JJ Abrams is filming his latest blockbuster in Glasgow – with Samuel L. Jackson, Jenna Ortega and Glen Powell in tow. As our city becomes a movie set once again, we reflect on how ACS grads like Emma Findlay are already making the leap from training to the big screen.

As UK universities and drama schools face closures, financial losses, and program cuts, Acting Coach Scotland stands resilient and agile, thriving without public funding. Discover how our small, student-focused approach ensures exceptional, industry-relevant training, turning sector-wide challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth.

When unexpected closures disrupt your acting training plans, it’s natural to feel uncertain. At ACS, we believe new beginnings can arise from such setbacks. Discover how we're supporting affected students with available course places and travel bursaries.

Discover acting authenticity inspired by Jenna Ortega's insightful approach. Learn why spontaneity and genuine reactions are at the heart of captivating performances—and how our HNC Foundation Acting Course can unlock your truthful potential.

Stanislavsky is dead—but his influence thrives. Acting techniques aren’t fixed methods; they’re evolving questions inherited and reshaped by each actor and era. Discover how the true legacy of Stanislavsky, Strasberg, Adler, and Meisner lies not in preservation, but in constant reinvention.

When preparing a Shakespeare monologue or role, understanding the rhythm of iambic pentameter is crucial — but don't overlook the powerful difference between “You” and “Thou.” These choices aren’t just linguistic quirks; they reveal emotional temperature, status, and relationships. In this blog, we explore how mastering these subtle shifts can transform your performance and help you unlock deeper layers of Shakespeare's text.

As AI rapidly advances into the world of film and television, many are asking: will actors be replaced? While digital extras and cloned performances may threaten some screen roles, there's one place AI can’t touch — the theatre. This blog explores the irreplaceable power of live performance and why, in an increasingly virtual world, real human storytelling still matters.

Glasgow continues its rise as a top filming location, welcoming Samuel L. Jackson and Jenna Ortega for a new J.J. Abrams project. Meanwhile, our very own graduate, Emma Findlay—who shared the screen with Jackson last year—proves that Scottish talent is making big waves in Hollywood.

Netflix’s Adolescence has stirred debate among educators considering whether to show it in secondary schools as a warning against online misogyny and incel-driven violence. Yet screening such a grim narrative alone risks reinforcing negative stereotypes about boys, potentially retraumatizing vulnerable students, and oversimplifying the complex roots of harmful male behavior. Balancing cautionary tales with more positive role models—such as those found in Remember the Titans, Billy Elliot, or Coach Carter—can help schools demonstrate the constructive side of masculinity. By pairing darker stories with uplifting examples and guided discussions, educators can offer teens a path to healthier emotional expression and community building, rather than leaving them to wrestle with only the bleakest possibilities of male identity.

Has “toxic masculinity” become an overused catch-all for flawed male characters? From Shakespeare’s Othello and Macbeth to modern anti-heroes like Tony Soprano and Walter White, these stories show how male protagonists can be both destructive and deeply human. Reducing them to a one-size-fits-all label oversimplifies the complex pressures—trauma, social expectations, and internal turmoil—that drive their choices. This blog explores how the greatest storytellers have always gone beyond mere condemnation to reveal the nuanced realities behind so-called “toxic” behavior, ultimately urging us to look deeper—whether we’re interpreting a tragic Shakespearean figure or a brooding, morally gray television lead.

Think Tyler Durden, Tony Soprano, Travis Bickle—flawed roles we study, not celebrate. “Toxic masculinity” isn’t real; it’s a lazy label. We train actors to portray complexity, not clichés, proving humanity’s messy, not monstrous.

A major Hollywood animation company is setting up a £28m studio in Glasgow, marking an exciting new chapter for Scotland’s creative scene. Here’s why this development matters not just for animators, but also for actors—and how you can seize the opportunity.

The BBC has officially unveiled the cast of its upcoming series Mint, a thrilling crime family drama that’s already generating serious buzz in the British TV scene. Get ready for a show that combines gritty storytelling with top-notch performances from an exciting ensemble of actors.

Think Netflix’s Adolescence proves you can become an acting star overnight without training? Think again. The truth is, genuine acting success is built on proper training, dedication, and skill. While stories of instant stardom might capture headlines, they rarely reflect reality. At Acting Coach Scotland, we know firsthand that real careers are crafted through ongoing education, rehearsal, and audition practice. So forget waiting to be magically discovered—your best shot at success is learning the craft and putting in the work.

Single-take or “long take” scenes captivate audiences with their immersive feel and cinematic artistry, but achieving them isn’t all smooth sailing—especially for actors. Discover how these breathtaking shots are pulled off and why they pose a unique test of skill and stamina.

“Damaged” is making waves for its gritty storytelling and strong performances—and it features a brilliant Scottish connection, including our very own graduate, Emma Findlay. Get the inside scoop on Scotland’s role in this exciting project.

Discover the insider secrets to thriving in the voiceover industry from top UK agency, The Voiceover Gallery. From creating standout demos to mastering home studio setups, learn exactly what agents seek in new voice talent.

Cold reading is a skill every actor needs—but if you don’t use it, you lose it. Whether you're handed last-minute sides in an audition or need to deliver a script with minimal prep, practicing cold reads keeps you sharp, adaptable, and confident under pressure. Try this quick cold reading challenge to strengthen your instincts, improve vocal control, and get back into performance mode! 🎭📖✨

Your social media isn’t enough—every actor needs a digital home. A personal website gives you complete control over how you showcase your talent, from your headshots and showreel to your CV and press coverage. Unlike casting platforms or social media, your website is 100% yours—customizable, professional, and always up to date. Ready to take charge of your online presence? 🎭

Great acting isn’t just about performance—it’s about understanding human nature. Psychology, philosophy, and even history can deepen your character work and make your performances more compelling. The best part? Many free online courses can help expand your knowledge beyond the script. Learn how broadening your education can elevate your acting and make you a more versatile performer. 🎭📚✨