About
TOASTCO/I use materials that come from the stories of people of color. We use theater to educate and share these stories in an attempt to enhance the understanding of the human experience and build bridges to healthy relationships. We work with local artists' original works, as well as, contemporary and classic materials, of already established playwrites.
The first multiethnic theater company in the Stockton community, year 2018, we received the mayor's "CITY Award", from the Stockton Arts Commission for representing, with excellence, cultural theater arts.
Bridging the gap and assisting people in letting down their barriers, lifting their own authentic voice, and becoming liberated in their thinking of others and the self. Self-actualization through theater and performance is one of the highest forms of freedom and the expression of creativity.
Photos and videos
Reviews
Manuel
Tareka M.
Romann H.
Belinda
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
My typical process for working with a new student is to find out what areas of interest they would like to study, how often, and go from there. If there is a monologue they would like to work on, scene work, voice work (not dialect), we work together to create the best plan of action.
I am open to using the student's materials, however, I have materials, as well. Accepting students 13+
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in Humanities, with an emphasis in the Arts. I own a multicultural theater company, that has been in existence for 6 years, and has been awarded for its presentation of culture, representive of the diverse community it serves. I am a working actor and director, with more than 15 years experience in theater and performance arts.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard pricing system is for individuals, virtual or in-person (due to COVID, space and social distancing is required; parks, backyards, etc. are good places to meet for in-person, 1 on 1 trainings.)
One time coaching (monologue/audition):
$150/2hrs ONE time, deposit $50
Weekly coaching (must book at least 4 weeks):
$125/2hrs per week, deposit $50
On-going coaching (more than one month):
$100/2hrs per week, deposit $50
How did you get started teaching?
By request. Many people in my community were seeking an alternative to the local community college and theatrical training programs that already existed, as the focus was mainstream and did not include their authentic voices. As a result, I created a BASIC actor training program, in response to the desire to train using the voices of ethnic playwrites and actors.
My theater company is TOASTCO, an acronym for Telling Our Authentic Stories Theater Company. Our mission is to keep the stories of people of color alive; foster intercultural healing and education; to advocate, educate, and raise awareness using theater and performance arts.
What types of students have you worked with?
The students I have worked with come from diverse backgrounds, with different skill levels. Due to the nature and themes of the materials I use, most of my students are adults. However, I accept students 13+
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Acted in and directed the play, "A Raisin in the Sun" by Lorraine Hansberry for the Gallo Center in Modesto, Ca. It was an epic play, with a dynamic storyline, depicting the struggle of an African American family attempting to integrate a white community in Chicago. I believe in arts with understanding, so I enjoyed the post production discussion that ensued, engaging the local high school students after the play.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
To be open to the experience, a blank slate.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What do you want to accomplish at the end of each session/week/month?
What are your professional or personal goals?
How can they be achieved through theater and performance arts?