Methods
The Unseen is a different kind of acting school
Casting directors are looking for the next big thing, fresh voices who are able to bring language alive in a less ‘overly crafted and laboured’ fashion. For the past 8 years we have held that exact vision in mind for our training and our students and our flexible and inclusive approach to traditional acting methodologies is the exact reason that we are the fastest growing acting school in the UK. Our training programs are primarily delivered by our company’s partners, who bring extensive hands-on experience and deep acting technique and industry knowledge
So what do we teach?
Every class at The Unseen is carefully designed to prepare students for their showcase submissions – key milestones in their actor training – as well as for the demands of the professional acting industry. Each session features two classes led by different tutors, offering exposure to a wide range of training styles and techniques. With a revolving team of expert tutors, students benefit from fresh perspectives and diverse approaches to acting. While this guide outlines the general structure of our training, our tutor team is encouraged to design their sessions weekly in line with our guidelines, ensuring a dynamic and ever-evolving learning experience.
Morning (Beginner/Intermediate)
Located in our state-of-the-art casting studios at Covent Garden’s Spotlight building, students train in an immersive, professional environment. The third floor focuses on screen acting techniques, while the fourth floor is dedicated to general acting methodologies. Students alternate between these spaces, building a comprehensive skill set to create compelling performances and showcase-ready work.
Our training is built on two core pillars:
1. Psycho-Physical Techniques
Students explore the connection between the body, psychology, and imagination. This approach equips actors with the tools to access a wide range of emotions and sensations, forming the foundation for truthful and authentic performances—essential for self-tapes and live showcases.
2. Acting Methodologies
Our tutors draw from a variety of established techniques, with approaches inspired by practitioners such as Meisner, Stanislavski, Uta Hagen, Adler, and Chekhov. The specific methods explored may vary depending on the tutor, ensuring a dynamic and varied learning experience that enhances students’ creative and technical capabilities.
Afternoon
Afternoon sessions focus on scene work, where students rehearse and perform selected scenes with partners. Tutors provide guidance and direction to refine their performances. Advanced sessions dive deeper into subconscious creation, blending techniques inspired by practitioners such as Stanislavski, Meisner, and Chekhov.
These classes encourage spontaneity, helping actors uncover genuine impulses and learn to “live truthfully under imaginary circumstances.” Exercises are designed to align the actor’s energy and emotional depth, fostering breakthroughs that enhance both technical and creative abilities. This prepares students to deliver authentic and compelling performances in their showcase submissions.
Ongoing Assessment and Level Placement
Our rolling courses ensure that students are placed in groups suited to their current level of ability, creating an environment tailored for growth. A weekly observation team reviews progress and may adjust class levels to ensure each student remains on the right trajectory.
By offering access to a variety of teaching styles, diverse acting techniques, and showcase preparation, The Unseen equips students with the skills and confidence to excel in both their training and the professional acting industry.