The Alli Mae Carnes Studio’s mission is to provide high-quality performing arts education that empowers individuals to develop authentic artistic voices—reflecting who they truly are—while supporting artists’ mental health, confidence, and sustainable career growth.
Who We Are
The Alli Mae Carnes Studio, LLC. (AMCS) is a multi-disciplinary performing arts school providing private instructions in voice, acting, dance, and piano, along with group technique classes and fully produced musical theatre programs for students ages five through adult. Founded in 2020 by Alli Mae Carnes, AMCS operates as a service-based arts education business serving the greater Raleigh area.
We are a neurodiversity-affirming studio committed to creating a space where Young Performers feel safe, supported, and at home. Each year, AMCS provides thousands of dollars in scholarships — and we have never turned away a student seeking financial assistance for lessons or classes.
Our Story
In 2020, when the world shut down, so did the performing arts industry. Overnight, founder Alli Mae Carnes lost her work as a professional actor - along with the sense of ceratinty that comes with it. Instead of waiting for stages to reopen, she built her own.
From her living room, she created an online musical theatre curriculum and launched what would become The Alli Mae Carnes Studio (AMCS). What began as a few virtual classes quickly grew into a global community. By the end of 2020, hundresds of students from around the world were training together over Zoom - finding connection, creativity, and joy during an uncertain time.
Private lessons weren’t even part of the original plan. That changed when a student said “I don’t want to stop learning from you. Can I take private lessons?” The answer was simple: Absolutely.
From there, AMCS was born.
Since then, the AMCS community has grown immensely. Jump to 2026, and our team has grown to include NINE Coaches, one administrative associate, an exemplary roster of Guest Artists, 10+ mainstage productions a year, and 350+ students.
“What sets AMCS apart is the heart behind the training. They combine exceptional, high-quality instruction with a culture that feels like family…This is not just a place to train - it’s a place to grow, connect, and belong.”
—Former Student