News & Events

Testimony: Theater as Witness to Our Times

On April 22 at HB Playwrights Theatre, watch actors explore great plays that put American justice on trial, with support from the Noël Coward Foundation.

Testimony: Theater as Witness to Our Times

Tuesday, April 22 at 7:00 PM
 HB Playwrights Theatre | 124 Bank Street
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

In observance of HB’s 80th Anniversary, this culminating workshop presentation features plays that fascinated our founder, Herbert Berghof, and in which he appeared.

Excerpts will be presented from Heinar Kipphardt’s In the Matter of J. Robert Oppenheimer, Saul Levitt’s The Andersonville Trial, and Tina Satter’s Is This a Room: Reality Winner Verbatim Transcription. Each student was asked to reflect on what justice means to them—personally or legally—and to find resonance between their perspectives and the anchoring texts. Together, the group examined how testimony can serve as both artistic expression and political inquiry, revealing the structures and systems that shape our times.

This presentation highlights how Kipphardt’s work, in particular, uses testimony as an artistic tool—probing the rhetoric of authority as it collides with independent moral voices and creative minds.

The workshop is led by Tony Award-winning actor and HB Studio Instructor, Frank Wood. Performers include Emily Adler, Rachael Attanasio, Kathleen Files, Moshe Henderson, Justin Masters, and Juan Jose Mojica.

 Reserve your seat here!

This project is also made possible by the leadership support of the Noël Coward Foundation. HB Studio and its founders enjoy a special relationship with Noël Coward and the Noël Coward Foundation. This performance is presented in tandem with Christopher Burney and Fran Kirmser’s American Scoreboard: How Did We Get Here? as part of Witness to History: The Testimony Project, a public program initiative examining justice, truth, and the role of testimony in theater.

HB Residency: Pyrrha, The Poet, and Planet Earth

Director/choreographer Mary John Frank presents our first HB Residency Project of Spring Term on April 5 & 6 at 7pm!

About the Project

A live movement-based theater work that explores identity, the traits we inherit, and how we choose to inhabit and care for ourselves and the planet. In Greek mythology, Pyrrha (Pandora’s daughter) survives the flood, unleashed by Zeus and is tasked with repopulating the planet, but in the sci-fi manner of throwing bones and rocks over her shoulder to create new humans. ‘The Poet’ refers to the Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa, who had over 70 heteronyms, each with distinct astrological charts, genders, and writing styles. This project is part of the 2025 HB Rehearsal Space Residency.

Pyrrha, The Poet, and Planet Earth
Saturday, April 5 at 7PM
HB Playwrights Theatre
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

Sunday, April 6 at 7PM
HB Playwrights Theatre
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

About the Artists

Mary John Frank (Director): Mary John Frank is a New York-based director and choreographer whose work combines contemporary dance, digital filmmaking, rhythmic storytelling, and new technologies to inform and uplift audiences. Her projects address injustices with an educational, action-focused approach, encouraging viewers to envision a world where they and their communities can thrive. Her work has been featured at Lincoln Center, the Hammer Museum, Pioneer Works, and the Madrid International Film Festival. She has directed works for New York City Ballet, Disney, and Google, and partnered with organizations like Fós Feminista and Oceanic Global. Frank holds an MFA in Dance from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and has been recognized by Tribeca Film Festival, Google, Panavision among others, for her innovative work in the movement arts, VR and film.

Carlos Johns-Davila (Isadora & Production Support): Carlos Johns Davila is a Peruvian-American composer, electro-acoustic musician and immersive media maker. Inspired by the writings of Antonin Artaud and Wallace Stevens he creates 360º videos to combine dream-like hallucinations at play with reality.​ He adopted the Moog Theremini as his main instrument to cue visuals and sound by gesture. He began his artistic career at Interlochen Arts Academy and studied composition at Temple University in Philadelphia.

Also featuring the work of Celia Krefter (Lighting Designer), Delon Charlton (Costumer), and dancers Thaleia Dasberg, Payton Johnson, Caitlin Taylor, and Amira Williams.

Behind the Studio Doors: An HB Open House March 15

Curious about HB Studio? Step inside the room where artists train, grow, and connect. Join us for a free-to-attend special event featuring conversations with HB Studio’s distinguished faculty and current students.

Behind the Studio Doors: An HB Open House

Get an inside look at the classes, teaching philosophy, and dynamic artistic community that make HB a home for actors, playwrights, and directors from around the world. Faculty members Snezhana Chernova (The Americans), David Deblinger (co-founder of the Labyrinth Theater Company), Craig Marcarthur Dolezel and Ilse Pfeifer (both certified Fitzmaurice Voicework instructors), and Julissa Roman (We Speak NYC), will share their perspectives on the HB training experience. For those joining internationally via Zoom, Snezhana Chernova will provide insights into resources for international students. Ilse Pfeifer and Julissa Roman will speak on The Uta Hagen Institute and its approach to immersive actor training in the Hagen Core Training and Hagen Summer Intensive programs. Whether you’re considering enrolling in classes or want to better understand the HB philosophy, this is an easy, no-cost opportunity to engage with faculty, hear from students, and ask questions about training at HB Studio.

Join us in person or online and discover what makes HB Studio a space for passionate, disciplined artists.

Behind the Studio Doors: An HB Open House
Saturday, March 15 at 12 pm
HB Playwrights Theatre
Free

Stage Combat Showcase March 18

Join us to observe an Open Class presentation as the students of Stage Combat with Christian Kelly-Sordelet share the techniques they have developed throughout the term. Through collaboration, precision, and practice, these performers have explored the fundamentals of safe and effective stage combat, learning to tell stories through movement while maintaining trust and control. Featuring performances by Angelo Aon, Alice DeCapua, Anna Delova, Mandy Evans, Anna Kaliuzhnaia, Melody Khamphannoulith, Werrdan Khoury, Mio Nakanishi, Sheikh Niloy, Alex Payraud, David Rodriguez, Scott Rogers, and Juanita Santafe Sabogal, this session offers a glimpse into their ongoing training. Under the guidance of Christian Kelly-Sordelet, these students have built a strong foundation in stage combat. Friends, family, and fellow artists are invited to support them as they demonstrate their hard work in a welcoming, educational setting.

Stage Combat Showcase
Tuesday, March 18 at 5 pm
HB Playwrights Theatre
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

Singing Voice 1 with John Bowen – Winter 2025

Singing Voice 1 Showcase
Sunday, March 16 at 2:00 PM
HB Playwrights Theatre
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

Join us for an afternoon of song as the students of Singing Voice 1 with John Bowen take the stage to share their work. Through dedicated study of vocal technique, interpretation, and performance, these emerging artists have explored the fundamentals of singing—connecting breath, tone, and emotional expression to bring songs to life. Featuring performances by Ebenezer Ackon, Sarah Al Yasiri, Kristen Brown, Valentine d’Hauteville, Claire Donnelly, Mia Feng, Jack Haverty, Carolyn McIntyre, Laura Meltzer, Janielle Moye, Toby Nguyen, Fiorella Sandoval, Kamilla Shamsudinova, Michael White, and Claire Wu, this showcase highlights their growth and artistry in vocal performance. Under the expert guidance of John Bowen, these performers have worked to develop confidence, clarity, and authenticity in their singing. Whether you’re a friend, family member, or a lover of musical performance, come support these artists as they step into the spotlight. Reserve your seat now and celebrate an afternoon of music and artistry!

Acting the Song with Lorraine Serabian – Winter 2025

Acting the Song Showcase
Friday, March 14 at 3:45 PM
HB Playwrights Theatre
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

Join us for a captivating afternoon of musical storytelling, featuring the talented students of Acting the Song under the direction of the esteemed Lorraine Serabian. This performance is the culmination of their intensive work, showcasing the fusion of song and acting to bring lyrics to life with depth, nuance, and authenticity. Performers include Olusayo Adeleye, Pat Clune, Natsumi Hashimoto, Rian Keating, Kenneth Linsley, Cierra Marco, Suzanne McAndrews, Don Munro, Mio Nakanishi, Camilla Nigro, James Park, Juanita Santafe Sabogal, Steve Saracino, Gaela Solo, Hisa Viscovich, and Laura Zarama. Experience an afternoon of powerful performances as these artists interpret and embody songs through character-driven storytelling. Whether you are a friend, family member, or a theater lover, this event offers a rare glimpse into the process of merging song with deep, emotional truth. Reserve your seat now and celebrate the artistry of these performers!

Independent Study Project Lab – Winter 2025

Independent Study Showcase
Wednesday, March 12 at 7 PM
HB Playwrights Theatre
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

Join us for an evening of original works-in-progress developed in the Independent Study Project Lab under the guidance of educator Snezhana Chernova. This showcase highlights emerging artists as they experiment, refine, and present their independent projects—offering a glimpse into their creative processes. Featuring performances by Rachael Attanasio, Werrdan Khoury, Sara Martinez Velasco, Juan Jose Mojica, Camilla Nigro, Alex Payraud, Caroline Yost, and Henry Zinn, the evening promises a dynamic range of theatrical explorations. Be part of this inspiring night of artistry, discovery, and innovation. Reserve your seat and support these artists as they bring their visions to life!

A Conversation with Max Casella & Michael Beckett

A Conversation with Max Casella & Michael Beckett
Sunday, March 9 at 5 PM
HB Playwrights Theatre
Pay-What-You-Wish, $30 Recommended

HB Studio presents a special conversation featuring acclaimed actor and HB alum Max Casella and HB Studio faculty member Michael Beckett, moderated by David Deblinger.

Join us for an intimate discussion as Max Casella (The Sopranos, Doogie Howser, M.D., Tulsa King, Lion King on Broadway) reflects on his extensive career across stage and screen. Max will share insights into his craft, his evolution as an artist, and the impact of his training at HB Studio.

He’ll be joined by his former teacher, Michael Beckett, a longtime HB Studio faculty member whose teaching has shaped generations of actors. Moderating the conversation is David Deblinger, an HB faculty member and co-founder of Labyrinth Theater Company, whose work bridges acting, directing, and storytelling. This free community event offers a unique opportunity to hear firsthand experiences from industry professionals, explore the artistic process, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the evolution of storytelling in theater and film.

Presented by HB Studio Artistic Council.

Spring Term 2025 Is Here!

Registration is still open for select Spring Term 2025 classes and workshops – browse available courses now and register before it’s too late!

Spring Term Weekly Classes – In-Person & Online:

  • Spring Term runs 10 weeks, March 24 – June 2 (no classes May 26)
    • In-person Classes and Online Classes are available
    • Most classes run for 10 weeks, while some classes are offered in two 5-week parts (Part A & Part B) which can be taken independently or together:
      • Spring Part A: March 24 – April 27
      • Spring Part B: April 28 – June 2
        • A $15 discount will apply when registering for both parts. Sign up for either Part independently (5 weeks each), or join both for the full 10-week term. You may join Part B without taking Part A.

Spring Term Workshops – In-Person & Online:

  • Browse Workshops and Register Now
  • Special-focus topics, with short & long-term options
  • Check back often; workshops updated regularly

Discounts:

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT:* Get 10% OFF Spring Term Weekly Classes with code SPRING25X, valid through March 10, 2025. You are prohibited from using the Early Bird Discount code when receiving a Union Discount.

UNION DISCOUNT:* AEA, AGVA, AGMA, SAG/AFTRA, WGA, UFT, and Dramatist Guild Union Members or international equivalent receive 20% OFF Spring Term Weekly Classes through March 5 and 10% OFF thereafter. Discount will automatically apply for HB-verified Union Members. To become verified, email a copy of your active union membership card to registration@hbstudio.org. You are prohibited from using the Early Bird Discount code when receiving a Union Discount.

Descuento de NYC Latin Media: Los miembros de NYC Latin Media pueden auditar gratuitamente una clase o taller en el estudio y recibir un 20% de descuento en todas clases del estudio y talleres.** El descuento será aplicado automáticamente para miembros verificados por HB. Para convertirse en usuario verificado, debe mandar un correo electrónico a inscripciones@hbstudio.org con detalles de su membresía de NYC Latin Media.

Auditions and Prerequisites:

AUDITIONS: Interested in our upper level classes? Audition & consult with a panel of HB’s faculty. For details and sign up info, visit Auditions & Prerequisites.

REEL SUBMISSIONS: Are you a working professional seeking a place to practice? Submit your reel for placement into our studio practice classes.

*Discounts valid for weekly classes only; not valid for workshops, programs or merchandise. Discounts cannot be combined nor applied retroactively. Union discount applies for classes taken by cardholders only and cannot be used to enroll family or friends. APPLYING MULTIPLE DISCOUNTS IS PROHIBITED.

**Incluye una sesión gratuita por instructor. No se permite auditar múltiples veces la misma clase. Los descuentos son solamente válidos para clases semanales y talleres, no son válidos para programas o mercancías. Los descuentos no pueden ser combinados ni se aplicarán con efecto retroactivo. El descuento para los socios es aplicado para clases tomadas solamente por miembros de NYC Latin Media y no puede ser utilizado para inscribir familiares o amigos.

Register Now for Winter Term Classes & Workshops

Winter Term Weekly Classes & Workshops – In-Person & Online:

  • Winter Term runs 10 weeks, January 6 – March 17 (no classes Jan 20)
    • In-person Classes and Online Classes are available
    • Most classes run for 10 weeks, while some classes are offered in two 5-week parts (Part A & Part B) which can be taken independently or together:
      • Winter Part A: Jan 6 – Feb 10 (no class Jan 20)
      • Winter Part B: Feb 11 – Mar 17
        • A $15 discount will apply when registering for both parts. Sign up for either Part independently (5 weeks each), or join both for the full 10-week term. You may join Part B without taking Part A.
  • Audit Classes: HB Studio offers you the opportunity to audit any of our Online Weekly Classes, in order to observe the instructor’s teaching style and the culture of the class before making the commitment to register. Unless otherwise noted, audits are not allowed for workshops.

Winter Term Workshops – Online & In-Person*:

  • Special-focus topics, with short & long-term options
  • Check back often; workshops updated regularly
  • Browse Workshops and Register Now

Discounts:

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT:** Get 10% OFF Winter Term Weekly Classes with code WINTER24W, valid through November 30, 2024. NOTE: APPLYING MULTIPLE DISCOUNT CODES IS PROHIBITED. You are prohibited from using the Early Bird Discount code when receiving a Union Discount.

UNION DISCOUNT:** AEA, AGVA, AGMA, SAG/AFTRA, WGA, UFT, and Dramatist Guild Union Members or international equivalent receive 20% OFF Winter Term Weekly Classes through November 30 and 10% OFF thereafter. Discount will automatically apply for HB-verified Union Members. To become verified, email a copy of your active union membership card to registration@hbstudio.org. NOTE: You are prohibited from using the Early Bird Discount code when receiving a Union Discount.

Descuento de NYC Latin Media: Los miembros de NYC Latin Media pueden auditar gratuitamente una clase o taller en el estudio y recibir un 20% de descuento en todas clases del estudio y talleres.*** El descuento será aplicado automáticamente para miembros verificados por HB. Para convertirse en usuario verificado, debe mandar un correo electrónico a inscripciones@hbstudio.org con detalles de su membresía de NYC Latin Media.

Auditions and Prerequisites:

AUDITIONS: Interested in our upper level classes? ****Audition & consult with a panel of HB’s faculty. For details and sign up info, visit Auditions & Prerequisites.

REEL SUBMISSIONS: Are you a working professional seeking a place to practice? Submit your reel for placement into our studio practice classes.

*Those participating in-person in onsite activity at HB Studio must abide by our requirements for taking in-person classes.

**Discounts valid for weekly classes only; not valid for workshops, programs or merchandise. Discounts cannot be combined nor applied retroactively. Union discount applies for classes taken by cardholders only and cannot be used to enroll family or friends. APPLYING MULTIPLE DISCOUNTS IS PROHIBITED.

***Incluye una sesión gratuita por instructor. No se permite auditar múltiples veces la misma clase. Los descuentos son solamente válidos para clases semanales y talleres, no son válidos para programas o mercancías. Los descuentos no pueden ser combinados ni se aplicarán con efecto retroactivo. El descuento para los socios es aplicado para clases tomadas solamente por miembros de NYC Latin Media y no puede ser utilizado para inscribir familiares o amigos.