What Is the Best Acting School in London?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you an aspiring actor looking to hone your craft in London? With so many acting schools in the city, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

Fear not, as we have done the research and narrowed down the options for you. Here are our top picks for the best acting schools in London:

1. Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)

If you’re serious about pursuing a career in acting, RADA is the place to be. This prestigious school has trained some of the most renowned actors in the world, including Alan Rickman, Anthony Hopkins, and Kenneth Branagh. RADA offers a three-year Bachelor of Arts degree or a one-year postgraduate diploma in acting.

At RADA, you’ll receive intensive training in voice, movement, and acting techniques. You’ll also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to perform on stage and screen.

2. London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA)

LAMDA is another top-tier drama school that has produced many successful actors such as Benedict Cumberbatch, David Oyelowo, and John Lithgow. LAMDA offers a range of courses for both aspiring actors and those looking to develop their existing skills.

Their three-year BA (Hons) Professional Acting course provides students with comprehensive training in classical and contemporary theatre, TV, film, and radio. LAMDA also offers shorter courses for those who want to focus on specific areas such as Shakespearean performance or screen acting.

3. The Actors Centre

If you’re looking for a more flexible approach to training, The Actors Centre might be the right fit for you. This non-profit organization offers a variety of workshops and masterclasses with industry professionals throughout the year.

The Actors Centre is a great option for actors who want to continue developing their skills while also pursuing other work. They offer courses in everything from audition techniques to improvisation, and you can choose to take as many or as few classes as you like.

4. Drama Centre London

Drama Centre London is part of the prestigious Central Saint Martins, which is a college of the University of the Arts London. This school has trained notable actors such as Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, and Emilia Clarke.

Drama Centre London’s BA (Hons) Acting course offers rigorous training in acting, voice, and movement over three years. The school also offers an MA in Screen Acting for those looking to specialize in film and TV.

Conclusion

There are many excellent acting schools in London, but these four are our top picks based on their reputation, curriculum, and success rate. Whether you’re looking for a traditional drama school experience or a more flexible approach to training, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

  • Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)
  • London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA)
  • The Actors Centre
  • Drama Centre London

No matter which school you choose, remember that success in this industry takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow as an actor. Good luck!