website: talentincthestudio.com
Fees: Registration fee $35 | $125 per month (1 class) | $200 per month (Unlimited classes)
TalentInc’s “The Studio” offers professional acting, voice, and modeling programs for youth and adults. Their unique “Unlimited Classes” option makes it one of the most cost-effective choices for serious students who want multiple weekly sessions.
Why choose it: Best value for multi-class learners; great if you want to immerse yourself in acting several times a week.
7. Stages Theatre Company Acting Conservatory
Location: Hopkins, MN (Twin Cities)
Website: stages theatre.org
Fees: Around $99 per class
Stages Theatre Company offers an Acting Conservatory Program tailored for young performers. Students learn movement, improvisation, character creation, and performance skills. This theatre is known for its professional productions, giving students opportunities to perform live before local audiences.
Why choose it: Combines classroom training with real theatre experience; perfect for aspiring stage actors.
8. Guthrie Theater Education Program
Website: guthrietheater.org
Fees: $200–$400 per short course
The iconic Guthrie Theater isn’t just a venue—it’s a training ground for actors. Their education department offers workshops in scene study, voice, movement, and audition preparation taught by professionals in the field. The Guthrie’s reputation opens doors for networking and industry exposure.
Why choose it: A prestigious name in American theatre with excellent training for serious stage actors.
9. Brave New Workshop Comedy Theatre
Website: bravenewworkshop.com
Fees: $250–$350 per course
If you’re interested in comedy or improv, Brave New Workshop is Minneapolis’s legendary institution for performance and satire. Alumni include well-known comedians and TV personalities. Classes focus on spontaneity, timing, and storytelling—skills every actor should master.
Why choose it: The best place in the city for improv and comedic acting training.
10. The Actors Studio of Minnesota
Fees: Around $300–$400 per session
The Actors Studio of Minnesota offers professional-level coaching for both aspiring and working actors. Students work on monologues, scene studies, and on-camera techniques. Workshops often include guest instructors from the Twin Cities theatre and film industry.
Why choose it: Great for serious actors who want to transition into professional performance.
11. Saint Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists
Website: spcpa.org
Fees: Tuition-free (public charter school)
Located just across the river, SPCPA is a tuition-free performing arts high school offering a conservatory-style education in theatre and acting. Students combine academic coursework with rigorous arts training in acting, voice, and movement.
Why choose it: Top-tier option for high school students serious about performing arts careers.
12. Minneapolis College Theatre Arts Program
Website: minneapolis.edu
Fees: $5,000–$6,500 per academic year
Minneapolis College offers an Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Theatre Arts with training in acting, voice, and movement. The program emphasizes practical experience through stage productions and performance showcases.
Why choose it: Best for students seeking a college-level credential in acting.
13. University of Minnesota – Guthrie Theater BFA Program
Website: cla.umn.edu/theatre
Fees: Around $15,000–$20,000 per year (for in-state students)
This is one of the most prestigious acting programs in the Midwest. The University of Minnesota partners with the Guthrie Theater to provide students with world-class instruction in acting, movement, and voice. Graduates often go on to work professionally in theatre and film.
Why choose it: Offers professional-level training and connections to one of the best theatres in the country.
14. FilmNorth Acting for Film Program
Website: filmnorth.org
Fees: $250–$600 per course
FilmNorth is the Twin Cities’ hub for film education and production. Their acting classes focus on camera techniques, audition preparation, and professional self-taping. Courses are taught by local film directors and working actors.
Why choose it: Ideal for actors interested in screen acting and film production.
15. Illusion Theater Workshops
Website: illusiontheater.org
Fees: Vary per program (~$150–$300)
Illusion Theater offers specialized workshops on storytelling, improvisation, and performance development. It’s an excellent space for both beginners and professionals looking to expand their creative range.
Why choose it: Strong emphasis on creativity, emotional expression, and real-world storytelling.
How to Choose the Right Acting School in Minneapolis
Choosing the perfect acting school depends on your goals, schedule, and budget. Here are a few quick pointers:
1. Define Your Acting Goals
Are you looking to act on stage, on camera, or both? Stage schools like Guthrie Theater and Stages Theatre focus on live performance, while studios like The Green Room and FilmNorth specialize in film and television.
2. Consider Your Budget
Acting education in Minneapolis ranges from $60 per month for basic classes to $20,000 per year for full-time degree programs. Always ask about registration fees, materials, or costume costs.
3. Look for Experienced Instructors
Choose schools with teachers who have professional experience. Mentorship from active industry professionals will help you learn real-world techniques.
4. Class Size Matters
Smaller classes allow for more personal feedback. Studios like Star On!! and The Green Room limit enrollment to ensure quality attention.
5. Explore Performance Opportunities
Schools linked to theatres (like Stages Theatre Company and Guthrie Theater) provide invaluable stage experience and exposure to casting professionals.
Conclusion
Minneapolis is a powerhouse for performance arts, offering diverse options for every aspiring actor. From prestigious university programs to affordable community classes, there’s a path for every passion and budget. Whether you dream of starring on stage, in front of a camera, or just want to develop your creative voice, the acting schools listed above provide everything you need to take your first or next step.
No matter where you begin, remember: acting is a journey built on passion, consistency, and courage. Minneapolis offers the perfect stage to start that journey — so take the leap and make your spotlight shine.