
About
Do you want to work with a working actor? As of January 2019 I'm acting in a feature film, a commercial and a TV series on HBO. I also work regularly in the theater as actor/writer/director/choreographer...I'm in the trenches every day and have been for over 20 years. Would you like to learn the skills it takes? I enjoy working with young people as well as adults, and what we work on is tailored to your interests and your needs. I offer private coaching as well as workshops for beginners to professionals, which nurture the development of the whole artist. I also help people learn the essential practical skills you need to be successful in entertainment as a business.
Visit: Michaelsimonhall.com
LinkedIn: Michael Simon Hall
My biggest thrill is to see someone discover a basic truth that helps them to expand their ability and flourish, and to know I helped make that happen.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We start with a free 20 minute consultation to find out what the student is interested in. I will then do an assessment of the student's experience and training and propose a plan for them to achieve their goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been working in the professional theater since I was 17 years old. I started professional training while a teenager, first in music, singing and dance and later acting. I started teaching others also while I was in highschool. While I was working professionally, I attended AMDA and trained primarily in Mesiner Technique with Phil Gushee and Suzanne Shepherd. As I continued working in the theater in NYC, across the US and in Europe, I co-founded an ensemble theater company and was a member of the Workshop at Neighborhood Playhouse for ten years as an actor, writer and director, and taught part-time for many years. I more recently started doing film and TV, while continuing in theater as actor/writer/director/choreographer. As my experience is very eclectic, this naturally flows into my teaching, which I adapt to the strengths of the student. In addition to the specific skills that are needed in any given area, the same basic principals apply to all artistic forms, and these are the things that all students need to embrace to sustain a life-long journey of self growth and success.
How did you get started teaching?
I have always enjoyed helping others, I started teaching dance while in highschool at private schools as well as in my highschool as part of the music program.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with all ages, from 7 up to 77! I've helped total novice beginners as well as seasoned professionals, but I typically work with young professionals, from children through adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
The recent Launch of the Philip Glass Institute at the New School. This was very inspiring as the Institute is a new kind of learning and creative center which will nuture training and cross collaboration in multiple art forms.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
When hiring a teacher, you need to feel comfortable with this person, that you feel this is someone you can trust. It is vital that the teacher respects your point of view, regardless of your age or experience, and that there is a supportive, open dialog, so you are never afraid to ask a question or share your thoughts. While the teacher should hold you to high standards and value discipline, the teacher should be positive and encouraging, and focus on what you are doing right, more than what you are doing wrong. It is only through this way that a person can grow, become more skilled, and develop their own unique voice. Criticism is important, but encouragement and validation is even more important.