First Take | Beginners
Level 1: Learn the foundations of acting for film & TV. A practical, supportive introduction to truthful performance in front of the camera.
First Take is where your acting journey begins
This 10-week course is designed for complete beginners and adult returners who want to explore acting for film and TV in a focused, practical way. We run three courses throughout the year, on Thursday evenings, 7.30pm-9.30pm.
You will learn how to work truthfully on camera by listening, responding and connecting in the moment without overthinking.
We take the work seriously, but we do not believe in pressure or pretence.
This is a supportive, down-to-earth space where you will build confidence, develop core skills and start understanding what makes a performance believable on camera.
Whether you are curious about acting, looking for a creative outlet or thinking about training professionally, this is your first step. Many of our students continue to Take Two, our Intermediate course, but it all begins here with First Take.
Spaces are limited and tend to book quickly. Early registration is recommended.
"After the first couple of sessions I was hooked! These classes are a great way of dipping your toe into acting, it allowed me to reinvigorate my creative side, that had been laying dormant for many years. The classes are very varied and they give you the opportunity to learn which discipline works for you.
I’d recommend to anyone who’d like to learn something new or possibly rekindle previous acting experiences!!"
Steve, Student
Fees
£345 for full 10-week course
We accept all major debit and credit cards.
Spread the cost interest free with Paypal & Klarna, Pay in 3 at checkout.
What to expect
First Take runs as a 10-week evening course, with group sizes kept small to give you space to develop and individual attention when you need it. The focus is on building the foundations of screen acting through practical, accessible training.
You will explore how to break down a script, connect with character and make strong, simple choices that feel real. The work is active and collaborative, with a clear emphasis on presence, listening and truthful interaction.
There will be some camera work during the course, helping you start to understand how your performance translates on screen, but this is not the main focus each week. The aim is to give you a grounded introduction to the craft before moving into deeper on-camera work in later stages.
We welcome complete beginners aged 18+, adult returners and anyone ready to approach acting with focus and curiosity. No previous experience is required.
Upcoming courses
Starts Sep 25
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Starts Jan 8, 2026
345 British poundsLoading availability...
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Starts Apr 16, 2026
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The Actor Rebellion is located at Wrong Shoes Studio in Old Town, Swindon.
With free car parking and great public transport links from the Swindon train and bus stations, access is a breeze wherever you’re coming from. Swindon is conveniently located on the M4 making it an ideal location, especially if you're travelling from London, which is just an hour by train.
FAQs
Am I too old to start acting classes?
Not at all. Our students range from their 20s to their 70s and beyond. Everyone comes with their own reason for joining—whether it's the start of a serious acting journey or something creative and sociable to explore.
I'm nervous and have no experience. Is that OK?
Yes. First Take is designed for complete beginners and adult returners. You’ll be in a supportive group of people who are all starting from a similar place. We work hard to create a calm, relaxed atmosphere where you can build confidence at your own pace.
How many people are in each class?
We keep our group sizes small, with a maximum of 16 students. This allows for individual attention and enough space for everyone to participate fully.
I've always wanted to be an actor. Is this the right place to begin?
Absolutely. First Take is the best way to start if you’re serious about acting for film and TV. Many students move on to our intermediate course, Take Two, or apply for our professional training programme, Final Cut. You can build a full, structured pathway with us, all the way to industry-level training.
How many people are in each class?
We keep our group sizes small, with a maximum of 16 students. This allows for individual attention and enough space for everyone to participate fully.
Where are your Swindon classes held?
We run classes from our studio at the Croft Centre in Old Town, Swindon (1st Floor).
What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, and soft-soled shoes. Bring a bottle of water. That’s all you need.
What happens after First Take?
You can continue straight into Take Two, our intermediate-level course that builds on what you’ve learned with a deeper focus on improvisation, impulse and connection. From there, you may apply for Final Cut, our professional training programme.
Many students also join our Green Room classes, which are open to all levels and run year-round.
The Actor Rebellion
Wrong Shoes Studio
Croft Sports Centre
Marlborough Lane
Swindon,
Wiltshire,
SN3 1RA
Tel: 07974 123 009
Email: hello@theactorrebellion.com
Here is a precise what3words address, made of 3 random words. Every 3 metre square in the world has its own unique what3words address. ///acting.frozen.rider
