About
I have over 35 years experience coaching actors, voice actors and executive presenters at all levels, helping them to master the art of performance, presentation and storytelling. I am a professional actor and acting teacher, voice and speech coach, director, playwright and producer. My success with students comes from years of practical professional experience.
Performance is a developed art form. You need the basic skills, but then you have to practice. These skills are not hard to learn, but success comes from working with a trusted coach and putting those skills to work. I truly enjoy customizing my lessons to the specific needs of each of my clients, and then watching their confidence and success grow.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I interview each client individually to find out their specific interests, goals and needs and then proceed from there. Since each person is different, I like to set up a program tailor-made for each client.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have an Masters degree in Performance (Acting) from Rutgers University and a Bachelors degree in English and Fine Arts (Theatre) from Warren Wilson College. I specialize stage, screen and voiceover performance, voice & speech improvement, auditioning, improvisation & comedy, play writing and script analysis. I've studied and performed with many of the the most prominent professionals in the entertainment field. I have over 175 plays and musicals on my performance resume--from classical to contemporary--at major US regional theatres, Shakespeare festivals and Broadway tours, as well as in television and film. I am a working member of the three performers unions (AEA, SAG-AFTRA), the Dramatists Guild, the Off-Broadway Alliance, the Theatre Communications Group, and the Voice and Speech Trainers Association (VASTA).
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My fees on Lessons.com are $75 per hour. Payments are accepted through Venmo, Paypal or Zelle.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching in college and in graduate school as an instructor in basic acting, improvisation and audition technique, and I have continued to teach at major colleges, universities and conservatories around the country. I balance this with an active and successful acting, directing and teaching career. I now coach both beginners and professionals alike in voiceovers, executive presentation, public speaking, story telling and accent modification.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with clients of all ages, but now work primarily with adults and students ages 18 and older.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Amanda Gorman's reading of her poem "The Hill We Climb" for the 2020 presidential innauguration was terrific. I very much admired Rev. Raphael Warnock's first speech on the Senate floor of Congress following his election to congress.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher who is experienced and kind, effective, and inspirational. A good teacher inspires a love and respect for your own voice and the contributions you can make in your career. Find a coach who will make you feel successful every step of the way.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The decision to learn new skills for personal betterment is a very courageous act. We should all be very specific about our personal and professional goals for the success we hope to achieve, and the amount of time and practice we are willing to commit to these goals.