The Working Actor Masterclass is a four-day immersive training experience built around one central question:
What does it take to deliver a truthful, compelling performance when the camera is rolling?
Over the course of a long weekend in New York City, you'll move through the same stages professional actors experience every day: script preparation, rehearsal, collaboration, adjustment, performance, and filming. Every workshop, rehearsal block, and coaching session is designed to help you develop a stronger process and prepare you for the realities of working on camera.
Unlike many intensives that focus solely on exercises or scene study, WAM culminates in the filming of a professionally produced scene created specifically for the actors attending.
Before the masterclass even begins, you'll be paired with another actor and meet with a writer to discuss your strengths, interests, and casting type. Using those conversations, an original scene will be written specifically for you and your scene partner. By the time you arrive, you'll already have material tailored to you and a clear objective for the weekend.
Throughout the four days, you'll train, rehearse, and refine that scene while developing practical skills you can immediately apply to auditions, callbacks, self tapes, rehearsals, and professional productions.
Most of our training takes place at Madame X in Manhattan, where participants spend the weekend working closely with fellow actors, instructors, and guest artists in an environment that is both rigorous and supportive. Daily catered lunches are provided by Borikén Bites NYC, giving participants time to connect, build relationships, and continue conversations outside the classroom.
Training throughout the weekend includes:
• Pressure Dynamics and on-camera performance
• Script analysis and scene preparation
• Rehearsal techniques for actors
• Partner work and listening skills
• Voice and movement training
• Working under pressure and creative uncertainty
• Adjusting performance for the camera
• Set etiquette and professional expectations
• Audition and industry discussions
Participants will also train with two special guest instructors:
Katherine Banos brings her expertise as a working actor and educator, offering practical tools for navigating performance, storytelling, and the realities of the industry.
Merlin McCormick shares insights from his professional experience and work in higher education, helping actors expand their understanding of craft, collaboration, and creative process.
At the heart of the weekend is the Pressure Dynamics framework, a performance methodology developed by Coach Darius that helps actors understand how pressure influences behavior. Rather than chasing emotions or predetermined line readings, actors learn how to pursue objectives, respond to changing circumstances, and create performances that remain alive and responsive moment to moment.
Everything builds toward filming day.
On the final day, actors step onto a professionally run set and film their scenes with a dedicated director, camera crew, and production team. Multiple takes, adjustments, playback opportunities, and professional support create an experience that mirrors the collaborative process actors encounter on film and television productions.
After the event, participants receive an edited version of their scene suitable for reels, casting profiles, websites, and promotional materials.
What You'll Leave With
• A professionally filmed and edited scene
• A repeatable rehearsal and preparation process
• Stronger on-camera technique
• Greater confidence working with directors and crews
• Improved listening and partner work skills
• Practical tools for auditions, callbacks, and self tapes
• New relationships with actors, writers, and industry professionals
• A deeper understanding of how pressure affects performance
The Working Actor Masterclass exists to bridge the gap between training and working.
This is not a retreat, a networking event disguised as a workshop, or a weekend of abstract theory. It is a practical, hands-on training experience designed to help actors develop the skills, habits, and confidence required to do excellent work when it matters most.
By the end of the weekend, you'll leave with more than footage.
You'll leave with a process.
