PrivateActingCoach
About
I am a Los Angeles-based working actor, writer and director. An actor for over 30 years, since being cast in my first play while a student at UC Santa Cruz, I have appeared in commercials, indie films and on network TV. I have worked also as an actor and teacher for the Tony Award-winning Denver Center Theater Company in Colorado. I've acted, directed and taught acting for West Performing Arts in Santa Cruz, CA which presents literature based theater with an emphasis on social justice. In LA Last Summer I co-produced, directed and played the title character in the play To Be Dalí at Casa 0101 Theater, whose artistic director is Josefina Lopez, writer of the play Real Women Have Curves and which went on to be made a film by HBO starring America Ferrera. I have received numerous awards over the years, but continue learning myself as an artist and am excited about coaching actors with their theater, film or commercial auditions or maybe work on monologues and technique. Let's get to work!
I am a firm believer that the arts, in all their forms, are what get us through the best and worst of times. It is also important to continue the ages long tradition of storytelling through dance, song and acting. Working with actors gives me the opportunity and the great joy of helping others do what I have been so fortunate to enjoy myself.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to meet my students at their skill level and go from there. I am here for them and want to best fulfill their needs.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Actor/Head Teacher - Denver Center Theater Company, CO.
Studies in Acting - University of California, Santa Cruz, University of Colorado, Denver, Leigh Kilton-Smith, Los Angeles, CA
30 years working as an actor.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Affordable.
How did you get started teaching?
I was trained to teach at the Denver Center Theater Academy, the education wing of the DCTC and was quickly told that I was "a natural teacher." As a head teacher, I presented workshops and classes throught Colorado and metro Denver. In fact, I appeared in American Theater leading a kids acting class my first year at the DCTC.
What types of students have you worked with?
Pre-K thru High School and Adults. I have worked with beginners, intermediate and advanced students and have directed other working and professional actors for film and theater.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
In these days of Covid-19, home is where life happens and so what keeps me occupied is what comes to mind. I have a garden that I tend to daily, I am working on three oil paint portraits and I am writing a screenplay that I am beyond excited to share soon.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Trust your instincts. Meet your teacher in person or on-line. Ask questions. Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who will challenge you. This is your education and you will get out of it what you are willing to put into it. Study with various people over the years; everyone will offer you their own ideas and technique and you will build your "toolkit," using what works in any given situation.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How much do you want to be an actor? Is being an actor your end goal? Or are you seeking fame and fortune? If so, you may be in for a surprise and shock; it isn't always an easy ride, but if you love the work the rejection and struggle will all be worth it. "Art for art's sake," as the MGM logo states over the roaring lion is good place to start. The rest will follow, if you believe and persist.