The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute — Attraction in West Hollywood

My experience at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute exceeded all my expectations. it not only transformed me as an artist but as a human being - as a practicing muslim in our holy book there are constant reminders to focus on the systems in place that turn day to night and to look at the sky with wonder and to appreciate your surroundings and this was one aspect of working through your senses that felt so natural and exciting to me that i genuinely did not want my course to end . The biggest aspect of why i felt so comfortable in that environment was the accessibility and knowledge that the teachers imparted, telling you and guiding you every step of the way. when it felt forced they would inform you, when it was felt and not performed they would inform you and in my opinion the highest form of learning is taking constructive criticism well and working towards making yourself better which each and every teacher helped me with - there are honourable mentions that i have, starting with the late Hedy Sontag who i’m so fortunate to have studied with before she passed, may her legacy live on. i had the privilege of working with M.J Karmi in my last two semesters and what she taught me will always remain special and part of every character development process i ever take on. Kymberly Harris opened up the possibility in my mind to be able to hold to two opposing perspectives of an argument without being judgemental with her pulitzer prize plays class. i wish to return to the institute one day but not until i am extremely prominent actor in my country; Pakistan so i can personally thank everyone running the school for everything they...

I have to say that after years of training under all different styles (Hagan, Adler, Meisner), the Strasberg method really provides my most “consistent” work. In a business of a thousand takes, it pays to be able to reproduce genuine emotions take after take and that’s what this school gears you up for.

Initially, I had my reservations about the “method” as it has become a highly overused term in our industry, but the teachers here proved me wrong. The method to me is really whatever helps you get to an authentic place. The relaxation can seem a bit silly at first, but it really isn’t. It’s the real deal. The initial judgements are always there at first, but this school helps you take out the judgement and get right to the work.

Teacher wise, I’m a huge fan of MJ Karmi and Dig Wayne, but I trust that all the teachers have a way to help you unlock your ultimate potential as an actor. You can glean so much from this schools teachers as they all have a vast array of experience so I will say that you will get what you want from this school, whether it’s just to dip your toe into the method or go as deep down the rabbit hole...

There’s a lot of places you can study acting at, but be careful when choosing because not everyone wants what’s best for you, they only want your money. There is a reason The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute is still around.. it’s because it’s the best of the best. Not only did M.J. Karmi teach me everything I know about acting but she’s still like family to me to this day. She cares like no other and you can tell her job isn’t just a job for her, it’s a lifestyle and way of living. In a business like acting you need the right people in your corner, M.J. Karmi has always allowed me to envision big dreams and always supported me and you know what? One person can be enough.

Since leaving Strasberg I have had acting roles in Going Dutch (Fox) opposite Denis Leary, Afterburn starring Dave Bautista, Samuel L. Jackson where I acted opposite Daniel Bernhardt and Kristofer Hivju. El Turco where I acted opposite Can Yaman and so on.

Do the 2 year Conservatory, because when you get to act all day 8 hours a day or more it will break you down and rebuild you. It will also teach you about work ethics since most days on set...