About
I am happy you are here!
I am a theatrical industry professional, and I am here to help you discover your creative potential. Since graduating from Pace University's Musical Theater program with my BFA in 2011, I have performed, directed, and written for theater companies across the United States.
I currently teach as a freelance artist, and I create curriulium and teach for the Ocean City Theatre Company in New Jersey, and The Millbrook Playhouse in Pennsylvania. I am a yearly guest director for a regional tour of "Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream" with The Sundog Theatre Co. in New York, and I will be returning to The Ocean City Theatre Company in the Summer of 2018 to direct their theater for young audience series.
My intersectional artistic background has helped me more holistically understand the theatrical creative process, and I am eager to share what I have learned in my eleven years in the industry to help you achieve your full potential as an artist. My high energy and enthueastic teaching methodology can help you cultivate your interest in every aspect of the performing arts, whether you are a beginner or a professional looking for continuing study.
I would love to talk to you about creating a curriulium of study that will help you achieve your artistic goals. We can create custom lesson plans that will help you hone in on one area of study, or create a more diversified skillset. I specalize in audition technique, scene and monologue study, vocal health and styles, acting fundamentals and methodologies, and musical theater song analysis and preperation. You can visit www.shannonagnew.com for more about me, and what I'm up to in the theater right now!
Watching artists of any age learn something new about their craft, or something new about themselves makes me so happy. I believe that studying theater, and studying the insutments of theater (our voices, minds, and bodies) can make us more empathetic, inquisitive, and confident human beings. Watching one of my student's grow into their talent and self confidence is the most rewarding process. I cannot wait to help you grow and learn more about theater.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to have a conversation before our first lesson to get a better idea of what you would like to focus on in your artistic process. Then I can specially tailor a curriculium that suits your skill level and interest.
I focus on stage acting, and work from the fundamentals forward.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Pace University's Muscal Theatre Program.
How did you get started teaching?
I got started teaching while I was still a college student myself. I realized the more I learned as a performer, the more I wanted to share my knowledge with others! Since then I have taught every age of actor ranging from kintergarden to professionals looking to book their next job.
What types of students have you worked with?
Most of my students are serious about learning the fundamentals of theater, and exploring more deeply into their technical skills. I work with mostly pre college to professional actors, but I am comfortable with any age.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am a huge fan of such institutions as the Public Theatre in NY, which was designed to bring arts to the people. I think sometimes going to the theater can feel financially intimidating, and I am a firm believer that seeing theater can help people become more empathetic, observant, and critical thinkers, and everyone shoud have access to live performances.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Always make sure your teacher actually is working in the industry, or has studied acting. Acting and theater is a highly technical skill, which people spend a lifetime learning about. If someone says they can get you on Broadway, or they promise that if you study with them you will "make it" be wary. Good theatrical training doesn't guarantee you will land your next role, or make it to Broadway. Good theatrical training gives you the skills, grit, and professionalism to keep working in the theater and keep auditioning for that next role!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Do I want to study acting professionally and enter into the industry, or would I like to learn more about the theater and stage without entering the professional world? Both options are wonderful, and studying acting is great for everyone! But the course of study for professionals includes some audition and marketing skills that individuals looking to keep acting as a hobby don't need.