HB Studio is Now Offering Online Classes

HB Studio, one of New York's original institutions for theatrical training, recently introduced virtual learning opportunities for actors and playwrights. Artists located around the globe can now train with the legendary studio's notable faculty for the first time since its inception 75 years ago.

The virtual offerings come in response to citywide mandates barring non-essential gatherings to minimize the spread and impact of the novel coronavirus. As much of the world shelters in place, HB Studio is encouraging artists to make creative use of this time of isolation.

"We want to use the virtual sphere to stay connected and creative, to continue to develop our skills, and to make work that speaks to these times and brings people together," said Edith Meeks, executive and artistic director of the studio.

HB Studio's online classes include acting, acting for young people, speech, musical theater and singing, playwriting, and a variety of special-focus workshops. HB Studio welcomes auditors who wish to try out the class before registering for a modest fee.

HB Studio will tailor its teaching and the topic to the virtual space, taking advantage of the medium's unique creative possibilities. More details on how individual classes will be structured are available on the online course descriptions.

Artists seeking opportunities for creative expression, continued development, and connection among like-minded peers may also discover a supportive outlet. Carol Rosenfeld, one of HB Studio's longtime acting teachers, believes creative expression is paramount during times of crises and is often when artists discover new perspectives in their work.

"Artists need a way to negotiate this historic moment. We are all faced with uncertainties most of us have never experienced. I believe that meeting together online will be a grand, worthwhile experiment. We have treasured ingredients: time and one another. Simply meeting our community will offer creative positivity and help get us through these incredibly challenging circumstances," Rosenfeld said.

HB Studio prides itself on its strong international student body, and has been encouraged by the response from HB alumni around the world who want to reconnect with the studio and explore the creative possibilities of the virtual space.

"Many of our international alumni, now in their home countries, are reaching out to connect with our faculty members and community of artists; from China, Malaysia, Japan, South Africa, Italy, Turkey, and other places. It is a great gift, this opportunity to work in the virtual space with a global network of artists; a sort of virtual homecoming," Meeks said.

Interested students can browse a list of HB Studio's online classes, which will be updated regularly as more special-focus offerings are made available. HB Studio hopes to extend their online class offerings even after classes resume in person at the studio. The organization will announce details of this at a later date.

HB Studio will also continue to offer critical financial support through the HB Scholarship Fund for artists taking online classes and workshops. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, donations to the studio are fully tax-deductible and serve a vital role in supporting the studio's robust mission-driven programs for artists, including the HB Scholarship Fund. The fund eliminates financial barriers for artists and ensures they continue to have access to the resources they need.

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