Established in 1935 by revered arts pioneer Gertrude Johnson OBE, The National Drama School (formerly National Theatre Drama School) is Australia’s longest-established vocational training organisation for acting and a leading cultivator of stage and screen talent.
Under the inspired leadership of Director of Drama Dr Jo Loth, the School’s teaching faculty of industry experts impart their professional skills and techniques with budding young actors in the heritage listed National Theatre complex in the bayside suburb of St Kilda, Melbourne.
The National Drama School Melbourne offers a suite of regular classes in acting technique for aspiring youth and adults, along with seasonal intensives, specialist workshops and the industry leading bridging program, Foundation in Acting.
The flagship Diploma of Acting – a three-year full-time qualification – prepares young acting talents for a fulfilling career in front of live audiences and on the big – or small – screen.
Our esteemed alumni comprise Australian stars of stage and screen including Kat Stewart, Richard Cawthorne, Tosh Greenslade, Esther Hannaford, Lawrence Mooney and Geraldine Quinn.
Renowned for its industry connections, intimate class sizes, and passion for the craft of acting, The National Drama School Melbourne celebrates and champions diversity, while cultivating excellence and authenticity.
Young Actors Program
Creative play, confidence and ensemble are central to all our classes – building skills for life. Our Young Actors Program program begins with Play Acting, specifically designed for school years one and two. For young actors in school years three and above, we offer two streams: The Stage Performance Ensemble and Screen Acting: Skills for Life.
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Adult Acting Classes
If you’ve always wanted to enter the world of stage or screen acting, our introductory adult acting class courses offer the perfect opportunity for you to tap into your creative talents! Our diverse array of short courses explores movement, voice, text and screen acting, and provides opportunities for actors and industry professionals to refresh and update their skills.
Find out moreSchool Holiday Programs
In a safe and supportive environment, primary and secondary school students learn performance skills that harness an understanding of voice, physicality and focus to convey ideas. The School Holiday program will culminate in an ensemble performance on The National Theatre’s main stage.
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Foundation in Acting
Working with expert industry teachers, you’ll learn voice, acting, screen acting and theatre making techniques. In collaboration with your ensemble, you’ll develop skills in theatre making and character-based comedy, culminating in a small showing for family and friends at the end of the 16 weeks.
Find out moreAdvanced Diploma of Acting
As an actor your individuality is your superpower. The National Drama School’s three-year full-time Advanced Diploma of Acting supports you to connect with, extend and hone your creative voice. The School provides the supportive environment necessary for vulnerability, empathy and ensemble to thrive and for you to launch a successful acting career.
