Dear HB supporters, colleagues, and friends,

We hope this message finds you and your loved ones well.

During these unprecedented times, HB Studio has taken drastic steps to continue to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of our artistic community. Despite the physical distance between us, we strive to remain connected and to remind you that HB will always be here for each of you. We have been for the past 75 years, and we hope to be for the next 75, as well.

As artists, we have always connected with one another through our work. In times like these, creativity and community can sustain us. Our new suite of online classes and events will continue to provide inspiration and connection for our community of artists, and welcome new audiences and exciting possibilities for us. We have also compiled a list of emergency resources for artists which is constantly being updated by HB staff as new information becomes available.

HB Studio will adhere to NYC mandates and best practices as we join with our fellow New Yorkers in a community-wide effort to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. With so much still uncertain, we have postponed our 75th Anniversary celebration, the HB Diamond Jubilee Gala, originally slated for Monday, June 8th.

The actions we take now to protect the most vulnerable among us and safeguard one another’s health and safety are primary. Looking to the future in solidarity and with hope, we look forward to gathering with you to celebrate HB’s Diamond Jubilee Gala on November 11, 2020 at Tribeca Rooftop. Let’s set our sights on a joyful gathering in the fall that will bring us all together again! We will be sending out more details over the summer.

Please visit us in cyberspace and let us know how you are doing. We look forward to the time when we will see you again in-person!

With warm regards and care,

Edith Meeks
Executive & Artistic Director
On behalf of the HB Board of Directors & HB Diamond Jubilee Gala Co-Chairs

To the HB Studio Community:

HB Studio is adhering to local and national mandates for a community-wide effort to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. Given the level of uncertainty and rapidly changing guidelines, we are rolling out a suite of online classes and workshops until we are able to reconvene classes on-site. The decision to resume classes at the Studio will follow public mandates and safety guidelines from our public health leaders. 

Public safety must be our first concern. As such, we will adjust our programs to distance learning classes. Until further notice, with the start of Spring Term beginning the week of March 30th, HB Studio will host classes online via Zoom Conferencing. Please browse our list of online classes. More classes will be added in the coming days, so please stay tuned.

HB Studio will tailor our teaching and the topic to the virtual space and explore this creatively with our students. We hope not to stay in cyberspace for long for most of our classes, but while we are there, we are going to take advantage of its possibilities. Just as on camera work is different from live performance in the theater or studio, the virtual sphere is a compelling new place for us to learn to play. Please check each course page on our website for more information on how teachers will conduct specific classes online.

HB’s refund policy states that we will approve and process requests for refunds, credits, withdrawals, and transfers up to 24 hours before your first day of class. Given the unusual circumstances of the coronavirus epidemic, we will waive the $27 administration fee for withdrawals before the first day and for those who request a withdrawal after attending the first class online. 

We understand that the shift to virtual learning is a radical change. We encourage you to try it out with us. Think of the Zoom platform we will be using as an “on camera” platform where you practice skills that you will need to use in your work across multiple media. You are able to see and interact with other students and the instructor in closeup. There is an intimacy to the setting and to the exchange that may surprise you. Students who wish to withdraw after trialing the first class will be able to do so without penalty. Schedule changes must be made by emailing customerservice@hbstudio.org. 

HB Studio will also host public events online. We look forward to making use of a connected virtual space to continue to share stimulating and timely programs and talks with you. More on those offerings to follow.

Through this challenging time, we want to stay in touch and active with our artistic colleagues and community, and use the virtual sphere to stay connected and creative, to continue to develop our skills and to make work that speaks to these times and brings people together. 

This represents a huge adjustment for all of us, but we can only combat this crisis together. We invite you to keep in connection with us and explore the creative possibilities of the intimate and immediate virtual space.

We hope you will stand with HB and with one another as we journey through this uncharted territory together.

Please don’t hesitate to be in touch with questions. 

Stay well,

Edith Meeks

Executive & Artistic Director

Helpful Resources for Artists Amid COVID-19

HB Studio has compiled a list of helpful information, resources, and emergency funding for artists, independent freelancers, nonprofits and small businesses amid the novel coronavirus epidemic. We will continue to update the following resources as more information becomes available (last updated January 28, 2021).

Find out how you can help New Yorkers affected by COVID-19 and how you can receive COVID-19-related assistance: NYC.gov/helpnownyc.

The Save Our Stages Act passed as part of the third federal stimulus package. For complete requirements see Section 324 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. The National Independent Venue Association also has posted a helpful plain language FAQ.

In accordance with Int. 2068 of 2020, legislation enacted in December 2020, New York City is establishing an Open Culture program, which will allow eligible art and cultural institutions and venues to apply for expedited Street Activity Permit Office (SAPO) permits to host artistic and cultural events in approved open spaces. Additional information and FAQs on Open Culture are available in this document.

Resources and Funding for Artists

Artists, Freelancers & Arts Non-Profits

Browse the resource list from Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer.

ArtsReady, an online emergency preparedness service by and for artists and arts/cultural nonprofits, provides daily resources that include informational webinars and emergency funding for artists.

The Actors Fund will be administering resources and services on the ground. Artists can determine their eligibility for the Actors Fund Emergency Assistance through their online request form. 

CERF+ COVID-19 Relief Grant is offering $1,000 grants for artists working in craft disciplines who are facing dire circumstances due to food, housing, and/or medical insecurities as a result of the ongoing pandemic. The deadline to apply is February 3.

The Freelance Relief Fund offers financial assistance of up to $1,000 per freelance household to cover lost income and essential expenses not covered by government relief programs. This includes: food/food supplies, utility payments, cash assistance to cover income loss.

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, NYFA and the Pro Bono Steering Committee of New York State Bar Association’s Entertainment, Arts and Sports Law Section (EASL) are collaborating to offer a series of free online workshops to support creative communities. 

The Foundation for Contemporary Arts is creating a temporary fund to meet the needs of experimental artists who have been impacted by the economic fallout from postponed or canceled performances and exhibitions. The Foundation will disburse one-time $1,500 grants to artists who have had performances or exhibitions canceled or postponed because of the pandemic.

This list is designed to serve freelance artists, and those interested in supporting the independent artist community, with general resources, advocacy links, and a growing list of funding opportunities.

Artist Relief will serve as an ongoing informational resource and co-launch the COVID-19 Impact Survey for Artists and Creative Workers, designed by Americans for the Arts, to better identify and address the needs of artists.

The waitlist is now open for micro-grants for NYC-based freelance theater designers or dramaturges through Wingspace Theatrical Design . 

Continue reading →

HB Studio is adhering to NYC mandates and joining with our colleagues in the field for a community-wide effort to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. Given the level of uncertainty and rapidly changing guidelines, we are rolling out a suite of online classes and workshops.

With the start of Spring Term, beginning the week of March 30, until we are able to resume classes at the Studio, the following classes will be held online via Zoom Conferencing. 

Use Late Enrollment discount code LATEBIRDSP20 for 20% OFF Spring Term classes. Discount does not apply for Part B Spring classes. Discount can be used in combination with 10% Union Member discount. The Union discount will automatically apply for HB-verified Union Members. To become verified, present your union membership card in the registration office or email a copy to registration. Discounts valid for classes only; not valid for workshops, programs or merchandise. Discounts cannot be combined nor applied retroactively. Union discount available to AEA, AGVA, AGMA, SAG/AFTRA, WGA and Dramatist Guild Union Members.

Acting

Acting 1 with David Deblinger | Mondays, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Acting 1 with Pablo Andrade | Mondays, 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Acting 1 with Julissa Roman | Sundays, 10:00 am – 12:30 pm

Acting 1 with Michael Beckett | Saturdays, 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Acting 1 with Michael Beckett | Wednesdays, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Acting 2 with David Deblinger | Saturdays, 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Acting 2 with Jackson Moran | Mondays, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Acting 2 with Michael Beckett | Saturdays, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm

Acting Improvisation with Clark Jackson | Wednesdays, 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Actuar en Español (Parte A) with Maria Fontanals & Pablo Andrade | Tuesdays, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Actuar en Español (Parte B) with Maria Fontanals & Pablo Andrade | Tuesdays, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Acting with the Camera 1 with David Deblinger | Thursdays, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Acting with the Camera 1 with Magaly Colimon | Tuesdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Acting with the Camera 2 with Victor Cruz | Wednesdays, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Acting with the Camera 3: Skill Integration for Film (Part A) with Lisa Pelikan | Saturdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Acting with the Camera 3: Skill Integration for Film (Part B) with Lisa Pelikan | Saturdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Scene Study 1 with Lorraine Serabian | Fridays, 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Scene Study 2 with Michael Beckett | Sundays, 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Scene Study 2 with Michael Beckett | Fridays, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Scene Study 2-3 with Hagen Exercises with Francesca Ferrara | Wednesdays, 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm

Scene Study 3 with Michael Beckett | Sundays, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm

Scene Study Studio Practice with Austin Pendleton | Mondays, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Scene Study Studio Practice with Austin Pendleton | Tuesdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Scene Study Studio Practice with Jessica Hecht | Thursdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Scene Study Studio Practice with Michael Beckett | Sundays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Scene Study Studio Practice (Invitational) with Mercedes Ruehl | Tuesdays, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Scene Study Studio Practice (Invitational – Part A) with Mercedes Ruehl | Thursdays, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Scene Study Studio Practice (Invitational – Part B) with Mercedes Ruehl | Thursdays, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Speech & Voice

Speech 1 with Joy Coronel | Tuesdays, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Speech 1 with Craig Dolezel | Saturdays, 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Speech 2 with Theresa McElwee | Wednesdays, 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Speech 3 with Theresa McElwee | Wednesdays, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Speaking Voice 1 with Theresa McElwee | Saturdays, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Speaking Voice 1 with Ilse Pfeifer | Mondays, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Speaking Voice 1 with Craig Dolezel | Mondays, 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Speaking Voice 2 with Ilse Pfeifer | Tuesdays, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Movement

Alexander Technique with Stefanie Proessl | Wednesdays, 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm

The Art of Transformation (Part A) with Janice Orlandi | Wednesdays, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

The Art of Transformation (Part B) with Janice Orlandi | Wednesdays, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Stage Combat (Part A) with Christian Kelly-Sordelet | Tuesdays, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Stage Combat (Part B) with Christian Kelly-Sordelet | Tuesdays, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Musical Theater & Singing

Singing Voice 1 with John Bowen | Tuesdays, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Singing Voice 1 with John Bowen | Wednesdays, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Acting the Song with Lorraine Serabian | Fridays, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm

Playwriting

Playwriting with Julie McKee | Wednesdays, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Playwriting Technique with Julie McKee | Tuesdays, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Young People

Acting for Young People with Claudia Terry | Saturdays, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Workshops

Show Me The Money: Financial Empowerment for Artists with David Maurice Sharp | March 30, 2020 – April 27, 2020 | Mondays, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Lanford Wilson Scene Study (Part A) with Austin Pendleton | March 30, 2020 – April 27, 2020 | Mondays, 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Lanford Wilson Scene Study (Part B) with Austin Pendleton | May 4, 2020 – June 8, 2020 | Mondays, 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Uta Hagen’s Acting Process (Part A) with Carol Rosenfeld | April 1, 2020 – April 29, 2020 | Wednesdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Uta Hagen’s Acting Process (Part B) with Carol Rosenfeld | May 6, 2020 – June 3, 2020 | Wednesdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Ballroom, Rhythm & Latin: Partner Dance for Actors with Peter Jones | April 4, 2020 – May 2, 2020 | Saturdays, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Singing Sondheim with Lonny Price | April 30, 2020 – May 28, 2020 | Thursdays, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm

Movement for Actors with Michelle Uranowitz | May 2, 2020 – May 30, 2020 | Saturdays, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

HB Studio will tailor our teaching and the topic to the virtual space and explore that creatively with our students. We hope not to stay in cyberspace for long for most of our classes, but while we’re there, we’re going to take advantage of the opportunity to get to know its possibilities. Just as on camera work is different from live performance in the theater or studio, the virtual sphere is a compelling new place for us to learn to play. Please check each course page for more information on how teachers will conduct specific classes online.

Those registered for online classes will be contacted via email with instructions on how to connect to your class via Zoom. You will need a device (computer, laptop, phone, tablet) with an internet connection. View this tutorial on how to join a Zoom meeting. We look forward to seeing you online!

Before your class, please review our Zoom User Guide for Students.

To the HB Studio Community:

HB will postpone the start of Spring term until March 30, 2020. The Studio will be closed from Saturday, March 14 through March 29. Effective the evening of Friday, March 13, the remaining Winter classes are also cancelled.

You will have seen news about the rapidly evolving situation in NYC with the covid-19 coronavirus, and the closing of arts institutions, colleges, and theaters across the city and beyond.

Organizations are coming together in preemptive action to reduce public activities and circulation on mass transit, to prevent an escalation in the number of coronavirus cases. These actions are being taken out of shared concern for the most vulnerable people in our midst, and in solidarity with the health care workers who are the front line of this crisis. If we can act together now to slow the spread of the virus, we can give our healthcare system the time it needs to stay resilient.

If you are a full-time F1 visa student, we will be following up with additional details that relate specifically to your program. We will host a call-in briefing for F1 students early next week, and we urge you to reach out to Snezhana or Angela with questions, or to let us know if you need help or support of any kind.

At this time, we plan to resume classes on March 30. That said, there is much that is uncertain, so we will be evaluating the situation over these two weeks to make the most prudent decision about how to move forward. We hope to be back together in the Studio, but should it seem wisest to stay closed, we will also be introducing online versions of some classes and projects so that we can continue to work together remotely.

Most of HB’s staff will also be working remotely through March 29. We will be checking telephone messages regularly, but the fastest way to reach us with questions is on email. We will also be posting updates here on the home page of our web site.

In addition to spring term classes, auditions for the advanced scene study showcase, and March public events in the theater, will be postponed until a later date.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions. Your comments and concerns are important to us.

This was a tough decision but we are certain it is the right one. We will be in touch as things develop, and we hope you will stay in touch with us as well.

With best regards,

Evening classes on Friday March 13 and ALL classes this weekend, Saturday March 14 and Sunday March 15 are cancelled, so that we may do our part to support containment of the COVID-19 virus.

Make-up classes for this weekend will be scheduled at a later date.

Additionally, given the rapidly developing news, like other organizations, we are closing down for the next two weeks as well. A more detailed update will follow about postponement of Spring classes.

Classes cancelled this weekend are:

3/13/2020 Michael Beckett: Scene Study 2
3/13/2020 Magaly Colimon: Acting with the Camera 1
3/13/2020 Julissa Roman: Acting 1
3/13/2020 Mercedes Ruehl: Scene Study- Studio Practice (Invitational)
3/14/2020 Michael Beckett: Acting 1
3/14/2020 Michael Beckett: Acting 2
3/14/2020 Snezhana Chernova: Acting in Russian: Method of Etudes
3/14/2020 David Deblinger: Acting 2
3/14/2020 Craig Dolezel: Speech 1
3/14/2020 Marlene Mancini: Acting for Teens: Ages 14-17
3/14/2020 Theresa McElwee: Speaking Voice 1
3/14/2020 Ben Mehl Mehl: Movement for Actors
3/14/2020 Lisa Pelikan: Acting with the Camera 3: Skill Integration for Film
3/14/2020 Claudia Terry: Acting for Young People: Ages 9-13
3/15/2020 Michael Beckett: Scene Study – Studio Practice
3/15/2020 Michael Beckett: Scene Study 2
3/15/2020 Michael Beckett: Scene Study 3
3/15/2020 Snezhana Chernova: Scene Study 2-3 with Hagen Exercises
3/15/2020 Laura Esterman: Scene Study – Studio Practice
3/15/2020 Stefanie Proessl: Alexander Technique
3/15/2020 Trudy Steibl: Acting 1
3/15/2020 The Hagen Teen Intensive