Not to brag...but these testimonials from Conservatory alumni are proof positive that training at the Conservatory is positive, effective and even fun!
Alumni share with you their experiences during training as well as in the professional world.
And if you have questions - our alumni have answers! If you would like for a Conservatory alumnus to be in touch with you to answer your questions let us hear from you! E-mail our Director of Admissions Nan Ficca at: NFicca@TheConservatory.org and she will forward your e-mail to the alumni who can best answer your question.
The Conservatory changed my life!
Robert Straley, Class of 2000
Without the Conservatory, I wouldn't be where I am today - well trained, motivated, and successful as a working actor. Each time I audition or am cast - everything I learned at the Conservatory is confirmed. It's a great feeling to know that your time and money were well spent!
Elizabeth Burke - Class of 2000
Not being afraid of the audition, not having to wonder what will happen, knowing that you are ready for whatever they throw at you, having a foundation in practically all theatre styles and genres, having a support network all over the city and beyond that, having doors open to you even after you've completed your training, that is what the Conservatory gives you. It's never just you and the audition--you take it all with you. It's what puts you ahead of everyone else, every single time.
Estuardo Minano - Class of 2002
The Faculty at The Conservatory are highly talented, dedicated and nurturing professionals from a variety of backgrounds in the entertainment industry, and people I have grown to love, respect and greatly admire. Their insight and their knowledge have enriched my learning and understanding of the craft and the business. The high level of commitment they exercise and the encouraging environment they create for students made my experience richly rewarding. The training and guidance I have received have not only allowed me to develop a firm and extremely solid foundation on which to build my acting career, but have made me even more committed, confident, dedicated and prepared for the life of an actor.
Frank Britton - Class of 2000
My experience at the Conservatory was better and harder than I ever expected. The Conservatory helped me utilize stengths I had already and to develop new ones to sharpen my craft. The program is about learning the craft of acting, not just about performing, which serves me well in the world of film and television.
Michael Standifer - Class of 1999
At the age of 26 and having completed my Bachelor's degree I wanted to pursue a career in acting. I entered the Conservatory with nothing but a dream, and left with my dream stronger than ever, and something money cannot buy--the skills to make this dream come true. There is magic within the halls of the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts. This magic comes from the commitment of a most qualified and dedicated faculty and staff.
Jennifer Nall Straley - Class of 1999
While looking for an acting program I came across an ad in the paper for a free Preview Workshop at the Conservatory and decided to attend the workshop to learn more. In that two hour class I was convinced that the Conservatory was where I needed to be. LIttle did I know then, that this would be the best career decision I ever made. I was priviledged to work with an exceptional faculty and fellow students who are now my dearest friends. I was always eager to come to class because it was such a joy. Is it hard work? Yes. But it is worth it! Now that I am out in the professional world I feel well prepared and confident.
Lynn Ritland - Class of 2007
My experience training at the Conservatory was one I will treasure all my life. Only a month after graduation I was on a national tour, and I spent my first year after school exploring the country and doing shows in over 30 states. The Conservatory taught me how to be a professional, how to find work, and most importantly, how to act. There is no better acting school in the Mid-Atlantic region, and I would recommend The Conservatory to ANY aspiring actor.
Doug Wilder - Class of 2005
I had taken acting classes at several places in the D.C. area prior to learning about the Conservatory, and, while I did learn from those classes, I did not get the comprehensive instruction about acting that you find at the Conservatory. They don’t just provide students with the tools to be an actor, they prepare you with an understanding of the business – what you need to know and do when you’re not on stage. And it doesn’t stop once you’ve completed the program. They keep you informed of opportunities, and encourage students and friends to see shows featuring alumni. NCDA truly is a home with an ever-growing family.
Not to brag...but these testimonials from Conservatory alumni are proof positive that training at the Conservatory is positive, effective and even fun! 
I had taken acting classes at several places in the D.C. area prior to learning about the Conservatory, and, while I did learn from those classes, I did not get the comprehensive instruction about acting that you find at the Conservatory. They don’t just provide students with the tools to be an actor, they prepare you with an understanding of the business – what you need to know and do when you’re not on stage. And it doesn’t stop once you’ve completed the program. They keep you informed of opportunities, and encourage students and friends to see shows featuring alumni. NCDA truly is a home with an ever-growing family.