Beyond the Lines Acting Studio by Marianna Cossu arrives in Padua straight from New York
Bringing American acting methods to Italy
Beyond the Lines Acting Studio is a new acting school in Padua that introduces the American techniques developed by the great masters who, after studying with Stanislavski, went on to found the Group Theatre and the Actors Studio in New York.
We offer acting courses with an international outlook, creating a direct bridge between the Italian theatre scene and the professional world of New York.
Training rooted in New York
The studio was founded by Marianna Cossu, member of the Actors Society, actress and acting coach, who graduated with honors from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, the oldest professional theatre academy in the United States.
Her career includes collaborations with artists from the Actors Studio and members of Shakespeare & Company, connections she continues to nurture and which enrich the quality of our acting program in Padua.
Our core methods: Adler, Meisner, Strasberg, Hagen – the legacy of Stanislavskij- and Jaques Lecoq’s Physical Theatre
Beyond the Lines acting studio is one of the few places in Padua that combines the techniques of Stella Adler, Sanford Meisner, Lee Strasberg, and Uta Hagen—direct heirs to Stanislavskij’s work—with Jacques Lecoq’s physical theatre approach.
This blend creates a well-rounded, three-dimensional acting training that develops both the actor’s inner life and their physical and stage presence.
Active learning for a genuine performance
At the heart of our approach is a principle essential for anyone who wants to act with truth and naturalness:
“Behaving truthfully under imaginary circumstances.”
The strength of our courses lies in the constant interplay between theory and practice: every concept is put into action right away. Through Active Learning, training becomes a direct, hands-on experience.
Our goal is to give every student the chance to explore, grow, and build real, lasting skills.
A safe, professional environment for everyone
Our acting courses in Padua are open to both beginners and experienced performers—no previous training is required.
We provide a professional, safe, and supportive space where students can work without judgment, let go of defenses, and fully embrace the creative and emotional process, developing confidence and self-awareness.
A three-level structured pathway
Our program is divided into three progressive levels designed to guide each student step by step, respecting individual timing and artistic needs—from technical foundations to more advanced, personal, and conscious work.
Ready to begin? We’d love to meet you. Write to us at beyondactingstudio@gmail.com.