Screen Acting Masterclass: Inside Gerald Langiri’s First Intensive Training Experience

Nairobi’s creative scene took a significant step forward with the successful completion of the first Screen Acting Masterclass led by casting director and actor Gerald Langiri, held over two intensive days at the Kenya National Library (Upperhill).

Designed as a practical, no-nonsense deep dive into the realities of screen acting, the masterclass brought together a select group of emerging and intermediate actors for an experience that many participants described as “life-changing,” “eye-opening,” and “beyond expectations.”

A Masterclass Built on Process, Not Theory

Unlike traditional acting workshops that lean heavily on abstract theory, this masterclass was structured around process, discipline, and industry relevance.

Day 1 focused on foundation and perception, introducing actors to:

Script analysis and breaking down intention vs dialogue
Emotional truth and authenticity on camera
Understanding casting types (how the industry sees you vs how you see yourself)
The business of acting — positioning, branding, and strategy

Participants were challenged early with exercises that forced them to confront identity and perception — a critical but often overlooked aspect of casting.

“I loved the first exercise of how people view you vs how you see yourself. It changed how I think about my casting type completely,” Suki Wanza

Day 2: Where It Got Real

If Day 1 built awareness, Day 2 demanded execution.

Actors moved into:

Monologue performance and recording
Scene work with partners
Simulated casting room sessions
On-camera performance adjustments
Headshot sessions and showreel preparation

The simulated casting room stood out as one of the most impactful elements of the training.

“Experiencing that pressure helped me understand how real auditions function. I’ll walk into future audition rooms more confident than before,” said Zahrah Mohammed.

The intensity of the day pushed many actors beyond their comfort zones, creating moments of vulnerability, breakthroughs, and clarity about their craft.

Guest Speakers: Industry Meets Classroom

The masterclass featured guest sessions from Producer/Director Reuben Odanga and an international casting perspective from Hollywood Casting Director Allison Jones.

Reuben’s session, in particular, resonated strongly:

“Hearing directly from someone working at that level gave unmatched insight into the industry,” noted Janet Mbunga.

Participants appreciated the layered perspectives, though many expressed a desire for longer guest sessions to allow deeper engagement.

Allison Jones’ session offered a global lens:

“It painted a picture of the international industry and showed that the casting process is more similar than we think — the biggest difference being access through agents,” shared Brian Mwangi.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

One of the defining strengths of the masterclass was its practical deliverables.

Each actor walked away with:

Professional headshots
Recorded monologues
Scene material for showreels
Printed training notes

The decision to provide printed notes proved highly effective:

“Printed notes kept me focused. On the phone, it’s easy to get distracted,” said multiple participants.

A Location That Worked

Held at the Kenya National Library in Upperhill, the venue received overwhelmingly positive feedback for being:

Easily accessible
Quiet and conducive to learning
Close to Nairobi’s CBD

“It was affordable, central, and distraction-free — perfect for this kind of work,” said Selina Otee.

Real Feedback, Real Growth

Participants consistently highlighted the honesty and depth of the sessions.

“This was not just a class, it was a mind-shifting experience. I learned and unlearned,” said Nelly Mwangi.

“I now know what I’ve been doing wrong in auditions and self-tapes,” added Benson Nganga.

However, the feedback was not blind praise. Several participants offered constructive insights:

A need for more time on practical work
Slight reduction in theory-heavy sessions
More in-depth individual feedback
Exploration of hybrid models (online theory + physical practical sessions)

Value vs Cost — A Worthwhile Investment

At a fee point that sparked conversation, the consensus leaned toward value outweighing cost.

“If someone values their craft, this kind of investment is worth it,” noted Selina Otee.

Others suggested flexible pricing models to accommodate actors at different stages of their careers.

A New Standard for Actor Training in Kenya

What emerged from this first masterclass is clear:

This was not just training — it was industry alignment.

Actors left not only with improved performance skills but with:

A clearer understanding of how casting works
Awareness of their strengths and weaknesses
Tools to navigate auditions professionally
A shift in mindset — from hobby to business

“How I came in is not how I walked out,” summed up one participant.

What’s Next

With overwhelmingly positive reception and valuable feedback, the masterclass sets a strong precedent for future sessions.

There is already demand for:

More frequent classes
Expanded practical sessions
Continued industry guest involvement
Structured progression for beginner and advanced actors

If this first edition is anything to go by, Gerald Langiri’s Screen Acting Masterclass is positioning itself as a serious pipeline for professional actors in Kenya.