The National Drama School
About
Australia's longest-established acting school (est. 1936), based in St Kilda, Melbourne. Offers Young Actors stage and screen ensembles, school holiday programs, adult foundation and craft of acting classes, and a full-time Advanced Diploma of Acting. Auditions/registrations open for 2026 intake.
Classes & programs
Instructors
- Dr Jaime Dörner — Director of Drama
Reviews
Really enjoyed the final performances from the vocal confidence class. Was a great experience and looking forward to do more in the future.
Enjoying the vocal class. Dr Jo is a wonderful teacher and makes all the students feel comfortable developing their voices.
Interesting place the starter drama course is nice but waste of time too much social games instead of drama classes.
If you are a neurodivergent individual like myself, or if you have a learning disability, you may face discrimination and rejection from this institution. I have inquired about the adult acting classes and clarified my neurodivergent status, questioning whether the classes would be appropriate for someone with a specific learning disability, as well as whether they accommodate NDIS participants. It took them five business days to respond, and I only received a reply after following up. I would not be surprised if someone without a disability received a prompt response. Paige, the representative who eventually contacted me, informed me that they are not set up with NDIS, and that I would need to discuss this matter with the manager; however, she failed to provide me with any direction to reach the manager, rendering her response ineffective and unhelpful. Additionally, she mentioned a further discussion with the teacher can be had regarding the learning disability to determine if the class plan would be suitable and accessible. This is where I felt discriminated against, as her reference to accessibility implied whether the program could be utilized by individuals with disabilities. Based on her response, it appears they are not inclined to welcome neurodivergent individuals to their school, given the manner in which this situation was addressed, lacking empathy and compassion, and providing no guidance or assistance whatsoever. I hope this review proves beneficial to at least one person.
Location
20 Carlisle St, St Kilda VIC 3182