Academy of the Arts-Denver

I agree with Carol’s review wholeheartedly and I hope she asks for at least 50% of her money back. I too got the recent «deal» for 10 group acting lessons for $ 20. I’m about ½ way through and would like a refund. I have no intention of going back which is rare for me as I usually finish things I start yet this class is a waste of time. The teacher has set the tone for disrespectful behavior by the students in many ways. Our teacher proudly proclaimed her potty mouth as «this is what actors do.» Students are invited to contribute their «F» Bombs in class under the auspice of a «safe» environment and «art» even though the FCC and most «professionally-​paid productions» would greatly limit this behavior… and of course, this behavior definitely contributes to people being more peaceful and respectful to each other in our world, right? Yet, the teacher also thinks most actors aren’t respected. I would ask yourself why and those that are, why? I believe, even if in Improvisation, if the teacher or class participant knew our Governor, the U.S. President, or the Acting Guild President were to walk into their class… somehow… «other» word” choices” might be self-​expressed. Don’t fellow students deserve the same respect?
Bottom line, the owner and school are accountable for allowing the promotion of this «class practice» which only perfects «bad practice» and mass market student non-​sale-​ability – and limits the development of more intelligent, creative words and actions! Good thing they don’t have a real H.R. Dept!
Therefore, BEFORE you sign up, I would ask the School scheduler, currently Jessica, for their school certification, a «specific» list of teachers with their verified credentials, for example when, where and what venue (s) did the teacher perform for within the last 5 years or less? Also, a «specific» list of names and contact info that can be verified for their 65% of student enrollees that are supposedly «famous» or making their living in the entertainment business. Also, note how generic this
on their website, if listed at all. Is this a sign of a truly «professional» business?
Like Carol, I too have consistently experienced the teacher not taking responsibility to «lead» the class and start them on time, as published (and promised). Late behavior is reinforced and the majority of class members /​time is not honored – we are either not given our 1.5 hours or the class runs overtime up to 30 minutes. The school needs to commit to the times they say a class will begin and end.. I also showed up to a class that had been cancelled yet they had not notified any of the participants.
Also, it is bad judgment, precedent setting, and very distracting to allow a student to bring a dog to run around during our class because they don’t have a sitter. Gosh I could bring some small children. Also, what about a few cats… that might like to potty (along with our teacher) and that students with potential allergies might love!
Since this is the Academy Arts-​Denver, it would be nice to have its plain white walls updated with «artistic» paint colors and an air conditioner that you don’t have to turn off or yell over to have your lines be heard. July and August should be fun months sitting in this school!
Most importantly, the time you spend is gone forever to never be replaced.
Is this really a place that provides a safe environment for all with professional training and leadership in a win-​win manner that helps one truly explore an art form to its fullest… under the wings of a successful performer and certified teacher?? I would invite you to do more research and look at Swallow Hill and «Other» talent and performance” training businesses in the Denver area. Choose a teacher who can be a role model for the qualities you aspire to become, otherwise don’t waste your precious time and money!

I got a groupon deal for The Academy of the Arts. $ 20 for 20 group lessons… which is about a $ 800 value. Sounds too good to be true, right?
And it is. You get what you pay for my dear friends.
Ok, so initially I had written a review for this place and at that point, it seemed to be ok, so I rated it pretty high.
But. (yes, there’s a but.)
Here I am, updating my review, because after a few weeks here, I have to say, my tune has changed (see my fun pun there??). They aren’t professional or organized even a little. The owner, Stuart, has no idea what is going on with anything and I believe that their administratiive assistant, is entirely overwhelmed and therefore unable to fulfill all of the responsibilities that come with it.
The building itself is very run down and dirty. You can see black handprints on the doorways and walls and multiple bugs on the floor.
I have never had a class start on time, we usually start 20 – 30 minutes late, and therefore end up running over time or not getting an entire hour in, which has caused some scheduling conflicts with other appointments I have.
Just recently, they hosted a three day conference, which I am sad to say that I attended. The speakers they brought in either didn’t show up on time or didn’t show up at all (or maybe they were never even told to show up?) The schedule they posted online was different then the schedule they handed out at registration, which was different than the schedule they had for the entire weekend. Each class started at least 30 minutes behind schedule, but usually an hour, if the class even happened at all. Many of the classes were canceled and there were literally hours I spent each day waiting around outside in 100 degree weather for a class to start.
Also, this school is aimed very much at the tikes of the world. If you are over the age of say, 16 – 17, and aren’t looking to become the next Taylor Swift, this may not be the place for you.