Whitford Performing Arts
About
Jessica Lynne Whitford is a singer, actor and teacher. She has been working with kids and youth for over 20 years and has been teaching performing arts for 7 years. She's worked with over 700 youth. She has her degree in Theatre Arts and has performed throughout Southern California for over 25 years.
She is currently the Performing Arts Director and teaches at a Charter School in Beaumont, CA.
"I am so passionate about sharing my love for the arts with everyone. I started Whitford Performing Arts as a way of teaching young and old how to develop their craft and passion of the arts. I truly believe that the arts can strengthen and lift our understanding of ourselves, as well as, all of humanity. Ultimately, changing how we relate with one another and making the world a brighter place to live. Whitford Performing Arts helps change lives and inspires dreams through arts education. Everyone starts somewhere, so why not here! It's time to live your dreams!"
Singing/Acting/Improv Camps, workshops, private lessons available!
Specialties
Experience level
Acting venue(s)
People in group
Acting focus area(s)
Students goals
Acting type(s)
Student's age
Photos and videos
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Email or call for information and then set up 1st appointment.
Appointments can be online (zoom) or in-person but for now most appointments will be on zoom.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
*Been performing for over 20 years (Singing/Acting/Improv).
*Teaching performing arts for 7 years.
*Worked with over 700 kids/youth.
*BA of Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Drama Education.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
4 (30min. Sessions) = $150
8 (30min. Sessions) = $300
How did you get started teaching?
I never planned on teaching. I guess I just kinda fall into it. Haha! I worked for the YMCA for years and then I decided I wanted to pursue acting and a career in the Performing Arts so I left the Y and started pursuing my dreams.
During that time I had a friend who needed a Drama teacher at their school so I applied and got the job. Which is where I have been for the past 7yrs. Also during that time I had many parents and students ask if I gave private lessons and that is what propelled me forward with private lessons, workshops and camps. I'm so grateful for the experiences that have lead me to teach! I love every minute of it!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students ages 5yrs-60yrs and from all different types of backgrounds and experience levels (Beg., Intermediate, Advanced).
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Recently one of my adult students that I'd been working with for a while texted me a recording of their singing. My student thanked me and said she was so excited and proud of herself for how much she's grown since starting lessons. This is probably one of the best compliments that a teacher/coach can get! I was really happy and excited for her! It was a great moment for me.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would say find someone who you feel comfortable with because performing can be very vulnerable and you need to allow yourself to be vulerable in order to improve your skill and craft. Once you find someone you feel comfortable with...GO FOR IT! =)
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should have some idea of what they want. What are their goals? Why are they interested in taking lessons? Your answers will guide your teacher and help them know how to prepare and focus the lessons.