Lsda

Yes, I think I have heard of it. I think the staff, having had a brief look at their profiles, appear to be experienced in what they're teaching. And I think that, if there is something about this institution that particularly appeals to you, then its not up to anyone else to influence your decision on that.

But what I will say, from having looked at the fees being levied, is that you don't appear to be paying *much* less from attending this school than you would if you were training at a CDS accredited (Conference of Drama Schools) School. I'll be frank: even training at a CDS School is no guarantee that you will be taken more seriously in the profession at large, unless you go to the very best (such as RADA), which may open doors to you! But the assumption is still always taken within the profession that the only 'legitimate' training is given by schools that are members of the CDS. This is because the courses are extensively vetted, as are the staff, the instutition has to make efforts to become 'accreditation worthy' and some consideration is given to the actual impact that graduates from the school have upon the industry as a whole. My advice would be, then, if you are prepared to spend this much money on attending a non - accredited course, you might be considerably better off sourcing the money, and using it to support an accredited course, which will give you better training, and better potential in the job marketplace. What this route cannot give you is immediacy; you would probably have to wait several months at least at this point before you could audition for the schools in question, and might not be able to take up a place for another year...but it is worth seriously asking whether its worthwhile to spend large amounts of money on an unaccredited course.

• 12 years ago
• 1

I was asked to teach at London School of Dramatic Art (LSDA) when it first started - I'd taught one of the directors & she invited me. They seem to have integrity. However, geography (i.e. my travelling to that bit of London) forced me decline - combined with immediate domestic circumstances.
I've checked their website and it looks good, but Lee's cautions are very sound.
I hope that this helps,
Simon

• 12 years ago
• 2

I am currently attending an advanced acting course at Kingsway City Academy with Cat Clancy, the course has been fantastic and we have one more rehearsal before we perform a 40 minute live performance in front of five casting directors. my performance date is 11th July. I have worked and studied really hard for this performance and cannot wait to get up and perform live.

Paul

• 12 years ago
• 3

i agree with leeravitz. i auditioned for them ages ago before i researched the whole drama school system. they accepted me straight away, which was a strage sign, coz all accredited schools kept saying no. i eventually got into DSL and am happy as a daisy. i agree that whatever the amount of money you spend on drama training - make sure you end up with a door into the industry and not just another expense. only accredited schools get student Equity and Spotlight memberships, and the agent wont even look at your CV or come to your showcase if you didnt attend an accredited school unless you've done some amazing work for theatre or TV/Film.

• 12 years ago
• 4

I was on the full-time advanced course at LSDA '09-'10 and will PM you.

But just wanted to add that you do qualify for, and are encouraged to take out, student Equity membership whilst studying at this school.

• 12 years ago
• 5