Michelle Danner Acting Studio

★★★★★Hayley Sayrs

Loved my first Improv class with Derrick! Long form Thursday nights 6-9PM with Karaoke after but I left early. Total party and the people were super fun and friendly.

★★★★★Anni Hautmann

I’ve been studying at this acting school in Los Angeles for two years now, and it’s honestly been such a meaningful experience for me. What I really love is how every class feels different — from Strasberg to Meisner to Stanislavski — so you’re not stuck in just one method, but really get to grow and find what works for you. The teachers are a big part of why it feels so special. Everyone brings their own perspective, and you can feel that they genuinely care, which makes you want to push yourself and keep improving. What’s also been really valuable for me is having real opportunities to be on set. I’ve worked both in front of the camera as an actor and behind the scenes as a production assistant, and seeing both sides has taught me so much and made me appreciate the process even more.

★★★★★Byron Priebe

Short-Form Testimonial: Michelle possesses a unique magic: she coaches me and other actors (famous and not yet known) in a warm and nurturing manner. No knock you down to build you up methods with Danner. She told me this nurturing approach to teaching is proven to get the most out of her student's abilities. Thanks to Michelle, I not only carry Stella Adler and Uta Hagen trade craft into my rehearsals and performances, I also carry the collaborative Danner ethos of working with goodwill, and personal warmth. -Byron Lloyd von Priebe, a private acting student of Michelle Danner (since 2020)

★★★★★Carley Harper

I have had the opportunity to study with Michelle Danner as well as nearly all of the other acting coaches for over 2 years... and there’s a reason I still train with them. The staff here is exceptional, the teachers provide a safe but challenging training environment and the education is well rounded. Derek’s improv class is AMAZING! It’s the only class I’ve been in that truly prepares you for all the kids improv disciplines (character, game etc.). He’s also a brilliant actor and comedian so you get to observe a professional at work while learning. Michelle’s class offers the rare chance to train with an actual working director who still cares to give back with coaching when she’s not on set. This school is also incredible in that you have two theaters to train and rehearse in. If you know LA and Hollywood, you know this is a rare gift to an actor. I HIGHLY recommend this school.

★★★★★Oliver Sykes

I have studied with many acting coaches in Los Angeles over the years and would call Michelle Danner's Tuesday night scene study class home. I feel that way because I have a rapport with Michelle unlike any other that I've had with an acting teacher. Not only does she have the most comprehensive knowledge of film/theater and acting technique, but she also knows how to connect with the actor on a whole other level. Michelle's insights are profound. Furthermore, she stresses specificity and is a master at motivating actors. I trust Michelle with my acting career and rely on her wisdom to guide me through the pitfalls of being an actor. I recommend her class above all others.