Online Acting Classes in New Zealand

Serious Training Without Moving to Auckland

Elena Stejko Actors Studio is based in Parnell, Auckland, and the online class is how actors elsewhere study the Michael Chekhov technique with Elena. It runs alongside the studio classes, once a week, and is tailored to different levels of experience, so an actor in Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin or a small town can take a full term of classes from home.

Online classes are available throughout the year. A term is seven weeks, each class is two hours long, and you are given homework tasks so the work continues between Fridays.

Why the Technique Suits a Screen

The online class is built around the Michael Chekhov technique for screen, and the format is closer to the real thing than it might sound. A video call puts you in a close frame, alone in a room, performing to a lens. That is the condition of a self tape audition.

The tools themselves travel well. Psychological gesture is practised physically and then held inside, so it can be rehearsed in a bedroom and used in a head and shoulders shot. Atmosphere and qualities of movement are worked through imagination and the body, which needs space to stand up in but not a studio. You can read how each tool works on our page about the Michael Chekhov acting technique.

What You Need

• A computer, tablet or phone with a camera and microphone.
• An internet connection steady enough for a two hour video call.
• A room where you can speak at full voice and move a little without being interrupted.
• Time between classes for the homework tasks.

Online or in the Studio

The online class and the studio classes teach the same method. The differences are practical. The studio's evening classes run for three hours and finish the term with a recording session with a casting director. The online class is two hours and needs no travel. If you can get to Auckland, compare it with the weekly acting classes in Auckland.

If you have one audition or one role to prepare, a class is the wrong tool. Book private coaching, which is also available online.

Auditioning From Anywhere

Location matters less to a screen actor than it once did. Auditions are widely recorded and sent in, so a well prepared actor outside the main centres can be seen for the same roles. The work is there to be seen for: the New Zealand Film Commission supports the local screen industry and works to attract international productions to New Zealand. Our page on acting classes for actors outside Auckland covers the other ways to train with the studio from a distance.

Dates, Fee and Booking

The online class runs on Fridays from 4pm to 6pm, New Zealand time, for the seven weeks of the term. The fee is $465 per term including GST, and Equity New Zealand members receive a 10% discount. Term 5 2026 starts on 19 October 2026. The class takes no more than 20 people, so places are limited. Send a booking request and the studio confirms your place by email with the details for joining.