Acting Classes That Unlock Your Potential
At JW James Acting Academy, we don’t just teach acting—we build confidence, creativity, and the ability to think on your feet. Using the renowned Spolin Technique, a dynamic improvisation-based approach, students will develop essential performance skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Whether you’re looking to pursue acting professionally or simply want to improve your public speaking and social presence, these classes will help you break through self-consciousness, trust your instincts, and express yourself with confidence.
Led by a working professional actor with 20 years of experience in theatre, television, film, and commercials, our classes offer real-world training that translates beyond the stage—enhancing communication, adaptability, and self-assurance in everyday life.
Acting Classes
Our private coaching sessions offer personalized guidance and mentorship to help individuals hone their acting skills and prepare for auditions or performances.
About JW James
JW James brings nearly 20 years of professional acting experience to the classroom, offering students an unparalleled opportunity to learn from someone who has thrived in the industry. He began his career at The Cleveland Playhouse before moving to New York City, where he appeared on stage with the Aegean Theater Company and on television in As The World Turns and The Cosby Show. His journey then took him to Los Angeles, where he amassed over 50 commercial credits and appeared on hit shows like Parks and Recreation, CSI: NY, My Wife and Kids, and Real Time with Bill Maher, amongst others.
As a founding member of the renowned sketch comedy troupe The Exploding Pajamas, JW co-directed the indie film Dudes and honed his skills as a performer and director. His training includes studying with the legendary Paul Sills (founder of Second City and Broadway director), Anne Bogart, Broadway director George Sherman, and iconic acting teacher Dennis Dalen. Over the years, JW has shared the screen with industry greats such as Amy Poehler, Gary Sinise, George Wendt, James Franco, Tony Hawk—and other names he’s happy to drop. He was most recently repped in Los Angeles by the largest and most powerful agency in Hollywood: CAA.
JW’s diverse experience across stage, screen, and sketch comedy makes him uniquely qualified to guide aspiring actors of all ages. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your craft, JW’s dynamic teaching style and deep knowledge of improvisation, acting, and storytelling will inspire and empower you to grow as an artist.
Kaliswa Brewster
NYC Actor, Board President of Moliere In The Park
"I am thrilled to give JW my highest recommendation for anyone looking to build performance skills. His playful spirit and keen insight into human nature make him an exceptional guide. A natural teacher and leader who truly listens, JW's gift of perception transforms every space into fertile ground for creativity, nurturing the unique genius within each student."
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