OUR CLASSES

Business of Acting

Talent alone is not enough to sustain a professional acting career. Today's actors must understand not only their craft, but also the business they are entering. While conservatory training develops the artist, this course equips students with the practical knowledge necessary to navigate the profession with confidence, clarity, and professionalism.

Designed for Second Year students and Maggie Flanigan Studio alumni, Business of Acting offers a comprehensive introduction to the entertainment industry from the perspective of someone who has worked at its highest levels. Students gain a clear understanding of how the industry functions, how projects move from development to production, the role of casting directors, agents, and managers, and what is expected of actors throughout the audition and production process.

Topics include industry structure, representation, auditioning, self-taping, branding and authenticity, on-set etiquette, and the professional standards required to build a lasting career. Through discussion, practical guidance, and real-world examples, students develop a deeper understanding of the business side of the profession while remaining grounded in the artistic principles developed throughout their training.

Taught by former Walt Disney Studios casting executive, Emmy-nominated producer of Casting By, and acclaimed audition coach Kate Lacey Kiley, this course offers students the rare opportunity to learn from an industry professional whose experience spans casting, producing, and actor development.

Business of Acting prepares actors not only to pursue professional opportunities, but to enter the industry informed, prepared, and ready to conduct themselves with the professionalism their craft deserves.

This is a 6 week/6 classes for Second Year Students and Alumni

Kate Lacey Kiley

Kate Lacey Kiley brings more than three decades of experience spanning casting, producing, acting, and actor coaching. Her career offers students a rare perspective on the entertainment industry from both the creative and business sides of the profession.

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

“I was placed in the intense reigns of Charlie Sandlan. I became a better artist, actor, friend, sibling and daughter because of the studio. Even now, I crave the studio every day. What I learned is present in my work every day. I truly believe in everything they stand for.”

Jes Macallan

“Maggie taught me that I could control my work, my acting, and to throw all of the bullshit out that I had in my head about ‘what I should be doing’ and to just listen and respond honestly, in the moment. She gave me a craft. She is, quite simply put, THE BEST.”

Leslie Bibb

“Maggie Flanigan taught me the true meaning of artistry, passion, and professionalism. I am certain that I continue to work as an actress because of my training with Maggie. At every audition and every performance, her guiding voice is with me. It is a gift beyond measure.”

Andrea Anders

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ACTING STUDIO NEW YORK NY

The Maggie Flanigan Studio is the leading acting studio in New York City where professional actors train for long careers. The acting programs at the drama school are based on the Meisner Technique and the work of Sanford Meisner. The two year acting program includes acting classes, movement classes, voice and speech for actors, commercial acting classes, on camera classes, cold reading, monologue, playwriting, script analysis and the Meisner Summer Intensive.