Free Training Initiative (FTI)

Classical Text & Ensemble Rehearsal for Actors

A two-week intensive for working actors on rehearsing classical texts joyfully, effectively, and efficiently.

Building on Fiasco’s almost two decades of training experience and our commitment to providing affordable training, this two-week intensive workshop gives working actors the tools to create unique performances rooted in language and physicality. Participants will be introduced to Fiasco’s approach to rehearsing Shakespeare’s verse and prose through monologues, scenes, and group text work, leaving with a toolkit for both preparation and rehearsal. 

Rounding out the program will be workshops with other Fiasco company members/special guests, a group evening to see Fiasco’s production of The Verge at The Public Theater, and the opportunity to observe the Fiasco company in rehearsal.

Applications open August 24th

ABOUT THIS PROGRAM

Date and Time: Tuesday-Friday, November 10-13 and 17-20  
11:00am to 4:00pm (lunch break daily from 1-1:45pm) 

Location: The Public Theater 

Teachers: Fiasco Company Members to be Announced 

Questions? Email classes@fiascotheater.com

Please note: This program is not intended for individuals who are currently enrolled in a full-time acting/theater training program (undergraduate, graduate, or certificate programs) or alums of our other training initiatives. 

Capacity: This program will be capped at 12 participants.

Timeline: 

Applications Open: Monday, August 24, 2026
Application Deadline: Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 11:59pm OR once 50 applications are received 
Callback Notifications: by Friday, September 11, 2026 

In-Person Callbacks (location in Manhattan TBA): Friday, September 18

Applications open August 24th

Who is this FTI for? 

  • Working actors who want to reinvigorate their individual acting process and relationship to classical text. 

    • We are defining “working actors” as individuals who are actively working, auditioning and/or pursuing work as an actor.

  • Artists who are specifically interested in Fiasco’s approach to making theater as an ensemble, and excited to build a community of other actors and theater artists through this cohort.  

  • Students who have not previously trained with Fiasco via our Conservatory program, weeknight session-based classes, or another Free Training Initiative/FTI.  

    • If you have taken one day or fewer of classes/workshops with us, you are still eligible to apply!

  • Available for the full program dates and times, including an in-person callback on September 18. 

APPLICATION

The FTI Application will open on Monday, August 24th and will include the following components: 

  • Contact Information 

  • About You  

    • How did you hear about this program?

    • What experience (if any) do you have with Fiasco (audience member, previous work with Fiasco company members, etc.)? 

    • Do you have any access needs you would like us to be aware of? 

    • Please upload your headshot. Please name the file "firstname_lastname".

    • Please upload your resume. Please name the file "firstname_lastname". In your resume, please include your theater credits and past acting/theater training. 

    • Reference

      • Please include the name, email address, phone number, and relationship of someone who can speak to your work as an actor. 

  • Personal Statement & Context (Written or Video Submission) 

    • Please write a 250-500 word personal statement (or record a 2-4 minute video), reflecting how Fiasco's Free Training Initiative might support your growth as an actor and artist. Here are some questions to get your personal statement started: 

      • Why would you like to participate in this Free Training Initiative with Fiasco and what do you hope to gain from this experience at this specific moment in your career?  

      • Tell us about your previous actor training experiences.  Where do you see opportunities for continued growth and learning? 

      • As an actor and artist, what do you feel are your strengths? What are you excited to bring to a collaborative learning space? 

      • We'd like to learn more about what you are doing to sustain yourself financially. If you are currently employed (either in a theater-related or non-related job), please tell us what you do! This helps us understand where folks are coming from and how this program can meet the needs of working actors.

  • Shakespeare Monologue (Video Submission) 

    • We want to see your work! Please provide us with a video of a monologue from a Shakespeare play (about 2 minutes, and please avoid internal cuts as much as possible). 

    • Please provide a link to a video. (If using Google Drive, please ensure you've allowed anyone with access to the link to view.)

Applications open August 24th