Actors working in film, television, and theater seek training environments where craft takes priority. The Freeman Studio has built its reputation on exactly that – rigorous training, thoughtful admissions, and a close-knit community of working artists. Today, it is a highly respected professional studio in NoMad, attracting actors from across the performance industry.

Founded by longtime acting teacher Scott Freeman, the studio reflects decades of experience in theater and film, paired with focused, personalized actor training.

The Origin of The Freeman Studio

Scott Freeman’s path to teaching began with a lifelong fascination with acting and literature. “I was a kid who wanted to be an actor,” Freeman recalls. He studied theater in college and developed his approach through reading, writing, and classical text.

After graduate school in San Francisco, Freeman joined the repertory company at the American Conservatory Theater, where he was encouraged to teach as well as perform. He quickly discovered a natural ability for guiding actors. Teaching soon became central to his work. “It’s bred into me. I understand what actors are going through.”

Freeman later worked in film and television in Los Angeles before returning to theater and education.

A defining milestone came when he launched the BFA acting program at the Guthrie Theater in Minnesota. As founding head and master teacher, he trained a generation of performers. His first class included Tony Award winner Santino Fontana and actor Aya Cash, who is making her Broadway debut this season in Giant.

After returning to New York, Freeman taught at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, New York University, and Rutgers University. Over time, he identified a recurring issue. “In most places the structure was blocked in by parameters dictated by money,” Freeman says. “They weren’t primarily governed by what will best for the actor.” That realization led him to open The Freeman Studio in 2007.

Why The Freeman Studio Chose NoMad

After operating in Tribeca, Freeman paused in-person operations during the pandemic. When reopening, he looked for a location that would better serve actors traveling across the city.

He chose NoMad and the historic Townsend Building at 1123 Broadway, managed by Kew Management. The location offers convenient access from multiple boroughs and commuter lines. Freeman also values the neighborhood’s energy. “The neighborhood is open – you can breathe. There’s a creative vibe going on. You’re a part of something. Actors really like the atmosphere,” he says.

The building offers practical advantages as well. Deliveries are handled efficiently, and management is responsive. “Everyone at Kew is so accommodating,” Freeman says. “The maintenance team is great.”

Flexible lease offerings also allow the studio to grow within the building over time.

A Professional Studio in NoMad Built for Actors

The Freeman Studio was created as a focused training environment centered on actor development. Admission standards are high, requiring talent, commitment, and professional promise.

“I interview every actor,” Freeman says. “Sometimes dozens a week.” Applicants submit an audition piece, meet with staff, and then speak directly with Freeman to determine fit and placement.

The program began with trained actors and later expanded to include Start Acting for beginners and Emerging Professionals for those building careers. Classes emphasize technique and truthful performance, with attention placed on the actor’s craft. “We are nurturing, but honest,” Freeman says. “The teacher is there to support the artist.”

Actors at the studio include Broadway performers, film actors, and television professionals. Some have developed major projects through studio connections. Samantha Smart wrote and starred in Charliebird, which won the Jury Prize at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival and featured fellow actors from the studio. Another member, Mo Stark, is an actor, writer, and producer whose film Bunny is now on Netflix.

Community and Collaboration

Community is central to the studio’s culture. Actors collaborate in class and support each other’s work.

Freeman also hosts regular gatherings. Freeman Fridays welcome actors, playwrights, and industry professionals for informal conversations. Guests have included notable actors actors Paul Giamatti, John Douglas Thompson, and actress Amy Ryan.

The studio also offers Freeminars, free sessions exploring subjects such as Shakespeare dialects and voice.

Looking Ahead

The Freeman Studio continues to expand its reach and programming. It recently opened a new studio in Toronto, where Scott Freeman now travels regularly to teach.

He is also developing a writing unit connecting playwrights with actors from the studio. Discussions are underway with Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright Martyna Majok, author of Cost of Living and the upcoming Public Theater production of Girl, Interrupted.

The initiative supports actors who write and create original work. Freeman notes that this tradition dates back centuries, citing William Shakespeare as a well-known example.

Moving forward, The Freeman Studio continues to serve professional actors, strengthening the performing arts community in NoMad, New York, and beyond.