Go to content

Now Accepting Applications for 2 Year Conservatory – Learn more

Spring Intensive is Now Accepting Applications – Learn More

The Meisner Technique

Build confidence, act truthfully, and harness imagination for rich performances through the Meisner Technique.

What is the Meisner Technique?

A technique that emphasizes the actor’s imagination as the primary source of their creative work. Actors learn how to “get out of their head” and follow their impulses. Sanford Meisner’s approach is at the heart of our acting training. The Meisner Technique challenges you to leave your preconceived ideas at the door, acting instead with truthful and spontaneous behavior.

You’ll gain the confidence to walk into any room and consistently give a richly-sourced performance.

Our classes build core skills to create authentic, rich performances, focusing on four components:

  • Listening
  • Responding truthfully
  • Emotional availability
  • Imagination and improvisation

Meisner’s tradition is carried on in our Two Year Professional Acting Conservatory. As he liked to say, “The first year is about putting money in the bank. The second year is about learning to spend it wisely.” And with our Career Essentials program, you’ll be learning how to invest that money in ways that will pay dividends for your acting career future.

A minimalist classroom with several rows of bright orange chairs facing a desk at the front. Large windows in the back let in natural light, and walls are adorned with acoustic panels and curtains. A sign with "TK" is visible, while a compact module library sits unobtrusively in the corner.

Our Approach to the Meisner Technique

Terry Knickerbocker first discovered the Meisner technique as a young actor training under William Esper, who studied directly under Sanford Meisner himself. Over the next few years, Esper would impart his knowledge to Terry. Since then, Terry has worked closely with some of the best and brightest performers, including critically-acclaimed and award-winning actors. He teaches the Meisner technique to talented students and working professionals from around the world.

Learn About Our Alumni

Your Identity Meets the Craft and Becomes Art

We see our students as training in preparation to tell important and necessary stories. At TKS, you’ll be equipped mentally, physically, and emotionally for the rigors of being an actor, while learning how to consistently access your talents to tell the stories only you can tell. The hard work you’ll do will also be supported by a passionate, collaborative, and like-minded community. At the end of your time here, you’ll leave with a finely-tuned instrument: of heart, mind, body, and voice.

Integrating the Meisner Technique into Our Curriculum

Terry and his teachers bring a unique approach to the structured Meisner technique, believing in the value of each artist. The faculty are attuned to the voices of each individual student, taking great care and joy in the development of their craft. There is no cookie cutter approach here.