Did you think Steve Jobs always delivered presentations with such ease? Even iconic speakers had to develop their skills through practice and training.

Public speaking consistently ranks among people's greatest fears, often surpassing even the fear of death. Yet mastering this skill can transform your career, relationships, and personal growth.

Here are five powerful strategies to build your confidence in public speaking and become a compelling speaker.

Take Acting and Improv Classes

Full disclosure: we are biased on this point.

This might sound unconventional, but acting classes are perhaps the most underrated and the most efficient tool for developing public speaking skills.

Improv classes teaches you to inhabit a role fully, manage stage fright, and project your voice with authority. You learn to use your body as an instrument, making gestures purposeful rather than nervous.

Most importantly, acting classes create a safe environment to fail, experiment, and discover your authentic presence. The techniques actors use like breath control, emotional regulation, and connecting with an audience translate directly to public speaking.

When you've performed Shakespeare in front of strangers, delivering a business presentation suddenly feels much less intimidating!

Start Small and Build Gradually

Confidence grows through incremental success, not by throwing yourself into the deep end. Begin by speaking in low-stakes environments: share an opinion in a small meeting, give a toast at a family dinner, or present to a supportive group of colleagues.

Each small victory builds neural pathways that associate speaking with positive outcomes.

Master Your Material

Nothing breeds confidence like thorough preparation. Know your subject inside and out, anticipating potential questions and challenges. However, avoid memorizing speeches word-for-word, which can make you sound robotic and leave you vulnerable if you lose your place.

Reframe Nervous Energy

That racing heartbeat and sweaty palms aren't signs of weakness, they're your body preparing for peak performance. Research shows that reinterpreting anxiety as excitement improves performance significantly.

Use physical techniques too: power poses, deep breathing exercices, and progressive muscle relaxation can calm your nervous system while maintaining alertness.

Focus on Your Message, Not Yourself

Paradoxically, confidence grows when you stop obsessing about how you appear. Shift focus from "What do they think of me?" to "How can I serve this audience?"

Public speaking confidence isn't innate, it's built through practice, preparation, and perspective. Embrace these strategies, experiment acting classes with Act Attack, and watch your fear transform into your greatest professional asset!

Moving abroad is an exciting adventure: a new job, a new culture, a new beginning! But beneath the glossy surface of exploring historial streets and tasting a new cuisine often lies a quieter and more challenging reality: a profound sense of loneliness. 😢

The Loneliness Feeling in an Expat Adventure

For many expats, the initial excitement eventually gives way to the daunting task of building a social circle from scratch, far from the comfort of lifelong friends and family.

You can have the perfect apartment, the dream job, and a list of must-see attractions, but without a sense of community, a new city can feel strangely empty. Small talk with colleagues and friendly chats with your local barista are a start, but they rarely satisfy the deep human need for genuine connection and friendship.

This is where traditional advice like joining a club or using friend-finding apps falls short. After many Meet-ups or Bumble Friend meetings, something is missing... And while everyone is perfectly pleasant, that spark of genuine connection is missing. The conversation stays surface-level, the promises to "do it again soon" fade, and the entire process becomes utterly exhausting. It can feel less like building friendship and more like a gruelling second job.

What you need is a space designed for vulnerability, creativity, and shared experience. You need an acting class and here we come!

English Acting Classes: a Tool to Build Meaningful Relationship

At first glance, an English-language acting class might seem like a niche hobby for people that loves theater and have already been acting. But for an expat, it’s a secret weapon for integration. Here’s why:

An acting class is, by its very nature, a collaborative environment. Unlike a gym or a lecture club, it forces interaction. From the very first session, you are not just sitting next to strangers: you are mirroring their movements, reading lines with them, and building imaginary scenarios together. These ice-breaking exercises are designed to dismantle social barriers quickly, creating a sense of camaraderie that would take months to develop in other settings.

Furthermore, you are all united by a common purpose: to create, to tell a story, and, let’s be honest, to make fools of yourselves in a safe space. This shared vulnerability is a powerful bonding agent. The laughter that comes from a failed improvisation is more effective than any forced networking event.

For expats, the class also serves a practical purpose: it’s a linguistic and cultural safe haven. While you’re trying to navigate the complexities of a new language in daily life, the acting class allows you to play with your English. It rebuilds a speaking confidence that constant translation can erode.

A Safe an Open-Minded Circle

Finally, the people you meet are your people. They are, almost by definition, other open-minded, adventurous individuals who are willing to step outside their comfort zone. They are a mix of fellow expats seeking connection and locals interested in English theatre, creating a perfect bridge into the wider cultural scene of your new home.

So, if you’re in a new city and struggling to find your tribe, look beyond the usual expat forums. Sign up for an English acting class with Act Attack!

You might not win an Oscar, but you will gain something far more valuable: a stage full of friends, ready to welcome you into the spotlight of your new life.

Acting is more than just entertainment, it is a transformative experience that provides numerous benefits for individuals of all ages.

At Act Attack, we specialize in providing engaging acting and improv courses in English across various cities, including Lisbon, Amsterdam, and many other European cities. Our courses are designed to help individuals harness the many advantages of acting in a supportive, international and fun environment.

Acting is often seen as an art form reserved for the theater stage or Hollywood sets, but its advantages go far beyond entertainment! Here are some of the key benefits of acting and why it’s an experience everyone should consider.

Acting is Boosting Confidence and Public Speaking Skills

One of the most valuable acting benefits is its ability to enhance confidence. Performing in front of an audience teaches individuals how to manage stage fright, project their voice, and express themselves clearly.

This skill is incredibly beneficial in real life, helping with public speaking, job interviews, and professional presentations.

Taking acting classes requires clear articulation, active listening, and effective non-verbal communication.

Emotional Benefits of Acting

Acting requires stepping into different characters' shoes, which naturally improves emotional intelligence. By portraying various roles, actors gain a deeper understanding of human emotions, motivations, and perspectives. This heightened sense of empathy helps individuals connect better with others.

Engaging in acting can be a great stress reliever. The immersive nature of performance allows individuals to step away from daily worries and focus on the present moment. Additionally, acting exercises such as breathing techniques and mindfulness practices help actors stay grounded, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

Acting Enhances Creativity and Problem-Solving

A key aspect of acting is thinking outside the box to bring characters to life. This creative exercise stimulates the brain, encouraging innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities.

By participating in our improv sessions, you'll learn to think on your feet, develop original ideas, and approach situations with an open mind.

Acting Strengthens Teamwork and Collaboration

Learning to collaborate effectively enhances teamwork and interpersonal skills, which are crucial in any workplace. Being part of an ensemble teaches individuals how to adapt, listen, and contribute meaningfully to a shared goal.

Acting in English with Act Attack

Performing in English enhances fluency, pronunciation, and articulation. It also helps non-native speakers build confidence in public speaking and everyday conversations.

Join the International Community of Act Attack

The acting community is known for its inclusivity and creativity, making it an excellent environment for building meaningful connections. Acting classes, theater groups, and performance projects bring together people from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared passion for storytelling and self-expression.

Joining Act Attack means becoming part of a vibrant, international community of like-minded individuals. Our students often form lasting friendships, providing a network of support both within and outside the classroom!

Let's get you onboard with Act Attack!

In every European capital, behind the museums, monuments, and endless coffee spots, there’s a quieter cultural movement gaining ground...one that’s spontaneous, inclusive, and a little bit wild : it’s the improv community! And it’s drawing together some of the most curious, creative people in the city.

The Connection of the Improv Classes

One of the best parts? The mix. Improv scenes in Europe’s capitals are full of people from everywhere (artists, techies, travelers, teachers), and always united by one thing: showing up with an open mind.

Within a few classes, strangers become collaborators. Inside jokes form fast. Real friendships follow.

Acting Community, Not Competition

Unlike traditional theater, improv is built on group energy. You succeed by supporting others, listening hard, and saying “yes” more often. It’s a crash course in being generous, staying present, and letting go of ego: skills that carry over to real life, too.

Think less pressure, more play!

Why Improv Classes Matters?

In big cities where it’s easy to feel anonymous, improv classes carve out a space for real human connection. They attract creatives, introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between.

And whether you stay for one course or keep going for years, chances are you’ll leave feeling lighter, bolder, and more at home in the city with Act Attack improv classes.

Community Building Through Acting Improv Classes in English

Beyond personal growth, acting and improv classes serve as community spaces that support organic connections to flourish. In multicultural cities, many adults (expats or newcomers) often find it challenging to make friends or feel a sense of community. Acting workshops offer an in-built social network.

Over weeks, these small groups often turn into creative families. Many students meet for drinks after class, attend plays together, or celebrate birthdays -a proof that these acting classes become a social anchor.

Inclusive Spaces for Creative Expats

This community aspect is even more valuable for expats and international residents. In cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon and other cultural hubs where Act Attack operates, the population is very international.

Expats may struggle to connect or build lasting friendships; thus, an acting class becomes a perfect solution. It provides activities in a structured yet fun manner where connections happen naturally (classes conducted in English or bilingual).

More importantly, it creates connections across cultures.  Imagine a Catalan local performing with an American and a student from Japan, all laughing at the story they’ve created together. These shared experiences help bridge cultural gaps and form friendships that might not happen in a typical expat meetup or a social gathering. 

A Platform for Meaningful Impact

In essence, the theatre is the melting pot of diversity, celebrated. Everyone is equal on the stage; what matters is the creativity and teamwork, not your nationality. This inclusive spirit helps people from different backgrounds feel at home.

As one builds a “theatre family” in a foreign city, feelings of isolation diminish through a supportive community.

Acting and improv serve as catalysts for building thriving communities, bringing bring people together, while creating a bridge across borders to foster an ongoing sense of community and belonging.

Join for Curiosity and Stay for the Acting Community

Acting and improv are far more than an entertaining hobby. It teaches communication, empathy, and cooperation, turning groups of strangers into ensembles that trust and uplift each other.

They offer a safe space for expression and growth, a space to combat loneliness and forge meaningful bonds among diverse people. All these factors contribute to thriving communities where individuals feel connected, understood, and empowered. 

Say Yes to Act Attack Community

Whether you’re looking to improve your interpersonal skills, find friends in a new city, or simply de-stress, an acting or improv class can be a transformative experience. It’s a place to say “yes, and…” to personal growth and to building a supportive community around you whether you want to join Act Attack in Amsterdam, Lisbon, Barcelona, Munich or Madrid.

When we watch a great actor perform, their emotions feel real, and their characters seem like actual people. But how do actors create such believable performances? One of the most popular methods used in modern acting comes from Konstantin Stanislavski, a Russian actor and director who changed the way actors prepare for their roles.

At Act Attack, we use Stanislavski’s techniques to help students develop authentic, emotional, and natural performances. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced actor, understanding his method will make you more confident and connected to your characters.

What Is the Stanislavski Method?

Stanislavski believed that acting should feel real instead of looking fake or forced. Before his ideas, many actors simply pretended to have emotions, using exaggerated gestures and voices. He wanted actors to experience emotions truthfully, so the audience would believe in their performances.

His method teaches actors to:

• Understand their characters deeply
• Use real emotions from their own lives
• Stay present and react naturally on stage

Now, let’s explore the key techniques that Act Attack students practice to bring Stanislavski’s method to life.

Emotional Memory: Using Real Feelings

One of Stanislavski’s most famous techniques is emotional memory. This means that actors recall real emotions from their past to connect with their character’s feelings.

For example, if your character is sad because they lost a loved one, you might remember a time when you felt deep sadness—like losing a pet or saying goodbye to a friend. By remembering how you felt in that moment, you bring real emotion into your performance.

In Act Attack classes, we guide students in safely using emotional memory without feeling overwhelmed. Our exercises help actors access emotions while staying in control.

The Magic "If": Stepping Into Your Character’s Shoes

Stanislavski asked actors to imagine: "What if I were in this situation?" This technique, called the Magic If, helps actors connect with their roles in a personal way.

For example, if your character is in danger, you might ask:
"What if I were in this situation? How would I react?"

This question makes performances feel natural, rather than just copying someone else’s acting.

At Act Attack, students use this method in scene work, learning how to put themselves in their character’s mindset.

Objectives: Understanding What the Character Wants

Every character has a goal, also known as an objective. A character doesn’t just say lines randomly—they want something.

For example, in a scene:

• A student arguing with a teacher might want respect.
• A romantic lead might want love.
• A villain might want power.

By focusing on objectives, actors bring more meaning to their performances. Act Attack teachers help students analyze scripts to find their character’s true objectives, making performances more engaging.

Subtext: The Meaning Behind the Words

People don’t always say what they truly feel. Subtext is the hidden meaning behind words.

For example, if a character says, “I’m fine,” but looks sad, the real meaning might be, “I’m not fine, but I don’t want to talk about it.”

At Act Attack, we train actors to look beyond words and express deeper emotions through voice, facial expressions, and body language.

Given Circumstances: Understanding the Story

Every scene has given circumstances, which are the facts about the character and situation. These include:

• Where is the scene taking place?
• What just happened before this moment?
• What is the character’s background?

For example, playing a soldier in a war is very different from playing a student in a classroom. The way you stand, talk, and react will change based on the situation.

In Act Attack’s acting courses, students learn to use given circumstances to shape their improvisation performances and make characters more believable.

Why Stanislavski’s Techniques Matter at Act Attack

Whether you are taking classes in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid, or Lisbon, we use Stanislavski’s techniques to help you:

• Feel natural on stage
• Express real emotions
• Create deep and believable characters

We believe that acting is not about pretending—it’s about becoming the character. That’s why our classes use Stanislavski’s methods in fun and practical ways, helping students build confidence and bring their characters to life.

Ready to take your first step in acting classes? Sign up today and bring your characters to life!

Microtheater is a new type of theater, coming from Spain, where short plays, usually 10 to 15 minutes long, are performed in small spaces. This makes the experience more personal, as the audience is very close to the actors.

Several plays are performed in one night, allowing actors to try different roles and interact with the audience in a unique way.

What is Act Attack Advice?

Microtheater is a good way to discover the theater world as the play is short and the price of a play is around 5€. It's a great experience, and we highly recommend it!

Microtheaters in Barcelona

Barcelona has one popular microteatre, Microteatre Barcelona, that offers multiple short plays each evening in different rooms. It’s a great place for actors to perform different types of roles.

Microtheaters in Madrid

Madrid is where microtheater started, one of the best places for short play is the Microteatro Por Dinero. One of the first microtheaters, located in Malasaña. It offers short plays in small rooms where the audience is very close to the actors.

Microtheaters in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a creative arts scene that includes microtheater performances, especially in the Microtheater Amsterdam. This theater focused on short plays in small spaces, giving actors a chance to perform in an intimate setting.

Microtheaters in Lisbon

Lisbon has a lively theater scene, though there are not many places dedicated only to microtheater. However, some venues offer short plays and experimental performances like the Teatro da Trindade. It's a historic theater in the Chiado area that presents different types of plays, including modern and experimental ones.

How Act Attack Students Can Connect with the Acting Community

For students at Act Attack’s acting classes, microtheaters are a great way to explore and engage with the local theater scene. Attending performances and meeting local actors, directors, and theater professionals can help students build connections and discover new way of acting.

2004 – Actor in the Making

After a long day at university, I went out for drinks with a few good friends. One of them, Yorgos—an amusing guy—started talking about his hobby, theater. It instantly reminded me of my uncle, a famous actor in the 70s, whose confidence on stage I had always admired.

“I’m part of a really cool amateur theater group.”

Yorgos said.

“We put on performances every year. Everyone’s friendly, and we’ve formed a great bond. It’s a lot of fun! Why don’t you join us?”

As someone introverted and shy, the thought of socialising with strangers felt like a nightmare. But Yorgos encouraged me.

“It’s all about practice, and you’ll see—the feeling is amazing. You’ll learn a lot and meet some interesting people!”

“Okay, I’ll give it a try.”

I replied.

Rehearsals for the play "Romeo & Juliet" had begun, and I was feeling quite anxious. Mr. Yannis Degaitis, an experienced and inspiring director, offered me the role of the priest. It was a small part, but it was my first role ever, and I couldn’t thank him enough!

I was both excited and nervous. But then, something magical happened. The moment I stepped on stage for the first time, all my anxiety, shyness, and doubts transformed into pure creative energy.

2014 – Years Full of Memories

I could never imagine I would be an amateur actor, but there I was, exactly 10 years after my first play.

We did more than 200 theater performances all over Greece with this amazing multicultural team. Almost the same team as we started.

We stayed together, worked together, traveled together, laughed together, cried together. Theater and acting has become our favorite hobby and best friend!

I was so dedicated to my passion, I couldn’t wait to go to the rehearsals. Even when I was sick, I wanted to improve my role, interact with my co-actors and get inspired from our brilliant director, Mr. Yannis.

I never guessed that I would get the chance to play Romeo, the biggest role, in the same play I had the smallest role 10 years before. This time in: “Romeo & Juliet”- Improv Parody Version, I was able to express myself almost completely naked to more than 200 people!

I never thought that acting would transform me so much as a person: From very introverted, I became open, social and extroverted, with more self-confidence & creativity.

Dreams Do Come True

When I moved to the Netherlands, I dreamed of creating a theater group, like the groups I joined in Greece. A multicultural theater community where everyone is welcome, that's how Act Attack started!

My aim is to help people use theater as a tool for personal development in a fun way, express themselves, be more creative and improvise more. Through acting, you can become more confident and active in your everyday life.

Also, theater will help you overcome the fears of public speaking, interact and communicate better. Basically, you become a better person! Yes, that’s the magic of Acting. That’s what I’ve learned and now I want to pass it on! Here you can see an interview I gave to my friend from Mikadventures.

I keep devoting my life to Theater.

Join me on this exciting journey!

George
Act Attack Theater founder

In today’s fast-paced tech industry, effective communication is a cornerstone of successful leadership. The 30-Page Blueprint for Powerful Public Speaking by Act Attack is a must-read guide for anyone looking to elevate their public speaking skills. This comprehensive eBook provides actionable strategies to build confidence, clarity, and connection with audiences, ensuring that your message resonates and inspires action.

Here is a short summary of its insights to enhance your communication skills!

Why Public Speaking Matters in the Tech Industry

In the tech sector, where innovation and rapid change are the norms, the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively is crucial. Executives must convey their vision to diverse audiences, including teams, stakeholders, and clients. Effective communication not only facilitates understanding but also fosters collaboration, innovation, and a positive organizational culture.

The eBook emphasizes that communication goes beyond mere information exchange: it shapes organizational dynamics. Leaders who communicate transparently inspire trust and openness, encouraging team members to share ideas and concerns without fear. This culture of openness boosts creativity and problem-solving, making it essential for sustained growth in a competitive industry.

The Three Pillars of Powerful Public Speaking: Confidence, Clarity, and Connection

Act Attack outlines three key goals for mastering public speaking: confidence, clarity, and connection.

1. Confidence: Confidence is the foundation of effective communication. The eBook offers practical techniques to overcome common fears associated with public speaking, such as nervousness and self-doubt. By practicing and refining their skills, speakers can deliver their messages with authority and credibility.
2. Clarity: In the tech industry, where complex ideas are the norm, clarity is essential. The eBook guides readers on how to structure presentations, use language that resonates with the audience, and employ visual aids effectively. By distilling messages into key points, speakers can ensure their audience remains engaged and informed.
3. Connection: Building rapport with the audience is crucial for impactful communication. The eBook explores techniques such as storytelling, active listening, and understanding audience dynamics. By creating a genuine connection, speakers can foster trust and openness, leading to more productive discussions and collaborations.

Crafting a Compelling Message: Know Your Audience and Purpose

Understanding your audience is the first step to delivering a powerful presentation. The eBook emphasizes the importance of identifying audience needs, preferences, and pain points. By tailoring your message to address these areas, you can create a presentation that resonates and engages.

The eBook also provides a framework for structuring your speech. A clear core message, supported by relevant examples and data, is essential for maintaining audience engagement. Storytelling is highlighted as a powerful tool for simplifying complex ideas and creating an emotional connection with the audience.

Preparation and Rehearsal: Building Confidence Through Practice

Preparation is key to building confidence. The eBook recommends structuring your speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Rehearsing multiple times, incorporating visual aids, and practicing adaptability are essential strategies for delivering impactful presentations.

Techniques for managing nervousness, such as breathing exercises, visualization, and engaging with the audience beforehand, are also discussed. These strategies help speakers stay calm under pressure and deliver their messages with confidence.

Mastering Body Language and Vocal Variety

Body language and vocal variety play a significant role in stage presence. The eBook emphasizes the importance of posture, gestures, and eye contact in conveying confidence and credibility. Vocal exercises are provided to help speakers command attention through pitch, volume, pace, and tone. Strategic pauses and the use of visual aids are also recommended to enhance understanding and retention.

Engaging Your Audience and Leaving a Lasting Impression

Real-time engagement is crucial for effective public speaking. The eBook offers techniques for fostering interaction, such as active listening, asking questions, and incorporating storytelling. Handling audience questions gracefully and adapting to feedback are highlighted as critical skills for maintaining credibility and fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

Crafting a strong opening and a powerful closing is essential for leaving a lasting impression. The eBook provides tips for creating a compelling introduction that captures the audience’s attention and a conclusion that reinforces key points and inspires action.

Unlock Your Public Speaking Potential

The 30-Page Blueprint for Powerful Public Speaking is a valuable resource for executives and professionals looking to enhance their communication skills. By mastering the acting techniques outlined in this eBook, you can build confidence, deliver clear and compelling messages, and create meaningful connections with your audience. Whether you’re delivering a keynote speech or leading a team meeting, these strategies will help you make a lasting impact and drive success in the tech industry.

Ready to take the stage? Explore Act Attack Acting courses and unlock your public speaking potential. With hands-on acting courses, and a supportive community, you’ll gain the tools and feedback needed to elevate your communication skills to new heights.