VANCOUVER ACTING
CLASSES + WORKSHOPS
No tricks.
No shortcuts.
No false promises.
Just passionate creativity and uncompromising
respect for the craft of acting and
all that it demands.
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VANCOUVER
ACTING
CLASSES
Top working actors from Canada, the US and abroad train with Ben Immanuel at Haven Studio.
On-camera and scene study classes for beginners and up-and-comers are also available.
We keep our standards high, our class sizes small, and our prices fair.
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UPCOMING CLASSES
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On-Camera All Inclusive (5 weeks, 5 instructors)
Wednesdays | 6PM-10PM | Oct 22 - Nov 19 - JUST ADDED!
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On-Camera Film & TV Scene Study for Beginners with Tom Stevens
Saturdays | 4PM-7PM | Oct 4 - Oct 25 - ONLY 4 SPOTS LEFT
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Scene Study with Loretta Walsh and Special Guest Veena Sood ~ previous training recommended
Thursdays | 11AM-2:30PM | Oct 30 - Dec 4
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Scene Study with Ben Immanuel ~ previous training required
Tuesdays | 6PM-11PM | Oct 21 - Nov 25
Fridays | 10AM-3PM | Oct 24 - Nov 28​
Raising The Bar with Ben Immanuel ~ by invitation only
Sundays | 6PM-11PM | Oct 26 - Nov 30
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UPCOMING WORKSHOPS​
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2 DAY ON-CAMERA FILM & TV SCENE STUDY
with Carl Bessai
Saturday & Sunday | 10AM-3PM | October 18 & 19 - JUST ADDED!
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2 DAY IMPROV FOR THE ACTOR
with Veena Sood
Saturday & Sunday | 10AM-3PM | November 8 & 9 - JUST ADDED!
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THE ON-CAMERA ALL INCLUSIVE
with Ben Immanuel, Natalie Moon, Bradley Stryker, Alison Wandzura, and Aprill Winney
PREREQUISITE:
This session is open to newer actors as well as experienced actors looking for an inspiring tune-up. Scene partners will be paired according to their level of experience.
DESCRIPTION:
Over 5 weeks, you’ll train with some of Vancouver’s most accomplished on-camera professionals, exploring genres, techniques, and practical skills that will expand your toolkit and boost your confidence.
WEEK 1:
AUTHENTICITY ON CAMERA with Ben Immanuel
Haven Studio founder/director/teacher Ben Immanuel guides you through exercises designed to open up, drop in, and be fully present on-camera.
WEEK 2:DOMINATING DIFFICULT DIALOGUE with Natalie Moon
Tackle the technicalities of a complicated physical audition, fast-paced, or jargon-laden scenes. Build confidence handling complex dialogue while maintaining natural performance, articulation, and clarity on-camera.
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WEEK 3:
ACTING IN HORROR with Bradley Stryker
Learn to navigate physically demanding, emotionally heightened horror/action sequences. From pacing to intensity, this class will give you tools to master dynamic on-camera work.
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WEEK 4:
ACTING IN HALLMARK & LIFETIME TV MOVIES with Alison Wandzura
Explore the archetypes, performance style, and audition techniques specific to TV movies. Using current scripts, Alison guides you to make specific, castable choices to succeed in this prominent Vancouver genre.
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WEEK 5:
ACTING IN EPISODIC TELEVISION with Aprill Winney
Step into the world of TV with award-winning director Aprill Winney. Learn how to navigate the fast-paced environment of an episodic set, break down scripts with confidence, and deliver performances that stand out. You’ll work scenes on-camera, get direct feedback, and finish the night with a Q&A covering everything from casting to set etiquette. *Please note this final class will be over zoom*​
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AUDIT POLICY:
To maintain the safest and most focused atmosphere for the students in class, drop-in audits are not available. If you want to speak with an instructor before signing up for a class, however, we are glad to arrange that.
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SCHEDULE
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WEDNESDAY NIGHTS
​Oct 22 - Nov 19 | 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Early Bird Pricing (ends Sept 22) $375 including GST for 5 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $425 including GST for 5 WEEKS of class
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ON-CAMERA FILM & TV SCENE STUDY for BEGINNERS
with Award Winning Series Regular Tom Stevens
This class, with award-winning series regular Tom Stevens, is designed for new, new-er, or returning actors who want to build confidence and sharpen their on-camera skills. If you’re brand new to acting or coming from a theatre or commercial background and want to learn how to ground your work for the camera, this class is for you!
Using scenes from popular films and television shows, students will learn how to prepare material, make strong choices, grow their presence and technique and deliver creative performances in a fun, supportive environment.
Tom Stevens is a Leo Award-winning actor, most recently nominated for Best Lead Performance in a Dramatic Series as Ryan Finley-Cullen in CBC's Moonshine and for Best Lead Performance in a Motion Picture as Tyler Harper for 13th Round.
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Topics in class will include:​
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Basics of on-camera etiquette and terminology
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On-camera exercises to build comfort and confidence
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Breaking down scenes from film and TV scripts
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Developing on-camera presence and awareness
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Analyzing and interpreting characters in Film/TV scripts
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Scene work with a focus on emotional authenticity and effective story-telling
With his uniquely playful, energetic and always supportive approach, Tom will give you a head start on how to properly prepare material and deliver unique and memorable performances in those magical moments between “action” and “cut!”
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AUDIT POLICY:
To maintain the safest and most focused atmosphere for the students in class, drop-in audits are not available. If you want to speak with Tom before signing up for a class, however, we are glad to arrange that.
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SCHEDULE
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SATURDAYS - SCENE STUDY
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​Oct 4 - Oct 25 | 4:00pm – 7:00pm (Max 10 students)
$245 EARLY BIRD deadline Sept 4, 2025 including GST for 4 WEEKS of class
$299 Regular Price including GST for 4 WEEKS of class ​​
Depending on availability, students may occasionally be placed in a different class than outlined above. Our goal is always to match each actor with the best learning environment for their growth.
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SCENE STUDY & IMPROV
with Loretta Walsh and Guest Improv Instructor Veena Sood
PREREQUISITE:
Loretta and Veena work with actors who have previous training and some on-set or stage experience — such as a few credited roles, theatre work, or completion of foundational classes. This class is intended to further develop your craft and prepare you for Ben’s scene study classes.
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DESCRIPTION:
Join award-nominated actor Loretta Walsh and award-winning guest teacher Veena Sood for a 6-class journey into awakening your authentic artistic voice.
With over 50 years of combined experience in Film, TV, and Theatre, Loretta and Veena offer a supportive but challenging space where actors can sharpen their craft, take creative risks, and unlock spontaneity.
Ideal for actors with some previous training and/or experience, and seasoned performers looking for a fresh perspective, this class focuses on:
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Deep text analysis for truthful scene work
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Physical and vocal exploration to build specific characters
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Emotional commitment and bold choices
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A fun, safe space to stretch and grow
Scenes are assigned one week in advance, with partners paired by experience level. Each class runs 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on class size.
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AUDIT POLICY:
To maintain the safest and most focused atmosphere for the students in class, drop-in audits are not available. If you want to speak with Loretta before signing up for a class, however, we are glad to arrange that.
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SCHEDULE​
THURSDAYS - SCENE STUDY​
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Oct 30 - Dec 4 | 11:00am - 2:30pm (Max 10 Students)
Early Bird Pricing (ends Sept 12) $449 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
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Depending on availability, students may occasionally be placed in a different class than outlined above. Our goal is always to match each actor with the best learning environment for their growth.
SCENE STUDY
with Ben Immanuel
PREREQUISITE:
Ben works with actors with previous training and professional experience.
DESCRIPTION:
Ben Immanuel is the founder, owner, and director of Haven Acting Studio, which he launched in 2002. A multiple award-winning actor, writer, director, and producer, Ben has spent decades honing his own craft while teaching both rising talents and established professionals.
His scene study classes are designed exclusively for committed, ambitious actors with prior training. He offers no false promises, no shortcuts, and no gimmicks—just hard work, genuine passion for the craft, and empowering, common sense guidance.
A longtime student of legendary teachers Ivana Chubbuck, Larry Moss, and Patsy Rodenburg, Ben brings a deeply integrated approach to scene study. His teaching style is highly collaborative and open-minded, helping each student dig deeply into scenes from contemporary plays while honing tools and techniques tailored to their unique process.
As a teacher, Ben has been building craft, confidence, and careers since 1995. Over 30 years later, Haven Acting Studio stands as a testament to his dedication, with a list of credits, awards, and student testimonials that speak for themselves.
Classes are 5 hours long, with a maximum of 12 students per class (13 if working on three-person scenes).
AUDIT POLICY:
To maintain the safest and most focused atmosphere for the students in class, drop-in audits are not available. If you want to speak with Ben before signing up for a class, however, we are glad to arrange that.
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SCHEDULE
TUESDAY NIGHTS - SCENE STUDY :​
​July 8 - July 29 | 6:00pm – 11:00pm SOLD OUT!
Total $365 including GST for 4 weeks of class
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Sept 9 - Oct 14 | 6:00pm – 11:00pm SOLD OUT!
Early Bird Pricing (ends Aug 9) $499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $540 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
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Oct 21 - Nov 25 | 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Early Bird Pricing (ends Sept 21) $499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $540 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
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FRIDAY DAYS - SCENE STUDY :​
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​​Sept 12 - Oct 17 | 10:00am – 3:00pm SOLD OUT!
Early Bird Pricing (ends Aug 12) $499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $540 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
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​​Oct 24 - Nov 28 | 10:00am – 3:00pm
Early Bird Pricing (ends Sept 24) $499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $540 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
RAISING THE BAR
with Ben Immanuel
PREREQUISITE:
This is an advanced class by invitation only.
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DESCRIPTION:
The Raising the Bar scene study class is by invitation only, for professional actors who have worked extensively with Ben in previous classes.
Requirements include highly developed technique, uncompromising work ethic, and considerable prior training and on-set/on-stage experience. On-going students in this class include many leading actors of stage, film and TV.
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AUDIT POLICY:
To maintain the safest and most focused atmosphere for the students in class, drop-in audits are not available. If you want to speak with Ben before signing up for a class, however, we are glad to arrange that.
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SCHEDULE
SUNDAY - RAISING THE BAR ~ by invitation only
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​Sept 7 - Oct 19 (no class Oct 12) | 6:00pm – 11:00pm SOLD OUT!
Early Bird Pricing (ends Aug 7) $499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $540 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
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​Oct 26 - Nov 30 | 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Early Bird Pricing (ends Sept 26) $499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
Regular Pricing $540 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
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'JUMPING IN' FOR NEW ACTORS
with Award-Winning Actor, Director and Educator Jennifer Clement
PREREQUISITE:
Jennifer works with brand-new actors who are just beginning their training and exploring the fundamentals of acting for the first time.
This class is designed build a foundation of voice, text analysis, scene study and on-camera fundamentals, while gaining confidence at whatever pace works for you!
DESCRIPTION:
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Always dreamed of becoming an actor but don’t know where to start?
Returning to the craft and in need of a fresh perspective?
Feeling stuck as a performer and seeking extra guidance and encouragement?
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JUMPING IN with award-winning actor, director, and educator Jennifer Clement is the class for you!
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This 6-week deep dive into acting technique and creativity will help you:
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Build essential acting skills.
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Discover and develop your unique talents
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Sharpen your foundation for advanced training.
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Perfect for beginners or those with some acting experience, this class creates a solid foundation for anyone aspiring to take the next step in their acting journey—whether it’s honing your craft or preparing for advanced scene study classes at Haven Acting Studio.
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Why choose JUMPING IN?
In a challenging yet supportive & inclusive environment, you’ll be guided by Jennifer Clement, a renowned instructor with over 30 years of experience as a theatre, film/tv actor, director, and educator.
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With a focus on: an embodied approach
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Connection to voice, body & breath
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Authenticity rooted in strong script analysis
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Scene work in discovery
You'll gain confidence, improve your craft, and—if you're ready—take significant strides toward building a career as a “real” Professional actor.
FORMAT:
Students are assigned scenes from stage plays and are expected to be familiar with the scene and rehearse with their scene partners between classes. There are 6 classes per session. There are 5 scenes per night. Every scene works every week.
AUDIT POLICY:
To maintain the safest and most focused atmosphere for the students in class, drop-in audits are not available. If you want to speak with Jennifer before signing up for a class, however, we are glad to arrange that.​
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SCHEDULE
MONDAY NIGHTS - JUMPING IN FOR NEW ACTORS (IN PERSON)​
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​Sept 15 - Oct 27 (no class Oct 13) | 7:00pm – 10:00pm (Max 10 students)
$449 EARLY BIRD deadline August 15th, 2025 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class
$499 including GST for 6 WEEKS of class ​​
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Depending on availability, students may occasionally be placed in a different class than outlined above. Our goal is always to match each actor with the best learning environment for their growth.