Upstage Acting
About
My teaching process focuses on actors being able to use their own experiences, life knowledge and instincts to develop characters. Students are led through exercises and text analysis to find where the most powerful choices can be found and how to utilize different techniqes to portray them.
I enjoy those small (or large) moments when things click, when an actor breaks through to discover abilities they didn't know they had. Those moments when they are able to truly give their character the voice that fits best.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The process varies depending on what the student wants to get out of the experience. I want to see what tools they already have and help them choose new ones that will assist their work best.
Most of what I do is asking questions and helping the student craft the answer that works best for them and their character. My methodology has been referred to as being Socratic.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I started acting at 9 years old. By the age of 16 I was directing. I spent one year in the acting program at DePaul Universities Theatre School before deciding to pursue directing instead. I finished my degree work at Columbia College in Chicago.
I have directed in Chicago, Los Angeles and Austin, Tx.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Currently my rate is $20 an hour. I can come to the student most of the time.
How did you get started teaching?
I was a Teacher's Assistant in the Stage Combat program at Columbia College for three years. As a T.A. I worked closely with students every day and periodically ran the classes for the instructor. I was studying directing at the same time and discovered that directing and teaching are two sides of the same coin.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher who is focused on you. Avoid teachers that believe you are lucky to be working with them. It's the other way around.