Wexford Acting Studio

Students join in the games, exercises, improvisations and scene work done in class from the very first day they are in class. There is no "observation." There is no prior experience necessary to participate so they hit the ground running.  Learning is fun in the studio and we work together, either in pairs or as a group every day.  If a student has something special to prepare for an upcoming audition, for example, the class will help critique the student as they work toward the goal of preparation.  I also give private lessons when requested, especially if students need help with college pres-creen auditions and I provide individualized lessons for students who need supplemental help and coaching.  Most of the work we do in the studio is within our group class structure.  

I received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in theater from The College of Wooster, and my Master of Arts Degree from Miami University in Acting and Directing, with an emphasis in Vocal Music and Dance.   I began my professional performance career at age 18 in The Ohio Light Opera and played there for five seasons. I sang with The Cleveland Opera for two years and played in stock, repertory, and regional theater companies before I embarked on my musical theater career on tour for 7 years n Europe, South America, and The British Isles.  I lived in New York City and was represented by an agent. I am a union member of Actor's Equity, Screen Actor's Guild, and the American Federation of Television and Radio. I began my teaching and directing career in earnest in 2006. Besides directing my studio shows, I also directed the high school musicals at North Allegheny High School for nine years, and am in my 5th year directing the musicals at Pine-Richland High School.

Yes, my studio classes have a standard pricing system. I use a tuition breakdown and do not pro-rate. Classes for Level One and Two are $95/month and for Level Three, classes are $115.  There is a one-time registration fee.  Private lessons/coachings are $50/hour.

I had been a performer all my life, then suddenly (and it was sudden!) my husband and I decided to expand our family.  My daughter was 4 years old when she started dancing with Wexford Dance Academy.  The ballet madame (Elizabeth Mackin Karas) suggested I hang out my shingle and open up an acting studio alongside her dance studio. My reply was "But I am not a teacher, I am a performer" and she said "Teach what you know and what you have been doing all these years!"  Hence, the birth of Wexford Acting Studio!  I am forever grateful for her urging and my husband's confidence in me to start my own business. I was an ENTREPRENEUR! 

The beauty of WAS is that we take not only the most talented students who have had a lot of experience on stage and are ready to strive for 'big-time' opportunities on the collegiate level, we also train students who are just starting out and have no experience but are ready to learn.  Whatever level of skill a student brings to the classroom, they will learn at their own pace and will be rewarded through hard work (play) and effort.  

Before COVID-19 hit the world, we performed a wonderful production of High School Musical in the fall of 2020.  I long for the days when we can once again return to full-book musicals on the stage.  There is so much talent out there just waiting to be showcased!

Don't be afraid.  Start on your path, and know that you will grow and your talent will be fostered.  You need to find a teacher and a program that offers you performance opportunities but also training in the classroom to hone your skills.  Sometimes you will find "performance-based programs" that make money and churn out shows with multiple casts, and the emphasis is not on training and technique.  Wexford Acting Studio is a place where you will learn and grow as a performer n stage and off and it is always fun.

It is important, to be honest about your needs and any concerns you have from the get-go.  Sometimes parents and students are not forthcoming about medical conditions or health issues.  It is essential that a teacher understands any issue that might affect class participation.  This includes any issues that have to do with something as simple, but as critical as shyness or any fears a student might have.  Because our work in the studio involves physical work and sensory stimulation (loud speaking or singing) as a teacher I need to understand any sensitivity a student might have.  The list goes on, but suffice it to say, communication is key, and the more a teacher understands your child, the better.