About
Hi,
I'm an Asian-American who has over the decades somehow managed to make a living as an actor. So I have if anything alot of experience and hopefully wisdom. I know how tough it is out there and I think I have alot to offer both craft-wise and in a mentoring capacity. For a sense of who I am and what I've done, below are my IMDB list of credits and my (way outdated) website. Some past student reviews:
"I get SO MUCH insight and comfort from coaching with Keong. He’s incredibly patient and knowledgeable and so easy to work with and collaborate alongside. He knows how to bring out what’s special while keeping the technicals." Vin Vescio
Working with Keong gives me the confidence to know I am staying authentic.
He helps guide you to your truth. His experience is most valuable - Jennifer Roa
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1692978/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
www.keongsim.com
I enjoy it when I see an actor perform well. What does that mean? It means I see them living truthfully in a scene. As a new parent, it's not unlike the joy of watching your child struggle with something and then get it and the joy of it. Acting can be a delicate craft. You have to be both brutally honest with yourself (or resilient) and vulnerable. I've dedicated my life to it; I think I've learned a few things and I'd be happy to share it.
Highlights
Details
Experience level
Acting venue(s)
People in group
Acting focus area(s)
Students goals
Acting type(s)
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Kirk T.
Kirk T.
Vin V.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It depends on the student's needs. I'm happy to jump right in to help prepare a student for an audition or I can take a more mentoring approach. I have over 15 years experience so I'd like to think I have a lot of wisdom to offer, especially for actors of color. There's the craft element and the business element so depending on what the student's goals are, we can focus on his/her needs.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've studied at the National Shakespeare Conservatory, The William Esper Studio NYC, and have done tons of theater and film/tv. My roots and passion are in improv which I've done in Chicago and New York and LA (UCBTNY, The PIT, Chicago City Limits, etc.) both in a performing and teaching capacity. Please check my IMDB.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Typically for audition prep, $40/half hour, $60/hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I've been lucky enough to train with a wide range of amazing teachers. I started assistant coaching with my long-time acting coach and now I coach other actors.
What types of students have you worked with?
A wide range of ages and experience levels.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Being an actor is a brave choice. The odds are against you. But if you have passion, are willing to be persistent and learn the craft, I truly believe you will get your opportunities. So recently I worked with a veteran actress for a self-tape and she was so focused on getting the "perfect" take; I had to get her to realize she should just trust me to see it and that all she had to do was stay real, live truthfully moment to moment in the scene. That's it. No watching yourself during the audition. Your attention is all on the eyes of the reader and living truthfully.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Oh brother, I don't know honestly except meet with a bunch of them and go with the one you feel comfortable with.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
It depends on what a student's goals are. This is a brutally honest business so I'd do some soul searching on why you want to do this? If it's just to dabble, that's great. If it's to make a career or considering making a career, that's valid as well. Know yourself and have a pretty good sense of who you are.