About
My teaching artist career is all about enabling the talent of actors and guiding them through my experience as a certified Michael Chekhov Acting Technique Teacher. I have been teaching actors as a coach, as a university instructor, as a guest artist, as a theatre director, and in my studio for over 30 years. I teach in-person and online classes and workshops in my studio, Chekhov Studio Chicago. I coach actors individually online with zoom. I can arrange in-person coaching sessions in downtown Chicago. You can find out more about me on the site of my theatre company, Moving Dock Theatre and Chekhov Studio Chicago -
About me:
https://movingdock.org/dawn-arnold
You can find upcoming in-person and online classes here:
https://movingdock.org/chekhov-studio-chicago-1
I love supporting the development of my student's creativity, skill, and possibilities. I enjoy helping actors feel free and confident. All talent needs is a creative process and inspiration!
Details
Experience level
Acting venue(s)
People in group
Acting focus area(s)
Students goals
Acting type(s)
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Jeremy S.
Katie H.
Emily N.
Ginger S.
Rebecca F.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, I talk with you in a phone interview to find out what you are seeking, what you did in any previous study, and what approach I teach. If we are working with essentials of acting, I will guide you in exercises. If you are ready to work on a character, we will figure out which character and scene and how to prepare. After you have done your preparation, we will work on developing the character and understanding the scene. As you are ready to perform the scene, I will observe you and further guide you.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a certified, master teacher of the Michael Chekhov Acting Technique, trained by the Michael Chekhov Association. I hold and MA in Musical Theatre from Roosevelt University and an MFA in Professional Actor Training from Ohio University. I have been a professor at Roosevelt University and Northern Illinois University. I am a Guest Teaching Artist for colleges and universities and am on the Faculty of Chekhov Studio Chicago, Michael Chekhov Acting Studio New York, and the Michael Chekhov Association.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$50/hour private session
Classes and workshops see the Chekhov Studio Chicago link
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching performing arts right after graduating from undergrad at Butler University. I taught violin privately for many years. After embracing my theatre career, I taught in schools and had private clients. I began my acting studio teaching in 2003.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work mostly with teens and adults who are entering the theatre/film career paths. Most have had some study prior to working with me, and have self-identified as a serious actor. Maybe because I teach Michael Chekhov Acting Technique, I find that very dedicated acting students come to me.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Just taught our annual Free Workshop at Chekhov Studio Chicago. It was so great to meet actors who are serious about developing their craft and their art and wanted to find out more about the Michael Chekhov Acting Technique.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
If you are completely new to acting, take a class first. Actors do their professional work with others and need to get used to operating in a group. However, there is much preparation work that needs to be done to be ready to audition, rehearse, and perform. Take your study seriously and invest in it. The more you study, the more confidence you gain and the more mastery you earn.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
You should think about your goals, but not just in terms of end-gaining a dream of fame and glory. Think about what you know you know and what you think you need to know. If you have been studying, what do you feel needs work? Do some research into available approaches. Ask about the process a teacher uses and what a typical session will be like.