WELCOME TO BERRIDGE FRANCE
SUMMER THEATRE AND FILM SCHOOL

Berridge France is one-of-a-kind summer arts program based in an 18th century French chateau.

​

Now in it's 13th summer, our flagship program in Normandy, France offers you the opportunity to surround yourself in the historical riches and beauty of France while studying Theatre or Film with professional actors, writers, filmmakers, and producers.  Whether you’re contemplating a career in the industry, preparing for college, or just want to build your creative skills, you’ll find a community of like-minded, supportive people at Berridge France.

Dates and Details

BERRIDGE FRANCE

THEATRE AND FILM SCHOOL

Summer 2022:

June 25th - July 21st, 2022

​

Majors

ACTING OR FILM. (Film students can cross over into the Acting Program through electives)

Tuition

ACTING PROGRAM $7875

FILM PROGRAM $8475

(Does not include round trip airfare)

​

Scholarships

There are a range of scholarships available for these programs.  

​

Admissions

Open to any students between the ages of  14 - 18 including graduated seniors. 

Application

Rolling admissions until the program is full. Requires an online application and personal statement. 

​

RESIDENCE
CHATEAU LE MONT EPINGUET

Berridge France is hosted at Chateau le Mont Epinguet in Normandy, France. 

​

A truly unique and inspiring setting, Berridge France is part pre-college arts program, part study abroad program and part artists retreat. With this beautiful historical residence as the backdrop, you'll find space to deepen your craft, connect with like-minded creatives, expand your sense of self and gain a wider perspective on the world. Summer after summer, our students tell us that the nurturing community we create in this beautiful setting has a profound effect on them both as artists and as people. Hear more about the Berridge Effect from our alums.

ACTING
PROGRAM

The Acting Program offers rigorous, pre-college actor training in a nurturing, process-oriented environment.

Offered as a taste of college conservatory life, you’ll take our five “core classes”: On Camera, Shakespeare, Acting Techniques, Contemporary Performance and Movement. You then choose electives from Musical Theatre, Directing, Improvisation or Writer/Performer.  There are three class periods per day, each 90 minutes in length, and classes are taught on rotation throughout the week. Each class culminates in a showcase and there is a Final Performance for an invited audience. Click here to see the schedule and read class descriptions for the Acting Program. 

FILM
PROGRAM

The Film Program offers professional-level filmmaking from concept to premiere in a dream location.

You'll learn the art of visual storytelling through hands-on instruction from industry professionals and explore how structure, theme, character, and tension are translated through the lens.  The program offers classes in Screenwriting, Cinematography, Film Production and Editing and you’ll gain experience in all of the principle crew roles including Director, Camera Operator, Boom Operator and Sound Mixer. Students edit their films in Adobe Premiere and Apple Final Cut Pro, and the program culminates in a film premier for an invited audience. Watch the films made at Berridge

FACULTY
AT BERRIDGE

Berridge faculty are professional artists who represent decades of experience in film, television and stage. 

​

But they are so much more. They are passionate artists, nurturing mentors and enthusiastic collaborators who will get to know you personally, supporting your creative development and putting your artistic goals at the centre of everything they do.  Berridge faculty return summer after summer  and for many it is an eagerly anticipated highlight of their year. They bring with them a passion for their craft and a dedication to our students that creates a supportive community like no other.  Learn more about the faculty

TRIPS
AND EXCURSIONS

Normandy, France is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in all of Europe. 

Civilized by the Romans, conquered by the Vikings and occupied by the Germans, Normandy has over two-thousand years of history to discover. The program includes full day excursions to the The American Cemetery at Omaha Beach and medieval Bayeux, home of the famous Bayeux Tapestry and Bayeux Cathedral. We spend the day at  Mont St Michel, a thousand year old monastery atop a tidal island with far reaching views across the bay. You'll also enjoy trips to local French markets, cafes, châteaus and gardens, the beautiful beaches at Carteret and Bricquebec, a medieval village with a castle dating back to the 11th century. 

BEYOND
BERRIDGE

​

Our students find the supportive atmosphere of Berridge instrumental in giving them the courage and confidence to pursue their passions in the arts.  We currently have alumni in some of the top Theatre and Film programs in the world as well as many who do completely different subjects. We write many reference letters each year for college applications and offer mentoring and coaching beyond the program. Berridge offers an ongoing community of artists around the world, many who end up at the same colleges and work together professionally in the industry. 

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR?

This program is for any young artist interested in living in a unique creative community and studying Acting and Filmmaking. Our students come from all over the world, from every kind of school and with every level of experience.  We welcome applications from students at all levels, from complete beginner to those who want to pursue creative careers.  

Consider this program if you would like to:

• build your artistic technique and prepare for college admissions

• complete a portfolio of work for college or career development

• Connect  with industry professionals and other like-minded artists

• Build your confidence, technique, knowledge, and skills

• Enjoy a unique summer experience combining travel abroad and the arts

FAQ'S

Do I need to audition?

There is no audition requirement for our programs unless you are applying for a scholarship. See our application process here. 

How many students are on this program?

We accept only 40 students in total so early application is encouraged. 

Do I need to speak French?

Our program is taught entirely in English

Can I talk to some former students?

Yes of course! Get in touch with andrea@berridgeprograms.com for a list of references

What is a typical day like?

The program is quite packed with students in class from 9AM - 5:30PM weekdays. Weekends are reserved for shooting time, rehearsals and private coaching. Click here to see a full schedule.  Click here to read more FAQ's.