About
I have been teaching theatre for over 40 years. Though live instruction is best, I can teach online if students have access to a computer or other technology so that I can observe them while we work. I have taught improv and scene study to students of all ages. Contact me and we can discuss your personal needs.
I believe that all people have potential within them and acting is a wonderful way to bring that out. I have had success in helping beginning actors develop confidence in their abilities to stand up in front of others and be themselves.
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George D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to meet with students to get a sense of their goals and aspirations (this can be done virtually). Depending on what those are, I may recommend that they work on improvisation, engage in scene study, and/or work on various theatrical skills (e.g., vocal). We can work online if students have access to technology (e.g., a computer) where we can watch each other as we work.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been acting, directing, playwrighting, designing, singing, musical directing and producing professionally for over 40 years. My own company, Creative Educational Systems, has worked in public schools, youth groups, colleges, libraries, psychiatric centers, and community centers. I have taught and directed people of all ages and cultures. By now I have worked in probably 100s of schools across the nation, with 1000s of teachers, and with 10,000s of students of all ages.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I generally charge $30 an hour for online tutoring. If travel is involved, travel costs will be added.
How did you get started teaching?
I began my career at the Performing Arts Foundation of Long Island as an actor and stage manager. I soon was promoted into the Arts-in_Education company's Improvisational Theatre Troupe and traveled to local schools teaching teachers and students how to use the arts to teach any academic subject, as well as how to turn academic material into a play. Later in life, I went back to school to earn my Masters in Education and taught middle school science. Most recently, I have been doing shows and teaching young people astronomy at the Hardin Planetarium in Bowling Green, KY.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages, young and old; all ethnicities, ability and experience levels.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently produced a one act entitled "Fly Me To The Moon." It was an award winning play written by an Italian director for the 50th anniversary of the Apollo Moon Landing (July, 2019) and was performed as a national premiere at the Hardin Planetarium at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Regardless of the teacher's background, it all comes down to the chemistry between you and the teacher, and whether they are able to get the best out of you. You have greatness in you and it is up to you to do the work and them to guide you in releasing that greatness.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. Why do I want to do this? What are my goals? Do I want a part in a school play? To develop a dynamite audition piece? Am I seeking a career in the arts? Am I just interesting in being able to improvise on my feet in any situation and be have more confidence in myself?
2. Do I have something specific I want to work on first? Improvisation? a monologue? scene study?
3. What background of any kind do I have, whether or not I think it might be applicable to this work? Any skills, hobbies, strengths?