"Today I was asked in class by my sociology teacher about what makes a good teacher. I said that a teacher is good when they care about each and every one of their students and do all they can to help them succeed and find their own way. I said this with you in mind, and I think you're one of the best teachers and mentors I've ever had."
--A. Osborn Pelham, NY
"Hey Rita, I just wanted to say thank you again for all that you and ACTeen have done for me. I learned so much and met so many great people. I wanted to let you know that I'm out in LA and I'm out here filming my first series for Nickelodeon as one of the four leads on the show so things are going really wonderfully! I just wanted to keep you updated and I hope everything is going well in New York! All the best,"
-- Max Schneider (played "Zander" on "How to Rock" on NIckelodeon, starred in thefilm "Rags" with Keke Palmer), and appears in the upcoming feature film "The Last Keeper," with Aidan Quinn, Zosia Mamet, and Olympia Dukakis)
"Rita, I signed with a new agency, and after many auditions, booked the "Memphis" 1st Natl Tour where I'll be understudying Montego Glover as the Lead role! Montego is currently playing the role on Bway but will leave to do the tour. I am also leaving in 2 weeks to do the World Premiere of "Disney's Aladdin" at 5th Ave theatre in Seattle, directed/choreographed by Tony-nominated Casey Nicholaw, who is directing "Book of Mormon" right now. So...needless to say, I'm very happy all my hard work this year has paid off w/ these 2 major projects. Thanks Rita. You're the best!"
--Daisy Hobbs
"My young teen daughter was looking for a way to learn and expand her acting abilities on camera in a professional environment. We looked at many programs but were struck with Rita's utmost professionalism and complete knowledge of the business. Rita provided a nurturing environment while never compromising the professional values she instilled in the young people while teaching them the skill of acting on camera. She also taught the ins and outs of the business part of "showbusiness", teaching the young people that the minute they walk through the door the audition begins. It is not just what you do on camera but how you conduct yourself from the minute you cross the threshold. I would gladly and without reservation recommend Rita and her program "ACTeen" to any parent who is looking for their teen to learn not only the skills of acting on camera but life lessons to know when working and auditioning in the entertainment field."
--Lil Abrogast (mother to Cara)
"Hi Rita, I'm a general assignment reporter at WFMY News 2, the CBS affiliate here in NC. I've been a news reporter at different television stations across the country for five years now. I want to thank you for the acting lessons. I carry all of the techniques I learned at ACTeen when I am in front of the camera on the set or out in the field. To be honest, if the school was closer, I would probably enroll in more classes to improve my delivery!"
--Chantee Lans
"Hi Rita, Just wanted to send you a note to let you know that Stephen is having an amazing time and experience at ACTeen. Not only is he learning so much, becoming more confident and independent, he has also made great friends. I am sorry to see the summer session end next week. He is very seriously considering taking classes in the fall. This has been a fantastic opportunity for him. Thanks so much."
--Madelyn Ballesteros
"Rita I don't know if parents thank you, but I really wanted to. Our son Max just loved ACTeen. He learned so, so much and every day he came home excited. He loved coming to the classes. He was so fired up and what we loved most was how determined, & dedicated he suddenly became. I cannot thank you enough. You made a huge difference in our son's life.
--Caroline Leavitt (New York Times best selling author)
I was recently accepted early decision to NYU Tisch School of the Arts as a Drama major-I'm so excited to continue my acting education! Thank you so much for your help during my time at ACTeen. I gained so much from the program and I am so grateful for everything I learned at ACTeen!
--L Slakter
" I met wonderful and talented young actors at ACTeen and their talent and professionalism showed!
--Jamie Schulman
(Jamie is currently a casting assistant at Jen Euston Casting. Formerly Jamie worked with Kathleen Chopin Casting Director as associate on various feature films. Jamie has also worked with casting director Marci Philips during ABC pilot season, Ellen Lewis Casting, Ellen Chenoweth Casting, and Bowling/Miscia Casting.casting director.
I just wanted to thank you so much for making Jamie's July so wonderful!!! Though she had to wake up hours earlier than she'd like to in the summer, she never once complained because she looked forward to going to ACTeen every day! (She went into the city every day after late night play rehearsals.) Not only did Jamie make lots of new friends, she learned so much in these four weeks and doesn't stop talking about it. She comments frequently on how wonderful you are and how much she enjoyed your class. We are sorry to see the month end. I just wanted you to know that we were very impressed with your program and your staff.”
—E. Yarmouth, Westport, CT
"My daughter attended ACTeen last summer and loved it. The program was excellent and the instructors were all professionals. She made wonderful friends and felt (her words) she got real training. This school year, she received the Thespian "Critic's Choice," for our district, which meant out of 700 participants, she won the competition. In addition she was cast as the leader of the mean girls in the short film "Hear Me." Julia felt she grew as an actress and made wonderful friends at ACTeen. She is returning this summer to enhance her skills. I highly recommend Ms. Rita Litton's outstanding program for young actors!"
- D. Rosenberg, Coral Springs Florida
Ritaaaaaaa! I booked my first lead!!!! My name is Hawk Kodiak in the film "God don't make the laws." The casting director is Brette Goldstein and the director is David Sabbath. They're flying me out to Ohio December 1st! Paul Sorvino is playing my foster dad...and Bruce Davison is also in the film!!! I'm so exciteddddddd. Thank you so much for leading the way!!!!
--Lucas Salvagno
I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thanks again, for sending me Spadaque and Max Schneider.
I'm happy to inform you that from the hundreds of student actors/ alumni in NYC, 1 of the 7 actors chosen for the story is from ACTeen. The story (GQ Milan) should be published in a couple of months. I want to thank you for all your support and efforts!
I'm not sure if you're aware that I casted Max (Schneider) in a Dolce and Gabanna ad along side Madonna, It has been tremendous. I am working on several new projects, always seeking out undiscovered talent. I would love the opportunity to meet more of the rising talent you have on your hands. Thanks!
--Jamie Lopez, MTC Casting Director
“Thank you so much for helping me get involved with ACTeen’s summer program. It was a fabulous experience. I learned a great deal. The last acting class I took at the University undermined my confidence in my acting abilities, but the ACTeen program re-instilled my faith in myself. You were so patient and willing to take the time to answer questions and find ways to explain things so all could understand. I especially found the Commercial class invaluable — I used to dread auditions but am now eager to go on as many as possible! My time in NYC was all I hoped it would be — and more. I can honestly say you were the best teacher I’ve had the opportunity to work with. It’ll be tough to find classes that will live up to ACTeen’s example!”
— Caroline Collins, St.Paul, MN
What I liked best about my summer experience at ACTeen? — the amount of knowledge made available to us! Rita Litton is constantly thinking, watching, creating. She is great at making teenagers feel confident, a gargantuan task!”
— Jenna Lamia, Boston, MA
(Jenna, plays "Sherri Ward", sister to Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale in the critically acclaimed film "The Fighter." Currently Jenna is staff writer for the CW TV series "90210." Jenna's first big break was playing “Mildred” on Broadway at Lincoln Center in ”Ah! Wilderness” with Craig T. Nelson. She has guest-starred on “Without a Trace”, “NYPD Blue”, “Law & Order: SVU”, HBO’s “OZ”, and is an active and prosperous commercial & voiceover performer, and frequent audio book narrator, most recently. the national best seller "The Help", as "Skeeter.")
“Hi Rita! I just want to thank you for thinking of me for that movie "Gimme Shelter." I just got my second callback for the lead role and I'm told that they really like me. Whether I get the role or not, I am so grateful for this experience. I hope to see you soon and I plan on coming back to ACTeen!"
All the best,
--A. Osborn
Hi Rita! Just wanted to let you know that I booked a lead in that new Susan Stroman show that I had callbacks for on the last day of the casting director seminar. It will be for a month starting in June at the Lincoln Center theatre. After that I think they are hoping to bring the show to Broadway. They have been calling it "Little Dancer Project". The show is about the dark, competitive behind the scene world of the Paris Opera Ballet. Similar to Black Swan, except about 15-17 year old girls. The whole show is dancing, specifically pointe dancing. But I also get to sing a lot as well because I am a lead. I really enjoyoed the casting director seminar and I am really glad I got to be a part of it!
J. Mueller
Rita, The class as you promised was extraordinary. I enjoyed their work and material immensely. Thank you so much for inviting me.
--Jandiz Estrada, NBC Univeral Casting Director (regarding 2011 Casting Director Seminar)
Taping is AMAZING. Everyone in the cast is so welcoming, (re: :”As the World Turns”) I couldn't ask for anything more. The two cameras definitely helped with my awareness of how to carry myself! I'm really looking forward to our sessions, and I truly appreciate all the help.
--Sofia Black D'Elia (recently "Tea" on MTV's "Skins")
Hi hope things are going well. Heather just booked national commercial for A.T&T. Thx so much for all of your help. ACTeen helped Heather so much!!!
--A. Braverman
Hi Rita, Triston felt the audition (SUNY Purchase) went well. They were impressed by the classical piece. They asked where did he get that from, he said "his private coach Rita Litton from ACTeen." This is a small world. The person that auditioned him said "I know her." Her name was Leigh Dillon. She was all smiles after that. I hope that's a plus. He had a call back that same afternoon. Thanks to your great expertise.
--Monique Howell
Dear Ms. Litton, Kelly is enjoying her 2nd summer at the July ACTeen Academy. She arrives home after her commute exhausted but energized to tell her father and I all about what she has learned. As parents is that we know very little about how to advise Kelly on the path of entering this field. Your school has been a wonderful resource. We appreciate all your school offers thanks again.
--Anna Martin Murphy
I am a second year music theatre major at Carnegie Mellon. I'll be in and out of NY a lot this summer - would love to stop by! Fond memories of quite a number of years at ACTeen and gratitude to you all for opening the door to my first agent :)
--T. McQueen Eaton
I loved living in NYC on my own. The whole ACTeen experience was incredibly fulfilling. I liked the audition confidence I gained. You’re getting intense 8 hr. per day acting training steadily for a month. You leave ACTeen feeling ready and confident to audition. You learn new things every class!”
— Paige Carter, Baltimore, MD
“I learned so much about acting and I honestly think that ACTeen is a wonderful program. In fact, a director that I’ve worked with before has told me that my acting has become more honest and I know that it’s from the work I’ve done in my film class. I’ve already recommended the class to a friend. If anyone would like to hear about the school I’d be happy to tell them how wonderful it is!”
— Jim Tortora, East Brunswick, NJ
Thank you so much again for being the best at teaching, and teaching me to be a better performer. The challenges you gave us by giving us homework in class really helped out a whole lot. And the tools and techniques you've given me. I also get more commercial callbacks ever since I took your commercial course. Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Sincerely,
--Ralph Rodriguez
(Ralph appears in the film "Son of No One" starring Channing Tatum and Al Pacino, and the critically praised indie film "Compliance' with Dreama Walker and fellow alum Philip Ettinger)
First off, I just wanted to thank you for helping me to put together my audition video for Chapman University - I got in to the Theatre Program! I also recieved a $20,000 yearly scholarship! I am still waiting to hear from other schools, but that is a GREAT option! Also,I have been auditioning regularly with CESD ever since signing with them through the agent showcase! I just went in for a Disney Feature Film called "Prom", and my tape is being sent to LA! None of this would have been possible if it wasn't for your help! ALSO, I will be starring as Seymour in my school's production of "Little Shop of Horrors" in March! With help from ACTeen, I was able to nail my audition, get the lead role, and feel comfortable with all my college auditions. So thank you so much! Hope to hear from you soon! All the best,
--T Tilli
We appreciate the many techniques ACTeen has employed to improve Tyrone’s acting and auditioning skills. Working in a realistic setting has given him self-confidence and poise.”
— Mrs. Nancy Taylor, Montclair, NJ
“I had a memorable summer participating in ACTeen and it confirmed my goals of pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. I am grateful to you for your insight, experience, and encouragement.”
— Joey Hernandez, Bayamon, Puerto Rico
Just want to let you know, Jillian's new agency CESD recommended you #1 for acting training so I knew we had it right! Jillian's latest - Bye Bye Birdie (Broadway Revival) - shows ends Jan 24th. And just last week, Jillian booked a principal role in a national Verizon Fios TV commercial . She booked her first ever commercial audition - thanks to training at ACTeen!
--B. Mueller
Hi Rita ! Im pretty sure the first one airs October 12th, and i'm in the next one after that also. My agent said that they are introducing new characters, and are keeping me on hold for upcoming episodes. The wardrobe is amazing !!! Everyone was so nice and inviting. I still can't beleive it. I was on a commercial for GOSSIP GIRL also!!! Its me talking the whole time. It aired during the "Vampire Diaries" and I found it on youtube. I will keep you updated with everything!!!!! Here is the LINK!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuR9h-EsgfM
--Sarah Marable ( regarding playing "Celeste" in CW's "Gossip Girl")
Dear Rita, Thank you so very much for the wonderful acting program which Christina just completed, she loved it! I see a stronger motivation and increased self confidence in her and I know that you and your teaching staff are the catalysts.She would like to continue in your program.
B. Cappelli
“This is an excellent place to learn. I enjoyed myself very much. There has never, ever, been a place like ACTeen. I know much more and released all the trust and confidence I have in myself. We had excellent teachers, guests, and classes. You truly surpassed any other place I have ever been to!”
— Luana Gerardis, Missoula, MT
“ACTeen was actually better than my expectations. You really challenged me in many ways, and my acting desperately needed that. It was such a fulfilling experience and essential for one’s acting.”
— Sarah Winkelman, Springfield, IL
Hi Rita, Abrams Artists Agency would like to sign Francesca . PS-You helped her get to this point- Many thanks!!!
L. Conlin
“Hello from the Deep South! This summer was so wonderful! ACTeen is a terrific program and you are not only a wonderful person but also a fabulous teacher. Thank you very much for making my NYC summer very memorable. Since I’ve been home the phone hasn’t stopped ringing! My agents have me auditioning like crazy! I love it!”
— Johanna Spector, Atlanta, GA
“I just wanted to add a special thank you to ACTeen. Before attending ACTeen I had little knowledge of TV or film work. Now I feel competent enough to audition anywhere. ACTeen taught me more than just acting & TV/film “smarts.” It really prepared me for the business, from agents to headshots. By the way, on my first audition (Oreo cookie) I got my first callback!”
— Kristin Warfield, High Bridge, NJ
“I would recommend ACTeen because I feel that they provide you with an environment in which you will come away knowing whether this is what you want to do with your life or not!”
— Kristina Sutton, Mobile, AL
