SUMMER

acting programs

PROGRAMS

for actors

YOUNG ACTORS FILM EXPIERENCE

Your On-Camera Breakthrough Starts Here

Imagine stepping onto a professional set, feeling the thrill of the camera rolling, and walking away with a reel that captures your talent at its best. The Young Actors Film Experience (YAFE) offers young performers the unique opportunity to develop their on-camera skills, gain behind-the-scenes knowledge, and walk away with professionally shot footage that opens doors.

This year, we're thrilled to introduce an exciting new Musical Theatre Track, where actors will pre-record their vocals and then bring their songs to life on set—learning the intricate balance of acting and musical performance for the camera. Choose from popular shows like Les Misérables, Annie, Oliver, Dear Evan Hansen, and Mean Girls to create a scene that highlights your strengths.

Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills for Film & TV or explore the exciting challenge of Musical Theatre on screen, YAFE provides a comprehensive, hands-on experience designed to elevate your craft.

WHAT TO EXPECT

    • Students will rehearse and film original scenes, discovering how screen acting differs from stage performance.

    • Gain experience in subtle expressions, working with multiple takes, and understanding shot composition.

    • Learn how to take direction and adjust performances to fit different camera angles.

    • Explore the roles of cinematographers, lighting designers, and set decorators.

    • Hands-on exposure to professional equipment; cameras, reflectors, filters, and gels.

    • Understand how lighting, framing, and movement bring a scene to life.

    • Collaborate with professional writers to bring original scripts to life.

    • Learn about character development, pacing, and how scripts evolve from idea to execution.

    • Discover how props, set dressing, and locations create the perfect backdrop for a scene.

    • Learn how different environments, urban vs. rural, day vs. night affect storytelling.

    • Students walk away with a polished, industry-quality demo reel to showcase their talents.

    • Your reel will be shared with industry professionals who are always looking for fresh talent.

    • Feedback on edits to ensure your final product is top-notch.

    • BONUS: Free Voiceover Reel included in select packages.

CHOOSE YOUR TRACK

MUSICAL THEATRE

Our Musical Theatre track provides a unique opportunity for performers to combine their love of singing and acting on screen. Students will pre-record their vocals and then bring their characters to life on set, mastering the art of lip-syncing, performance timing, and camera presence. This track is perfect for those looking to refine their storytelling skills through song while gaining invaluable on-camera experience.

  • 1 or 2 professionally shot scenes

  • Record vocals in a professional studio and lip-sync on set for a seamless on-screen performance

  • Original scripts tailored to your strengths

  • Locations & casting included

  • Choose Your Best Takes for Editing

  • Bonus: VO Reel (for Encore Package)

FILM & TELEVISION

If your focus is on our Film & Television Track, our program immerses students in the art of screen acting. You'll work with original scripts tailored to your strengths, learn how to adapt your performance for different camera angles, and gain practical on-set experience with professional guidance. This track is ideal for actors eager to build their confidence in front of the camera and create a standout reel for industry opportunities.

  • 1 or 2 professionally shot scenes

  • Original scripts crafted just for you

  • Locations & casting included

  • Choose Your Best Takes for Editing

  • Bonus: VO Reel (for Encore Package)

CHOOSE YOUR PACKAGE

SPOTLIGHT PACKAGE

✔ 1 Professionally Shot Scene
✔ Two Hour Shoot
✔ Professional Locations
✔ Choose Your Best Takes for Editing
✔ REELARC Secrets Revealed Course

ENCORE PACKAGE

✔ 2 Professionally Shot Scenes
✔ Two Hour Shoot
✔ Professional Locations
✔ Choose Your Best Takes for Editing
✔ REELARC Secrets Revealed Course
✔ Bonus VO Reel

After a consultation and steady lessons, Denise helped me bring my acting up to a stronger level and prepared me for representation. As a result, I’ve been able to audition for strong roles on screen and stage and develop under the guidance of fabulous reps. Whether I need tweaking or guidance for theatrical performance or auditions or tv/film coaching or just need advice, Denise is there for me in every capacity.

Eowyn Young
Law & Order Guest Star

FAQ’S

  • Choosing the right track depends on your interests and goals!

    If you love musical theatre and want to combine singing with acting, the Musical Theatre Track is perfect for you. You'll pre-record your vocals and learn how to bring your character to life on set.

    If you're more focused on screen acting, the Film & Television Track will help you refine your on-camera skills and create scenes that showcase your versatility. Not sure? Schedule a consultation. Our team is happy to chat and help you decide!

  • YAFE is designed for young actors ages 9-22 who are eager to gain professional on-camera experience and develop their craft in a supportive, hands-on environment. Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your reel, there's a place for you here!

  • Our scripts are custom-written by professional screenwriters to showcase your strengths and personality on screen. For the Film & TV Track, you'll collaborate with our team to ensure your scenes align with your casting type feel free to bring any material as inspiration. In the Musical Theatre Track, we use classic, well-known songs that highlight your vocal abilities.

  • Yes! If you enroll in the Encore Package, your Free VO Reel is 100% included at no additional cost. This package provides:

    • A professional-grade microphone delivered to your home

    • Broadcast-level mastering for crystal-clear sound

    • An audiographic deliverable to showcase your new demo professionally

  • Yes! We have established relationships with top industry professionals, and casting directors are always excited to see our students’ materials. After each session, we personally pass along your reel to agents and casting directors who are looking for fresh talent.

  • A few weeks before YAFE starts, you’ll get an email to schedule a 30-minute Zoom session with our writer and your scene partner. This is your chance to collaborate, flesh out your original scene, and even choose your genre!

  • Yes! Throughout the program, you'll receive comprehensive coaching to ensure you're fully prepared before stepping on set. Our team will guide you through rehearsals, blocking, and performance adjustments. By the time you film, you'll feel confident and camera-ready. We’ll also provide real-time direction during filming if needed to capture your best take.

  • All filming takes place in Brooklyn, NYC, at professional film locations that are carefully chosen to match the tone and style of your scene.

    The Brooklyn Navy Yard, 141 Flushing Ave #1311, Brooklyn NY

    You can drive and park for free with a provided parking pass, or take the subway or ferry. The studio is easily accessible via the Astoria NYC Ferry line, and a DSAC staff member will be available to commute with students. Check out the ferry schedule here.

  • Yes! One parent or guardian is required to be on set during filming to observe. We believe having a familiar face present helps our young actors feel supported and confident. Plus, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process while your child brings their scene to life!

  • We meet from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Thursday. Filming begins Thursday evening and continues through Saturday. You'll receive your exact shoot time once we've collected your availability and preferences.

    We take a lunch break at noon each day. Students can either bring their own lunch or purchase from a nearby food court, which accepts cash and credit cards.

  • Many students stay at hotels in Brooklyn, downtown Manhattan, or midtown east for easy ferry access. Others opt for Airbnb or discounted hotel sites. Once you’re registered, we’re happy to offer guidance on accommodations.

  • Absolutely! Many of our students return year after year to continue refining their skills, build their reels, and explore new roles. Each experience offers fresh opportunities to grow and connect with industry professionals.

Denise has been instrumental in Pierson’s development and growth as an actor and performer. She has helped him refine his techniques while performing and in the audition room. She has valuable insight into the business and Pierson always leaves a lesson with Denise more confident and ready to take on whatever challenge lies ahead.

April, Mom of Pierson
Fun Home National Tour, Blindspot, Gotham, Law + Order

Denise Simon is a truly wonderful acting coach and person. She always makes learning new things fun and exciting. She has really helped me grow as an actor, both on stage and on camera. Ms. Denise is very honest with us and encourages us to try our best, even when things are difficult. Working with her on my improvisational skills helped me land my first commercial! I am so happy that I get to learn from her every week.

Emiko D.
Sesame Street, Matilda, The Big Fib, & Bea Unicorn

BOSTON MINI CAMP

When you watch television, do you think to yourself,
‘I could have played that character!’?

Well, NOW YOU CAN!

In our 2-Day Acting for Television Bootcamp, adult and teen actors will perform scenes from some of their favorite TV shows. You’ll learn to work on your comedic skills and commit to your physical choices. Through improvisation and scene work, actors will improve upon skills such as character development, making distinct character choices, partner interaction, and comedic timing. 

Looking for private acting coaching?

Work with Denise one-on-one and gain insight from a trusted acting coach with industry connections.

Denise will teach you transferable skills like building confidence, overcoming fear of public speaking, coping with rejection, and learning good speech and diction. Whether you are beginning your acting journey or feeling overwhelmed with college auditions, she’s a full-circle coach ready to help you build your career.

RAVE REVIEWS

  • Our kids walk away feeling so good about themselves from your supportive comments to them. From improv skills to maturity in understanding how to translate the character on paper to the camera, everything you teach is invaluable.

    Alyson, Mother of Darby S.
    Guest Star on SNL

  • Denise Simon is one of the best things to happen to our family. Our son, Ryan, was a shy quiet boy who would never venture outside of his comfort zone. That all changed when he took one of Denise’s classes. Denise has a gift for bringing out confidence and talent in a way that can only seem impossible. Along with Miss Jazelle and Miss Ashley, Denise has created a coaching staff of professional, caring, and enthusiastic individuals who are ready to prepare your child for stardom. Thank you Denise!!!!!!

    Gene, Father of Ryan
    Charlie and Chocolate Factory National Tour

  • I've been working with Denise since I was 8 years old in her group acting classes, privately and summer programs. I have learned so much from Denise. She is warm, supporting, fun and I love preparing for auditions and working on my acting skills with her! With her support, I've had many successful auditions, including booking the School of Rock National Tour!

    Alyssa
    School of Rock Nat’l Tour

  • Having an opportunity to work with Denise Simon and her team of Acting and Coaching Professionals has been a wonderful experience and has helped me to grow as an actress. I just booked my first Regional TV commercial and have been receiving more calls backs and auditions. During the pandemic, I was still able to take acting classes and was able to connect with kids from various parts of the country, and now I have friends from many parts of the United States. I love being part of the DSAC Family and would encourage you to reach out to Denise to sign up to take a class today, you won't be disappointed!

    Jenna McLaughlin

  • Addison always comes away feeling more confident in her skills and always prepared for the next big audition. Denise truly cares about her students’ success and believes in them, giving them the power to believe in themselves and be the best that they can be in front of the camera, onstage or in everyday life.

    Katharine, Mom of Addison
    First National Tour of Anastasia

  • Denise is a fabulous teacher! She taught both my sister and me. She is natural, real and never phony. She took my acting to the next level. I love Denise’s teaching!

    Beatrice Tulchin
    Matilda on Broadway, A Christmas Story, Billy Elliot Natl’ Tour

  • Denise is an amazing person and acting teacher. She is very kind and wants the best for her students. She is always there for her students and she pushes them to their best potential. Besides that, she has amazing acting techniques and I learn so much each time I see her.

    Hayley
    Fiddler Broadway, Shrek Nat’l tour