About
I began training in classical music at the age of 6 years old with the Young Singers of Callanwolde in Atlanta Georgia. My work with YSC taught me the fundamentals of music theory, and concert etiquette At the age of 14 years old I continued to study privately and sing for hire around Atlanta Georgia. I have travelled throughout America and Europe singing and am currently enjoying a career as a stage actor in Atlanta throughout the country.
My work as a singer has built stamina for the demands of onstage work. Over my 16 year career in the Atlanta Theater scene I have been recognized with several Suzi Bass award nominations and have been honored with the 2017 Craig Noel Award by the San Diego Theater Critics Circle for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Musical, Female.
My work as an actor has been primarily in the development of new plays with award-winning and celebrated playwrights from around the country such as Marcus Gardley, Darren Canady, Kia Corthron, Robert O'hara and Eisa Davis.
I love telling new stories and taking on different characters. In teaching others what I have learned and applied in my career, it gives me a great sense of joy to watch others discover new ways of thinking and learning how to communicate.
Learning about new techniques such as the Viewpoints and Plastiques is as important to learning the true craft of acting; just as important is understanding the more established techniques such as "The Method", Meisner, Stanislavski, and others. I believe in the actor constantly growing so that their work is engaging for them as well as for the audience.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When I am working with a new student I like to find out about their acting background: Have they had any previous training or experience in acting and what is it. I also like to have them perform a piece -- this gives me a sense of where they are in their work as far as instinct and technique. From there I can best address the weak spots and hone the skills they have
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have studied at the Negro Ensemble Company in New York city and took class with Susan Batson. Most of my training has been in the Profession of acting. I have been a professional stage actor for sixteen years. My training as an opera singer extends back much further...thirty-three years. My work as most recently been awarded with the Prestigious Craig Noel Award by the San Diego Theater Critics Circle and I have been nominated several times for the Atlanta Theater's Suzi Bass Awards for my acting.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My pricing is 160/month and half of the payment is due at the first session.
I am willing to work out an arrangement for professionals and students.
Ultimately I work on a case by case basis with my students to ensure they are will continue to have uninterrupted training during their time with me.
If there is any reason that I feel the student is not advancing in their work, I will discuss the situation with the student.
All fees are non-refundable
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching when students in acting studio I was a part of began asking me if I gave lessons. I extended my knowledge to one and improvements were seen in their work and others began to ask for my help. From there the word began to get out that I would help other aspiring and established actors in town and that is how it began.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all levels of students from beginning and interested to professionals who want to try new styles of acting or work on audition pieces.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Most recently, March 9th, I was a part of the prestigious Kendeda Festival at The Alliance Theater. Being a part of this festival again after so many years was very exciting because of the material and the calibre of actors on the stage. The playwright was not able to attend but was Syped in from London where he is having another one of his pieces produced.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would advise any student looking for an acting teacher to look beyond the accolades and awards and have a conversation with that teacher; many people have degrees and awards but are not very clear on their approach to the person they are teaching. EVERY PERSON IS DIFFERENT. If a teacher doesn't truly take the time to understand what their student needs on an individual level they may not be able to effectively address that student's needs.
One other piece of advice is to find out how much the teacher truly knows of the history of acting and acting styles in America at least, if not styles from other parts of the world. This will give you an edge on other actors going into an audition with just a "look" or "natural talent".
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. Do you specialize in a certain technique of acting? Why or why not?
2. After hearing my monologue, what is your analysis? Can you identify my weak points...things I need to improve? How would you suggest I begin that process?
3. Are there any breathing or stretching exercises you would recommend to help me with breath support and control? Vocal Projection?
4. How do you suggest I approach scenework? How do I break down a scene?