Meisner-Based Acting Classes · Portland

Really Listen, Respond, and Come Alive

Presence, play, and authentic connection—Meisner training for actors and creatives at every level.

A small, supportive group where you can explore, take real risks, and grow. Wednesday evenings in SE Portland.

Classes stay small - only 12 spots - and usually fill—register early to claim your spot.
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Wednesday evenings · 6:15–9:15pm · In-person, SE Portland · From $45 drop-in / $200 for a 5-class series

Acting Classes

Inside a Session

Every class moves through a rhythm—from grounding, to play, to full, living scene work:

Step 1

Arrive and ground

A short meditation and gentle stretch to drop in.

Step 2

Wake up and play

Ensemble connecting games that switch on your listening and playfulness.

Step 3

Check in

We gather as a group, present and honest.

Step 4

Meisner foundations

Repetition and impulse work: the truth of what's alive between two people.

Step 5

Build a world

With a partner, you invent a character relationship and backstory, creating a shared history.

Step 6

Improvise the scene

You bring it to life in a full, original scene rooted in what you built.

Chris Harder
Acting Classes

What You'll Walk Away With

By the end of a series, here's what you'll carry out the door:

  • A grounded, alive presence—on stage and off
  • The ability to truly listen and respond in the moment
  • Trust in your instincts and the freedom to follow them
  • Easier access to real emotion when a role calls for it
  • Characters you build from the inside out and fully inhabit
  • The confidence to play, take risks, and create with anyone

“The work is so freeing and empowering. I left each class feeling exhilarated—I love how everyone throws themselves into it.”

— Lily, Actor/Filmmaker

“Thank you for making space for it in your life—it's changing mine.”

— JC, Filmmaker

“Thank you for creating such a unique and vulnerable space with your Meisner class. I learned a lot—and enjoyed it in ways I wasn't expecting.”

— Taylor, Actor

“Absolutely revivifying. You are an observant, insightful, and skilled teacher—I'm still in awe.”

— Alistair, Physician

“The exercises brought me to a new level of self-understanding—an authentic self as the foundation for understanding the emotional reality of a character.”

— Carl W., Writer

“Class pushed me to make new discoveries about myself. Chris is present and caring, modeling beautiful interactions with his students.”

— Alexis E., Actor/Tour Guide
Questions?

Questions?

A few common questions about the Wednesday acting class.

Do I need acting experience?
No experience required. Class is designed for all levels—the group is a mix of aspiring and working actors, plus creatives from all walks of life. I meet everyone where they are.
How do you work with mixed levels?
The foundations of the technique are an ongoing practice—real connection, listening, and attention can be deepened at any level. I use solo and partnered exercises suited to different levels, and for scene work I pair people of similar experience.
How big are the classes?
I keep them small (12 students) for individual attention and a supportive environment.
Can I try a single class first?
Yes. You're welcome to drop in for one Wednesday class ($45) to feel how it works before joining a full series.
What if a class is full?
Classes stay small and sometimes fill. If a session is full, join the waitlist and you'll be first to hear when the next series opens.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing you can move in. We do some physical warm-ups and movement work.
What should I bring?
Just bring yourself, ready to move and play—plus a notebook, water bottle, and yoga mat.

Come Step Into the Work

Whether you're returning after time away or stepping in for the first time, there's a place for you here. Classes stay small and tend to fill—so if you're feeling the pull, now's the time.