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Film & Television Studio International

Film & Television Studio International

Training screen actors

1800 FILMTV [1800 345 688]
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Professional Full-Time

Acting for Television Program

Introduction
Course outline
Term 1
Term 2
Term 3
Conditions of entry
Enrolment

An Australian First

Alumni Ashleigh Brewer

Husband and wife team, talent agents Craig and Dominique McMahon, have long been passionate advocates for training and developing actors.  Our industry is changing fast as it keeps pace with technological developments and as our industry becomes closer to the United States there is more than ever a need for actors to get serious about their craft and their ongoing training in order to develop the skills needed to stay competitive in our industry.

This course is unique because it specifically focuses on acting for the small screen. We only have to look at the phenomenal international success of Australian stars like Chris Hemsworth, Margot Robbie, Teresa Palmer; Eric Bana, Rachel Griffiths, Hugh Jackman, Deborah Lee Furness, Grant Bowler, Julian McMahon, Simon Baker, Phoebe Tonkin, Naomi Watts, and now our very own former students Luke Mitchell (Legacies; Without Remorse; The Republic of Sarah; The Code; Blindspot; Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D; The Tomorrow People), Ashleigh Brewer (The Bold & The Beautiful), Michael Doonan (Bates Motel; American Gothic), Esther Anderson (Siberia), and many more: all of whom cut their teeth in home grown television. Our industry is changing fast and there is an army of brilliant young Australian actors who are being presented with marvellous opportunities all over the world. Our actors need to be prepared to service the widest range of opportunities that exist in our own industry and also be prepared for the exciting opportunities that are presented to us by the American market.

There has never been a course specifically designed to train actors to deal with fast turnaround television. This is an Australian first. We are thrilled and proud to offer this exciting adventure in acting training. It presents an absolute gold mine of experience and opportunity for anyone who is serious and ambitious about being an actor in the Australian television industry today.

We are preparing actors to be ready, fit and able to go when opportunity knocks. The Professional Full Time Acting for Television Program is conducted in our Melbourne studio. 

Please read our full terms and conditions here.

Course Outline

Alumni Luke Mitchell

This unique course has been designed to equip actors with the mental, physical and emotional strength needed to flourish in a work environment that often puts actors under intense pressure. Our aim is to provide a world class television drama training course to:

  • Equip and train actors with the craft and experience to perform with excellence in fast turnaround television in Australia and overseas
  • Create autonomous actors who understand their role as actors in society, and with a deep understanding of popular culture as it exists in Australia today, who are independent, creative, fulfilled individuals
  • Promote personal health, stamina and inner strength
  • Actors will be trained by practicing industry professionals and the course has a strong performance focus. Actors will be performing on camera early into the first term. In the final week of the course, the company will shoot film and television scenes with a professional director and crew.

The course has been designed to approximately mirror the schedule of an actual television drama, so from the first read through at 8:30am on the commencement of the training week, actors are developing a mental and physical discipline to deal with performing in industry conditions. The course is dense and very fast-paced, with actors working on the floor with exceptional trainers from Day 1. Actors will be required to do all their reading, preparation and exercises at home ready for the next week.

We hope you will take from this course a way to live in the world as actor, connected and inspired by the world we live in and the ever-changing culture that is produced and nurtured in Australia.

The course is comprised of (3 x 10 week terms). Classes run for 3 full days each week from 8:30am to 4:30pm (these are either conducted on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday OR Thursday, Friday & Saturday – depending what intake you are in). The Program is conducted by working industry professionals who are experts in their field. (Please refer to our trainer page for a comprehensive list).

Structure of the day:

MORNING:  Skills Development; Read Through, TV Episode of the Week, VIP Presentations, Voice, Movement and Improvisation.

AFTERNOON:  Analysis, Creativity & Imagination, Rehearsal, American Dialect, Actor Training and Workshops.

All actors will be required to:

Daily:

  • Keep a private reflection journal for assessment
  • Attend a company meeting

Once a week:

  • Watch and be prepared to discuss a set television episode that aired during the week

Once a term:

  • Research and prepare a 10 minute presentation which profiles three prominent Australian television artists – an actor, a director and writer of their choice.
  • Prepare a self-assessment / goals and objective journal for discussion
  • Complete a written assignment, which is to be assessed

The Actor Prepares: Connect with your Self/Connect with the Other

The focus for this term is research and development. Learn to identify your strengths and weaknesses as an actor and articulate your own personal plan for improvement over the next 30 weeks. You will have valuable time to connect with your Self and others and develop an understanding of how you and we, as humans and artists behave in the world. This is in preparation for your work as an actor ready to inhabit another soul and to able to interact authentically and vividly with other characters and situations in a professional manner.

This term is also for you to start to be aware of the world we inhabit and the culture we produce. Also to identify how and why actors are valuable and the positive function of an artist’s role in their surrounding society.

Morning

TV Episode of the week and Company Read Through

Exposure to: Laban, Arthur Samuel Joseph’s Vocal Awareness

Exposure to: Alexander Technique, Yoga, Tai Chi and Improvisation/Clowning/Mask

Exposure to: Practical Aesthetics, Meisner, Strasberg, Stanislavski, Stella Adler and Ivana Chubbuck

Afternoon

The Actor Prepares.

Actor Training, Rehearsals and Workshops: This is an incredibly powerful unit that introduces you to aspects of the Stanislavski Technique. Students will engage principals from Practical Aesthetics, Chubbuck and Lee Strasburg, all of which are taught by leading actor trainers in these specific fields and techniques that are sourced Australia wide. 

This unit encourages you to identify with yourself as artists: building meaningful and truthful screen characters, stretching and accessing your imagination, becoming more present, impulsive and in the moment. Students will also explore archetypes and mask work to further engage as actors.

The Actors Practice: Get a Grip on Text & Performance Space

The focus for this term is to build on the basics, and then advance your technique work with more complex material; to expose you to the widest range of script genres, and experience working with a range of professional actors and directors, all at the top of their game. It includes an introduction to the more technical aspects of performing on set and how to use the camera and work with a crew.

Morning

Skills Training: TV Episode of the Week and Company read through. Voice and Movement classes will continue with the addition of the development of skills needed in the field including US accents and monologue preparation.

  • Firearms
  • Archery
  • Fencing
  • Screen Combat
  • Safety on set
  • Getting to know your film crew

Afternoon

Actor Training, Rehearsals and Workshops:  This unit will see you go deeper into script interpretation, character building and using language with confidence and precision. Your work will be committed, strong and have pure clarity.

Actors will apply these techniques to a variety of genres – training under industry professionals, outstanding in their individual fields that include: 

  • Television Soaps
  • Children’s Television
  • Police Drama
  • Social Drama
  • Tele-movies
  • Feature Films
  • Period Drama
  • Shakespeare
  • Chekhov

Acting for Television: Excellent Craft/Confident Performers

The focus of this term is to provide for the actor maximum opportunity to practice their craft in industry conditions. Actors will demonstrate the ability to prepare a role and always deliver interesting, inventive and authentic performances.

Morning

TV Episode of the week and company read through.

Movement: Yoga, Boot camp, Tai Chi and Improvisation/Clowning/Mask

Afternoon

Actors will refine the skills acquired in term one and worked through in term two by revisiting /reviewing key elements of study, including, the various acting techniques studied.

You will explore more complex materials and perform an array of scene work to camera. Students will commence the decision making process of selecting scenes that have been studied throughout the year for the final industry showcase.

Showcase shoot and screening:

In the final week of Term 3 (Weeks 9 and 10) actors will film scenes with a professional director and crew. These showreel scenes are a tool to help you be seen by industry professionals, such as agents and casting directors. Carefully selected by you and the studio team, the scenes will support you as you move forward in the industry. Your Showcase; a private cinema screening to an invited audience of friends and family, will follow in the weeks after the shoot.

This is a talent-based course. Entry will be by audition and interview only. Please fill out the Enrolment Form and we will be in touch shortly with: an application to audition form; a full course prospectus; and further information on course fees and payment plans.  

A $45 administration fee applies to audition for the Full Time Program.  

If you have any further queries, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly on 1800 FILMTV (1800 345 688). Places are strictly limited in this program.

2022 Intake / Auditions

Melbourne – Applications now open for October 2022 Intake.

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Testimonials

“Awesome place to learn and develop! Recommended!”

Dylan Tijan

“Outstanding facility with even better teachers and staff!”

Ivan Krslovic

“Definitely had a lot of fun throughout the full time program and learnt a lot from the wide variety of trainers.”

Christian Raffe

“Been training at this amazing school for over 3 years and I can’t begin to describe how much I’ve learned and the opportunities I’ve received from doing so. Love the fact it’s taught by industry professional and is very hands on training!”

Ian Mackenna

“My time at Film & Television was so rewarding and incredibly professional, such an amazing experience. Would definitely recommend for people wanting to take a further step into the industry.”

Zima Anderson

“Currently studying in the Professional Full Time Program at Film and Television Studio International. The best trainers in Australia come through this school and the talent is incredible. Truly a place to be yourself and create art.”

Keely Luck

“I’ve now trained at Film & TV studios for the last year and a half. Both studying the fulltime course and 8 week Text to screen programs, I’ve learnt invaluable skills from working professional trainers and mentors. Not only has this institution provided me with key skills and knowledge, they’ve also allowed me to showcase… Read more “Andy Portelli”

Andy Portelli

“The Film & Television course! It is an amazing experience. It offers so much valuable learning and support, and the chance to work with great trainers from the industry!😄👍🏼”

Celeste Jamae

“I’ve been training here since 2015 and will continue to do so. As a full-time program graduate I highly recommend training with them. Their course structure, facilities and teachers/staff are of utmost standard.”

Amy Sia

“I’ve been lucky enough to study with an amazing group of people under Craig McMahon this year. Craig and his teachers cover all aspects of acting to give you a holistic view of what acting is, while allowing you as an actor to figure out what works best. Couple that with the constant camera exposure… Read more “Alexander Lloyd”

Alexander Lloyd

“I have done a number of classes here, including the Foundation Program and the 8-week courses, which have allowed me to meet and learn from some amazing actors, directors and producers currently working in the industry. The knowledge, experience and opportunities I have gained are invaluable and every year I continue to learn and grow.”

Ashley Stocco

“Film and Television Studio International is by far the best acting school / community that I have ever come across. I have been fortunate enough to participate in the courses on offer over the past couple of years and have learnt everything I know about acting (and a lot about myself) in the process. They… Read more “Nick Bracks”

Nick Bracks

“Film Television Studio International has been a surreal experience. I am so lucky to have had the experience to study the foundation course and the full time course and i have learnt and grown so much, more than i ever thought possible. The trainers are unbelievable and the full time course gave us so many… Read more “Rhiannon Thompson”

Rhiannon Thompson

“Without a doubt this course has changed my life. Film Tv International Studio has given me so many opportunities to explore and develop my craft. The support and guidance given by all of the teachers, in particular Craig McMahon, has seen me grow as an artist and person. I highly recommend the course.”

Aimee C

“This is the place to go! Fantastic trainers who are straight to the point and give a great insight into the reality that is the film and television industry. I have completed the full time course as well as continue to do classes weekly and I have always been more than satisfied with what I… Read more “A TO ZED Fitness and Coaching”

A TO ZED Fitness and Coaching

“The Film & Television Studio International has delivered the most quality and practical training I have ever received. The access to industry professionals was phenomenal and this course honestly changed my life. I cannot recommend this course enough and look forward to continue my studies here.”

Marlaina McPhillips

“A brilliant school for all actors. Here you will learn invaluable skills with some of the most profound and knowledgeable trainers from around the world. It truly is a place for growth as an individual and as an actor. A place that harnesses the people who have a love for the art of acting. The… Read more “Angus McColl”

Angus McColl

“Best of the best ♥️”

Orpheus Pledger

“I can’t speak highly enough of their Full Time Professional Program, which has provided me with so many tools and opportunities this year. Such an amazing course to enhance yourself as a performer, and a person. I definitely recommend this course for anyone who is serious about their acting.”

Bianca Conry

“The team at Film & Television Studio International really understand acting and were able to guide me to become a more confident and relaxed actor. I have had the pleasure of being trained by some of Australia’s most elite trainers, who each care about getting the best out of their students. Not only did Film… Read more “Jake Nicola”

Jake Nicola

“Currently in my final semester of the Melbourne Full-time course and have done various 8-week workshop programs at Film and Television Studio International. I have received invaluable training by some of the best in the industry. It’s been challenging and I have been pushed out of my comfort zone and it has only helped me… Read more “Peggy F”

Peggy F

“If you are serious about acting then there is no place better than Film and Television Studio International! The full time course has changed my life for the better, not only as an actor. Craig and his crew of supportive, informative and committed trainers have given me everything I need to further myself in the… Read more “Peter Rossi”

Peter Rossi

“Having graduated the Full-Time course I now feel very well equipped going onto set. The team at film and television studios international are so nurturing and helpful. I would highly recommend the Full-Time course but can also suggest the other term classes. Very flexible even if you work full time and still want to learn.… Read more “Georgia Louise”

Georgia Louise

“The Film and TV studios international was seriously money well spent, one of the best decisions in my life so far being a part of this course. It has really developed my skills and thought process for my craft, and has made me see a completely different side to being an actor. Craig and his… Read more “Bowen Gow”

Bowen Gow

“I have been studying at Film & Television Studio International for about 5 years now and I find the courses there to be absolutely exceptional. The quality of curriculum and teachers they provide are among the best, certainly the best I’ve come across. The staff are all incredibly supportive and attentive. It’s a really great… Read more “Ash Sawko”

Ash Sawko

“The work I did in the full-time course with FATS changed my life. It was the most intense and thorough training I have ever done, and the teachers were magnificent the entire way through. The challenge of the courses here are not for the faint hearted, but if you’re serious about being an actor, then… Read more “Nikolai Egel”

Nikolai Egel

“My time at Film and Television Studio International was without a doubt one of the best times of my life. The course curriculum and teacher quality is beyond anything else I have read about or experienced personally. I walked away from the full time course with the knowledge and skills needed to start out in… Read more “Alex Cameron”

Alex Cameron

“An absolute blessing to take part in this course. It will test you and build character in the best way possible and it will allow you to work with some of the industries best. The knowledge and skills I have gained from this course has not only helped me become a better Actor but has… Read more “Adrian Brunato”

Adrian Brunato

“I completed the full time course in 2019 on a whim after seeing an ad through Kate Jenkinson on insta. It looked incredible so I thought why not. It was absolutely mind blowing, if you are thinking about getting into acting and don’t know where to start, START HERE! It’s really personalised, and tailored to… Read more “Shea Colgan”

Shea Colgan

“I’ve been at film and television Australia for almost 2 years….and I’ve never been amongst such professionalism until coming here. Both the owners Craig McMahon and Dominique McMahon dedicate so much time into associating with only the best trainers (working actors, directors and writers) ..and the most educated people in the industry to teach individuals… Read more “Calista Clements”

Calista Clements

“The team at Film and Television Studio International are the most supportive and professional team I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I completed a full time course in 2015 and this amazing team has continued to support my craft as an actor ever since. I recommend Film and Television Studio International to… Read more “Ambrae Jamae”

Ambrae Jamae

“I completed the full time course in December of 2019, this course covers a wide range of techniques and helps you to find the approach that works right for you.”

Matt Johnson

“I remember when I was looking through the various acting academy’s & institutes both in Melbourne and Aus wide in 2017/18. I looked through just about every place. I’ve since been to quite a few of Melbourne’s resident acting hubs and whilst each will provide something different Film & TV is the place. And don’t… Read more “Harry Gabelich”

Harry Gabelich

“In December of last year, I completed the Full Time program at Film and Television Studio. Without a doubt, it was one of the best years of my life! You will be trained by some of Australia’s very best actors who will challenge you, enhance your performance, help you grow and give you an overall… Read more “Nick Leonard”

Nick Leonard

“A place full of great people which inspires amazing trainers to come and teach here. I would highly recommend to anyone looking to try acting for the first time, or hone their skills as a working actor.”

Eoin Fehily

“Such an awesome team and atmosphere to be a part of. The staff and students are so accepting too all who walk in. From day one they try their absolute best to build confidence in people not just for their class but for life itself. For that and more are most deserving of 5 stars… Read more “Daniel Iannazzo”

Daniel Iannazzo

“Their courses feature a veritable all-you-can-eat buffet of knowledge and skills, not taught by just some everyday acting teachers, but instead taught by some of Australia’s best professional actors and other top industry professionals. You can soak up as much as you could possibly want and these courses will STILL have more to offer you.”

Philip Jones

“I’ve been working in live television (still am) for the past 5 years as a TV Psychic and absolutely loved it. I wanted to learn more about the television industry and I was fortunate enough to meet the cast and crew of Neighbours. I looked at a few acting schools and I was so drawn… Read more “Lyon Dee”

Lyon Dee

“I completed the Full Time course in 2019 and had an incredible year. Film & Television Studio Int have a beautiful space, are very professional and provide a high standard of classes. I was able to work with some amazing teachers, mentors and industry professionals and gained so much insight and valuable knowledge over the… Read more “Claire Duncan”

Claire Duncan

“This establishment is dedicated and passionate about the craft of acting for film and television. I was fortunate being part of the full time 2019 intake and had the most inspiring experience. I worked with directors and actors in the top of their field from across Australia. I loved the work so much that I… Read more “d’Artagnan Skendzic”

d'Artagnan Skendzic

“The best acting training in Melbourne. Craig and his team are thorough, dedicated and commited The training is wholistic and brave on every level. Simply the best. Craig has changed my life.”

Linda Cookson

“As a graduate of the full-time course, I couldn’t recommend this school and its programmes more to anyone who is serious about working on their craft. The team at Film & TV thrive to get the most out of their students and the calibre that is generated shows just how dedicated the team is to… Read more “Hilary Boyce”

Hilary Boyce

“This school changed my life, it gave me every opportunity to become the best actor/performer I can be. Could not recommend it any more. Not only are the teachers the best of the best, but the studio space itself is second to none.  Love this place and everyone involved. It became a home for me.”

Liam McCarthy

Studio Social News

We have just completed our First Showreel Intensiv We have just completed our First Showreel Intensive with Actor/ Director Damian Walshe-Howling and Director of Photography Jordan Bond - and the reels were OUTSTANDING.  Well done to all of our students who jumped in head first - you were AMAZING 🙌🏻 Nothing beats an intensive 18 hours of scene selection and preparation, followed by Direction (on location) under Award Winning DOPs and Directors. Our 2nd and final Showreel Intensive for 2022 will be Directed by Award Winning Television Director Scott Major.  We are so thrilled to have locked him down in between his filming commitments. Get proactive and breathe new life into your showreels. 2 places remain. Get on it 👉🏼www.filmtv.com.au
📞1800 FILMTV
Last but certainly not least, these 2 powerhouse w Last but certainly not least, these 2 powerhouse women will be joining us in-studio alongside award winning Actors/Directors/Series Producers Vince Colosimo, Scott Major and Pino Amenta.  What an incredible line-up of working professionals at the top of their field.  Gold and Silver Logie Nominee turned on-set intimacy coach Eve Morey, and former Actor turned Senior Casting Director from Chameleon Casting Rosie Traynor, are simply fabulous in their approach to getting our actors ready for work. As our industry bounces back after COVID, we are thrilled to be able to get back to doing what we do best - mentoring and developing Australia’s most exciting new talent - in our beautiful beachside studios in Albert Park. Commencing first week of May MELBOURNE. We cant wait to see you there soon. 👉🏾www.filmtv.com.au
FINALLY! Scott Major is back in studio 👏🏽 Th FINALLY! Scott Major is back in studio 👏🏽 This long time actor turned Award Winning Director (NEIGHBOURS; PLAYING FOR KEEPS; LIE WITH ME) will be workshopping (on-camera) all things PRIME TIME SERIAL DRAMA. 🎬 Director/Series Producer Pino Amenta (HOME & AWAY; FIVE BEDROOMS; WENTWORTH) will be joining us as well 🙌🏻 Doesn’t get any better than this!!!! The countdown is on 👊🏾 Commencing first week of May MELBOURNE! Nearly booked out already so get on it 🏃🏽‍♂️
www.filmtv.com.au
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