Neighbor News
DAC Introduces Professional On-Camera Acting Program for Students in Grades 3–12
Led by Brian J. Carter of The Acting Gym, the new classes focus on truthful acting, on-camera technique, and collaborative filmmaking
Darien, CT – The Darien Arts Center is proud to introduce its newest offering: the On-Camera / Micro-Short Film Classes for Young Actors. Beginning in January 2026, this program invites students in grades 3–12 to explore the craft of on-camera acting through immersive, film-focused training. Classes are taught by Brian J. Carter of The Acting Gym, held in DAC’s black-box studio, The Weatherstone — a setting designed to give young actors real-world exposure to the dynamics of film performance and collaboration.
Under Carter’s guidance, students learn to bring their own identity and inner truth to every character. The curriculum emphasizes authentic, spontaneous performance rather than rote memorization, encouraging each actor to find honesty and emotional grounding in every scene. Along the way, participants gain exposure to the technical skills required for working on camera — from framing and presence to professional set etiquette. The journey culminates in a fully produced micro-short film, created with a professional crew during the last two class sessions.
The program is structured to meet the needs of different age groups: Sundays are set aside for youth classes, with sessions for Grades 3–5 (1:30–2:30 PM), Grades 6–8 (3:00–4:30 PM), and Grades 9–12 (5:00–6:30 PM). Tuition is $475 for younger students and $545 for middle and high school participants.
In addition to youth training, DAC also offers a professional-level acting class for adults (18+), which meets on Wednesday evenings. This class is aimed at those seeking to sharpen audition skills, deepen emotional range, or continue their acting development in a structured, supportive environment.
Find out what's happening in Darienfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
With these new offerings, the Darien Arts Center reinforces its commitment to nurturing artistic talent across ages — providing both aspiring young actors and adult performers with a creative, community-oriented space to grow, learn, and bring their stories to life.
Register today at darienarts.org or call our office at (203) 655-8683.
About the Darien Arts Center
Founded in 1975, the Darien Arts Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, promoting, and providing the means of artistic expression in dance, music, visual arts, and theater for members of the community of all ages. The Darien Arts Center is funded exclusively by tuition, ticket sales and donations. Please support the arts in Darien by making a donation to the Darien Arts Center, volunteering on committees, participating in our programs and attending our events. To learn more, email info@darienarts.org visit darienarts.org or call (203) 655-8683.
