When people hear of acting classes, they often picture aspiring actors rehearsing monologues, preparing for auditions, and dreaming of their Broadway debut. 

While some students attending the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) Education classes certainly fit that description, many others sign up for entirely different reasons. Some are experienced artists looking to sharpen their craft. Others are writers, directors, teachers, or professionals seeking new creative challenges. Some simply want to add a little play into their lives. 

The truth? Acting classes are about far more than acting. 

Myth #1: Acting classes are only for beginners

Tim McCracken

According to Tim McCracken, Head of Acting at the DCPA, the adult acting program is designed to meet students wherever they are in their creative journey. 

“The core focus and purpose of our education department for adults is to provide a place for people to develop and hone their craft,” McCracken said, “whatever level they’re at.” 

That includes students who are just beginning as well as working actors looking for a place to continue growing. For McCracken, one of the most exciting developments in recent years has been watching students move into professional theatre, film and voice acting all while continuing their training. 

Veteran actor Danny Michael Mann is one example. Despite having worked in film, television, and theatre since the 1970s, he still considers training essential. 

“I don’t feel that the process ever ends,” Mann shared. “One can always continue to expand and learn over and over again on how to stay open, vulnerable, willing to give of oneself, and stay energized while performing.”

Myth #2: Acting classes are all about performance

The skills developed in acting and improvisation classes often extend well beyond the stage. For improv instructor Heather Curran, improvisation is less about being funny and more about learning how to be in the moment. 

Participants practice listening, responding to one another, and embracing uncertainty rather than trying to control every outcome. Some of the best tools from improv can foster collaboration and encourage flexibility when things don’t go as planned.

Myth #3: Once you’re working professionally, you don’t need to take classes

In reality, many artists continue training throughout their careers. DCPA faculty regularly balance teaching with professional work. A few years ago, McCracken starred in the Colorado-produced feature film Publish or Perish, with several current and former students appearing alongside him. 

Reflecting on the experience, McCracken described working alongside former students as “so cool,” that he was able to go from teaching artist to coworker.

For Mann, continued learning is just part of being an artist. “Whether you’re in class or on Broadway or in a Martin Scorsese film, it’s always the same level of passion and commitment to the work,” he said.

Myth #4: Acting classes are only for those who want to be on stage

Acting classes can definitely help students pursue professional careers. But they also cultivate skills outside performing arts: storytelling, creativity, communication, presentation, public speaking, and self-awareness. For some students, that journey leads to theatre, film, or video game careers. For others, it can provide lifelong skills used in a variety of careers or daily pursuits.

Either way, the lessons often extend much further than the stage.