Montreal is one of Canada’s most culturally vibrant cities, known for its flourishing theatre scene, bilingual productions, world-class film industry, and rich artistic heritage. Aspiring actors from around the world choose Montreal because its acting schools offer a dynamic blend of French and English instruction, affordable tuition, and strong industry connections. Whether you want to build a foundation in theatre, pursue a professional acting diploma, or train for film and television, Montreal offers excellent programs for every actor.

This guide provides a detailed look at the top acting schools in Montreal, their program highlights, fees, curriculum, and why they stand out.

1. National Theatre School of Canada (NTS) – Montréal

The National Theatre School of Canada is widely regarded as the best acting school in Montreal and one of the most prestigious drama institutions in North America. Founded in 1960, NTS offers professional-level training with intensive hands-on instruction, world-class faculty, and access to cutting-edge performance spaces.

Why NTS Stands Out

• Offers a three-year acting conservatory program focused on stage, voice, movement, and character development.
• Students learn from accomplished actors, playwrights, and directors with national and international theatre experience.
• The school provides numerous performance opportunities, including stage productions, scene studies, and collaboration with directing students.
• NTS graduates consistently work in film, theatre, television, voice acting, and new media.

Fees

• Tuition for Canadian students: $5,500 – $6,000 per year
• Tuition for international students: $12,000 – $15,000 per year
• Additional costs: books, materials, and production fees

2. Concordia University – Department of Theatre

Concordia University’s Theatre Department offers some of Montreal’s most respected academic pathways for aspiring actors. It combines practical performance training with strong theory-based education, giving students a balanced and professional approach to acting.

Program Highlights

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting, a competitive program focusing on movement, voice, improvisation, classical and contemporary performance.
• Opportunities to participate in university theatre productions, workshops, and festivals.
• Access to excellent performance facilities, including the D.B. Clarke Theatre.
• Highly recognized by casting directors and theatre companies in Quebec and beyond.

Fees

• Quebec residents: approx. $3,200 per year
• Other Canadian residents: $8,000 – $9,000 per year
• International students: $23,000 – $27,000 per year

3. Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) – École Supérieure de Théâtre

UQAM’s École Supérieure de Théâtre is one of the leading French-language acting schools in Montreal. It is an excellent choice for actors seeking strong theatre training rooted in physical expression, stage interpretation, and contemporary performance.

What Makes UQAM Unique

• Offers BFA and MFA programs in theatre performance.
• Heavy focus on movement, body expression, scenography, and emotional authenticity.
• Students gain practical experience through university-led stage productions and public performances.
• Located in the heart of Montreal’s Quartier Latin, close to major cultural centres and performance venues.

Fees

• Quebec residents: $3,000 – $3,500 per year
• Other Canadian students: $8,500 – $9,000 per year
• International students: $18,000 – $21,000 per year

4. Montreal School of Performing Arts (MSOPA)

MSOPA is a well-known independent acting school offering accessible training for beginners, intermediate performers, and working actors. Unlike universities, MSOPA provides flexible workshops, short courses, and certificate programs.

Program Strengths

• Classes available in acting for film/TV, voice acting, audition techniques, improvisation, and theatre performance.
• Ideal for actors wanting part-time study or focused skill-building.
• Instructors are working industry professionals.
• Strong reputation for helping students break into commercials, independent films, and casting opportunities.

Fees

• Workshops: $200 – $500 per course
• Certificate programs: $1,500 – $3,000
• Private coaching: $50 – $80 per hour

5. Montreal Acting Studio

Montreal Acting Studio specializes in film and television training, making it ideal for aspiring screen actors. The school emphasizes real-world practical learning and teaches actors how to deliver natural, cinematic performances suitable for today’s industry demands.

Highlights

• Focus on on-camera acting, audition preparation, and script work.
• Intensive classes designed to help actors build strong demo reels.
• Instructors have extensive film and TV experience.
• Known for small class sizes and personalized coaching.

Fees

• Intro to On-Camera Acting: $350 – $450
• Advanced Film Acting Programs: $900 – $1,500
• Private audition coaching: $70 – $90 per session

6. John Abbott College – Professional Theatre Acting Program

Located just outside Montreal, John Abbott College offers a high-quality, affordable professional theatre program. It is one of Quebec’s best pre-university acting training paths, providing students with strong foundational skills.

Program Advantages

• A three-year Professional Theatre (Acting) Diploma program.
• Heavy focus on breathing, voice, movement, classical acting, ensemble work, and theatre production.
• Students perform several plays each year, gaining real stage experience.
• Graduates often continue to top universities or enter the acting industry directly.

Fees

• Quebec residents: approx. $500 – $700 per semester
• Out-of-province Canadians: $1,700 – $2,500 per semester
• International students: $6,000 – $8,000 per semester

7. Dawson College – Professional Theatre Program

Dawson College is one of Montreal’s most respected institutions for arts education. Its Professional Theatre program is highly competitive and known for producing well-rounded and versatile actors.

What Dawson Offers

• A three-year acting diploma focused on stage performance, movement, improvisation, vocal work, and character analysis.
• Advanced training in classical and contemporary theatre.
• Performance opportunities through public showcases and college productions.
• Excellent faculty and strong industry connections.

Fees

• Quebec residents: $500 – $700 per semester
• Out-of-province Canadians: $1,700 – $2,500 per semester
• International students: $6,000 – $8,000 per semester

8. Straeon Acting Studios – Montréal

Straeon Acting Studios offers personalized, professional acting coaching based on the Meisner technique. It attracts both emerging actors and seasoned performers who want to refine their craft.

Why Students Choose Straeon

• Specialized coaching that emphasizes emotional depth, scene study, and repetition exercises.
• Small group classes ensure personalized guidance.
• Coaches have decades of experience in theatre and TV.
• Workshops available in both English and French.

Fees

• Monthly membership programs: $150 – $300 per month
• Drop-in classes: $40 – $60 per session
• Private coaching: $80 – $100 per hour

9. Montreal Film & TV Acting School

This school focuses exclusively on training actors for on-camera work. It is ideal for performers who want to enter Quebec’s booming film industry.

Key Features

• Practical classes on camera presence, auditioning, scene work, and character creation.
• Instructors are film directors, actors, and casting professionals.
• Perfect for beginners looking for rapid skill development and screen experience.
• Actors can build demo reel footage as part of the program.

Fees

• Acting for Film Program: $900 – $1,200
• Audition Bootcamps: $250 – $400
• Private audition taping: $50 – $80

10. Acting Out! – Montreal’s Performing Arts School for Kids & Teens

Acting Out! is one of Montreal’s top schools for young aspiring actors. It offers structured programs in acting, musical theatre, improvisation, and voice for children and teenagers.

Program Highlights

• Classes tailored to youth development and confidence-building.
• Students perform in seasonal productions and annual showcases.
• Many graduates go on to audition for commercials, TV shows, and theatre roles.
• A supportive environment that nurtures creativity and self-expression.

Fees

• Regular acting classes: $350 – $600 per session (10–12 weeks)
• Summer camps: $400 – $650
• Musical theatre programs: $700 – $1,200

How to Choose the Best Acting School in Montreal

When selecting an acting school in Montreal, consider the following factors:

1. Your Career Goals

• Do you want a university degree, professional diploma, or short-term course?
• Are you more drawn to theatre, film, musical theatre, or voice acting?

2. Language of Instruction

Montreal offers:

• English-only programs
• French-only programs
• Bilingual training options

Choose based on your comfort level and professional ambitions.

3. Tuition and Budget

Acting programs in Montreal vary widely:

• Short courses under $500
• Diplomas between $4,000 – $20,000
• University degrees for $3,000 – $27,000 per year

4. Reputation and Success of Graduates

Look at:

• Industry connections
• Alumni placed in film, theatre, and commercials
• Student showcases and performance opportunities

5. Training Format

Decide between:

• Full-time intensive conservatory programs
• Part-time flexible classes
• Private coaching
• Weekend workshops

Conclusion

Montreal is one of the best cities in Canada to study acting, offering world-class schools, diverse training styles, and affordable education options. Whether you aim to perform on stage, appear in film and TV, or develop your artistic expression, Montreal’s acting schools provide the resources you need to build a successful career.

This comprehensive list of the Top 10 Acting Schools in Montreal and Fees gives you everything necessary to make an informed decision and start your acting journey in one of North America’s most exciting cultural hubs