Chicago Actors Studio — Attraction in West Chicago Township

EDIT: Response to Owner is attached in the photos

The primary takeaway from this student’s evaluation can be summed up simply: the goal of this class is to provide a hands-on experience of the filmmaking process — the good, the challenging, and the unexpected — from pre-production through post. It is evident that the student has not previously worked on a film set, which is understandable, as many students enter the class with little to no prior experience. That’s exactly why this course exists: to teach through real-world scenarios.

On any set, unexpected issues arise — often more frequently than anticipated. These may include technical problems such as equipment malfunctions, sound issues, or even actors missing lines or failing to project clearly. In such cases, directors may tactfully attribute issues to equipment in order to preserve an actor’s confidence and momentum. In some instances, outside noise interference requires ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) sessions — a common and essential part of professional post-production.

One of the student’s criticisms involved the use of extras to enhance the realism of a scene. Coordinating background performers may take time and patience, but it is an important part of making a student project resemble a professional production. Complaints about this process indicate a lack of understanding of standard production practices.

Another concern the student raised was being assigned a replacement actor to complete a scene. If a performer becomes unavailable or fails to meet expectations, it is not only acceptable but necessary for the director or instructor to recast the role for the benefit of the entire project. Remaining actors are expected to adapt professionally, as they would in any real-world scenario. This flexibility is a critical skill to develop. It's also worth noting that script changes are a regular part of the filmmaking process. Ed, the artistic director referenced in the student’s complaint, had his lines rewritten four times while working on the hit TV series Chicago P.D. These moments are not disruptions — they are learning opportunities, and they are exactly why this class is structured the way it is.

Lastly, the issue regarding access to a final copy of the project may have stemmed from the student’s refusal to return for an ADR session to fix unusable audio — an essential step in post-production. Despite this, we are open to supporting the student’s future endeavors by offering to film a slate video that she can use to promote herself professionally. This offer is time-sensitive and would need to be scheduled within a reasonable window in 2025, depending on CAS availability.

Our goal has always been — and continues to be — supporting students in developing the skills and resilience necessary for a successful career in film and media. That’s why we’re here.

Furthermore, there are not enough instructors and if you have experience teaching acting or film please apply in person between the hours 2-9 pm Monday through Saturday. In conclusion it is not important if you have been an actor before or now it is important how you show up now in the moment that matters the most. Every school also has its own style of teaching, I would do your research before signing up. look up school in the area that earned the most Oscars, this will help you decide what school is...

I recently took an acting class focused on acting on camera and preparing for auditions, and it was an eye-opening experience. The class was designed to bridge the gap between stage acting and the unique demands of on-screen performances, with a strong emphasis on audition techniques.

Strengths:

On-Camera Technique: The instructor's approach to acting on camera was incredibly insightful. We learned the importance of subtlety and precision in front of the lens, something that often gets lost in stage acting. The class covered key aspects like hitting marks, framing, and adjusting energy levels to fit the camera's perspective. The feedback provided after each take helped me understand how my performance appeared on-screen, which is different from how it might feel in a live setting.

Audition Preparation: The focus on auditioning was invaluable. We worked through common audition scenarios, such as self-tapes and in-person auditions. The instructor shared tips on choosing the right material, making strong first impressions, and reading the room in audition environments. A huge takeaway was learning how to quickly adjust to direction, something that's crucial for auditions, where you're often asked to make adjustments on the spot.

Personalized Feedback: One of the highlights of the class was the amount of individual feedback we received. After performing in front of the camera, the instructor would give detailed comments on both the performance and technical aspects, like eye-line and pacing. This immediate feedback loop was incredibly helpful for fine-tuning my approach.

Realistic Audition Simulations: The class did a great job simulating the audition process, from cold reads to working with a reader and getting direction in the moment. These exercises gave me a better understanding of how to stay grounded and confident under pressure, which is often a challenge during auditions.

Conclusion:

Overall, the acting class focused on acting on camera and auditioning was a valuable experience that greatly enhanced my skills. The hands-on practice with cameras, self-tapes, and audition techniques gave me confidence and helped refine my craft. Whether you're new to acting or looking to improve your audition technique, this class offers solid, practical insights that are applicable to the industry today. Ed Fogell is a great teacher with many years of experience and wisdom! I highly recommend his classes and I plan on taking more to perfect my craft. Acting is not for the weak he doesn’t sugarcoat you gotta do the work and...