Coaching
Tailored To You
Scene Study
Watch a class for free!
Welcome to Straeon, where we transform actors into extraordinary storytellers!
Our approach is built on over 55 years of success, beginning with the visionary teachings of Roy London in Hollywood during the 1970s. This legacy was passed through a few select coaches reaching Jock MacDonald and Isabel Lehoux at Straeon Acting Studios.
Isabel and Jock have not only carried forward the core values established by Roy London but have also evolved the methodology to reflect the ever-changing world of filmmaking. While the industry has transformed dramatically since the 1970s, one timeless truth remains at the heart of our work: the power of connecting your heart to the story. At Straeon, we ensure our actors tell stories in authentic, unique, and extraordinary ways.
Think of Straeon as your acting gym and our coaches as your personal trainers, guiding you through a rigorous and personalized process. We offer an immersive experience tailored to your needs, preparing you for the demands of the modern film set. Our environment mirrors the professional world, so you can confidently bring your best work to every scene.
But Straeon is more than just a class—it's a thriving, global community. We've cultivated a network of international actors, writers, and directors who actively create their own work. Here, you'll find unparalleled opportunities to connect and collaborate with like-minded artists who share your passion for storytelling.
Join us at Straeon! We'd be honoured to be part of your journey as you elevate your craft and bring extraordinary stories to life.
What you'll gain from Straeon's Scene Study classes
1. Get to know yourself as an actor
In the first few classes, our coaches will focus on getting to know you as an actor. We'll identify your strengths and ensure those areas continue to grow, while also recognizing what may need more attention. Together, we’ll work on strengthening any areas that aren’t fully serving you, tailoring your training to your individual needs and helping you build a solid foundation for your craft.
2. Learn the principles of exploring and mastering scene work
Learn how to come in strong on your first take without needing 4 to 5 takes to warm up to the scene. We'll guide you on maintaining momentum throughout, exploring the moment before, the axis of the scene, the changes in the story, and ensuring your character undergoes meaningful transformations.
3. Expand your acting range
Push beyond your comfort zone as you explore different genres and character archetypes. Our approach challenges you to adapt and grow, making you a versatile and adaptable actor capable on taking on a wide range of roles.
4. Discover the power of connection
Learn how to build authentic connections with your scene partner, bring scenes to life through genuine collaboration, and create multidimensional relationships between characters, adding depth and truth to your performance.
5. Refine your process
Our expert coaches provide personalized feedback and guidance to help you continuously evolve as an actor. Whether a beginner or a seasoned professional, we ensure you're always growing and improving your craft by challenging you as you progress.
6. Prepare for the professional set
Our classes are structured to mirror the professional acting environment, giving you real-world experience and training that prepares you for on-set work. Learn to perform under pressure, deliver your best work on the first take, and collaborate effectively with fellow actors and directors.
7. Build strong industry connections
Become a part of a network of professional actors, writers, and directors. This thriving community offers valuable opportunities for collaboration and growth, helping you build lasting relationships in the industry.
8. Gain confidence in your abilities
With each class, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of your craft and greater surrender over your performances. This will give you the confidence to take on any role, audition with ease, and perform at the highest level.
At Straeon, you’ll do more than refine your acting skills—you’ll transform into an insightful, extraordinary storyteller, ready to deliver powerful and unforgettable performances that leave a lasting impact.
Our Classes
This introductory class is designed for actors new to Straeon's unique methodology, regardless of their experience level. Whether you've been acting for six months or ten years, this class helps you learn our foundational "language" and acclimates you to our distinctive coaching style. In this supportive and rigorous environment, you'll discover the principles that make Straeon actors stand out, preparing you to dive deeper into scene work and storytelling.
Requirements: none
WEDNESDAY 1 to 4 PM
* Only 14 Spots Available in the Afternoon
DURATION:
12 week classes
FREQUENCY:
1 x week
LENGTH:
3 hour class
SPOTS AVAILABLE:
14
For those who have completed the Introduction to Straeon class or have worked with us extensively, this class focuses on refining your craft at a deeper level. You'll continue challenging yourself here by exploring more complex material and advancing your storytelling skills. While we maintain a healthy mix of novice and professional actors, this class mirrors the reality of the work environment, where performers of all levels collaborate. It's an opportunity to push boundaries, expand your versatility, and engage in electrifying storytelling that rises to professional standards.
Requirements: Scene Study I, Introduction to Straeon or ISA's Plot vs Story Workshop.
TUESDAYS 6 to 10 PM
DURATION:
12 week classes
FREQUENCY:
1 x Week
LENGTH:
4 hour class
SPOTS AVAILABLE:
20
How does class work?
1. Scene Assignment
2. Preparation
In the first week, you’ll perform the scene for the first time, showcasing the best work you could produce after rehearsals. This session mimics a “camera rehearsal” on set—one solid take where you show your preparation. Afterward, the coaches will provide detailed feedback, notes, and direction to help you refine your scene for the next session.
Actors are required to prepare rigorously before their first and second works:
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Read the entire script of the assigned scene to understand the broader story.
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Rehearse several times with your scene partner.
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Bring props, costumes, and customized sets to fully immerse yourself in the work as you would for a professional project.
3. Commitment
We hold all actors to professional standards, regardless of experience.
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Rehearsals: Schedule rehearsals with your scene partner and arrive on time. Avoid giving directions to your partner during rehearsals; focus on collaboration.
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Punctuality: Arrive at class on time and stay fully engaged.
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Focus: Turn off your phones during class. Once scene work begins, avoid entering or leaving the room and maintain a quiet, respectful environment—just like being on a live set.
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Learn from Others: Pay close attention to the feedback given to your peers; these insights can be just as valuable as direct coaching on your scenes.
4. Presence
Your scene partner depends on your commitment. Be present for every class. If you can't attend a specific session, notify the class manager before you're assigned a new scene or immediately after the scene assignment so your scene partner can be reassigned.
5. Respect
We expect all participants to create a respectful and supportive environment.
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Show respect to your scene partner, class manager, and coaches.
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If your scene partner fails to attend rehearsals, arrives unprepared, or behaves disrespectfully, notify the class manager or coaches immediately. We'll reassign you a new scene and partner to keep your work on track.
6. Safety
Your safety, both physical and emotional, is a top priority. If you feel unsafe during rehearsals or class, please immediately communicate this to the class manager or coaches. We are here to support and protect you.