REVIEWS

Scroll down for comments about several of our courses

Student comments about BEGINNING ACTING

I’d like to thank you. After taking your (Beginning Acting and Let’s Make a Movie ) classes last year, I now have had two acting gigs. One in a movie called Sideways Japan… it was a Fox production… and I was in a commercial in Hollywood, that was a Time Warner production. The reel we made (in the Let’s Make a Movie class) was very useful helping me perform in front of camera and the fact (that I was) comfortable in front of camera got me the gigs.

Tell everyone to not give up and give it your all if you want to make it. It was a slow start, but now I’m living in L.A. and loving it. Thanks again, your classes are good. – K. S. (Hollywood)

After just 2 classes with Nils, I auditioned for an independent film against actors with many years experience and I got the part. Nils teaches confidence and he freely shares his knowledge of the acting. – R.C. (Hollywood)

Hey Nils, thanks for the class – had a really good time this quarter. I really came at the class from the direction of directing. I had successfully directed two plays back in Britain, but I always felt that I was on shaky ground when I tried to give advice to actors that went beyond “okay, say it louder this time”. There’s nothing that makes you feel a fraud quicker than standing up in front of lots of people who look to you for advice and not having any to give.

The class definitely helped… I really enjoyed the improv element of the class. It always felt like just one step away from playing a childish game, which I always enjoy. It was also great to have a chance to work on a monologue with you, especially in front of a small, friendly audience. Your advice on the ‘business’ side of acting was also very useful.- Cheers, Mark (Seattle/London)

Hi Nils, I want to thank you for inspiring me to follow my dreams. I left Washington. I am down in California. I have started a television production company and I auditioned for a Harley Davidson Commercial yesterday as an actor. Everything is moving at light speed…and in a positive direction. It all started with you in that classroom at the U of W. – Robert C., Hollywood

Hi Nils, I just wanted to thank you for a great class last night! Clearly, people were a little nervous about getting up to perform their monologues, but you have fostered a very supportive environment which makes it much easier to get up there. I think you did an excellent job at figuring out how to help each individual to take the next step with their piece, despite a wide range of skill levels. I’m looking forward to next week! – Marnie M. (Kirkland)

I really think you are a great instructor, and you seem to have a genuine interest in and enjoy helping people develop their skills. And it was fun! – Pritam (Seattle)

A week after your class (I) went to my very first audition! Talk about absolute terror. I did the same monologue I did in class, and guess what? I got offered not only one role, but two roles from two different directors, from that one petrified , shaking monologue. on my very first audition! I was shocked…I couldn’t have done it without your great class. Thanks! -Randy T. (Seattle)

I took it just for fun, and to move out of my stage fright. It really helped. I’m glad you have it open to everybody, whether they have professional ambitions are are just doing it for the fun of it. – Lee D., Seattle

I took a (beginning acting) class from you in 2008. I’m not sure if you remember me… I took that initial class because I was very camera shy and froze when I had a media opportunity with the Today Show… I’ve been doing great with on-camera stuff since then and performed well for NBC Nightly News and some other big ones. I credit your class with helping me break the ice. – G., Seattle

Your class was the highlight of my week. I’m so sorry it’s ending. Thank you for making it a safe experience. I’ll see you in the intermediate class in the fall. Peace! – Karen W., Seattle

student reviews about STAND UP COMEDY

“Ron Reid’s Stand-Up Comedy Class is something I would highly recommend! It’s an immersive experience into the world of stand-up comedy, from the theory and creation of comedy material, to practical stage technique and ettiquette, to workshopping material, to open mic experience, to learning to give and receive feedback, to performance in an actual comedy club. Ron’s extensive knowledge and obvious love and respect for the art of stand-up comedy was apparent and generously shared every time he got up to teach and facilitate. An added special bonus was his inclusion of guest professional comedians who gave insightful and supportive feedback, offered their own experiential tips, enthusiastically answered questions, and even performed with us! Ron said his main hope was that it would be a fun experience, and it was! You won’t find a better value for your money. This class is the real deal, because Mr. Reid is the real deal. If you have a desire to give stand-up a try, Ron Reid is the man to help you do it!” — David Mielke

STUDENT COMMENTS about CRASH COURSE IN FILMMAKING

The instructor is professional and well organized and had patience for questions from beginners. I will recommend the class to my friends. – R.W., Seattle

…I didn’t have the chance to say goodbye to the other students and to thank you. I just want to thank you for the (crash course in filmmaking) classes. I never learned so much over a short period of time and remembered it. You wasted no time on the non-essentials. I greatly appreciate the fact that you were very receptive to everyone’s questions. Your experience, dedication, and passion for film making made this a fantastic learning experience for me. I want you to know that taking this class has truly made a difference for me. I lost the fear to shoot and produce films. It has given me the knowledge and skills I was seeking and the confidence I need to step into film making. I have to tell you — you are an incredible teacher! I cannot thank you ENOUGH! I’ll definitely recommend this class to all my friends. Thanks so much for the highly engaging and inspiring class.- J. Vega

… just to say thank you for the class Nils. I feel like I’m on track now to make more professional movies and actually start getting them into film festivals. – Alan D., Bellevue

Thanks for showing us how to make a low budget movie look great. – H.T., Seattle

I learned exactly what I have been wanting (and needing) to. – Chris L., Seattle

You took me from doing amateurish films to making the kind of movies I had been trying to. Thank you for all of your help. – Jerry W. Kent

Student comments about LET’S MAKE A MOVIE

Thanks for teaching the class! The wrap party was a blast. It was fun seeing our class movie on a big screen…- S.G., Seattle

I saw a class similar to this at _____ but they wanted $8,000.00 for it! Thank you for a fun learning experience and for keeping it affordable! – Sharon B., Seattle

It was nice being able to choose, we could be in the film, or be on the crew, or just watch. I did crew this time around but I’ll be taking it again and try acting. – Brad R., Bellevue

Okay, I’ll tell you the truth. I was scared to death. But I really enjoyed the class, and liked the show. It’s fun to have done it. – Mary L. (Bellevue)

Just a note to say that I loved the class. Thanks Nils! – V.M. (Seattle)

I was impressed with the professionalism of the movie we ended up with. Everything about it was great. The class was far more than I expected. – Joe G. (Kent)

I was hoping to learn some basics about filmmaking and see how it was all done. That’s exactly what I got. I will recommend the class to my friends. – J.G., Seattle

The instructor was very patient and supportive. We are completing the course project, making a film, as promised. Nils has, and will continue to devote many additional hours working on the editing. I’ll probably take this class again. – M.F., Seattle

Thanks so much for the class. I had a great time, and learned what I was hoping to. – Mike G., Seattle

Student comments about Drawing for Absolute Beginners

I was the redhead who drove in every week from Tacoma. It was worth it. You really have something going if you can take someone like me and turn me into an artist, well, a beginning artist anyway! But that’s way ahead of where I was. Thanks again Nils! – R.M. (Tacoma)

I liked the opportunity to learn the basics in a non threatening environment. (unsigned; comment submitted online)

Your teaching style was a pleasure to learn by and I enjoyed your class very much.. – Ruth B. (Seattle)

Thanks for taking some time before the class to help me figure out which class I should take. You weren’t just trying to “sell” me a class, you helped me find the one that would be a good next step for me. – M.J. (Seattle)

Nils, Just wanted to let you know that I completed my application to the Game Animation Certificate program, and as of a week ago received notice of my acceptance. One of my portfolio pieces was a charcoal figure based upon one of the exercises from class – and of course, I’d never touched charcoal before meeting you. Thanks again for all the tips and encouragement! Your classes really helped polish my skills and boost my confidence a great deal. — J.C. (Seattle)

Student Comments about Acrylic Painting

I really loved all of it, the color theory, how to mix paints, how to create earth tones, how to paint trees and clouds, the “undermixing” technique – wow!!! – and the freeform times when we were just playing with color. The only thing I wish is that it was ten weeks instead of four. I would love to take an advanced class if you offer one. – Evvie M., Ballard (Seattle)

You commented on the improvement in my paintings. I hope you know it’s because of your instruction. I took the (Acrylic Painting) class twice, and for some reason it really kicked in the second time. The exercise using negative space with areas of solid color, doing it in black and white then in color, was what did it for me…. I love your exercises because they shifted me away from drawing symbols and filling them in with color to seeing what was really there, not as objects but as shapes, and rendering the interlocking shapes in color. I’ve heard that you’re adding a follow up class and will look forward to taking it. – Marilyn T., Seattle

Thanks by the way you set up the supply thing. It was great just being able to stop at the (Univsersity bookstore) on the way to class and have the kit already set up and waiting. No need to worry about buying the right stuff…. – Jim M., Everett

Thanks Nils! The class was a wonderful introduction. It was just right for me. Thanks also for all the good information about “green” ways to dispose of paint water and leftovers. I always felt bad about dumping the water down the drain. – M.J., Kenmore

I really enjoyed this class! The instructor was very relaxed and really encouraged all of us in our efforts, and answered questions and gave guidance whenever asked. (unsigned; comment submitted online)

I was hoping for a painting class that started at the beginning, with “this is how to hold your brush” and “this is what happens when you mix this color and this color together” and “these are some of the ways that people can learn to paint.” The teacher provided that and more. I learned some good things and made progress in the class. The homework was also very helpful. I have one small request which is, it would be nice to have more classes on the east side. Thank you again for the course! - M.J., Bellevue

Student comments about Cartooning

Nils is thoughtful, paces the class well, and treats everyone with respect. There were twelve adults and three youngsters in the class. He took all of the students seriously, listened to all of their questions with the same respect – K.L., Bellevue

I appreciated how you covered all of the basics, and took the time to answer student questions. – Michelle G., Seattle

The class was excellent. I learned exactly what I was hoping to. I’ll be taking more of the instructor’s art classes in the future. – Chris K., Redmond

Nils is an amazing artist, and I would say, an excellent teacher. I learned exactly what I was hoping for, and have been drawing steadily since the class. I’ll be back for more. – J.W., Bellevue

The demonstration on coloring cartoons in Photoshop was great! – Keith L, Seattle

The teacher was knowledgable and did a good job… (unsigned)

Before the class I was drawing one figure over and over again, and didn’t know how to move her around. I feel great now, I can draw all kinds of characters and expressions. – Melanie T., Seattle

Student comments about the WRITING FICTION AND SHORT STORIES

Hi, Nils:

You may not remember me, but a few years ago I took my first-ever creative writing class with you… The class had such a profound impact on me that I immediately applied to graduate programs to pursue a Master’s Degree in creative writing. I was fortunate to be accepted to a wonderful school in Los Angeles, and recently graduated with distinction. I have also completed my first novel, and many times throughout the writing/editing process, I would sometimes hear your voice in my head saying, “Show, don’t tell,” and, “Watch for excessive modifiers.”

I also teach English now, and I’ve realized how meaningful it can be to hear from students who have valued your instruction. To that end, I want to thank you for giving me my first “push” and encouraging me to continue doing what I love. I plan to move back to Seattle in the coming months, and I hope I’ll run into you sometime so I can thank you in person.

I hope you’re continuing to teach and to inspire.

Sincerely,
Kristen B.

Thanks for a fun and interesting class. I appreciate how you value each student for their individual voice and style, and how you encourage and bring out the best in each of us. I always learn new and effective ways to look at things when I take one of your classes… – Barb B. (Bellevue)

I spent two years not writing and getting ragged about it. I have to say that during your class I started writing and I’ve been writing my b_lls off ever since. It worked for me totally. – Andy J. (Seattle)

I liked the format, and the chance to things aloud…. hearing my own stories was an eye-opener. Just hearing them, I could tell when they were working or where the cuts needed to be. It was also great having a chance to get so much feedback. – Bill K. (Seattle)

Thanks again for the writing class this quarter. I found your comments on my stories, and other students’ stories, helpful and to the point. You said what you thought, but without trashing anybody. I also appreciated being able to hear other students’ comments on what I’d written. – Megan C. (Edmonds)

I took it because I was “stuck” in journaling, and wanted to shake myself loose and open up my writing abilities and inclinations in some new directions. Your suggestions and comments were great. I’m unstuck. Thank you!!!! I’ll be back in the fall to take the class again. – Marie L., Lake Forest Park

I found this class to be both fun and educational thanks to both Nils and everyone in the class. -M.L, Seattle

Suzie and I had lunch together today and we were commenting on how much we appreciated the gracious and respectful manner in which you taught the class. We both feel SO thankful to have ‘happened’ to have chosen your writing class, and we want to say THANKS NILS! The group you’ve birthed and created has lots of energy! (We’ve formed a writing group and are) plan to meet every 2 weeks. – M.C., Seattle

Student comments about START WRITING YOUR SCREENPLAY

I turned some kind of a corner and writing has been easy since the class. Thank you! – Nathan I., Bellevue

Thank you for your explanation of how the pitching process works, and how to find an agent – M.L.,Bellevue

The advice about editing and rewriting was perfect for what I needed.” – Scott W., Bellevue

I’m happy with the result of class… I feel liberated instead of stuck. I’ve been writing again and am very pleased. – Mike K., Seattle

I took a class from ______ last year and felt kind of discouraged afterwards; I think he was a discouraged screenwriter and passed that along! I feel encouraged since your class, and am excited to get back to my screenplay. – Jan L., Seattle

Thanks for the energy you put into the screenplay course… I feel looser and happier and am having more fun writing. – L.D., Seattle

The class was really helpful, especially the exercises in writing scenes and writing a complete (very short!) screenplay. I can’t believe what I came up with and what other people in the class came up with for that exercise. It was a real window into the amazing creativity we all have inside of us. – Jan H., Seattle

Wow, what can I say Nils, it was really good, thanks for the encouragement and information – Beth G., Kirkland

It was a great (class) for me and I’m totally happy with it. – Kris T., Kent

I took the acting class, let’s make a movie, and the screenwriting class from Nils Osmar. They were all excellent in a life changing way. – T. R., Bellevue

Hi Nils, your screenplay writing class is great, I would recommend it to everyone. You explain things in a way that is simple but extremely helpful. I loved the writing exercises and lectures. – Hal C., Seattle

STUDENT COMMENTS ABOUT ADOBE PHOTOSHOP

Thanks again for the class. It was really helpful.- Sean C. (Seattle)

(My wife and I) liked the format. We learned more than we had in a similar class at __________. – John R. (Seattle)

I was the guy who had had Photoshop on his computer and never figured out how to use it. To tell the truth I was afraid of it. You cut through that and showed us the basic things it’s used for, and how to learn about the rest. I was totally happy with the class. – Bill D. (Bellevue)

I liked the relaxed atmosphere, and the fact that you made yourself available outside of class.- Sharon G. (Tacoma)

The format worked well for me. It was nice having assignments, and knowing we could call you during the week if we got stuck.- Shelley G. (Seattle)

Student Comments about Exploring Color

I enjoyed this class very much and would take any classes that Nils Osmar has to offer. He was well prepared and held my interest the entire class time. (comment submitted online)

I could not think of anything to improve, this was a perfect day for me. (comment submitted online)

Students did not have to be experienced. This was purported to be a basic class, and it was. Instructor was patient and willing to help those who needed/wanted help, and he did not go to fast for the slowest in class (that would be me). Excellent intro to materials, ditto on the materials supplied. (comment submitted online)

Lots of hands-on time to apply the concepts we learned about. The instructor seemed interested in everyone’s experience and provided individual feedback and interaction. My favorite part, in addition to learning the content, was learning about this new medium, watercolor.

I’m amazed that we learned so much in one day, and it hardly felt like a class. It was just fun, trying different things, mixing colors, the guided exercises, seeing the really surprising things that happened. I loved the information about mixing colors with their complements to create earth tones… – Mickey L., Bellevue

The instructor seemed interested in everyone’s experience and provided individual feedback and interaction. My favorite part, in addition to learning the content, was learning about this new medium, watercolor. – E.V., SeattleAn inspiring session for me…just what I was hoping for, and more! – unsigned

Nils Osmar is excellent both with beginning students and with students who have some experience. – J.C., Seattle

Thanks for a wonderful, relaxing course. – Cheryl K., Seattle

I liked the hands-on opportunities to play with paints and color- it really helped to understand how the colors work with each other and what happens when you mix two colors together.

The instructor was organized, kept things moving at a good pace, covered all of the basics about color and answered all of the students’ questions. I would highly recommend his classes. – Terry L., Kent

Student comments about DRAWING FACES

I am amazed at how much I’ve already learned in just the first two classes. I love your relaxed yet organized approach. You convey a lot of instruction without a lot of talk. (you can quote me on the above :-) - Elinor K.

(I liked) the instructor’s ability to simplify the important concepts necessary to draw the human figure including foreshortening. (comment submitted online)

Instructors attitude toward students, their objectives and their out put was positive and affirming….encouraging and accepting (comment submitted online)

At LAST I understand about proportions!!!!! Thank you for explaining the difference between the three types. And it was nice having all the materials provided. – S.L., Seattle

What I liked: the handouts, the lectures, the step by step stuff, the instructor’s knowledge and organized approach. Disliked: no latte stand in the building! Okay, okay, I’ll bring my own next time :) –O.E., Bellevue

Thank you so much for the class. I was one of those people who had never drawn before. Your method is great, it makes everything fast and easy. – Shelly H., Seattle

Nils is well organized and presents the information step by step so that everyone can keep up. There was a good balance between the parts where he was showing us how to do things, and the drawing periods when we could practice it. – S.B., Seattle

I loved it, it was really fun. – K.A., Seattle

STUDENT COMMENTS about FIGURE DRAWING

(I liked) the instructor’s ability to simplify the important concepts necessary to draw the human figure including foreshortening. (comment submitted online)

Instructors attitude toward students, their objectives and their out put was positive and affirming….encouraging and accepting (comment submitted online)

This was my first figure drawing class, I had no idea what to expect when I walked in the door. I felt comfortable at all times and I enjoyed the different skill levels in the class. I loved the teacher and overall I learned a great deal and had fun in the class. I would for sure recommend it to a friend! (comment submitted online)

I liked learning techniques. Nils simplified the process so that drawing the figure is not so daunting to me any more. Great class! (comment submitted online)

It was great, exactly what I was hoping for. I improved a lot and I understand the figure better now. – M.L., Seattle

Thanks for the extra help with hands and feet. The class was excellent and I’ll be back for some more in the future. – S.F., Seattle