Boston Meisner Acting Classes

I always start by talking about his or her goals and aspirations. Then together we figure out a coaching plan that includes:

1) Work on the craft of acting

2) Concrete steps toward getting more auditions and success

3) Work on auditioning and figuring out how to market the actor's type to their chosen market.

I believe coaching is collaboration...and there's no way for me to help a student reach his or her goals if I don't know what they are. Figuring out an approach and making sure it's doable are keys to success.

I have an MFA from Sarah Lawrence College, I completed the Fred Kareman Meisner Course, and I have a BA in English (focus on creative writing). In addition, I've completed a number of teaching and coaching workshops focused on the process in learning. I've been a teacher since 1986, and my students have done extraordinarily well in the arts!

As a working actor myself, I bring an in-depth knowledge of both the industry and the personal struggles of actors and writers within it, so I understand what's discouraging and how to keep working even when it's challenging.

I charge $90/hour for private coaching.

$325 if you buy a four hour package.

I always wanted to teach. When I graduated from college, I went to Japan and was hired by the largest language institute in Asia (Kanda Gaigo Gakuin) to teach a full curriculum of ESL classes. They trained me in classroom management and working with student's fears of being embarrassed (a big cultural issue in Japan). I came home, worked as an educator and community liaison for women, girls and the disabled, and then opened my own business teaching creative writing. I loved all of it. I've never forgotten the reverence in Japan for teachers--sensei--and the need to address the culture and needs of your students in order to really reach them. I have brought this to the teaching of health, life skills, writing and acting. I think this is why my students feel safe to take the kind of risks that really are game changers in the arts.

I've worked with multicultural students of all races and ethnicities, with adults, teens, and preteens. I believe strongly in equality for all people and welcome anyone who wants to work with me.

So many! Last night I was teaching an All Level Meisner Intensive, and the two newest students were working together. They got caught up in presenting an idea, and I had them just look at each other until they really connected, and the rest of their exercise was so moving and fun. It's that simple...finding the door into authentic connection and watching actors walk through it.

Look for someone whose acting you admire, and who has a reputation for both success and kindness. Also, someone who has training in teaching and/or directing. In the arts, the people who teach are often very knowledgeable about their subject, but have no training in how to teach it. Teaching experience and training are important.

What do you love about acting?

Where do you feel stuck?

What is the feedback you receive from casting directors or teachers?

What is the dream? Where do you really want to end up?