ACYA will not be offered for the Summer 2024 term. If you are 16 years of age or older, please review options for this year’s Summer Program.

Learn The Craft.
Create Your Future.

Summer Actor Training for Ages 12-16
On Campus in Los Angeles

Grow With Legendary Training in The Heart of Hollywood

The Academy’s Conservatory for Young Actors (ACYA) is a four-week summer intensive in Los Angeles for students ages 12-16. The program is taught by the same professional and encouraging instructors who oversee The Academy’s world-renowned two-year Full-Time Conservatory Program. ACYA’s mission is to provide a solid foundation for young actors who desire to strengthen their skills and develop new techniques to excel at the craft of acting. Through experiential classes and field trips, students are introduced to the concepts and practices that contribute to the work of a professional actor.

Classwork includes: Acting, Musical Theatre, Improv, Stage Combat, Filmmaking and more.


Academy Training Built For Young Actors

Focus on Craft

Led by experienced professional instructors and based on 137 years of Academy tradition, ACYA’s small group classes provide individualized attention and immersion in foundational acting techniques.

Set the Stage

Students are challenged to discover the craft of acting and grow their artistry in a safe, encouraging environment. Through learning by doing, they develop performance skills and cultivate confidence in sharing their unique voice.

Join the Cast

With classmates from across Los Angeles and around the world, ACYA students forge new friendships and find community among a global group of motivated rising actors.

Take a Bow

Culminating with a capstone presentation, ACYA provides students with a dynamic opportunity to perform, share work with family, and celebrate their accomplishments with a live audience.


“The ACYA builds confidence in young performers by encouraging each individual’s full expression of themselves through the use of movement, voice, language and imagination. With the emphasis on process rather than the performance, our students learn how to create believable characters under imaginary circumstances. We combine The Academy's rigorous training with some serious fun to give students a better understanding of the actor’s process - and of themselves”
TIM LANDFIELD - ACYA DIRECTOR Read bio

Immersive Exploration and Discovery

ACYA runs Monday through Friday from 9:00AM - 3:00PM.
A catered lunch is served every day.

Each day’s schedule is a little different, offering classes in acting, movement, stage combat, improvisation, musical theatre, and creating short original films. Field trips (for example, studio tours and visits to Hollywood landmarks) will also be included in the 4 weeks.

Sample Daily Schedule

9:00 AM Arrival
9:00 - 10:15 Morning Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 Break
11:30 - 12:00 Morning Session 2
12:00 - 1:00 Catered Lunch
1:00 - 2:00 Afternoon Session 1
2:00 - 3:00 Afternoon Session 2
3:00 PM Dismissal

Immersive Exploration and Discovery

ACYA runs Monday through Friday from 9:00AM - 3:00PM. A catered lunch is served every day.

Each day’s schedule is a little different, offering classes in acting, movement, stage combat, improvisation, musical theatre, and creating short original films. Field trips (for example, studio tours and visits to Hollywood landmarks) will also be included in the 4 weeks.

Sample Daily Schedule

9:00 AM Arrival
9:00 - 10:15 Morning Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 Break
11:30 - 12:00 Morning Session 2
12:00 - 1:00 Catered Lunch
1:00 - 2:00 Afternoon Session 1
2:00 - 3:00 Afternoon Session 2
3:00 PM Dismissal

"The team was spectacular, and we were so impressed! Our son was thrilled with the experience." - Fabio. T (Sao Paulo, Brazil)

"The program meant so much to my daughter. She not only loved being there, she met some wonderful people. The experience was phenomenal and her passion to be in this industry has grown even greater." - Amy E. (Oregon City, Oregon)

"I just want to tell you how grateful we are for your dedication and hard work. You and your wonderful staff have created a very special program. We made some life long friends and can't wait to come back!" - Lisa M. (Iowa City, Iowa)

ACYA Photo Gallery

Have More Questions About Our Programs?

Tuition and Requirements

Age Requirements

Applicants must be at least 12 years old and no older than 16 by the first day of class.

International Students

In addition to the application, a phone interview may be required for international applicants. The ACYA program does not issue visas or I-20s.

Housing

ACYA is a daytime program between the hours of 9:00AM - 3:00PM. No overnight accommodations or evening supervision are provided.

COVID Safety

All ACYA participants are required to provide documentation of full COVID-19 vaccination prior to the beginning of the program.

Tuition

$2,295, including daily catered lunch and program field trips. Enrollment is limited and space is reserved only upon full tuition payment.

Decisions concerning admissions made by The American Academy of Dramatic Arts are based on talent and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, ethnic origin or disability.