Experience at MN
My experience at MN Actors Academy has been very mixed.
The first term, taught by Emma Copland, was fantastic. She truly engages with her students — she speaks, listens, creates, and makes excellent use of the limited time given online. Her sessions included improvisation and very deep script analysis, ensuring that everyone understood the text and felt supported in their development. I felt challenged in the right way and encouraged to grow. It was a strong and inspiring start.
Unfortunately, the second term with Colin Stern has been a real let-down and a knock to my confidence. I genuinely wish I had returned instead to LA Acting School, where I previously completed some excellent online courses.
During this term, students were frequently put down. We were told there wasn’t enough time for proper direction or in-depth script analysis, which made it difficult to fully understand and develop our work. There appeared to be a lack of patience, and at times visible boredom. Several actors were told he was “getting nothing” from them, while only one student was singled out as being “amazing.” That dynamic was disheartening and damaging to group morale.
When it came to the showcase, the timings I had clearly communicated were ignored, and no partner was allocated for someone with access needs. I had expected a greater level of organisation and compassion.
Another concern is that the scripts used are the same ones that have reportedly been used for many years on the online courses. There was little sense of fresh development or progression.
I believe it’s important to say that a course like this does not guarantee representation at the end, and prospective students should be aware of that. While some tutors at the academy are very good, the role of a director or teacher is to draw the best out of performers. If students are repeatedly put down, they lose confidence and trust — and without trust, performers cannot flourish.
I experienced something similar years ago with an art tutor where many of us did poorly. When I changed tutors, I thrived. The difference was support, guidance, and a genuine desire to develop students.
At present, I am unsure whether I will continue to the final term. I feel hurt by how we were treated. I also know I am not alone in feeling this way, as others privately expressed similar concerns.
I hope future students receive the encouragement and constructive direction that actors need in order to grow.