About
I have degree from Connecticut State University, where I doubled in the study of psychology (essential for acting!) and theatre. I have been a working actress for 25 years, and I have been teaching acting, theatre and voice for 13 years. I have taught all ages in a classroom setting, and private students have ranged from ages 9-adult. I want to connect with each student, understand their needs and create a fun and challenging program designed especially for them. I am a disciplined teacher, drawing on Stanislavski's method, as well as Sanford Meisner, Stella Adler, and Uta Hagen, among others.
I do not have reviews on Lessons.com yet, but I do have many past clients and co-teachers/directors willing to provide references.
Feel free to call me for pre-screening! Respond and I will send you my phone number.
I look forward to meeting you!
I adore every single thing about acting. I also continue to learn from my students! Each one has a unique voice, expression and style. Kids/teens also have a better capacity to use their imagination than adults, so I especially love working with young people. I emphasize the humanity of acting; empathy, respect for the material and the space, reading body language, subtext, picking up other people's cues, staying present, etc. Anyone can be a talking head, but making a character seem 3 dimensional takes cultivated skill.
Reviews
Andrew C.
Kimberly V.
Nichole S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Meet the student, assess their needs, and develop an acting program that works toward their personal goals. I like an hour session in order to accomplish the work needed and not be rushed. There is a theatre space locally that I have access to, or I can come to you.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology (so important for actors) and theatre from Connecticut State University. I have been a working actress for 25 years and a teacher (speech, voice and acting) for 13 years. I directed productions at Kids/teens on Stage for 4 years. I have worked at a performing arts school, a pre-school, a K-8 school and teach currently as an outreach teacher for the International City Theatre. I also direct and am currently putting up a show at St. Anthony's.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge 45 per hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching in New York City, at a perfroming arts school. I taught Shakespeare, monologue and scene study, impovisation, comedy, and acting for film, television and commercials.
When I moved to California, I implemented a drama program in a few different schools in Los Angeles and directed musical theatre and dramatic productions for Kids and teens on Stage in Santa Monica.
What types of students have you worked with?
My private students have mostly been teens and adults, though I will coach students as young as 9, including a few celebrity clients. I have worked with young professionals who are currently working in films, television and plays, and have had the pleasure of seeing some of my students on the big screen!
I also have taught theatre in a classroom setting for all ages, now mostly grades 3-8.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently participated in a fundraiser that incoporated the talents of multiple musician, actor and comedian friends, When I can be creative, stimulate others creatively, and also contribute to the community, I am my happiest!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Ask questions. Don't choose based on an online profile. Meet once, audit a class, get to know their style and then decide if a teacher is right for YOU.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What experience do you have?
What would you like to work on?
What are your acting goals?
What needs improvement?
Are you willing to hear criticism, take direction and put in the hard work?