Acting for Film & Television

The William Davis Centre for Actors’ Study was founded in 1989 by well known actor, director and teacher William B. Davis. It has been a landmark for actor’s study in Vancouver for the past 19 years and is now part of VanArts This allows VanArts to expand its program offerings to now include the performing arts.  

The nine-month Acting for Film and Television diploma program is a cutting-edge exploration into the art and craft of acting for the camera. Designed for students who are ready to take on the challenge of full-time training to prepare themselves for the self-employed profession of acting.

Department Head Christine Willes and Assistant Department Head Greg Kean, longtime staff members and veteran actors of Vancouver’s world-renowned film and television industry, have continued in the traditions established by founder William B. Davis to provide a nurturing and challenging environment in which actors can thrive. New students often find their way to the William Davis Centre through the recommendations of agents, directors and former students as our 19-year reputation for excellence continues to grow.

Students participate in over 1,000 hours of studio work devoted to developing and polishing their acting talent. Divided into three terms, the program progresses through the establishment of dependable acting technique to include a wide variety of classes and projects that will challenge the actors emotionally, physically and technically to produce their best possible work.

Term 1 culminates with a film shoot and post-production lab with our visual effects department, and a live showcase of scene work. Term 2 moves from the rehearsal of a class specific script to the creation of a short film, working collaboratively with students in other film disciplines. Term 3 builds on the momentum and caps with the performance project, a live showcase of a full length play for loved ones, the public and industry professionals.

THE WILLIAM DAVIS CENTRE FOR ACTOR'S STUDY AT VANARTS IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE APRIL 7 (Acting Foundations) AND SEPTEMBER 2, 2008 (Acting for Film & Television) START DATES.

You graduate with:

• A diploma
• A professional demo reel, headshot and resume
• Demonstrated proficiency in improvisation, acting technique methods, camera technique, text analysis, voice and   physical training
• Industry contacts and job search strategies