Camera Acting
Learn how to relate to the camera and approach script analysis
The UCLA Camera Acting Laboratory Intensive is a two-week program for students interested in the performing arts. This experiential learning opportunity encompasses scene study, storytelling and on-camera acting training classes. The combination of these courses will teach every student about the process of relating to the camera lens and approaches to understanding a script so that specific choices can be made to prepare and connect in the audition room. Students will learn the technical components of acting for the camera, gain hands-on experience as a crew member, understand and execute a self-tape audition while obtaining scenes that can be used for their reel. Beyond the classroom, students will attend guest workshops, a field trip to a Hollywood Studio, and a movie screening.
The program is designed for high school students completing grades 9 through 12, who seek the discipline and training required for participation in a university theater program or a career in the entertainment industry.
Admission to the program is by digital audition and instructor consent. As part of the application process, each applicant must submit a self tape monologue and resume.
*Previous experience in front of the camera is not required
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: If you are an international student, a transcript refers to your complete secondary academic record. To learn more about converting your grades into a US-based GPA, please click here. Please note all international students must obtain a minimum TOFEL score of 100 (with sub-scores above 24) on the TOEFL, 7.5 or above on the IELTS
This is a two-week intensive program for high school students in grades 9-12 who seek discipline and training required for participation in a university film program or a career in performing arts.
Housing is available to students who will be 14 years of age or older by June 22, 2026.
Session A: June 21-July 3, 2026
Session B: July 5-July 18, 2026
Session C: July 26-August 8, 2026
Students are engaged in activities and classes along with breaks throughout the day from 9:30 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.
2026 fees will be announced this winter and include on-campus housing costs.
2025 (Commuter only) fees were:
Program Fee: $3027
University Fees: $111
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $3488
theatersummerinstitutes@tft.ucla.edu
Applications are reviewed and admission to the program is granted on a rolling basis starting December 1st. Applying at your earliest convenience, prior to May 1st, is highly recommended.
Applicants who successfully submit all requirements will be reviewed and notified via email of an admission decision within ~3 weeks.
Applicants are required to provide the following during the online registration process:
A 500-word essay responding to the following prompt: How do you plan to impact the world through your storytelling?
A letter of recommendation from a teacher, director, or someone similar that can attest to your theatrical ability, challenges, and areas for growth.
A resume. If you do not have a resume, please submit a brief description of your theatrical and/or artistic experience.
A video of a 1- 1½ minute monologue or improvised scene. Prompts are provided. See Video Audition Guidelines in the FAQ below.
Note:
The essay will be prompted on the registration form and can be uploaded (.pdf) along with the resume during the applcation process.
Please ensure that the email address for the recommender is accurate as an invitation to complete the letter of recommendation will be sent electronically.
All responses will not be accessible to edit in any form after submission of the application.
You will need to upload one file including slate and audition to your application.
Slate: Please provide your first and last name, the name of the play your piece is from, the character’s name, and the playwright. There is no need to explain what is happening in the play. Feel free to say hello to us.
Monologue Length: 1- 1 ½ minutes is preferred
How to film your monologue: Frame it so that you are facing the camera for a medium to close upshot. Use your best judgment for what will work best for your monologue. If you will be moving during your monologue, a medium shot may be better. You may choose to speak into the camera or slightly off-camera.
Please remember to review your takes, see what works, and adjust as needed before submitting your audition. Trust the process and try not to be overly critical of yourself.
Audition against a blank wall or door.
Please do the monologue in one take.
You may film your monologue from your phone or tablet. We are not worried about high production value. The most important thing is that we can see and hear you.
Make sure you have completely memorized your monologue.
Do not perform a monologue with someone reading lines off-camera
Do not send prior performances or tapings from plays. Record a new video according to the audition guidelines for the purposes of this application.
Do not put pressure on yourself to deliver the “perfect” audition. Do your personal best, be authentic, and don’t forget to have fun!
View sample syllabus. UCLA Theater Laboratory Intensive students will receive a certificate of completion at the conclusion of the program. The program does not carry college credit.
Due to the intensive nature of the program, a maximum of one excused program absence is permitted.
Financial Aid is not available for the Theater Laboratory Intensives. As an alternative, students should explore the American Theater Wing, Andrew Lloyd Weber Training scholarship .
Application deadline
Enrollment Deadline
CASI A: June 21-July 3, 2026
CASI B: July 5-July 18, 2026
CASI C: July 26-August 8, 2026