Film & Television Studio International is a renowned acting school located in Albert Park, Melbourne. It was founded in 1999 by Craig and Dominique McMahon and has built a reputation over more than 25 years for delivering high-quality training in screen acting. The studio is known for its industry immersion, practical coaching, and mentorship from top professionals working in film and television.
FTSI offers a variety of full-time and part-time programs. One of its flagship offerings is the Professional Full-Time Program, also known as the Film & Television Actor’s Conservatory. This intensive program accepts only 14 students per intake and is designed to provide close mentorship and in-depth training with casting directors, show creators, intimacy coordinators, and working directors. Additional options include the Accelerated Screen Performance (Part-Time) Program, evening or weeknight classes, self-tape intensives, workshops, and private lessons. Both in-person and online learning formats are available, and the studio also hosts drop-in classes for those looking to experience the environment before enrolling more formally.
While the studio does not function as a talent agency, its sister company, McMahon Management, handles talent representation. The two operate independently, but students at FTSI benefit from the studio’s strong network of industry contacts. This includes regular interactions with casting directors, producers, and other professionals actively working in Australian and international film and television.
FTSI alumni have gone on to appear in major productions across Australia and abroad. Some notable names include Luke Mitchell (Chicago Med, Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Ashleigh Brewer (The Bold & the Beautiful), Phoenix Raei (The Night Agent, Clickbait), Michael Doonan (Bates Motel), Addam Bramich (Poker Face), and Esther Anderson (Siberia). Graduates have also starred in local hits such as Neighbours, Home & Away, Wentworth, Deadloch, and The Newsreader, to name a few.
The studio enjoys high praise from both the industry and former students. Pino Amenta, showrunner and director, calls FTSI a “go-to training facility” offering unique, career-focused instruction. Many students describe their time at FTSI as transformative and one of the best decisions they’ve made for their acting careers.
Film & Television Studio International stands out as one of Australia’s premier screen acting schools, known for its rigorous programs, selective admissions, and strong ties to the professional film and television industry.