Acting : How do you know if you have a good acting teacher? by Erick Freitas

Thats actually a good question. I would look to see what acting credits they have, for for instance my current acting teacher used to be in one of the UKs leading soap operas.

If they talk in absolutes, that can be a red flag. In other words, if they constantly profess to "always do this" or "never do that", challenge them. Certainly, you should "always be on time" and "never disrespect the Casting Director", but I'm talking about matters of the craft itself. This is an art form, and there's not only one way to arrive at the elusive authenticity we all seek.

I heard someone say once that when you're a student, if you learn from only one voice, you'll become a mimic of that teacher. If you learn from two voices, you'll be confused. It's once you reach 3 or more teachers that you'll start to realize that you need to be forming your own idea about the craft, much like you have your own distinct handwriting.

To add to Tony Fisher and Matthew Cornwell , I would also say, find someone who makes you more confident. If they seem punishing, it only makes the inevitable self-punishment worse. For most, that's encouragement, but it can also be a thoughtful reflection, well-thought-out assignments, or even just pushing you past your comfort zone. My first acting teacher, Galina, was trained in Russia and was very theatrical herself, so when she directed you, you really felt her investment your the moment you were yourself in. My second, Greg, was very analytical in preparation but promoted using it to just "be" in the moment, so it flipped into mindfulness and meditation - a fun dichotomy. My final one, Margret, was a singer, so for her, it was about repetition and articulation. All that to say, it's not about what you learn, it's about who you learn it from. I don't think there is a "bad" or "good" teacher, just lessons, and whether or not you need to learn them. If it's not working out, move on to the next lesson. No harm, no foul.

Karen makes a great point, find someone who thinks you have something and encourages you.

This was actually really helpful. I took an acting class on a lark - just because people told me it would help me be a better writer/director and I absolutely LOVED the class. So much so, that I'm shooting my headshots next week, and doing auditions. And I'm happy to say, a lot of the good things to look for in an acting coach checks out for mine. I really appreciate it.