The ActingCraft Academy Journey
The Beginning
ActingCraft Academy was born from a vision shared by Elizabeth Harrington and David Mercer, two passionate theater professionals who saw a gap in actor training. After years of working in prestigious theaters across Europe and America, they returned to establish a school that would combine classical techniques with modern performance demands. Their first workshop hosted just 12 students in a rented community space, but the transformative results sparked immediate interest in the acting community.
Growth & Expansion
Within three years, our initial workshop series had grown into a comprehensive training program. We moved to our first dedicated space—a converted warehouse in the arts district—allowing us to expand our curriculum and admit more students. This period saw the development of our core teaching philosophy that balances technical discipline with creative exploration, attracting faculty members from diverse performance backgrounds.
Industry Recognition
A significant milestone came when three of our graduates landed roles in a major Broadway production, bringing attention to our training methods. The same year, our annual showcase attracted casting directors and agents from across the country, establishing our reputation as a serious training ground for emerging talent. We expanded our programs to include specialized screen acting courses, responding to the growing demand for trained performers in film and television.
Current Campus
After a decade of growth, we moved to our current purpose-built campus featuring three performance studios, dedicated voice and movement spaces, and a 120-seat black box theater. This expansion allowed us to launch our Professional Program—an intensive full-time training experience that has become our flagship offering. The opening ceremony was attended by industry luminaries and former students who had gone on to successful careers.
A Thriving Community
Today, ActingCraft Academy stands as one of the most respected actor training institutions in the region. Our alumni work in theater, film, television, and emerging media platforms around the world. What began as a small workshop has evolved into a vibrant community of artists committed to excellence in performance craft. While we've grown substantially, our foundational commitment remains unchanged: transforming passionate individuals into skilled, versatile, and authentic performers.