The Unwritten Rules Every Actor Should Know –
Let’s be real—acting classes can be intense. You’re vulnerable, you’re taking risks, and you’re surrounded by other artists trying to grow. At Jig Reel Studios, we’ve seen it all: the brilliant breakthroughs, the cringe-worthy moments, and everything in between.
If you want to thrive in Los Angeles scene study classes (and avoid being that person), here’s your guide to what NOT to do—so you can focus on becoming a better actor, not a classroom cautionary tale.
1. Don’t Be Late (Seriously, Just Don’t)
In the acting world, time is respect. Walking in late disrupts:
✔️ The scene currently being worked on
✔️ Your scene partner’s focus
✔️ The teacher’s flow
Pro Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to settle in and get present. If you must be late, slip in quietly—don’t make it a whole thing.
2. Don’t Phone It In (Literally or Figuratively)
📵 Put your phone on silent (or better yet, in your bag).
– Nothing kills the vibe like a ding mid-emotional scene.
– Scrolling before class? You’re not mentally prepped to work.
🎭 And don’t “half-act” in scenes.
If you’re not committing, you’re wasting everyone’s time—including yours.
3. Don’t Hog the Spotlight
This isn’t a one-person show. Bad etiquette includes:
❌ Monopolizing feedback time (Your 2-minute note doesn’t need a 10-minute backstory.)
❌ Jumping into every scene (Let others have turns.)
❌ Over-directing your partner (Unless asked, focus on your performance.)
At Jig Reel Studios, we value generosity—great actors lift others up.
4. Don’t Ignore the Assignment
If the teacher says “Focus on objectives this week,” and you’re just reciting lines? You’re missing the point.
✔️ Always apply the class’s current technique.
✔️ If confused, ask—don’t just wing it.
5. Don’t Be a Feedback Bully (Or a Mushy People-Pleaser)
🚫 The Critic: “You’re doing it wrong.” (Unhelpful and rude.)
🚫 The Flatterer: “OMG you’re perfect!” (No one grows from this.)
✅ The Pro: “I believed your anger, but what if the pauses were longer? It might raise the stakes.”
6. Don’t Treat It Like Therapy
Real emotion? Great. Oversharing? Not so much.
⚠️ Avoid:
– Traumadumping mid-scene
– Using class as your personal diary
– Making your scene partner uncomfortable
Note: If a scene brings up real stuff for you, talk to the teacher after class.
7. Don’t Skip the Prep Work
Showing up “just to see what happens”? That’s a disservice to:
– Your scene partner (who prepped)
– The class (who wants to learn from your work)
– You (why pay for class if you’re not ready to grow?)
8. Don’t Be a Ghost
If you bail:
✔️ Tell the teacher in advance (life happens, but communicate).
✔️ Give your scene partner a heads-up.
✔️ Don’t make it a habit—consistency is how you improve.
Why Etiquette Matters at Jig Reel Studios
Our Hollywood acting classes work because we cultivate:
✔️ Focus (no distractions)
✔️ Mutual respect (no ego trips)
✔️ Brave spaces (where risks are encouraged)
The best actors aren’t just talented—they’re great collaborators.
Ready to Train With Actors Who Get It?
We keep our LA scene study classes small and supportive so you can:
✅ Make mistakes without judgment
✅ Learn from working pros
✅ Build habits that book jobs
Contact us now to learn more about our scene study classes.