SUMMER
acting programs
PROGRAMS
for actors
YOUNG ACTORS FILM EXPERIENCE
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.
Returning this year is our celebrated new Musical Theatre Track, where actors pre-record their vocals and bring their songs to life on set—learning the intricate balance of acting and musical performance for the camera. Choose your favorite musical number to fit your branding, like Les Misérables, Annie, Oliver, Dear Evan Hansen, or Mean Girls, plus countless others 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
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Actors 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.
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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.
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Learn about character development, pacing, and how scripts evolve from idea to execution.
Give insight during the writing process to create a script custom to your casting strengths and needs.
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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.
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Actors 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.
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
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
CHOOSE YOUR PACKAGE
AGES 8-22:
Session 1: July 6-11
Session 2: July 27-August 1
SPOTLIGHT PACKAGE
✔ 1 Professionally Shot Scene
✔ Two Hour Shoot
✔ Professional Locations
✔ Choose Your Best Takes for Editing
✔ REELARC Secrets Revealed Course
SESSION 1
SESSION 2
ENCORE PACKAGE
✔ 2 Professionally Shot Scenes
✔ Two Hour Shoot
✔ Professional Locations
✔ Choose Your Best Takes for Editing
✔ REELARC Secrets Revealed Course
SESSION 1
SESSION 2
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
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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.
Can’t decide? You can do both!
Schedule a consultation. Our team is happy to chat and help you decide! -
Our scripts are custom-written 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.
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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.
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A few weeks before YAFE starts, you’ll get an email to schedule a 30-minute Zoom session with our team and your scene partner. This is your chance to collaborate, flesh out your original scene, and even choose your genre!
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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.
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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. -
Only if you are under 18. One parent or guardian is required to be on set during filming to observe.
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We meet from 10:00 AM to 4:00 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. Actors 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.
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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.
I have worked with Denise Simon and REELARC many times. I’m gonna just have to say from the bottom of my heart, it was a very fun experience and very, very much a learning experience as well, because if you are relatively new it’s great to learn and work with such professional and amazing people
Sam Duncan
SNL Guest Star, Evil Lives Here, The Shade, Richard 111
One of my favorite programs is Denise’s Young Actors Film Experience which involves scene work, technique and, ultimately, a professional demo reel. This program also provides opportunities to learn about production while assisting the crew with cameras, lighting, and audio for the actual filming. I’ve taken this program multiple times and every single time I learn something new. Even better, through this program, I have met and worked with so many talented students and scene partners who have become great friends. I am grateful to Denise, Reelarc and this program for inspiring me and opening new doors.
Sienna Boccio
SNL Guest Star, Impractical Jokers, Numerous Commercials
Working with Denise Simon and Reelarc is a great pleasure – and very enlightening! She knows just what is needed to get an actor ready to get out there and pursue an acting career – from coaching their acting skills to getting current headshots and media that represent the actor at his/her best. Invaluable tools! I learned so much and had a wonderful time thanks to Denise’s dedication to her students and her warm, caring spirit!
Susan Scanell Gilbert
BOSTON WORKSHOPS
Adult on-Camera MASTER Class
AGES 18+ (mature 16 & 17 year olds considered)
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
5:30pm - 8:30pm
Location: Boston Casting
$135
There are some actors that the camera seems to immediately love – an actor’s natural qualities translate into an awesome performance. Master teacher Denise Simon has developed techniques to help actors create that on-camera performance. Her method is based on teaching students to direct themselves. Scene analysis, character development, improvisation and the technical subtleties of working on-camera are communicated by Denise in ways that performers understand and can remember. Denise gives her students the tools to create that awesome on- camera performance not only in her workshop, but again and again as they independently master new material.
Her program features:
Accessing authenticity – Exercises and improvisation capture the emotional life of a scene! Moment before – The character as he enters the scene! Emotional climax – Scene analysis as an emotional map! Stage to film – Confined space and subtle changes!
Students will work with actual material from tv and film.This workshop is great for the stage actor looking to transition to tv and film and is geared towards actors who have some experience and/or training.
This workshop will include a Q&A session with Denise.
Tween/Teen Auditioning for Film & TV
AGES 9-14
Tuesday, August 11 & Wednesday, August 12, 2026
10:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Boston Casting
$319
Step into the spotlight in our Auditioning for Film & TV Bootcamp, designed for tweens and teens. This engaging course invites young performers to explore scenes from their favorite TV shows and films, allowing them to connect with material they love while honing their craft.
In this class, students will focus exclusively on scene work, collaborating with peers to bring characters to life from popular productions. They’ll learn how to analyze scripts, develop their characters, and work on delivering authentic performances that resonate with audiences. Through guided practice and constructive feedback, participants will gain insights into what it takes to shine in the competitive world of film and television.
Parents are invited to the last 45 minutes of class on August 12 for an industry Q&A with Denise. Whether your child is already auditioning and working, or you are just entering the business, there is plenty to learn and discuss. Make smart choices as you learn about obtaining and keeping representation, putting together marketing materials including pictures, resumes and demo reels, the NYC market, how to avoid scams and more!
Looking for private acting coaching?
Work with Denise one-on-one and gain insight from a trusted acting coach with industry connections.
In addition to learning acting and audition techniques, Denise will teach you transferable skills like building confidence, overcoming fear of public speaking, coping with rejection, and learning good speech and diction. Denise works with beginner and advanced actors. So, whether you are beginning your acting journey, nailing your audition scene, or feeling overwhelmed with college auditions, she’s a full-circle coach ready to help you build your career.
RAVE REVIEWS
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![Young male actor with brown hair, John Mahanna, in a professional acting headshot, student of Denise Simon Acting and Coaching, acting classes in nyc.]()
Denise is much more than an acting coach; she is a mentor and a friend. Her support of John has been instrumental in his ability to sign with top talent representation. Denise is very dedicated to her students and their families. She works hard to help them achieve their goals and coaches our son for professional auditions in Television, Film and Theater. More than just coaching Denise teaches her students to be prepared beyond booking. Technique, professionalism and the ability to collaborate are a priority in her classes and workshops.
Noreen + Steve, Parents of John Mahanna
Law & Order SVU, The Nexus -
![Aria Miller, young actress, has blonde hair and a closed mouth smile in her acting headshot. She is a student of DSAC, an acting studio for teens in NYC.]()
Being part of Denise Simon’s Young Actor’s Film Experience (YAFE) with Reel Arc NYC is an experience I would recommend to any young actor. One of the standout aspects of the program is how it is focused not only on acting but rather the entire creative procedure. This holistic approach to learning allowed me to have a deeper understanding of the storytelling aspect and to really bring my characters to life on the screen.
Aria Miller
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![Young auburn haired actress named Molly Glowacki, student of Young Actors Film Experience by Denise Simon Acting & Coaching + REELARC.]()
The Young Actors Film Experience was an absolute blast! I got to meet so many new friends and learned so much about being on set. Denise and the ReelARC team taught me not only about carious acting techniques but also what goes on behind the scenes. Denise has helped me grow so much as an actor and I will never forget this incredible experience.
Molly Glowacki
How the Grinch Stole Christmas Natl’ Tour -
![Hayden, Young Actor, Sitting down wearing a light blue long sleeve shirt and smiling. He is a young actor that attended The Young Actors Film Experience with Denise Simon Coaching]()
Last summer I did the Young Actors Film Experience with Denise Simon and REELARC. It was so much fun and I really loved my scene. I was able to use the footage which helped me land a great talent manager. The quality of the scene was first class. Highly recommend it!
Hayden Schuster
Army Men, Brooklyn -
![Young actress with dark brown hair and brown eyes, with a serious face in her acting headshot. She is a student of Denise Simon, top NYC acting coach for kids.]()
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 Feinstein
Fiddler Broadway, Shrek Nat’l tour -
![A Young man with a stern face and blue shirt, Pierson Salvadore, in his acting headshot. He is a student at DSAC, a top acting school in new york.]()
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 Salvadore
Fun Home National Tour, Blindspot, Gotham, Law + Order -
![Addison Valentino's headshot for acting. She is wearing a long sleeve white shirt with flowers and has long blonde straight hair. She is a studen at Denise Simon Acting & Coaching, a top nyc children's acting class and studio.]()
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 Valentino
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 -
![A young actress, Darby Schlosser, in her acting headshot. She is a student at top NYC acting studio for teens, DSAC.]()
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 Schlosser
Guest Star on SNL -
![Emiko Dunn, actress, with long black hair and a slight smile in her acting headshot. She is a student of acting coach, Denise Simon, a top NYC career coach.]()
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 Dunn
Sesame Street, Matilda, The Big Fib, & Bea Unicorn -
![Clara Krastev's headshot shows her bright green eyes, a slight smile, and medium length straight brown hair. She is a student at DSAC, a top acting coach in nyc for teens.]()
Working with Denise has improved my acting skills in ways I couldn't even imagine. She pushed me beyond my limits and told me I could do more than I thought I could. She taught me new skills that were helpful with monologues and scenes. She helped helped me with my monologue preparation making it come out beautifully. Denise also introduced me to people who can help me take my acting to the next level and I am happy to say I have now signed with a top talent manager Without her, I would not be in the place I am now. Thank you so much Denise!
Clara Krastev
