About
Originally from Detroit but currently based in Chicago, I have been dedicated to the art, craft, and business of Acting for over two decades! After studying acting at California Institute of the Arts, then Marymount Manhattan College and The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, I went on to train with some of the best acting and speech coaches.
I am a well-trained actor and coach who has had the privilege of performing in various regions across the U.S. and even in Athens, Greece! Throughout my career, I've worked on films, plays, commercials, audio series, and music videos. One of my most significant accomplishments was working with Tony Award-winning Broadway Director Kenny Leon at The Public Theater's Joe's Pub on HOW BLACK MOTHERS SAY I LOVE YOU. In 2022, I directed a virtual acting showcase featuring some of my Acting students and in February 2023, I performed the lead role in a play called "The Realness" in honor of Black History Month. Most recently, I appeared as a supporting role in the feature film "McKenzie McCoy," now available on Amazon Prime. I am not just a well-trained actor and coach; I am a working actor who is passionate about sharing my knowledge and experience with others.
Who's YOUR Acting Coach?
Specialties
Experience level
Acting venue(s)
People in group
Acting focus area(s)
Students goals
Acting type(s)
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
bailen E.
Keith M.
Raven
aj M.
Kieran D.
Dawson M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I begin by having the student read the text aloud to me. We then have a discussion about the world of the play/film/show to get on the same page. I have the actor explore vocal and physical qualities that may or may not work for the role, but that may help to bring forth discoveries that they may not have thought of. Depending on the needs of the actor, we will then do a line by line analysis and dive into character with substitutions, fighting for an objective, overcoming obstacles, and relationship work. I also like to explore physical images and gestures.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Marymount Manhattan College - BFA Acting
American Academy of Dramatic Arts - Acting
California State Summer School for the Arts (CalArts)
Scene Study with Dennis Hilton-Reid
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$45/hr
Discounts for recurring students
How did you get started teaching?
I actually kind of fell into teaching. It started in acting school when a friend asked me to help her with an audition piece. She loved working with me and spread the word and next thing you knew people from all over campus were asking me to coach them!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with children as young as 9, seniors, college students, first time actors, and people exploring acting as a means of expanding their professional skill in an area unrelated to acting.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently got the chance to work with esteemed Broadway director Kenny Leon. What a life altering moment!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Read reviews, look up the coach online, and go with your gut. After a first session, if you aren't pleased and dont feel a connection, keep looking!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What is your skill level?
What are your goals for this training?
Do you plan on a one-time thing or recurring lessons?