Our Founding Story
The Sterling Acting Academy was born from a singular vision: to provide aspiring actors in Los Angeles with the most comprehensive and empowering training possible. Founded in 2008 by Eleanor Vance, a celebrated actress and seasoned acting coach, the academy quickly established itself as a premier institution for aspiring performers. Eleanor's journey began decades earlier on the stages of New York City, where she honed her craft alongside some of the industry's finest talents. After transitioning to film and television, she recognized a gap in the formal training available to young actors, a lack of practical, real-world guidance that would equip them for the challenges of a competitive industry.
Driven by this observation, Eleanor relocated to Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, and set about creating an academy that would bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Her initial vision was simple: to create a nurturing and supportive environment where students could explore their potential, develop their skills, and prepare for successful careers in acting. The first classes were held in a small, rented studio in the heart of Hollywood, with a handful of dedicated students eager to learn from Eleanor's extensive experience.
Word of mouth quickly spread about the academy's unique approach, which emphasized personalized mentorship, hands-on training, and industry connections. Students raved about Eleanor's ability to unlock their hidden talents and instill in them the confidence to pursue their dreams. As the academy's reputation grew, so did its enrollment. Within a few years, Sterling Acting Academy had outgrown its original space and relocated to a larger, state-of-the-art facility equipped with multiple studios, a black box theatre, and a dedicated film editing suite.
Today, Sterling Acting Academy stands as a testament to Eleanor Vance's unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for nurturing the next generation of acting talent. Her legacy continues to inspire the academy's instructors and students, and her founding principles remain at the heart of everything we do.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Eleanor Vance
Founder & Lead Acting Coach
Eleanor Vance is the visionary founder and driving force behind Sterling Acting Academy. With over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Eleanor is a celebrated actress, a seasoned acting coach, and a passionate mentor to aspiring performers. Her extensive credits include starring roles in critically acclaimed plays, guest appearances on popular television shows, and supporting roles in major motion pictures. Eleanor's teaching philosophy emphasizes personalized instruction, hands-on training, and industry networking. She is deeply committed to helping her students achieve their full potential and build successful careers in acting. Eleanor holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Acting from Yale University and is a member of the Screen Actors Guild.
Marcus Bell
Scene Study Instructor
Marcus Bell is a highly respected actor and scene study instructor at Sterling Acting Academy. He brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to his classes, drawing on his extensive work in film, television, and theatre. Marcus's credits include leading roles in independent films, recurring roles on primetime television shows, and starring roles in regional theatre productions. He is known for his dynamic teaching style, his insightful script analysis, and his ability to help students develop compelling and nuanced performances. Marcus holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts from UCLA and is a member of Actors' Equity Association.
Olivia Carter
Audition Technique Instructor & Casting Director Liaison
Olivia Carter is a vital member of the Sterling Acting Academy team, serving as both the Audition Technique Instructor and the Casting Director Liaison. Her expertise in the casting process, combined with her passion for helping actors succeed, makes her an invaluable resource for our students. Before joining the academy, Olivia worked as a casting director for several major studios and independent production companies. She has an insider's perspective on what casting directors are looking for and is skilled at helping actors craft compelling audition performances. Olivia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film Studies from USC.
Samuel Davis
Improvisation Instructor
Samuel Davis is a talented comedian and improvisational actor. His classes are always full of energy and are focused on the importance of listening, working as an ensemble, and committing to the moment. Samuel's instruction allows students to develop skills and techniques that will lead to more confidence in their own ability. Samuel studied improv at The Groundlings and Upright Citizens Brigade.
Our State-of-the-Art Facilities
Sterling Acting Academy is committed to providing our students with a learning environment that is both inspiring and conducive to their growth. Our state-of-the-art facilities are designed to meet the diverse needs of aspiring actors, from foundational training to advanced performance techniques. Located in the heart of Hollywood, our academy offers a range of resources that are essential for success in today's competitive entertainment industry.
- Multiple Acting Studios: Our academy features four spacious and well-equipped acting studios, each designed to accommodate a variety of class sizes and performance styles. The studios are equipped with sprung floors, professional lighting, and sound systems, providing students with a realistic and immersive training environment.
- Black Box Theatre: Our intimate black box theatre provides students with the opportunity to showcase their talents in a professional setting. The theatre is equipped with flexible seating, state-of-the-art lighting and sound, and a dedicated backstage area. Students have the opportunity to perform in fully staged productions, workshops, and showcases throughout the year.
- Film Editing Suite: Recognizing the importance of on-camera performance skills, our academy features a dedicated film editing suite. Students have access to industry-standard editing software and equipment, allowing them to review their performances, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and refine their on-screen presence.
- Resource Library: Our resource library provides students with access to a wide range of acting books, scripts, industry publications, and online resources. The library is also equipped with computers and internet access, allowing students to conduct research, prepare for auditions, and connect with industry professionals.
- Student Lounge: Our comfortable and inviting student lounge provides a space for students to relax, socialize, and collaborate on projects. The lounge is equipped with comfortable seating, a kitchenette, and a coffee machine, providing a welcoming and supportive environment for students to connect and build lasting relationships.
Our Acting Philosophy
At Sterling Acting Academy, our philosophy is rooted in the belief that acting is not just a craft, but an art form that requires dedication, passion, and a deep understanding of the human condition. We believe in nurturing the individual talent of each student, providing them with the tools, techniques, and guidance they need to unlock their full potential. Our approach is holistic, encompassing not only technical skills but also personal growth, self-discovery, and a strong sense of community.
We emphasize the importance of developing a strong foundation in the fundamentals of acting, including scene study, character development, improvisation, and audition technique. Our curriculum is designed to challenge students, push them beyond their comfort zones, and encourage them to take risks. We believe that the most transformative learning experiences occur when students are willing to embrace vulnerability and explore the depths of their emotional range.
We also recognize the importance of industry connections and real-world experience. Our instructors are all working professionals with extensive credits in film, television, and theatre. They bring their expertise and insights into the classroom, providing students with a practical understanding of the entertainment industry. We also offer opportunities for students to network with casting directors, agents, and other industry professionals, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
Ultimately, our goal is to empower our students to become confident, creative, and successful actors. We believe that acting is a powerful tool for self-expression, storytelling, and social change. We encourage our students to use their talents to make a positive impact on the world.