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FILM & TELEVISION ACTING CLASSJanuary 8/15/22/29, 2026
With fiilming day of Thursday February 5th
Taught by working actor Sean Dillingham with Film & TV Credits
Course Overview
Step onto the set and experience what it’s really like to act for the camera. This dynamic, hands-on course takes students from script analysis to filming their own scenes — guided by a professional actor who’s worked in film, television, and streaming productions. Students will gain the practical tools, industry insight, and on-camera confidence to stand out in auditions and on set.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this class, students will:
Understand the fundamentals of acting for camera vs. stage
Analyze and break down film/TV scripts for character motivation, beats, and subtext
Learn on-set terminology and professional etiquette
Practice blocking, continuity, and working with marks
Perform and film scenes with professional direction
Receive on-camera playback critique and performance notes
Build confidence and technique for auditions and self-tapes
Weekly Breakdown
Week 1 — Welcome to the Set
Introductions and overview of the film/TV industry
Acting for camera vs. stage: key differences
Basic terminology: marks, eyelines, continuity, coverage, and framing
Ice-breaker on-camera exercise
Week 2 — Script Analysis & Character Development
Reading and dissecting film/TV scripts
Identifying objectives, obstacles, and tactics
Character mapping and emotional truth
Partner scene assignments
Week 3 — Blocking & Movement for Camera
Learning camera angles, movement, and spacing
Working with your scene partner on blocking and eyelines
How to “cheat” for the camera naturally
Rehearsal and technical walkthrough
Week 4 — Scene Work & Rehearsal
On-set rehearsal with instructor guidance
Focus on pacing, reactions, and subtext
Incorporating direction and adapting to camera notes
Playback critique
Week 5 — Filming Day!
Students film their scenes in a professional setup
Learn crew positions, set protocol, and continuity checks
Multiple takes and coverage (wide, close-up, over-the-shoulder)
Why Take This Class
Taught by a working actor: Learn from someone who’s actually on set — not just in theory.
Hands-on learning: Every class puts you on camera, performing, moving, and adjusting like a pro.
Professional footage: Students receive their filmed scenes for use in a demo reel or audition portfolio.
Industry insight: Real-world guidance on agents, auditions, and building your brand in film & TV.
CLASS SIZE IS LIMITED
All participants MUST pre-register.
Ages 18+ (Younger ages MAY be accepted but it is at instructors discretion)
$500 + processing fee
2 hour class. 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
2 payment options:
You can purchase the full amount OR 3 easy payments with of $175.00
About the Instructor:
Sean Dillingham is a versatile actor, instructor and improviser, whose career spans more than three decades across television, film, stage, and live performances. With an impressive body of work that includes over 240+ commercials, 100+ feature films, and more than 31+ national television series, Sean has established himself as one of the most prolific and dynamic performers working today.
Television and Film
Sean’s television résumé reflects both range and consistency. He has appeared in popular network and streaming series such as Operation Repo, Discovery ID, Buried in the Backyard, The Night Shift, Longmire, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, This Is Us, There’s Johnny, Yellowstone, Gentefied, MacGruber, and Better Call Saul. His adaptability allows him to seamlessly move between drama, comedic, and character work, building a reputation as a trusted and professional presence on set.
On the big screen, Sean has acted alongside some of the industry’s most celebrated stars, including Kevin Costner, Jane Seymour, Tony Danza, Patrick Duffy, Roger Bart, Stacy Keach, John O’Hurley, Andre Braugher, Andy Samberg, Milo Ventimiglia, Bob Odenkirk, America Ferrera, Ashton Kutcher, Sam Elliott, Mickey Rourke, Laurence Fishburne, Kristen Wiig, Alec Baldwin, and Will Forte. His collaborations with this wide spectrum of talent reflect his versatility and ability to complement any ensemble.
Improvisation
Beyond scripted roles, Sean is widely recognized as one of today’s finest improvisers. Known for his quick wit, sharp instincts, and unmatched ability to engage an audience, Sean transforms every performance into a unique, interactive experience. He has the rare gift of discovering humor spontaneously in the moment, building humor from audience interaction that feels intimate, inclusive, and unforgettable.
His training is rooted in some of the most prestigious improv institutions in the world, including The Second City, The Groundlings, Upright Citizens Brigade, and iO West. He has also trained extensively in dramatic technique, studying with The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Stella Adler Theatre, combining the discipline of classical acting with the spontaneity of improv.
Sean’s comedic talent gained national recognition early in his career when he was featured as a finalist and winner on America’s Funniest People. It was here that ABC producer Stephanie Keane famously described him as “another Robin Williams,” a comparison that speaks to Sean’s energy, creativity, and boundless performance style. He later became a finalist on Ed McMahon’s Next Big Star and has been featured on XM Radio.
Sean’s live comedic career has placed him alongside legendary performers across comedy and music, sharing the stage with Louie Anderson, Gilbert Gottfried, Victoria Jackson, Patty Loveless, Belinda Carlisle, Loretta Lynn, The Doobie Brothers, Rick Springfield, and KC and the Sunshine Band, among others.
Collaborations with Acclaimed Directors
Sean has had the distinct honor of working under the direction of some of the most respected filmmakers in the industry. His collaborations include projects with Francis Ford Coppola, BJ Novak, JJ Abrams, The Coen Brothers, and Jordan Peele. Each experience has further honed his craft and solidified his standing as a reliable and innovative actor.
Instructor and Author
In addition to his career on screen and stage, Sean is dedicated to teaching the next generation of performers. As a respected acting instructor, he combines decades of professional experience with a passion for mentorship, guiding students through the practical and creative challenges of the craft. His expertise is further distilled in his book, The Book on Acting, a comprehensive resource for actors at every stage of their careers.
Legacy and Presence
Whether on screen, on stage, or in the classroom, Sean Dillingham brings charisma, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. His work continues to inspire audiences, collaborators, and students alike, leaving a mark that is both enduring and ever-evolving.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Scottsdale Neighborhood Arts Place (SNAP), 4425 N Granite Reef Rd,Scottsdale, Arizona, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
