Welcome to

The Performer’s Academy

Orange County’s Premiere Acting & Performing Arts Studio Since 2003. Offering Classes for All Ages.

Parenting OC Readers’ Choice Award 2025 Winner:

Best Theatre Class!

What is The Performer’s Academy? Not your average acting studio.

The Performer's Academy has been in operation for over 20 years and is recognized as one of Orange County's top performing arts studios. As a family-owned and operated business, we are dedicated to nurturing our students' talents and fostering self-expression. Our motto is "Dream, Believe, Become," emphasizing the journey from dreaming to believing in oneself and ultimately becoming a dedicated artist.

Our classes are taught by experienced professionals, including film directors, writers, producers, and working actors. We offer various classes, including Improv, On-Camera & Auditioning Techniques, Cold Reading, Scene Study, Vocal Training, Voice-Over, and Musical Theater.

We are a bonded facility, and all our instructors hold Child Performer Services Permits (CPS) as required by the state of California.

Upcoming Events

Summer Camp 2026 - 10 Different Weeks! - Students dive into acting, singing, and choreography while building confidence, creativity, and stage presence. Each week is packed with high-energy rehearsals, character development, vocal training, and a final showcase performance where campers shine for family and friends. Whether your child is brand new to musical theater or already loves the stage, our camp provides a fun, supportive, and inspiring environment to grow as a performer and make unforgettable summer memories.

Actors Forum 2027 - This dynamic event brings together aspiring and experienced performers for an inspiring experience filled with industry insights, live showcases, and meaningful connections. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from working professionals, refine their craft, and gain a real-world perspective on today’s acting landscape. Whether you're stepping on stage for the first time or continuing to build your career, Actors Forum 2027 is designed to educate, elevate, and ignite your artistic journey.

The Performer’s Academy Alumni

  • Noah Munck

    Noah Munck is an American actor, comedian, YouTube personality, and music producer. Noah first broke into the entertainment business as a commercial actor at age 10 with a Volkswagen spot followed by a national "Got Milk?" and a campaign for Kellogg's. Shortly after that, the talented young actor co-starred in several television series, including "All of Us" (2003), "American Body Shop" (2007), and 1321 Clover (2007). He also guest-starred in "Rules of Engagement" (2007), "Wizards of Waverly Place" (2007), and "ER" (1994).

    In 2007, Noah landed the role of Gibby on Nickelodeon's hit series "iCarly" (2007), and "Naked Rob" Smith in the ABC comedy series The Goldbergs (2014). Noah made his feature film debut as the foul-mouthed tough guy Ryan Tucker in The Rainbow Tribe (2008). Noah's filmography also includes roles in All About Steve (2009), Four Christmases (2008), and Bad Teacher (2011).

  • Cozi Zuehlsdorff

    Cozi Zuehlsdorff is an American actress and singer. Her career began when she was cast as Hazel in the feature film Dolphin Tale (2011) alongside Harry Connick Jr. and Morgan Freeman. She went on to star in the sequel, Dolphin Tale 2 (2014). In 2017, she starred with Willie Nelson in Pure Country Pure Heart (2017), where she played a young country music singer.

    In 2018, she starred opposite Broadway star Heidi Blickenstaff as Ellie Blake in the Disney Channel Original Movie Freaky Friday (2018). Along the way, Cozi has also appeared in David E. Kelley's Monday Mornings (2013), Disney Channel's series Liv and Maddie (2013), K.C. Undercover (2015), and Mighty Med (2013).

    In November 2014, she released her debut EP, Originals.

  • Aaron Chao

    Aaron Chao is an up-and-coming young actor from Orange County, CA, who is currently appearing as Young Simba in the national touring company of Disney’s The Lion King, one of Broadway’s most beloved and enduring musicals.

    Aaron discovered his passion for performing at the age of five and has since appeared in local theatre productions, voiceover work, television, and film. Now making his professional and tour debut in The Lion King, he brings heart, energy, and charisma to this iconic role—sharing the journey of Simba with audiences across the country.

    Aaron is deeply grateful for the love and support of his family, friends, coaches, and the entire creative team who helped him reach this exciting milestone in his young career.

  • Edie Youmans

    Edison “Edie” Youmans is an American actress. Her first appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live as a panelist in 2015. She continued to work on Jimmy Kimmel and has since filmed with the program 7 additional times.

    Also in 2018, Edie booked a national commercial campaign for Comcast Xfinity. She has since filmed 3 additional commercials, 1 print campaign, and 3 radio ads over the next several months on both coasts.

    Edie has also lent her talents on the big screen as 'Young Kelly' in the film "Glass Jaw" in which she portrayed the younger sister of a champion boxer who grew up in a trailer park with an abusive father (played by Jon Gries).

  • Armen Nahapetian

    Armen Nahapetian is a Huntington Beach native star who is quickly on the rise in the entertainment industry, with a growing list of impressive roles in both film and television at just 16 years old. Armen broke into the industry in 2017 with his debut role in Seth McFarlane's space comedy-adventure series "The Orville," where he got an up-close look behind the scenes at the cinematic magic that brings stories to life.

    Nahapetian's April 2023 role in Ari Aster's "Beau is Afraid," in which he starred as Joaquin Phoenix's titular character's younger self, debuted to great critical acclaim.

  • Luca Luhan

    Luca Luhan is a rising new talent who has successfully crossed comedy and drama. He stars as "Bose," a superhero in training, on the Henry Danger spin-off Danger Force (Nickelodeon) and was recently nominated for a Kid's Choice Award for "Favorite TV Actor" for this role.

    Early in his career, Luhan booked two pilots: the single-camera comedy Adam & Eve (Fox) and a recurring role on Less Than Zero (Hulu). Since then, he has recurred as "Bryce" in Mixed-ish (ABC), as "Bose" in Henry Danger (Nickelodeon), and as "Anthony" in the film Annabelle Comes Home (Warner Bros).

  • Nick Roux

    Nick Roux, at the age of 17, kick-started his acting career. Roux's career as an actor began when he landed roles on the Disney series "Wizards of Waverly Place" (2007-2011) and the ABC Family series "Pretty Little Liars" (2010-2017).

    He went on to act in "Lemonade Mouth" (2010-11), "Jane by Design" (ABC Family, 2011-12), and "Jennifer Falls" (TV Land, 2013-14). He also appeared in "Young & Hungry" (ABC Family, 2013-). More recently, Roux appeared in "Stolen From the Suburbs" (2014-15).

  • Max Page

    Max Page is an American Actor. He is known for playing a young pint-sized Darth Vader in the leaked Volkswagen Passat Superbowl Commercial that went viral on YouTube 4 days before the Superbowl. The video received over 12 million views in four days.

    Max has also been featured on Prime Suspect (2011), The Young and the Restless (1973), and One Mississippi (2015).

    Page is a heart patient at Children's Hospital Los Angeles for treatment of Tetralogy of Fallot, a heart defect found in children.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO TRY A CLASS?

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Owner’s Message

Brianne Wirsch

Owner & CEO

When I was five years old, I had a big personality, but only around people I knew well. My mom thought I’d be perfect for commercials, but she didn’t anticipate how painfully shy I’d be with strangers. After all, there’s no such thing as a class called “How Not to Be Shy.”

That’s where acting came in. Taking acting classes helped me build confidence and self-esteem in a way nothing else could. The skills I gained didn’t just help on stage; they translated to every part of my life.

At The Performer’s Academy, we believe in the power of performance to unlock potential. Whether students dream of performing on stage or screen, or want to gain life skills like public speaking, collaboration, and self-expression, TPA is a place where growth happens.

Not everyone who trains with us is chasing a career in the entertainment industry. Nearly half of our students come to explore the art of acting and have fun. Time and time again, parents tell us how their children have grown in confidence, built meaningful friendships, and discovered new parts of themselves, all while having fun.

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Testimonials

  • "My family and I are absolutely thrilled and Impressed with our experience at The Performer's Academy! As a family with a son aspiring to become an actor, we've found not just a training ground but a community that feels like home. The professionalism of the acting coaches, the hands-on approach of the owner, and the excellent management team make this academy stand out. The diverse range of acting techniques and genres covered, combined with the caring and successful coaches who are working professionals in the industry, ensure students receive training that is second to none. From young children to adults, everyone finds their place here, fostering friendships and bonds beyond the classroom. The dedication of our son, who attends every class offered, speaks volumes about the quality of instruction and the supportive environment. Private training caters to individual needs, whether it's for a specific audition or to refine skills in a more intimate setting. These coaches and mentors bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education in acting. The Performer's Academy is not just a place of learning but a hub of creativity, friendship, and opportunity. To the Ownership, Management, and Staff: You are all very impressive! Thank you for creating such a remarkable institution!"

    Lance & Darya S.

  • "This academy is top notch! I took a leap of faith to help my daughter enter into the world of acting. The moment I walked into The Performer's Academy, I was met with warm, honest, and supportive people. They have helped guide my daughter in an amazing way, and are there to help with everything from headshots, to learning, and dealing with agents. They truly want to see people succeed, and are all in every step of the way. I feel comfortable sending my daughter there. I know she is safe, and among staff who truly care. I know they are looking out for her, and her best interest. I highly recommend this business for serious actors, and those that just want to have fun, and build their confidence. Five stars just isn’t enough!"

    Susan B.

  • "I've been a student at The Performer's Academy for several years and highly encourage anyone interested to give it a try. The staff and teachers at the school are dedicated to helping you succeed with whatever your goals may be. I've learned invaluable information about acting, the entertainment industry, and earned many personable skills from public speaking to simply gaining much more confidence in myself. I've attended several acting schools in Orange County as well as in Los Angeles, but have always gravitated to The Performer's Academy. From an outside perspective, becoming a working actor seems like an intangible profession, but when provided with the right tools and assets, the things you've only dreamed of start becoming reality. I participated in their 2024 Actors Forum and was able to meet several amazing agents and managers and sign with a team I feel confident in. I currently take Paris' masterclass, which I highly recommend, and learn ample amounts of new skills even after years of attendance. Regardless of age, whether you want to try acting seriously or just for fun, The Performer's Academy is an amazing place to start, grow, and flourish!"

    Devyn K.

  • "I have been taking classes here for about a year, and it has been an incredibly positive and supportive experience for me! All of my interactions with teachers, staff, ownership and other students have been extremely positive. In fact, this place feels like an additional family in my life. My most consistent exposure has been to the monologue class (for older kids and adults) on Wednesdays with Paris. He is an incredibly gifted teacher, actor and person - and I say that comparing him to all the teachers I've had in my life in all disciplines . I can't speak highly enough of him and that class. But I've immensely enjoyed the other classes I've taken there as well (Musetta on Saturdays). I do this only for fun and learning the craft, but it seems like an excellent place for those who wish to act professionally. This industry seems like it can be cutthroat, but somehow I feel a connection to the people here that feels more like community and friendship than a business or transactional. I hope everyone else feels the same as I do."

    Ali N.

  • "I've been incredibly impressed with The Performer's Academy and their dedication to nurturing young talent. My daughter has been attending classes here for nearly five years, and the staff has consistently been professional, informative, and supportive of her acting aspirations. The academy has provided her with a solid foundation in acting techniques and has helped her develop essential skills for the industry. Thanks to their guidance, she has achieved significant milestones, including signing with an agent and securing roles in several commercials. I highly recommend The Performer's Academy to any parent seeking a quality acting program for their child."

    Tim T.

  • “I stumbled across The Performer's Academy two and a half years ago. Having grown up in an acting family, I knew right away I had found a genuine acting program, one that hires working actors and directors as teachers. This direct connection to the film industry gives students professional-level preparation for on-camera work. But The Performer's Academy isn't just a training program for those who have already decided they want to be an actor. It also gives students space to develop and explore acting in a genuinely supportive environment. Two years later my daughter now goes twice a week, auditions for paying roles, and has an agent. The Performer's Academy showed my daughter what I knew all along: that she is an actor, that she is an artist, and above all, that she matters. Thank you to all the teachers and staff for making that transformation possible!”

    Rachel R.

  • "A true hidden gem here in Lake Forest. My wife discovered this place for our (3 years old at the time, 10 now) daughter to learn about acting as it seemed a natural fit for her personality. It was one of the best things we could ever do for her. She truly loves coming here and learning with her friends and instructors. It's her home away from home. The owner Brianne treats everyone like family. Because of their tutelage, our daughter has been signed to one of the best agencies around and has been in a few commercials as well. If you have a child who has that outgoing personality or one that is shy and needs encouragement to break out of their shell, this is the place for them. It's fun, educational, and a great space to encourage and build up children's confidence. Our entire family loves this place and the incredible people who make it so!"

    Ken H.

  • "I started coming to the Performer’s Academy during my first year of college, and it was the best decision I have ever made. The teachers here are incredibly talented and supportive, coming from all different backgrounds and specialties. The manager, Tatiana, is INCREDIBLE and has been so supportive of me and works with my insanely hectic schedule, and the owner, Brianne, is one of the kindest people you will meet. Whether you want to act professionally or just make friends and learn fun skills, this is definitely the place for you!! I highly recommend the Performers’ Academy to everyone of all ages."

    Veonn M.