Hal Masonberg’s Commercial Acting Workshops

Sherman Oaks, United States

5

Closed now

20 reviews

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Telephone:
+1 323-401-1972
Website:
www.halsworkshops.com
Address:
13425 Ventura Blvd 2nd Fl, Sherman Oaks, CA, 91423
Sherman Oaks
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
1.3 miMetro 158 236/237
1.3 miMetro 155 158 233 236/237 744
1.4 miMetro 150 / 240 233 744 750
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Bussiness info

Good for Kids
Yes

Today

Today 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Closed now
Local time (Sherman Oaks) 2:33 PM Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Business hours

Monday 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Tuesday 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Wednesday 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Thursday 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Friday –
Saturday –
Sunday –

Description

Specialties

I have worked in commercial casting for over 20 years. I will take you behind the scenes of the entire casting process –from slating to booking– and make sure you know how to successfully navigate the auditioning world as a professional, working actor.

Even more important, I will help you find that unique part of yourself –that priceless component that makes you stand out from all the other good actors vying for the same role. What is it you bring to the table that no one else can or does? It’s my job to help you discover these strengths and turn them into your greatest assets so you’re not seen as «just another auditioning actor.»

History

Established in 1992.

I have worked as a commercial audition session director for over 20 years.

Meet the Business Owner

Hal M.

Business Owner

I have worked as a casting session director for 20 years with the biggest casting directors in the business. I began my career in features (What’s Eating Gilbert Grape) and then moved over to commercials. My primary job has been to work with actors, to run auditions for casting directors as well as clients; to interpret what they want and make sure the actors are given the best opportunity to deliver that. I am also a feature director and have experienced the casting process from that side as well. I bring that knowledge and expertise to this class and will answer any and all questions you may have regarding the commercial audition process, how it differs from theatrical and how you can increase your chances of booking a commercial by simply knowing how to maneuver the terrain and develop an understanding of what takes place behind the scenes, what is expected of you, and what is the quickest, most efficient way to deliver that to the people who make the final decisions.

Hal Masonberg’s Commercial Acting Workshops also recommends

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«If you want to take your acting journey to the next level, call Elizabeth. Period. There is no better.»

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20 reviews of Hal Masonberg’s Commercial Acting Workshops

No registration required
Place rating: 5
Murrieta, CA
One outstanding Commercial Acting Workshop. From the moment I spoke with Hal I knew instantly this was going to be an adventure of discovery. I was a bit apprehensive in the beginning as I tested the waters, not quite convinced that Unilocal was dishing out money for 5 star comments. I left wanting more, but before I get ahead of myself I must say I was simply amazed at my own growth over the duration of the class. Now this was by no means my first rodeo, thought I pretty much had this whole commercial audition thing figured out. Like peeling an onion there were several layers I had failed to reach.
Hal has this amazing gift to reach down and pull out the real unique you, even if some of my own idiosyncrasies are what I consider negative in nature, Hal showed me the way to use them to my advantage.
Now Im not going to get into Hals techniques, other than it will be worth your money and time to invest with Hal Masonberg’s Commercial workshop. Hal is indeed a professional and knows the business and how to succeed.
If you are looking for growth with absolute results Hal will get you there and I promise you will have fun along the way.
Place rating: 5
Woodland Hills, CA
For my first time in a class Hal made it so easy to be in front of the camera with others watching. I most definitely will be taking more classes with him and I highly recommend it to others too. Thank you Hal you rock !
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
What can I say that hasn’t been said already? This class is great and Hal is absolutely amazing. I have no acting experience and he made me feel so comfortable and he REALLY works you as an actor/​actress! I can’t recommend Hal & his class enough, he made me step out of my comfort zone and made it so fun.
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
I suggest Hal to all of my students. He loves actors and knows what he is talking about (can’t say that about all commercial teachers).
Place rating: 5
Hillcrest, San Diego, CA
Hal is a wonderful teacher. Very down to earth and makes everyone in the room feel comfortable. I took the beginner commercial class. He makes the class size 6 people per class. I really think this helps people get to feel comfortable with each other and more likely to get up in front of the class and be themselves. He spends so much time with each actor. By the end of your turn you feel like you have had a workout! But this is good and you have lots to think about once your turn is done. He films the entire class and then emails the class to you to make sure you are able to watch yourself (very important) and it helps to just watch to make sure you did not miss anything that he was talking about. You can take notes at home. The thing I like about Hal the most is he is willing to answer any questions you have, teach you about the business of commercial acting and he takes time out for his students if they have questions or requests such as looking at head shots (which is not what he gets paid to do). This is a class to teach you how to commercial act. He goes above and beyond that.
Place rating: 5
Thousand Oaks, CA
It is not surprising that Hal has a perfect 5 star rating from EVERYONE. Well, maybe it is surprising – usually you get a sour grape in every group that finds something random to complain about. So, it is quite remarkable to get all perfect scores! I was drawn to Hal’s workshop after seeing his website. He understands how to transform a commercial into a personal story that YOU can relate to. He has numerous tangible strategies for tapping into the essence of what’s important to you so that you can convey information in a natural, genuine way that is uniquely your own. He is an easygoing, approachable, and natural teacher– he makes the learning process fun and comfortable. I can’t wait to take another class!
Place rating: 5
South Pasadena, CA
Can’t recommend Hal enough. Funny, down-​to-​earth, extremely communicative — he really takes the time to work with you to make sure that you’re not only happy, but excited about the end result. Highly recommended.
Place rating: 5
Redondo Beach, Los Angeles, CA
Simply put, Hal and his workshop are amazing. This was my first acing class and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.
The first time I met Hal, it seemed like I had already known him for years. He is extremely personable and down to earth. It was so easy to open up and be myself from day 1. It can be very daunting and intimidating being in front of the camera, but in his class, you feel at home as if you’re having a casual conversation with a friend.
He is so good at being able to connect with you and get different emotions out of you in order to bring character to the commercial. His approach makes it very easy to tap into different emotions and fun at the same time. In the five weeks I took his class I was able to acquire a different approach and look deeper into the text.
I am super excited to continue studying with Hal in his advanced workshop. I would HIGHLY recommend studying with him as his work is not only beneficial for commercials, but you also learn more about yourself and can apply in other forms of acting.
Place rating: 5
Oakhurst, CA
I grew up in LA and I am a very skeptical person. there are thousands of workshops in LA. I needed a commercial audition workshop because I was tanking at $ 100 commercial auditions. I used Hal as a coach at first for another $ 100 commercial audition. I didn’t get the job but did fantastic. Is was a group audition and the other actor was sure I was going to get it. I went in there with confidence that made the audition a breeze. I then signed up for his workshop. After the first class I got a National Visa commercial audition worth thousands. I have no agent and I am non-​union. I talked with Hal about it and he gave me some pointers. Well I got a callback. I beat out over 100 other people to be the top 5 for the role. You had to be
Australian and I am not! No, I didn’t get the job, but with my experience, and no agent, non-​union to get that far even amazed myself. I owe it to Hal.
I have taken a lot of classes. A couple of things I like about Hal’s workshop. Small. It is not a cattle call of people in there. Another thing is the taping of the workshop and your auditions. He taught me to get used to watching myself to get better at auditions, feelings and emotion. It’s amazing how many emotions he can pull out of you in just one line!!. I could go on and on but bottom line it is worth the money, you will learn something, and Hal really cares about what he is doing and how his students do. Oh yeah, Its Hal teaching the class, he don’t hire someone to do it for him.
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
WOW! It’s short but describes what you will say after attending one of Hal’s workshops! I am new to any kind of acting and the time that Hal took and the point on teaching and interactions he has with his students is amazing. So when you attend be prepared to be totally involved in this learning experience. When I look at all my on camera time Video I can see my amazing improvement from a guy who was like a deer in the headlights to someone who has total confidence to any audition and show who I am without a worry! I think the biggest thing I like about Hal is he really cares and gives you the opportunity to flourish! I am going to take the advanced class and can’t wait to get started!
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
5 stars across the board. Great instruction, extremely informative, super relaxed atmosphere and perfect sized class so everyone gets their fair share of camera time. Hal is very supportive in his approach and helps you understand and expand your natural strengths as an actor.
Since taking Hal’s introduction to commercial acting and the follow up intermediate class, I can enter an audition room feeling relaxed and confident. I’m happy to say that I’ve landed 2 national commercials employing the techniques I learned in Hal’s class. Highly recommended for anyone just breaking into acting or for experienced actors who want to refine their skills.
Place rating: 5
Santa Monica, CA
In looking for a Commercial Audition /​Acting class I had a myriad of friends to ask advice, and I got a myriad of opinions on Commercial classes. I fell back to my trusted go to, Unilocal.And it did not fail me. All the rave reviews of Hal’s class were spot on. Not my first acting class or workshop, but my first Commercial Acting class. I totally dug Hal’s style of teaching, and the material he taught. I would, and have, recommended Hal to friends. Now I’m back on Unilocal to add to these reviews. I highly recommend Hal’s Workshops. You will not be disappointed.
Place rating: 5
New York, NY
I just completed Hal’s Commercial Intensive Workshop on Tues nights, and I am SO very happy that I chose this as the class to take. Hal is extremely warm, laid back, and conveys the information in such a clear, and passionate way. You can tell that Hal is there not there for selfish reasons, but really to help his students as much as he can. I have used the techniques I’ve learned in class at my own auditions and they have proved to be wonderful tools. I cannot say enough great things about Hal Masonberg and his On-​Camera Commercial Class!
Place rating: 5
Sacramento, CA
Great class. Hal is an awesome and brilliant dude. This did not feel like a commercial class because it was fun.
Also all the lectures are recorded and obtainable online which really helped me when I was sick for a class. Of course, you are in front of the camera, too.
If you like a thought provoking, in-​depth and intelligent atmosphere, give this class a try.
Place rating: 5
North Hollywood, CA
Hal is just so nice, easy going and relatable. I have to mention Gus because I’m a dog lover. Gus is Hal’s adorable and well behaved greeter-​pup. I think every business should have one or more pets involved. Hal has so much information to give that sometimes time flies by over conversation. He is ready to answer any questions you may have and offer information you wouldn’t think to ask. He seems to truly want to help actors succeed and understand how to get casting director’s attention while being yourself all in a supportive environment.
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
Hal’s beginner commercial class was truly transformative. This was my first on-​camera class, and I learned a ton! Very laid back guy, full of great encouragement and real industry advice.
The biggest thing I learned from Hal’s class is that the more you fully love and accept and «know yourself», the more enjoyable you actually are to watch. And the REAL you– idiosyncrasies, ‘imperfections’ in all the glory of your «youness» — just might be the outstanding factor that gets you booked. Authenticity.
Much like listening to your voice, watching yourself can be difficult. But I felt so supported by the other actors and Hal, no judgement whatsoever.
Also learning what clothing and makeup look best on you for on-​camera purposes was really interesting.
We worked on one-​liners and full copy of varying styles, and I felt that I got a rounded experience in the commercial audition world. Hal takes a ton of time with each student. I feel really blessed that I found his class.
I HIGHLY recommend this class for anyone interested in working on their all-​around delivery, wether it’s for on camera acting or just everyday life. Hal is an exceptional human, and Gus the friendly dog ain’t too shabby either. Can’t wait to take another class.
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
I booked a job the day after I finished my second workshop with Hal, after not booking anything for 2 years! Hal teaches you how to do «you,» rather than trying to second guess what «they» want. Not only does it work, but it makes auditioning so much more fun and fulfilling as an actor. Being able to watch my own transformation (on-​camera!) by trying Hal’s, simple, honest direction notes was invaluable. The small class size makes sure that everyone is really seen, heard and gets a chance to dig in and make real progress. It is quite intense but Hal makes the work fun. I will be going back.
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
This was one of my first on-​camera intensive commercial classes, and I have to say that Hal made everyone feel so instantly comfortable in the room. His presence is so calming/​chill, yet educating… I don’t think I could have asked for a better teacher. I felt like he kept me going when I would get stuck by turning the wheels into different directions until he found one that worked for me. He really helps you find your quirks (that you may even think is a bad thing about you) and use them to your advantage in the audition room.
I booked a national commercial last week and can say I have Hal’s knowledge to thank for that. I finally entered a casting room with confidence and stopped thinking so much. I just let myself show them who I was as Hal taught us, and it worked!!!
PROS:
*Small class sizes– 6 max, which means A LOT more time in front of the camera getting 1-​on-​1 coaching from Hal.
*Hal really gets you to go with him on a story telling journey. He helped me pull the right emotions out when I needed to. I finally understood the whole «don’t do what you think you should do, but bring yourself to the room and make them fall for YOU and your quirks that are only designed within you.»
*Gus– his adorable pup that sits in on each class :)
(Won’t even call this a CON, more like I have ADD or something):
Watching my fellow actors «audition» was definitely beneficial for observing others in the room; what kind of choices they would make, Hals feedback to them and just plain watching other actors create a story for you. Sometimes it gets long, but like I said… It’s only fair everyone gets a turn, and I actually ended up writing a ton of notes on the other student’s choices (what worked/​where they pulled the emotion from/​etc)
Regardless, Hal is an amazing coach… And AFFORDABLE… So what are you waiting for!!!
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
Hal is a great teacher, fun to work with as well. Every class you get to be on camera and «audition» for a commercial or role, you get PLENTY of camera time each class, which is great! He breaks down the commercial acting and auditioning process. If you’re an inexperienced actor– Hal will work with you to help you find YOU on camera. Experienced actors– he has some great methods to add to your on camera arsenal. I learned alot, great class for commercial and film acting. Thanks Hal!
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
I recently moved from New York City a few weeks ago, where I was doing a lot theatrical work. I had the pleasure to work with many talented teachers and artists while there and was very happy with the training I received. When I decided I wanted to move to Los Angeles, I wanted to find a teacher that could help me understand the ins and outs of the LA commercial world. I had done some research on different coaches and audited some classes in the area… that I wasn’t crazy about. Then I found Hal Masonberg! All the wonderful reviews on here are true. He is a truly gifted man and knows what he is talking about. He is on your side and really wants you to succeed. He knows so much about the industry and you know right away that he is passionate about his work. I will be attending more of his workshops, I highly recommend him! :-D