If you’re thinking of joining an acting class as an adult, it can be hard to know where to start.

Some courses are too broad — trying to teach total beginners and experienced performers in the same room. Others are aimed squarely at would-be professionals. And many don’t explain clearly who the course is for, what you’ll actually be doing, or how much you’re expected to commit.

So if you’re trying something new — or coming back to acting after a break — here’s what’s worth looking for.

1. A welcoming, adult-focused environment

Adult learners thrive in spaces designed with them in mind — not adapted from children’s or youth classes.

What to look for:

• Groups that include a range of ages and life experience
• A tone that’s friendly, focused, and low-pressure
• A structure that works alongside work, parenting or other commitments

At MAD, we only teach adults. That’s why the atmosphere in our classes is relaxed, thoughtful and inclusive. Everyone’s there for their own reasons — and everyone’s made to feel welcome.

2. Trained tutors with real experience

Acting classes aren’t regulated. So it’s worth checking who’s leading the room.

You should know:

• Where they trained
• What kind of work they’ve done on stage or screen
• Whether they’ve taught beginners — not just professionals or teenagers

At MAD, all our tutors are professionally trained — the vast majority at leading UK drama schools — and have significant experience across stage, screen and radio. They’re also experienced teachers who know how to support adults stepping into something new.

Look for tutors who offer:

• Clear, constructive feedback
• A calm, respectful atmosphere
• A balance of challenge and encouragement

3. A clear path — not just a one-off course

If you’re going to invest your time and energy, it helps to know where it could lead.

Look for:

• A clearly defined course for beginners
• Progression routes for those who want to keep learning
• Options to specialise or deepen your skills

At MAD, our Core Acting Pathway includes:
→ Acting for Beginners
→ Script Analysis
→ Finding the Truth
→ Theatre Training Company

You can also branch out with specialist courses like Acting for Camera, Acting for Shakespeare, or Musical Theatre — depending on your interests.

4. A safe, supportive space to try things out

Good acting training gives you space to take risks — without fear of getting it wrong.

Look for an environment that is:

• Encouraging but not pushy
• Structured without being rigid
• Social, without feeling cliquey or intimidating

You don’t need to be confident to start — you just need to be curious. We often hear students say they were nervous walking in, but completely at ease by week two.

5. Clarity on cost and commitment

You should never have to dig to find:

• How much a course costs
• When and where it runs
• What’s included — and what’s not

At MAD, everything is clearly listed upfront.
All our acting courses include a performance. There’s one session per week. No hidden extras — though if you’d like to download photos from the final performance, there’s a one-off £5 fee.

6. A chance to perform — if you want it

For many students, performing is the highlight of the course — even if they were dreading it at the start.

At MAD, every course ends with a performance:

• Beginners share their work in the studio
• All other courses perform on stage in a local theatre
• Friends and family are welcome
• Taking part is optional — but most students do

Whether you’re buzzing to get up and perform or still on the fence, you’ll be supported either way. If you want to rehearse, prepare and shine — we’ll help you do exactly that.