ACYA will not be offered for the Summer 2023 term. If you are 16 years of age or older, please review options for this year’s Summer Program. Additional information about ACYA for Summer 2024 will be available later this fall.
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.
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?
Frequently Asked Questions
Youth Summer Program
ACYA is open to students aged 12-16. Students must be 12 years or older by the start date of the program.
ACYA is conducted on the Los Angeles Campus of The Academy, located in the heart of Hollywood.
No overnight accommodations or evening supervision is provided. Students are responsible for arranging daily transportation to and from The Academy.
Student participants in ACYA are required to have available local adult supervision outside of the program. At the conclusion of each day, students will be released only to the custody of a designated parent or guardian.
ACYA provides a personalized, small-group environment for learning and exploring the craft of acting. The program is limited to a maximum of 30 participants and interested students are highly encouraged to submit their applications early.
No, admission to the ACYA program is based upon submission of application only. International students may be requested to conduct an additional phone interview to ensure suitability of the program and travel arrangements.
Yes, the ACYA program culminates in a performance for family and friends.
Students must satisfy health and wellness requirements before beginning class. These requirements are subject to change based on local health requirements at the time of program start, but currently include proof of a full and up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination record as defined by the CDC. Documentation should be submitted no less than two weeks prior to the first day of ACYA.
Scholarships are not available for the 2022 ACYA program. If you have questions about affording the program's tuition, please contact us at ACYA@aada.edu for further information..
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.