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The Home of the Meisner Technique

“The elements in a person’s training and in his own personality that make him a distinctive or interesting actor are among the most delicate factors to impart as a teacher. One can use standard principles and textbooks in educating people for law, medicine, architecture, chemistry or almost any profession – but not for the theatre. For in most professions, every practitioner uses the same tools and facilities, while the actor’s chief instrument is himself.” ~Sanford Meisner

In 1935, Sanford Meisner, one of the greatest acting teachers of the 20th Century, joined the acting faculty of the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre. In 1940, he became head of the acting program. It was here that the world-renowned Meisner Technique was born.

We offer a full time Two Year Certificate Program in professional acting as well as a concentrated Six-Week Summer Intensive. Located on East 54th Street in New York City, The Neighborhood Playhouse is the perfect place to nurture your talent while gaining the skills to launch your career.



Photo of Class of 2022 Final Play titled Dance Nation

Class of 2022 Final Play 'Dance Nation' by Clare Barron (Photo Credit: Matt Simpkins Photography)