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TV and Film Classes
TV1: The Co-Star
About the Class
Co-Star roles are the way most actors new to TV can break in. And with self-tapes and live remote auditioning now being standard, Arizona actors have the opportunity to audition for roles in New Mexico, California and really across the whole country. Arizona's new Film and TV Tax Incentive has started and projects both big and indie will be shooting here. Actors need to be ready and competitive when the opportunities arise.
Using Co-Star scripts from Television and streaming shows, this class breaks down the differences between genres and how to prepare most effectively. Each week of the 4-week class focuses on a single genre: multi-cam sitcom, single-cam sitcom, procedural and episodic.
Each class touches on script analysis, character breakdown, and building the world around us. Actors will be asked to make deeper character choices and will be challenged to push themselves to bring an authentic and compelling portrayal in accordance with the genre being worked. Wes is a busy working and auditioning actor and coaches to industry standards.
The classes are on Zoom in order to replicate real-world audition scenarios. Live remote is how most callbacks and chemistry reads and some first auditions are still being held.
Actors will be sent sides 24-48 Hours prior to each week's class to prepare. At each class, actors will present their prepared scenes in a mock-audition setting followed by re-directs and notes. Actors will receive copies of their videos each week after class.
This class is a pre-requisite for the Audition Master Class and can be taken multiple times as new scripts are always used.
- 12 HOURS OF CLASS! 3-hour class once a week for 4 weeks.
- 12 student maximum
- On Camera every class (Zoom)
- Prepared Read (TV) Scripts
- Individual Preparation Prior to class
- Copy of footage provided after class concludes
The Details
TUESDAYS, Feb 4-25, 2025
6:30-9:30 pm | ZOOM | Wes Martinez, Coach
$230*
Minimum deposit of 1/2 of full tuition must be put down to secure spot in the class.
Balance is no later than one week prior to first class. If registering less than one week before class starts, full tuition must be put down and is non-refundable.
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and processing fees (10%), up to one week prior to class start. No cancellations or refunds one week prior to class start.
Audition Master Class#
About the Class
Experienced actors will practice their craft and audition technique weekly using recent and current film and television scripts.
Actors will be sent sides 24-48 Hours prior to each week's class to prepare from contemporary sitcom (single- and multi-cam), episodic TV and film. At each class, actors will present their prepared scenes in a mock-audition setting followed by re-directs and notes.
Each class touches on script analysis, character breakdown, and building the world around us. Actors will be asked to make deeper character choices and will be challenged to push themselves to bring an authentic and compelling portrayal in accordance with the genre being worked. Wes is a busy working and auditioning actor and coaches to industry standards.
The classes are on Zoom in order to replicate real-world audition scenarios. Live remote is how most callbacks and chemistry reads and some first auditions are still being held.
The last class of each term will feature a special industry guest (agent, casting director, producer, writer etc.) to watch and give feedback to the actor's work. Students must be enrolled in both months of the Term to put up work for the industry guest.
This Master Class is for working professionals, advanced actors, SAG-AFTRA actors and those actors that may have less work experience, but that have the work ethic and desire to work in a fast-paced class. Actors will receive copies of their videos each week after class.
TERM 1: SPRING | Mar 4-Apr 29, 2025
TUESDAYS, Mar 4-25, 2025
TUESDAYS, Apr 8 -29, 2025
Industry Guest: Apr 29, 2025 | TBD
Industry Guest: April 29, 2025
TERM 2: SUMMER
TUESDAYS, Jun 3-24, 2025
TUESDAYS, Jul 9-29, 2025
Industry Guest: Jul 29, 2025 | TBD
TERM 3: FALL
TUESDAYS, Oct 7-28, 2025
TUESDAYS, Nov 4-25, 2025
Industry Guest: Dec 2, 2025 | TBD
# This class has a pre-requisite: Experienced/currently auditioning TV actors in LA, NM or AZ, SAG-AFTRA members, completion of prior Verve TV classes, private study with Wes/Amanda, permission from Wes/Amanda or by audition.
Want to audition? Email the studio with your name, headshot and resume, contact info and a 2-page TV scene that best shows your skill. We'll contact you to do a 15-mn Zoom audition.
2024 Industry Guests:
Term 1: Avi Simon, President of Rectangle Entertainment
Term 2: Chadwick Struck, Casting Director in Los Angeles
Term 3: Becca Burgess, Bi-Coastal Casting Director)
2023 Industry Guests:
Term 1: Marie McMaster, CSA, Casting Director in New Mexico
Term 2: Lisa Zambetti, CSA, Casting Director in Los Angeles
Term 3: Bella Hibbs, Casting Director in Arizona
- 36 HOURS OF CLASS! 3-hour class once a week for 4 weeks for 3 months.
- 12 student maximum
- On Camera every class (Zoom)
- Prepared Read (TV and Film) Scripts
- Individual Preparation Prior to class
- Copy of footage provided after class concludes
- Industry Guest feedback
The Details
TUESDAYS, Mar 4-Apr 29, 2025
6:30-9:30 pm | ZOOM | Wes Martinez, Coach
TUESDAYS, Mar 4-25, 2025
TUESDAYS, Apr 8 -29, 2025
$225*/Month or $450*/Term
Industry Guest: Apr 29, 2025 | TBD
INDUSTRY GUEST AUDIT: $25
Registration is for the Full Term (2 months). Students can pay monthly or get a discount by paying for the full 2-month term.
If registering for the first month of the term, invoices will be issued for the 2nd and 3rd month and are due one week before the month starts.
If joining the 1st month of the Term, an invoice is issued for the 2nd month.
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Cancellation deadline: one week prior to the start of the Term. New registration is required for each Term. Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and admin fees (10%) up to one week prior to the start of each Term (T1: Feb 25, T2: May 27 T3: Sept 30).
TV Audition Technique | Working Audit
About the Class
In this working audit, actors will have the chance to prepare pre-assigned TV sides in a mock-audition setting (ON ZOOM) followed by re-directs, and notes. Instructor Wes Martinez (Young Sheldon, Outer Range, Modern Family) will provide feedback and begin introducing you to the tools he uses to break down a scene and make deeper character choices while staying true to the text.
Wes teaches both TV1: The-Star and Audition Master Class (Tuesday nights). He is a working actor (LA, NM and AZ) and teaches to industry standards. This Working Audit is a great chance to try out his class, style and format!
The Details
TUESDAY, Jan 28, 2025
6:30-8:30 pm | ZOOM | Wes Martinez, Coach
$55*
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and processing fees (10%), up to one week prior to class start. No cancellations or refunds one week prior to class start.
Film Acting Level 1
About the Class
FILM ACTING LEVEL 1
Utilizing the acting technique taught in the Foundational classes, the Film Acting course gives actors the experience and knowledge needed to book film roles and perform them with confidence. Through practice and application of film scripts and scenes, and with guided instruction, actors will build experience and knowledge, and have the confidence to make bold, artistic and honest choices.
Students are expected to attend every class. Weeks 1 and 2 focus on the audition process, the business and camera awareness. Week 3 is callback on assigned partnered scene. Weeks 4-6 are shoot dates. Actors not on camera will assist with crew positions.
4K camera and playback will be utilized. The raw, unedited footage will be provided to the student for further critique or for use as demo footage/clips.
- 18 HOURS OF CLASS! 3-hour class once a week for 6 weeks.
- 12 students maximum
- 1.5 mn monologue (optional)
- Partnered Scenes, but no outside rehearsal is required (or allowed).
- Required reading: full, assigned screenplay
- Brief Vocal and physical warm-up every class
- Improv warm-up most classes
- On Camera most classes (assisting with crew positions on shoot days)
- MOS film script
- Cold Read film scripts
- Prepared read film scripts
- Fully performed film scenes Classes 5-6 (with lights, set, props, boom, student crew)
- Handouts and Worksheets
- Individual Preparation Prior to class
- Video Playback
- Copy of footage provided after class concludes
This class is offered twice a year (April-May and Nov-Dec).
The Details
WEDNESDAYS, Oct 30-Dec 11, 2024 (Off 11/27)
6:30-9:30 pm | Amanda Melby, Coach | $395*
CLASS IS FULL
Minimum deposit of 1/2 of full tuition must be put down to secure spot in the class.
Balance is no later than one week prior to first class. If registering less than one week before class starts, full tuition must be put down and is non-refundable.
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and processing fees (10%), up to one week prior to class start. No cancellations or refunds one week prior to class start.
Registration opens in August.
Film Acting Level 2
About the Class
FILM ACTING LEVEL 2
Learn the real "nuts and bolts" of acting in front of the camera! Begin to master the various and truly unique challenges that specifically apply to working on a film set, including monologue, active listening, marks and emotional continuity.
Class size is limited; camera and monitor will be used. Students will receive a digital copy of their work after the class is completed.
- 18 HOURS OF CLASS! 3-hour class once a week for 6 weeks.
- 12 students maximum
- Partnered Scenes, but no outside rehearsal is required (or allowed).
- Required reading: full, assigned screenplay
- Brief Vocal and physical warm-up every class
- Improv warm-up most classes
- On Camera most classes (assisting with crew positions on shoot days)
- Prepared read film scripts
- Fully performed film scenes (with lights, set, props, boom, student crew)
- Handouts and Worksheets
- Individual Preparation Prior to class
- Video Playback
- Copy of footage provided after class concludes
This class is offered once a year, typically in the summer..
The Details
WEDNESDAYS, June 5-July 17, 2024 (OFF 6/19)
6:30-9:30 pm
IN STUDIO | Amanda Melby, Coach | $395*
Minimum deposit of 1/2 of full tuition must be put down to secure spot in the class. Balance is due one week before the first class.
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and processing fees (10%), up to one week prior to class start. No cancellations or refunds one week prior to class start.
Film Acting: Green Screen Workshop
About the Class
Being an actor requires using your imagination no matter what the circumstances, but working on a Green Screen takes it to extremes! From a superimposed/simulated background/environment to interacting with imaginary props and characters, Green Screen acting requires concentration, imagination and active senses.
Explore techniques to make your green screen acting grounded and impactful in this two-week practical workshop.
- 6 HOURS OF CLASS! 3 -hour class once a week for 2 weeks.
- 14 student maximum.
- Partnered Scene for class 2, outside rehearsal is required.
- Improv warm-ups and games
- On Camera both classes
- MOS film scene with senses
- Fully performed film scenes (with backdrops)
- Handouts and Worksheets
- Video Playback
- Copy of footage provided after class concludes
The Details
TUESDAYS, Jan 14 & 21, 2025
6:30-9:30 pm
Tony Mark, Coach | $230*
Minimum deposit of 1/2 of full tuition must be put down to secure spot in the class.
Balance is no later than one week prior to first class. If registering less than one week before class starts, full tuition must be put down and is non-refundable. .
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and processing fees (10%), up to one week prior to class start. No cancellations or refunds one week prior to class start.
Short Film 101: For Actors & Aspiring Creators
About the Class
Everything you need to know to make a short film in a 4-week Intensive!
Filmmaking for Actors and Anyone that wants to learn to make a short film.
In four classes you will learn everything from the pre production stage all the way to delivering your films. Emmy Award winning Filmmaker and Film Festival Director Tony Mark will share all the steps you need to deliver a short film, even some hints as to get it into the top festivals.
Learn the early stages of script development and breaking down your film, working with SAG-AFTRA, casting and then into the production stage; knowing how to make your films look and sound professional without the heavy costs. Then step into the post production world to learn the techniques that will make your films industry standard and ready to showcase your talents. This class is designed for actors that want to start making their own films and anyone else interested in doing their own short films!
12 HOURS OF CLASS!
3 -hour class once a week for 4 weeks.
The Details
TUESDAYS, Aug 6-27. 2024
6:30 - 9:30 pm
Tony Mark, Coach | $325*
Minimum deposit of 1/2 of full tuition must be put down to secure spot in the class.
Balance is no later than one week prior to first class. If registering less than one week before class starts, full tuition must be put down and is non-refundable.
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and processing fees (10%), up to one week prior to class start. No cancellations or refunds one week prior to class start.
Televison AUDITION INTENSIVE
About the Class
Join LA Casting Director Jamie Castro (Grey’s Anatomy, Station 19, Friday Night Lights) for a TV Audition Intensive on Zoom. Using Episodic Co-Star & Guest Star scripts, actors will work multiple times and get re-directs on their reads. This is a great way to strengthen your audition technique and practice in the remote Live format - which is what the majority of casting offices are currently using instead of in person.
The workshop will last 2.5-3 hours and is fully on Zoom. Sides will be provided the day before. Actors are encouraged to join class from their self-tape set up.
Sides/Scripts will be provided 24-48 hours ahead of class, so pre-registration is required.
2.5-3 HOURS OF CLASS!
2.5-3 -hour class once a week for 1 week.
Maximum: 20 students.
The Details
2024 TBD
2 pm- 4:30 pm
ZOOM | Jamie Castro, CSA, Coach | $65*
Full tuition must be put down to secure spot in the class.
* +$25 registration fee for new students.
Registration fee is non-refundable. Deposit is refundable, less credit card and processing fees (10%), up to one week prior to class start. No cancellations or refunds one week prior to class start.
Coaches Talk about the Classes
TV1: The Co-Star
Coach Wes Martinez talks about TV1: The Co-Star.
Audition Master Class
Wes Martinez talks about Audition Master Class.
Film Acting: Green Screen Workshop
Tony Mark talks about Film Acting: Green Screen Workshop.
Film Acting Level 1
Amanda Melby talks about Film Acting, Level 1
Film Acting Level 2
Amanda Melby talks about Film Acting Level 2
