Acting Lessons in Hickory, NC
Beginner to advanced acting training in technique, audition prep, movement, and on-camera performance.
RECOGNITION & AWARDS
Acting lessons at Hickory Arts in the heart of Catawba County are designed for beginners, intermediate students, and advanced performers, developing real-world skills for stage and screen. Whether you’re preparing for a theatrical production, film role, audition, or public speaking engagement, our acting program focuses on technique, confidence, and performance.
We offer structured training in on-camera performance, scene study, character development, audition preparation, movement, improv, and voice integration. Students of all ages and experience levels are welcome.
What We Offer
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Acting Technique & Method
Develop a strong foundation in acting technique, emotional truth, and performance consistency.
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Scene Study & Character Development
Learn how to break down scripts, build characters, and deliver compelling performances.
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Acting for the Camera
On-camera acting techniques for film, television, and digital media.
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Audition Preparation
Professional coaching for theatrical, film, music, and academic auditions.
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Improv & Movement
Improve spontaneity, physical awareness, and stage presence.
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Public Speaking & Confidence
Build communication skills for real-world speaking and performance situations.
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Direction & Performance Coaching
Work one-on-one to refine performances for specific roles or productions.
Audition Prep
Hickory Arts provides amateur and professional audition preparation for film, theater, music, and academic opportunities. Whether you are preparing for a role, competition, college admittance, or scholarship audition, we offer focused coaching to help you perform at your best.
Who Our Acting Lessons Are For
Beginners exploring acting for the first time
Students preparing for school or community theatre
Actors pursuing film and on-camera work
Musicians and performers expanding their stage presence
Professionals preparing for auditions or public speaking
Costume Design Lessons
In addition to acting lessons, Hickory Arts offers costume design training with Emma Lee Kurts for stage and film. Students learn how wardrobe supports character development, storytelling, and visual performance.
Why Choose Hickory Arts
Hickory Arts combines acting technique, performance training, audition coaching, and real-world creative experience in a personalized learning environment designed for stage and screen performers.
Located in Hickory, NC, Hickory Arts serves acting students of all ages throughout the Hickory Metro region and surrounding communities.
Recognized Experience
Hickory Arts instructors bring real-world creative and performance experience to the classroom, including work recognized through theatre, film, production, and artistic achievement.
Excellence in Theatre Education Tony Award Nominee
North Carolina Theatre Conference AACT Fest Award — Best Actor
North Carolina Theatre Conference AACT Fest Award — Best Supporting Performance
North Carolina Theatre Conference AACT Fest Award — Best Ensemble
Metrolina Theatre Association Award — Best Actor
Metrolina Theatre Association Award — Best Supporting Actor
Charles E. Jeffers Award of Excellence
Kay Award — Best Actor
Kay Award — Best Character Actor
Kay Award — Best Ensemble
Willy Award — Best Production
Willy Award — Best Actor
Willy Award — Best Supporting Actor
Young Playwrights Festival Award Winner
What Our Acting Students Are Saying
“Training at Hickory Arts is one of the best decisions you can make! The training is so individualized to each student, and there is such a wide range of education to receive. Personally, I was a voice and acting student with Jeff Hartman, and he pushed me to be the best performer I could be, while always having a smile on his face! Working with Jeff helped deepen my passion for the arts and gave me the confidence and skill set to pursue it on a professional level. If you are looking for training that will not only push you but also provide you with wonderful staff/mentors/coaches, Hickory Arts is the way to go!”
Josie Juliette Wert, Artist Development
