About
I have been an actor and director for over 25 years in a number of markets, including Seattle, Austin and Los Angeles. I am currently repped by Heyman Talent Agency in Columbus.
I have coached actors and those who want to become actors for over 15 years. I help you develop your potential into something tangible through learning about your dreams and goals. I tailor my style to each individual, to help them achieve the heights they want to reach as a performing artist.
I have trained L.A. actors, Ohio prison actors, comedians, musicians, juveniles, groups of actors, individuals and folks who have never taken an acting class before. I use a combination of recognized acting methods in tandem with the artforms that move you, to help you develop your own unique style.
I can teach just as easily via Skype as I can in person. I can come to you, or we can work together with an ocean between us!
Acting and performance is like breathing, for me. I would not be the person I am today without it. It has been my outlet, my therapy, and my teacher. I am not expecting everyone I teach to approach it in the same way, but that's how it is for me.
As an instructor, the joy and illumination I see on students' faces when they have had a breakthough in their work is what makes my work so enjoyable. There's nothing like it!
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Sara Y.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, we conduct a 20-30 minute "get to know me" session, where I get an idea of my student's skill level, interests and goals--and to answer any questions they might have about the process.
If the student is ready, we can launch right into work, or we can schedule our first session--whether online or in person.
I give the student "homework" each session (even beginning with the first one!) which includes reading material and clips to watch for the week. It is meant to be enjoyable and illuminating. I will tailor this according to the type of medium the student wants to aim for (for instance, stage acting, film acting, comedy, et cetera), or I have a go-to module if the student is interested in "general acting" training; one that covers all mediums.
The student will select a piece or pieces (monologue, original material) to work on each week (or 1 piece to work on for an extended amount of time). This will all be determined by hands-on, personalized discussion with the student actor.
I also offer audition-specific coaching, as an add-on.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a professional actor for over 25 years in numerous entertainment-related projects, including performing, writing and directing in theatre, film and television--in Ohio, Kentucky, Seattle, Vancouver B.C., Austin and Los Angeles.
I have been a professional acting instructor and director for over 15 years, in L.A. and in Ohio.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
The pricing varies, dependent upon the student actor's skill level and needs. Please request a free 15 minute consultation, and we can discuss terms!
How did you get started teaching?
I saw a need for a specific kind of improv training (my specialty) while living in Los Angeles, so my teaching launched then, back in 2004.
What types of students have you worked with?
Children
Teens
Adults
Groups
Individuals
Incarcerated adult males
Incarcerated male/female juveniles
Non-native English speakers
Differently-abled individuals
Comedians and improvisers
Musicians and hip-hop artists
Those who said "I don't act" but learned they could!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Leading a group of incarcerated actors into new territory as performing artists. We produced a show that featured monologues, scenes, originally-written material, and even Shakespeare!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for an instructor who will capitalize on your strengths, not beat you up for any perceived weaknesses or lack of knowledge. Look for an instructor who wants you to succeed by helping you learn who you are! An instructor who promises to "make you a star" is only in it for the money and has no interest in helping you develop your potential or your goals.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1.) How much time do have in a given week to work on this endeavor?
2.) Do I have an end goal, or is this just for fun?
3.) What are my interests? (Note: They don't have to be related to acting.)