The Circle Summer Intensive is a three-week conservatory-style program for a cohort of 24 actors focused on developing strong audition material, original performance work, and on-camera skills. The intensive is designed for actors who want focused, rigorous training and substantial time on their feet, working closely with faculty and fellow performers.

Participants train daily in text analysis, acting technique, movement, scene study, and on-camera performance while developing a clear approach to auditioning. A central focus of the program is learning how to approach a new text quickly and effectively—how to analyze a script, identify beats, make strong playable choices, and deliver a compelling audition with limited preparation time.

Each morning begins with a writing and text analysis session where the full cohort works together on dramatic structure, character-driven storytelling, and writing for actors. Over the course of the program, participants write and develop a one-page original monologue, which they will also perform and film for their reel.

Afternoon training takes place in two working studios of 12 actors each, allowing for concentrated coaching and significant performance time. Classes include acting technique, scene study, classical and contemporary monologue coaching, movement training, and acting on camera. On-camera sessions are filmed by a professional director of photography so actors leave with high-quality footage suitable for editing into a reel.

Throughout the program, participants also take part in a weekly Professional Theater Practicum in partnership with AMT Theater, offering behind-the-scenes insight into the workings of an Off-Broadway theater through rehearsal observation and conversations with working professionals.

The intensive concludes with a final showing. By the end of the program, actors leave with three audition-ready monologues, a written and filmed original monologue, professionally shot on-camera footage for their reel, and updated professional headshots.

Tuition for the Circle Summer Intensive is $4,200.

The program includes three weeks of conservatory-style training, daily studio work, monologue development and coaching, on-camera sessions filmed by a professional director of photography, a professional headshot session, participation in the Professional Theater Practicum with AMT Theater, and the final showing.

To reserve a place in the program, a $750 non-refundable deposit is required upon acceptance. The remaining tuition balance is due 30 days before the start of the intensive.

Space is limited to 24 actors. Admission is by application and is intended for actors seeking rigorous training and the opportunity to develop a strong audition portfolio.

A limited Observer Track is also available for directors, writers, and actors who wish to observe the training process. Observer tuition is $1,200, and space is limited.

Director / Writer Observer Track

The Director / Writer Observer Track offers a limited number of places for directors, playwrights, and theater-makers who want to study the rehearsal process and training methodology of the Circle Summer Intensive.

Observers attend the program alongside the cohort of actors, gaining insight into how actors approach text, develop material, and build performances in the studio. This track is designed for artists interested in deepening their understanding of actor-driven work, rehearsal dynamics, and the practical process of developing performance from the inside of the room.

Observers participate in all morning sessions, which focus on writing for actors, text analysis, and dramatic structure. They may also observe selected afternoon studio work, including acting technique, scene study, monologue coaching, movement training, and on-camera sessions.

Observers are also invited to attend the weekly Professional Theater Practicum in partnership with AMT Theater, providing behind-the-scenes access to an Off-Broadway theater environment through rehearsal observation and conversations with working professionals.

The Observer Track is designed as a focused learning experience rather than a performance program. Observers do not participate in acting exercises, filming sessions, or the final showcase, but are present to witness and study the creative process as it unfolds in the studio.

Observer tuition is $1,200, and space is limited.

The Circle Summer Intensive is structured as a three-week conservatory-style training program combining daily studio work, writing, and professional development. The curriculum focuses on helping actors build strong audition material while deepening their understanding of text, performance, and on-camera work.

Morning Sessions: Writing & Text Analysis
Each day begins with a full-cohort session devoted to writing and text analysis. Actors work on dramatic structure, character-driven storytelling, and writing for performance. Over the course of the program, each participant develops a one-page original monologue, which is rehearsed and filmed as part of their professional materials.

Audition Technique
A central component of the intensive is learning how to approach audition material with clarity and speed. Actors work on analyzing a text quickly, identifying beats, making playable choices, and shaping a compelling audition from limited preparation time. Participants refine and rehearse monologues throughout the program, building a strong and versatile audition portfolio.

Acting Technique & Scene Study
Studio classes focus on developing truthful, grounded performances through technique work and scene study. Actors rehearse and present scenes, receive detailed coaching, and build the skills necessary to work with partners, pursue objectives, and respond spontaneously in performance.

Classical & Contemporary Monologue Work
Participants develop three audition-ready monologues—two classical and one contemporary. Coaching focuses on clarity of thought, emotional stakes, and the ability to make specific, playable choices that translate effectively in an audition setting.

Movement Training
Movement sessions focus on freeing the actor’s physical instrument and strengthening presence on stage. Work may include physical awareness, spatial relationships, and exercises that support expressive and responsive performance.

Acting on Camera
Actors train in the technical and performance aspects of acting for the camera, including framing, continuity, and adjusting performance scale for film. Selected work is filmed by a professional director of photography so participants leave the program with high-quality footage suitable for editing into a reel.

Professional Theater Practicum
Participants take part in a weekly practicum in partnership with AMT Theater, providing insight into the professional workings of an Off-Broadway theater. These visits include rehearsal observation and conversations with theater professionals about producing, directing, and the technical side of live performance.

Final Showing
The intensive concludes with a final presentation of selected monologue and scene work. By the end of the program, actors leave with three audition-ready monologues, a written and filmed original monologue, professionally shot on-camera footage for their reel, and updated professional headshots.

By the end of the Circle Summer Intensive, participants leave with a set of practical tools and professional materials designed to support their work as actors in auditions and performance.

Actors complete the program with:

• Three audition-ready monologues (two classical and one contemporary), rehearsed and refined through coaching and studio work

• A one-page original monologue, written during the program and professionally filmed for use as performance material

• Professionally shot on-camera footage, captured during the acting-on-camera sessions and suitable for editing into a reel

• Updated professional headshots taken during the program

• A clear approach to audition preparation, including tools for analyzing text quickly, identifying beats, and making strong, playable choices under time pressure

Participants also gain a deeper understanding of the rehearsal process and the professional theater environment through the Professional Theater Practicum with AMT Theater, which offers insight into how productions move from rehearsal to performance.

The program concludes with a final showing, where actors present selected monologue and scene work developed during the intensive.

Apply

Admission to the Circle Summer Intensive is by application. The program is designed for actors seeking rigorous training and the opportunity to develop a strong audition portfolio in a focused studio environment. The cohort is limited to 24 participants in order to ensure individual attention and substantial time on the floor.

Application Requirements

Applicants are asked to submit:

• A brief statement of interest

• A current résumé (if available)

• A headshot (professional or informal)

Selected applicants may be invited to submit a short self-tape or participate in a brief interview.

Tuition

Tuition for the program is $4,200.

Actors accepted into the program must submit a $750 non-refundable deposit to secure their place. The remaining balance is due 30 days before the start of the intensive.

Observer Track

A limited number of places are also available in the Director / Writer Observer Track for theater-makers who wish to study the training process. Observer tuition is $1,200.

Deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the program is full. Early application is encouraged, as space is limited.

A collaboration between RJ Theatre Co. and The Actor Launchpad, dedicated to raw, immediate, and necessary storytelling that centers the actor–audience relationship.
The Lab cultivates the next generation of theatre makers who lead with empathy, rigor, and collaboration — artists fluent in more than one language of creation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior experience?
Some background in writing, acting, or directing is required. You do not need to be a fully established artist, but this lab is designed for participants with foundational training or experience.

How do I apply?
Submit the application form with a résumé and a short work sample. Selected applicants will be contacted to schedule a brief interview or audition, depending on discipline.

Can I join if I work full-time?
Yes. Sessions take place on weekends (Saturdays or Sundays). Participants should expect regular independent work between sessions.

Is attendance mandatory?
Yes. The lab is collaborative and process-driven, and full attendance is required. One or two absences may be accommodated if necessary, but commitment to the full process is essential.

How are teams formed?
In Month 3, mentors assemble five creative teams of writers, actors, and directors based on artistic compatibility and working style.

Will all material be performed?
Not all material developed during the lab will be presented publicly. Final pieces are curated during Month 3.

Can I bring an existing project?
The lab prioritizes the creation of new work. Existing material may be considered only if it meaningfully serves the collaborative process.

What is the final performance?
The lab concludes with an intimate public showcase of works-in-progress, focused on performance and text rather than technical production.

Is the showcase open to the public?
Yes. The showcase is open to the public, with select industry-attended performances.

Do participants receive documentation?
Yes. Participants receive production photos from the final showcase.

Who are the mentors?
Writing is led by Menahem Haike. Acting is led by Marcel Simoneau. Directing mentors will be announced.

Is there one-on-one mentorship?
Yes. Individual guidance is available throughout the program, both during and outside of scheduled sessions.

What is the program fee?
Early registration is $1,500 total per participant ($500 per month). Tuition increases for applications submitted after January 15, 2026. Payment plans are available.

What makes this lab unique?
This is a cross-disciplinary creation process, not a class. Writers, actors, and directors shape the work together in real time.

Is there support after the program?
Yes. Alumni become part of the Circle Theatre community and may be invited to future development opportunities.

What’s the deadline?
Early Application Deadline: January 15, 2026 (reduced participation fee)
Final Application Deadline: February 1, 2026