The Icelandic Film School

// About the Department

This department teaches the basic techniques and methods of acting for stage and screen. We encourage our students to explore their individual creativity and place special attention on dance, physical expression and singing. Our curriculum provides a solid foundation for either an acting career in film, television or on the stage, or continuing a drama or filmmaking degree elsewhere. As opposed to many drama and acting programs we emphasize acting for the camera, which gives our students the opportunity to learn the basics of film production as well since they work on many film projects over the course of their studies. Admissions to the department take place twice a year and students are selected based on the strength of their application materials and introductory film.

It is safe to say that our department ranks as the most popular one in the entire school, at least judging from the number of applicants. Our program offers challenging professional training of the highest standard in the art of acting. An actor’s training can be rigorous and requires sensitivity and a disciplined approach to the craft of each student we admit. Our curriculum is unique in that it trains you specifically to act for film and other visual media. You will also act onstage, however, and learn the differences between acting technique in front of the camera versus that of the stage. You will practice the craft of acting and learn the fundamentals of filmmaking by working in teams with students of other departments in the school. This cooperation runs side by side with the acting studies throughout all four semesters. Our instructors are actors, directors, singers, dancers and filmmakers who come from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We place great emphasis on fostering independent and creative methods and ensuring that the actor knows how to work within a professional film environment. You will graduate from our program with a solid understanding of the professional actor’s working methods and obligations and with the self-confidence and independence of a mature creative artist. Whether you go on to become a professional actor or filmmaker or decide to continue your studies elsewhere, you will have built a valuable network of contacts starting right here at school, from your fellow students in all departments to a long list of talented, creative instructors.

Sigrún Gylfadóttir
Head of the Acting Department