About

CIRCLE IN THE SQUARE THEATRE SCHOOL

An independent non-profit 501(c)3, began training actors in 1961. We are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre . We share a busy space with the famed Circle in the Square Theatre.

The Circle in the Square Theatre School began when Circle in the Square Theatre was located on Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village. The theatre was producing professional plays on a regular basis and hiring young actors. Producer, Theodore Mann wanted to be part of the training of the potential actors for their productions. At the time there were no full-time training programs offered, only individual classes. Mann decided he wanted to create a school where the complete aspects of actor training were taught and so launched Circle in the Square Theatre School.

Mann was joined by his partner Paul Libin and later Colin O’Leary to administer the school. At the beginning, CITS Theatre School had 15 students in attendance. In both the Two-Year and Summer Programs, the student body is approximately 90 students annually. Alumni, Jeanne Slater has been the Artistic Director of the school since 2020.