F.A.Q

Current Courses
Funding permitting we will make Clasrùm 1 available for £5 per hour.
(80 hours) cost: £400

Future Courses
In the future we will you can participate in Clasrùm 2 and Clasrùm 3 for £10 per hour.

Both courses run 10am until 6pm five days a week for four weeks.
(160 hours) cost: £1600

There are no admin costs or auditions costs to pay, it’s all included.


Once funding is confirmed and we offer you a place, fees are due four weeks before the start date.

Fees and bursaries

Participant fees cover a small part of the cost. The remainder will be subsidised by Creative Scotland if our bid is successful. We offer a limited number of bursaries for people on low incomes. We also ringfence an access fund to support at least four participants with travel, a support worker, childcare or other needs. Ask in confidence.

Paying

You can pay by instalment. A deposit will hold your place for seven days after an offer. We will not take any payment until funding is confirmed.

Refunds
Full refund within fourteen days of payment. Fifty per cent refund up to four weeks before the start date. No refund after that unless we can fill the place. If we cancel, you receive a full refund.


Your contribution helps pay for fair fees for tutors and delivery, room hire, insurance, documentation, evaluation, modest marketing and design, refreshments, and the access fund.

No.
Simply fill in the form on this website.
Explain who you are and why you are interested in the clasrùm you have chosen. Thereafter you will be contacted and at that point you may need to chat on zoom with us.

Register interest
Share your contact details to hear when dates are confirmed. Once we have a decision, we will invite expressions of interest with one short task. There are no audition fees. We aim to reply within a week. We will not advertise or recruit before confirmation.

Clasrùm classes are planned to take place in Glasgow in Scotland. We will use the same city centre rehearsal studios for all classes.

In the future, we may expand Clasrùm to other cities, perhaps including locations beyond Scotland.

For almost thirty years, I’ve had this notion: If we added up all the hours we spent specifically focused on relevant acting techniques during our full-time training as actors, it might only amount to a month or two. Of course, that doesn’t include the practical experience gained from making student shows. But to be honest, I always found classes more helpful than rehearsing for shows, and I still do.

I shifted from acting to directing because I wanted to dedicate more of the rehearsal room time to refining a bespoke process for each actor and each show. In 1994, I founded theatre babel with the specific aim of creating space for a robust methodology within the rehearsal process, something often overshadowed by the pressures of a looming opening night.

Since then, I’ve created countless theatre projects for companies in many places around the world. I’ve worked with hundreds of actors globally and auditioned countless more. What I discovered is that the actors most in demand weren’t necessarily those who graduated from the most established acting schools. They were the ones who were confident in their own ways of working and open to collaborating with new people.

I enjoyed creating those shows, but the most rewarding part of the process has always been developing and learning with actors in the rehearsal room. Across my career, I’ve taught and directed in numerous theatre schools worldwide, focusing on helping actors uncover subtext, explore the layers beneath dialogue, listen and respond authentically to their scene partners, and remain fully present while truthfully reacting to the given circumstances.

This is the work I love to do most.

For more than thirty years, I’ve been striving to make theatre more inclusive, to ensure that anyone, regardless of their income, race, physical ability, postcode, gender, or sexuality, can participate in theatre, whether as an audience member or an artist. Yet I’m deeply frustrated by the return of elitism in the industry. It’s becoming harder and harder for people to afford acting training, let alone sustain a career in acting.

I believe that the root of the problem is that many acting schools have lost their way. They are no longer driven by artists who deeply care about the craft, but by administrators who do not understand the profession. This shift has led to a decline in meaningful, practical training, and as a result, the acting profession is failing to reflect the society we live in.

I believe it’s essential to bring people from all backgrounds into the industry. That’s why I’ve created Clasrùm, a project offering affordable, short, and intensive acting courses designed to put the focus back on the art of acting. Clasrúm is about practical, artist-led training that helps actors thrive by reconnecting with the essence of the craft.

Graham McLaren

Graham is an award winning theatre maker and cultural leader. As an artistic director, and curator, he has produced, directed and designed over seventy productions across four continents, ranging from totally improvised and devised shows to classical plays, working with national theatres and commercial producers from Europe, America and Asia. He has performed, designed, curated, written, devised, taught, improvised, choreographed, programmed, directed and produced. He has collaborated with Hollywood, Broadway and West End stars, dancers, puppeteers, circus performers, high school students and asylum seekers.

His first professional engagement was as an actor at the age of twelve, appearing on stage and television screens as an actor for the next decade. He trained as a dancer until the age of eighteen. He trained as an actor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, during Glasgow's European City Of Culture celebrations.

At the age of 24, he established the internationally acclaimed Theatre Babel, and after a few years along side his role as Babel’s Artistic Director, he joined the creative team helping to reinvigorate Perth Theatre, Scotland. Between 2008 and 2011, he was Associate with the acclaimed theatre company Necessary Angel in Canada. Between 2011 and 2016 he was Associate Director for the newly established, National Theatre of Scotland. In 2016 he spent five years as Artistic Director and joint CEO of Ireland’s National Theatre.

Between 2022 and 2025 McLaren led Creative Glasgow as Executive Director, establishing it as an important cultural organisation for Greater Glasgow. He developed its strategy, governance, and funding, supporting artists and encouraging collaboration. In 2025, he launched Clasrùm and returns to the stage to collaborate with Scott Silven on ‘The Lost Things’ at the Sydney Opera House.

Graham McLaren describes his method as “a bit of a mongrel,” adapting freely and stealing openly from Alfreds, Meisner, and Stanislavsky while also drawing inspiration from the physical dynamism of Jacques Lecoq and the raw, visceral energy of contemporary dance companies like Wim Vandekeybus Ultima Vez and Hofesh Shechter.

His approach is vigorous, embodied, and rooted in action, ensuring actors are fully engaged, present, and responsive in every moment of performance. He demands both physical commitment and psychological depth, pushing actors to explore the full complexity of human behaviour with precision and truth.


His training is highly practical and designed for results. Drawing from the explosive physicality of Vandekeybus and Shechter, he encourages actors to move with full bodied commitment, breaking habitual patterns and discovering new ways of inhabiting character and narrative. He strips away artifice, habitual tension, and self consciousness, replacing them with instinct, responsiveness, and clarity of action. His work challenges actors to go beyond surface level emotion, requiring them to explore the psychological depth of their characters through action and intention rather than imitation or display.


Through his proven methods, McLaren consistently equips actors with the skills to deliver performances that are not only compelling and truthful but also psychologically complex and deeply affecting. His work is demanding, but the results are undeniable. Actors leave his process with a profound ability to embody character, command the stage, and adapt instinctively in performance.

The vocal component within the classroom offers students the opportunity to refine and transform their expressive abilities. By exploring techniques that promote ease and curiosity, participants come away with a deeper understanding of how to communicate with clarity, resonance, and emotional authenticity. They develop the skills to use their voice with confidence, adaptability, and artistic intent.

Through daily guidance from an experienced voice director, students discover the full potential of their unique vocal instrument. Tailored exercises and exploratory sessions equip them with practical tools to engage with a wide range of dramatic texts and performance styles. Beyond technical proficiency, students leave the training with a heightened awareness of the interplay between body, breath, and voice, empowering them to deliver performances that are both compelling and deeply connected.

The movement component of the classroom helps students build a strong connection with their bodies, giving them the tools to meet the physical demands of professional training and performance. By learning safe and effective movement techniques, students reduce the risk of injury and create a solid foundation for a lasting career.

By the end of the training, students will be able to move with ease, control, and confidence, adapting their movement to fit a wide range of performance styles. They will also gain the ability to incorporate choreographed steps into their work, increasing their versatility and expressive abilities on stage. This training ensures they are ready to meet the challenges of any creative project.

The casting classes give students the tools to approach auditions with confidence, clarity, and professionalism. Working closely with the casting director and Graham, students will refine their techniques and develop strategies to take control of the audition process. Through practical exercises and one-on-one coaching, they will gain the skills to adapt to the unique expectations of both theatre and television auditions.

In today’s industry, a well-honed casting technique is almost as important as the craft of acting itself. With the rise of in-person, Zoom, and self-taping auditions, it is essential to navigate these mediums effectively and professionally. By the end of the training, students will know how to present their strengths and individuality, make a strong impression, and better understand the business side of acting. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in casting, acting, and directing, the programme equips students to handle a wide range of audition scenarios with poise and confidence.

Clasrùm 1: The start (Two Weeks)

Open to people aged eighteen and over. Tailored for all experience levels.

Clasrùm 1 is an intensive two week course for people who are new to acting or returning to training. It blends physical, vocal and acting technique with practical scene work and simple collaborative tasks. The teaching is responsive so each person works at the right level. You will gain skills and confidence you can carry into further study and creative work.

Led by experienced tutors, including Graham McLaren, the learning is practical and structured. The room is small, focused and supportive.

Course overview

Morning sessions (10.00am to 11.00am): Physicality in acting
Led by a movement director, you will explore:
• Body awareness and how physical choices shape character
• Techniques to develop a clear stage presence
• Movement practice to improve flexibility, focus and readiness

Mid morning sessions (11.00am to 12.00pm): Vocal technique
Led by a voice director, you will cover:
• Breath work and warm ups for range and projection
• Articulation and ease in spoken text
• How vocal dynamics support character and story

Afternoon sessions (1.00pm to 6.00pm): Acting fundamentals with Graham McLaren

Week one: Foundations and character
• Acting principles including objectives, obstacles and tactics
• Practical exercises and short scenes to understand action and intention
• Imagination and improvisation to build believable character
• Physical and emotional choices that serve the moment

Week two: Scene work and collaboration
• Script analysis and scene study with contemporary and classical text
• Rehearsals that apply analysis to character and relationships
• Learning the rehearsal process, taking direction and working as an ensemble
• Blocking and refining scenes for clarity and truth
• Audition focus with our casting director covering material choice, self tape practice and room craft for theatre, TV and film

At the end of Clasrùm 1 you will spend time with our casting director to focus your audition work for theatre, TV and film.

What you will gain by the end of Clasrùm 1
• Acting foundations: clear understanding of objectives, tactics and character
• Physical and vocal technique: stronger presence, breath, projection and articulation
• Scene work: practical experience of analysis, rehearsal and performance
• Collaboration: confidence in ensemble work and in taking direction
• Auditions: clearer choices, stronger self tapes, and practical room craft for theatre, TV and film

Why choose Clasrùm 1

• Expert guidance: learn with Graham McLaren and experienced tutors
• Comprehensive training: physicality, voice and acting in one clear programme
• Supportive environment: steady progress in a focused, encouraging room


When 
Dates to be confirmed.
Where 
Glasgow.
Fee 
To be confirmed.
How to take part 
Register interest.

We will announce details once dates are confirmed.

Clasrùm 2 : Introduction to Professional Acting


Clasrùm 2 is an intensive four-week course designed for individuals who are new to acting or seeking to build their foundational skills. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to professional acting, blending physical, vocal, and acting techniques with practical scene work and collaborative exercises. Participants will gain the skills and confidence to explore acting further and apply these techniques in creative settings.

Led by experienced tutors, including Graham McLaren, Clasrùm 1 focuses on practical learning in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Course Overview

Morning Sessions (10am–11am): Physicality in Acting
Led by a Movement Director, participants will explore:
     •     Body awareness and the relationship between physicality and characterisation.
     •     Techniques to cultivate a commanding physical presence on stage.
     •     Movement exercises designed to enhance performance flexibility and focus.

Mid-Morning Sessions (11am–12pm): Vocal Techniques
Under the guidance of a Voice Director, participants will cover:
     •     Breath control and vocal warm-ups to improve range and projection.
     •     Techniques for effective articulation and emotional vocal expression.
     •     Exploring how vocal dynamics enhance character and storytelling.

Afternoon Sessions (1pm–6pm): Acting Fundamentals with Graham McLaren
Practical sessions include:

Week 1: Foundations of Acting Techniques
     •     Introduction to basic acting principles, including objectives, obstacles, and tactics.
     •     Practical exercises and scene work focusing on understanding action and intention.

Week 2: Character Development
     •     Imaginative exercises and improvisation techniques to create believable characters.
     •     Exploring the physical and emotional aspects of characterisation.

Week 3: Scene Work
     •     Scene study and script analysis, focusing on character motivation and relationships.
     •     Rehearsals to apply characterisation and analysis to scenes from a variety of plays.

Week 4: Collaborative Performance
     •     Learning the rehearsal process, including taking direction and ensemble storytelling.
     •     Collaborative scene rehearsals, blocking, and refining scenes.

What You’ll Gain by the End of Clasrùm 2
     •     Acting Foundations: A solid understanding of basic acting principles, including objectives, tactics, and characterisation.
     •     Physical and Vocal Techniques: Enhanced physical awareness, stage presence, and vocal projection skills.
     •     Scene Work Experience: Practical knowledge of script analysis, scene study, and character development.
     •     Collaborative Skills: Confidence in working within an ensemble and taking direction in rehearsals.

Why Choose Clasrùm 2?
     •     Expert Guidance: Learn from Graham McLaren and other experienced tutors who are passionate about nurturing new talent.
     •     Comprehensive Training: Gain a well-rounded introduction to acting, covering physicality, voice, and performance.
     •     Supportive Environment: Work alongside peers in an encouraging and creative atmosphere.



When 
Dates to be confirmed.
Where 
Glasgow.
Fee 
To be confirmed.
How to take part 
Register interest.

We will announce details once dates are confirmed.

Clasrúm 3: Professional Development

Refining Your Craft, Expanding Your Potential

Clasrùm 3 is a month-long intensive course in Glasgow, designed for actors seeking to refine their craft and develop the tools needed to thrive in the competitive acting industry. Led by acclaimed theatre director Graham McLaren, this hands-on programme focuses on advanced acting techniques, movement, and voice work. Through small group sessions and individualised feedback, participants will explore both classical and contemporary texts while addressing the challenges of performing for stage and screen.

The course culminates in a Performance Showcase, where participants will present their work to invited industry guests and receive tailored feedback to guide their future development.

Course Overview

Week 1: 
Foundations of Advanced Acting Techniques
     •     Introduction to advanced methodologies, including Stanislavski, Grotowski, Strasberg, Meisner, Le Coq, and Alfreds.
     •     Exploration of embodied, interdisciplinary, and culturally inclusive approaches to acting.

Week 2: 
Techniques in Performance and Interpretation
     •     Actor-centred approaches to text work.
     •     Constructive, work-focused feedback to refine devised scenes.

Week 3: 
Techniques in Performance and Interpretation
     •     Application of advanced techniques to interpret, invent, and perform scenes.
     •     Study of exceptional plays by Chekhov, Ibsen, Reza, Crimp, Stoppard, Pinter, Churchill, Kane, McDonagh, Butterworth, Letts, and Nottage.

Week 4: 
Embodied Approaches and Creative Practice Development
     •     Experimentation with ensemble performance techniques.
     •     Development of individual creative practice through practical application and reflection.

Throughout the course, participants will engage in practical exercises, scene work, and discussions aimed at deepening their understanding of advanced acting techniques and creative performance practices. Learning is supported by research, reflection, and expert guidance from Graham McLaren, equipping participants to revitalise today’s acting landscape with bold and intuitive performances.

What You’ll Gain by the End of Clasrùm 3

     •     Enhanced Acting Skills: Advanced techniques in realism, naturalism, and other acting methods for stage and screen.
     •     Voice and Movement Training: Strengthened technical foundation for vocal delivery and physical performance.
     •     Audition Preparation: Strategies and confidence to excel in auditions, whether for casting or further training opportunities.
     •     Personalised Career Development: A tailored professional plan, including a polished CV, headshots, and a contact list of industry professionals.
     •     Industry Insight: Practical advice on navigating Scotland’s theatre and film industries, preparing you for success.

Why Choose Clasrùm 3?

     •     Expert Guidance: Learn from Graham McLaren, a globally recognised theatre maker deeply connected to Scottish theatre.
     •     Immersive Training: Experience intensive, practical learning in a supportive and inspiring environment.
     •     Industry Exposure: Showcase your work to local industry professionals, opening doors to new opportunities.
     •     Lifelong Connections: Join a growing network of passionate actors and mentors, building connections that last a lifetime.


When
Dates to be confirmed.

Where
Glasgow.

Fee
To be confirmed.

How to take part
Register interest.

We will announce details once dates are confirmed.

Clasrùm fosters a collaborative learning environment by creating opportunities for shared exploration, mutual respect, and open dialogue among all participants and contributors. We achieve this by:

     •     Encouraging Active Participation: 
Clasrùm invites all individuals to contribute their perspectives, recognising that every voice adds value to the learning process. This ensures a dynamic and inclusive exchange of ideas.
     •     Facilitating Peer-to-Peer Learning:
Through group discussions, workshops, and creative activities, Clasrùm emphasises the importance of learning from one another’s experiences, skills, and insights.
     •     Providing Structured and Flexible Frameworks:
While sessions are designed with clear objectives, flexibility is built into the structure to allow for organic exploration and adaptation based on participants’ needs and interests.
     •     Promoting Respect and Openness:
Clasrùm nurtures an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and making mistakes without fear of judgement. This culture of respect and openness supports risk-taking and innovation.
     •     Utilising Interactive Tools and Methods: 
Clasrùm incorporates interactive, hands-on approaches that engage participants actively, making the learning process accessible, creative, and enjoyable.
     •     Prioritising Reflection and Feedback:
Time is allocated for reflection and constructive feedback, enabling participants to consolidate their learning and share their experiences for mutual benefit.

By embedding these principles, Clasrùm creates a space where collaborative learning thrives, fostering growth, creativity, and shared achievement.

No.

If you can attend the sessions in person, you are welcome to participate. We chose Glasgow City as the location and set the start time at 10 a.m. to accommodate travel. In the future, we may expand Clasrùm to other cities, including locations beyond Scotland. We are committed to making acting training accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Clasrùm prioritises creating a safe and respectful environment for all participants. All sessions are recorded Instructors are trained to adhere to best practices in teaching and fostering an atmosphere where students feel comfortable expressing themselves. Any concerns regarding safety or well-being are promptly addressed to maintain a supportive learning environment for everyone involved.


Clasrùm is committed to ensuring best practice and creating safe, respectful, and supportive working environments for all collaborators, contributors, and participants. We achieve this by:

     •     Maintaining Clear and Transparent Policies:
Clasrùm operates with clear guidelines that promote mutual respect, professionalism, and fairness. These are communicated openly to all collaborators at the outset of any engagement.
     •     Prioritising Psychological Safety:
We foster a culture of trust and open dialogue, encouraging individuals to share their needs, raise concerns, or provide feedback without fear of judgement or reprisal.
     •     Providing Training and Resources:
Where possible, Clasrùm incorporates learning opportunities to support awareness of best practices in creating safe and inclusive spaces, particularly when working with underrepresented or marginalised groups.
     •     Adopting Flexible and Person-Centred Approaches:
Clasrùm proactively seeks to understand and accommodate individual requirements, ensuring reasonable adjustments are made to support participation and well-being.
     •     Preventing Harassment and Discrimination:
We operate a zero-tolerance approach to harassment, bullying, or discrimination and have clear processes for addressing any such issues should they arise.
     •     Collaborating with Trusted Partners:
Clasrùm works with venues, suppliers, and collaborators who share our commitment to safety, equity, and respect.

By embedding these practices into our working environments, Clasrùm strives to ensure that everyone can participate and contribute fully, free from harm and with confidence in the support available to them.

Access, inclusion, safeguarding, Fair Work and environment

Clasrùm exists to make actor training open, practical and rooted in the civic life of Glasgow. We keep courses short and affordable so that people from many backgrounds can take part and progress. We do the work in public where possible. We ask simple questions, we listen, and we act on what we hear. The aim is better work, fair work and a room where people feel welcome, respected and safe.

Access
Tell us what you need to take part. We provide step free access, a quiet space and clear advance schedules. We welcome access riders. An access fund supports at least four participants with costs such as travel, a support worker or childcare. Share needs on the register form or by email. We agree reasonable adjustments before the course begins and we review support daily.

Equality, diversity and inclusion
We work to widen who gets to train and work. Calls are open, criteria are plain and there are no audition fees. We reach beyond usual networks and reserve a small bursary pot for people on low incomes. We collect light data, learn from feedback and act where gaps appear. We take an intersectional view and stay open to change.

Safeguarding and dignity
We run respectful rooms. We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination. PVG checks and safer recruitment are used where relevant. We write risk assessments, brief rooms daily and keep codes of conduct clear. If you need to raise a concern, email us. We acknowledge within two working days and aim to respond within ten. An independent person can review if needed.

Fair Work
We follow Scottish Artists Union guidance. We pay fairly, include prep time and pay on time. Days are humane and expectations are clear. We plan with collaborators, listen to feedback and adapt where we can. Where barriers to work are higher we offer enhanced support.

Environment
We try to lower our impact while keeping standards high. We use public or shared transport and favour local venues and suppliers. We are digital first for materials, keep print to a minimum and reuse resources. We bank ethically where possible. After each course we publish a short note on impacts and the steps we will take to improve.

Funding

Clasrùm 1 is priced at £400 per person for 12 places. Total project costs are met through a mix of participant fees and public funding. Our current application to Creative Scotland seeks support to pay fair fees, room hire, access, documentation and evaluation. If funding is not confirmed we will revise dates or seek alternative support before proceeding.

Open studio and practice note

Each course ends with an open studio in Glasgow and a short practice guide shared online for the wider sector. This is part of the public benefit of Clasrùm.

Future modules
If we are succesful, we may develop and offer two four week modules. Clasrùm 2 and Clasrùm 3.

These will open only once funding and dates are confirmed. You can register interest now. We will not advertise calls for participants until confirmation.