Acting Retreat experiences like the Bright Stars Greenroom are rare opportunities for actors to step away from the hustle, reconnect with their craft, and return recharged – personally and professionally. As actors, we live in a constant state of “go”. Auditions, callbacks, self-tapes, branding, marketing… and rarely do we pause to ask ourselves: When was the last time I took a real moment to recharge?
This past week at The Bright Stars Greenroom Retreat, we had the opportunity to do exactly that, and it was nothing short of transformational. What unfolded wasn’t just a creative escape; it was a full-body, full-spirit, and full-career reset that every actor truly deserves. This acting retreat was packed with immersive acting workshops, mindset sessions, and hands-on training designed to elevate our craft. We also stepped onto a professional set to gain real on-camera experience, build our demo reels, earn IMDb credits, and work alongside seasoned filmmakers, all in one unforgettable week!
From Acting Retreat to RED Camera: Creating Something Real
One of the most unforgettable highlights? There was so much to take away from this experience – from the incredible acting workshops to the on-set experience for actors working on our special short film comedy – Double Booked. A quirky, heartfelt comedy that came to life with the help of every attendee. We weren’t just studying craft; we were applying it. We filmed on a professional set with RED cameras, directed by experienced industry pros who brought out our very best.
It was a full-circle experience. Workshopping our material, then stepping onto set and living it out throughout two full days of shooting. But the film itself was just the cherry on top and we are so excited to see the project come together! Plus, all of our attendees already have a new IMDb credit! Once this short film gets edited, they will also have new footage for their acting reel! How cool is that?
More Than a Set – A Space to Learn, Expand, and Transform
This acting retreat was curated to nourish every side of the actor: artistic, emotional, and professional. Here’s just a snapshot of what we explored:
- Sound bath meditations to reset our nervous systems and invite creative flow.
- Daily mindset sessions to help reframe self-doubt and reconnect with our purpose
- Intensive acting workshops, acting classes, improv sessions, and scene work to sharpen our skills
- Business and branding workshops to equip us for the realities of this industry
- Professional on-set production days to apply everything we learned, in real time – giving on-set experience for actors
Lessons from the Coaches at The Bright Stars Greenroom Acting Retreat: 6 Game-Changing Takeaways You Can Use Now
Our coaches at The Bright Stars Greenroom Acting Retreat brought wisdom, experience, and generosity in every acting class and intensive workshop. Here are some of the top insights we’re taking with us (that you can start applying today)!
1. Unlock Creativity Through Freedom – Richard Paul
Richard taught us that creativity isn’t about getting it “right”, it’s about getting real. He guided us through improv exercises that released judgment and encouraged freedom of expression. We also learned how honest, embodied, and instinctual communication is a superpower on and off stage.
Tip to apply: Spend 10 minutes a day in free-form improv or journaling. Release the outcome. Just create.
2. Read Like a Human, Not a Robot – Michael Antonakos
Michael helped us reframe how we approach our scripts. Instead of focusing on line delivery, we learned to break scenes down with emotional clarity and tap into the moment’s authentic stakes. The result? Performances that feel alive and grounded.
Tip to apply: Ask: “What do I want? What’s in my way? Who do I love and what am I doing for love in every scene?” Asking yourself these essential questions can unlock deeper layers in your character and allow you to tell a richer, more truthful story in every moment.
3. Protect the Asset (That’s You) – Clare Lopez & Greta Reynolds
Clare reminded us that our breath is our fuel, and self-kindness is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. She guided us through techniques to avoid burnout and re-center our nervous systems before high-pressure moments. Greta showed us how to protect ourselves financially, explaining legal tax write-offs and how to file smartly as a working actor.
Tip to apply: Schedule recovery like a performance. Prioritize breathwork and track your business expenses. It’s self-care and strategy. They go hand in hand and will only help your acting business in the long run!
4. Your Brand Needs a Home – Erik Deckers & Josie Raines
Erik, the screenwriter behind Double Booked, broke down branding for actors in practical, powerful ways. He emphasized the importance of having your own website – a consistent hub that casting directors and collaborators can visit. Then, Josie took it even further – explaining how SEO makes your site findable on Google and how your digital presence can amplify your visibility.
Tip to apply: Own your domain name and keep your website updated. Think: What story does my site tell before I ever walk into the room?
5. Be Memorable, Not Desperate – Peggy Sheffield & Traci Danielle
From audition rooms to agent meetings, Peggy and Traci shared gold-standard advice on making an impression. We learned how to showcase our strengths without overselling, how to gracefully seek representation, and how to advocate for ourselves without apology.
Tip to apply: Prepare your pitch. Know your type. And walk into every room with clarity, not comparison.
6. Align Before You Perform – Toni Deckers
Before we stepped onto set, Toni Deckers led us through an incredible private sound healing therapy session that helped us ground our energy, clear mental clutter, and return to our bodies with calm intention. This wasn’t just self-care, it was creative preparation. The stillness we cultivated translated directly into presence on screen. We walked away feeling refreshed, realigned, and ready to give our best.
Tip to apply: Before a performance, take 5–10 minutes to breathe, meditate, or listen to calming frequencies. Grounding your body brings clarity to your craft.
BONUS: Know Thyself – Dr. Scott
Dr. Scott led powerful sessions on exploring the inner self and understanding why you respond the way you do, how your past affects your present, and what it really takes to become whole as an artist. We don’t just play roles, we reveal the truth in everything we do. But that starts with knowing ourselves first.
Tip to apply: Write down a negative belief you hold and Replace it with a positive affirmation. Repeat this daily for 30 days to reprogram your subconscious.
Our acting workshops were designed to stretch each performer’s range, sharpen their instincts, and deepen their connection to the craft. From improv and scene study to script analysis and audition technique, every session was hands-on and rooted in real-world application. And the learning didn’t stop in the classroom. Our on-set experience for actors gave attendees the chance to apply those skills in a professional environment, gaining confidence in front of the camera while walking away with new footage, IMDb credits, and invaluable set etiquette insight.
It was incredible to witness everyone’s growth from day one to day seven. Not just in their acting technique, but in their confidence, presence, and connection to themselves and each other. This retreat was proof of what happens when you take a chance on yourself. When you dare to dream, step out of your comfort zone, and surround yourself with others who share that same passion and positivity, real transformation happens. That’s the magic of the Bright Stars Greenroom Retreat. It’s more than training; it’s a community built to lift you higher, challenge your limits, and remind you that you’re not alone in the journey!
Don’t Miss the Next One
If you missed this acting retreat, you missed more than just a workshop… You missed an awakening. You missed community. You missed the opportunity to do deep work in a safe space, to build lifelong connections, and to walk away with footage, clarity, and confidence.
But don’t worry, we’re just getting started! And from what we heard, our attendees were already looking forward to next year!
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This wasn’t just a getaway.
It was a creative rebirth.
And next time, we hope to see you there.
Until then, keep showing up! Keep taking classes, auditioning, and betting on yourself and your dreams. You are absolutely worth the investment, and big things are already on their way to you. Stay ready, stay inspired, and stay true to your path. 🌟
Need a little guided meditation to get yourself in the right mindset for the week ahead? Check out this guided meditation video to start your day off right!
