General Information
Behavior
The Conservatory creates a caring environment of respect, diversity, curiosity, and decency. These traits are expected in the theatre and likewise of our students. Harassment in any form will not be tolerated. The most basic requirement of actors is that they show up fully and completely, and this expectation holds true for actor training. Students are expected to come to class prepared and ready to work. Remember to reference your Student Handbook.
Attendance
Due to the importance of continuity in the two-year program, students must abide by the school’s attendance policy.
Housing
While The Actors Conservatory does not provide student housing, we are happy to work with you to find housing in your price range. We can also help you find housing close to Portland’s extensive transit system so transportation does not become an issue for you. Portland has both the MAX Light Rail train system and the Portland Streetcar. We are located near MAX stations and several Portland Streetcar stops.
We may also be able to connect you with fellow students looking for roommates and we have a large fanbase so supporters of the Conservatory may have rooms available in their homes. Whatever you’re looking for, we can help you find it!
To get the process started, please contact Erin Jackson Caron at erin@pac.edu. Please contact us as soon as possible so we can find you housing in plenty of time before you begin classes. For more information and resources, please visit our Housing Page.
Credit
Due to the intensity and continuity of the Conservatory program, students must enter our program only at the year-one level. Students must complete the entire curriculum in order to graduate.
Withdrawal and Refund Policy
As a student, you will be responsible for the full amount of tuition and fees. You may withdraw upon written notification within five business days of the date of enrollment and be eligible for a refund of all monies paid. If you withdraw by written notification after five business days of the date of enrollment, and prior to the commencement of classes, you are eligible for a refund of all monies paid less registration, supply and application fees. If you withdraw by giving written notification after the commencement of classes, you will be eligible for a refund less application, registration and supply fees and a prorated amount for classes that already have been offered. If you withdraw after 60% of the payment period or term, you will not be eligible for a refund, and will be responsible for the full amount of tuition and fees. Students who withdraw after the commencement of classes will be asked to complete an exit interview with Artistic Director and/or Academic Director or another member of the management team. Please see Return of Title IV Funds Policy, or Student Handbook for complete policy.
Library
The Actors Conservatory has an extensive onsite theatrical library that is accessible to all students. The main branch of the regional public library is 2 miles from the Conservatory and directly accessible by Portland Streetcar from our location. Portland is also home to the famous Powell’s Books: a city-block-size independent bookstore with an enormous collection of used and new books. You should be able to find anything you need!
School Calendar
The Conservatory curriculum is divided into two semesters each year. Students are in class full-time for a total of 32 weeks/year. Classes are Monday-Friday and students can expect to spend an average of 30 hours/week in class. For our current first year calendar, please check here.
Inclement Weather
In the event of inclement weather, TAC will follow the protocol set by Portland State University. If inclement weather prevents classes from moving forward as scheduled in-person, TAC will notify teachers and students as soon as possible via email and/or phone that classes have been moved to online instruction. If the Portland area is, however, experiencing wide-spread power outages affecting students’ and teachers’ ability to join class online, classes will be canceled or rescheduled.
Holidays
The Conservatory honors the following holidays that occur during the school year:
Labor Day: September 2, 2024
Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 14, 2024
Veterans Day: November 11, 2024
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: January 20, 2025
Presidents’ Day: February 17, 2025
Memorial Day: May 26, 2025
Three breaks are given during the school year:
Fall Break: November 27 – 29, 2024
Winter Break: December 23, 2024 – January 10, 2025 (Year 1); December 23, 2024 – January 20, 2025 (Year 2)
Spring Break: March 17 – 21, 2025