Stephanie’s Acting Studio

In our first meeting we would discuss what goals the student hopes to achieve (i.e. prepare this monologue or side for an audition). I am interested to know what monologues/material the student would like to work on. We can also work together to choose monologues/material. It would be useful for the student to have a bit of space to move around in and a device on which to access the internet for classes (online). 

Dance was the first of the performing arts in which I had formal training. I modeled, danced, sang, played the piano, and acted during elementary school and middle school (though modeling gave way for me to focus more on academics for a while). I studied many styles of dance; and I believe that, with each new style of dance, I longed to expand my means of expression....More and more until I realized that theater/acting was the art form that would allow me to express myself in the most comprehensive way. Dance also led me back to my agency, where I took “acting for the camera” classes and my acting teacher encouraged me that I had talent. I attended Juan Diego Catholic High School, where I explored the performing arts…from dance to choir to theater….I determined that I wanted to pursue a life in the arts. 

I went on to graduate summa cum laude with distinction from the University of Minnesota/Guthrie Theater BFA Actor Training Program, a rigorous training program that involved integration of movement, voice, and acting within a variety of styles. I benefitted from top-notch artistic experiences, including getting to study abroad in London for a semester where I took theater classes at The Globe and at the London International School of Performing Arts and performed on Shakespeare's Globe stage. Since graduating, I have been blessed to work as an actor and choreographer and, specifically, as a Teaching Artist at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Fee = $50/hr. 

As I grew my acting career, I also started teaching movement / dance workshops and was invited as a guest artist to speak/work with students from my acting school alma mater. In tandem with acting, I acquired more opportunities to be the Dance Captain for certain shows. Working in the capacity of Dance Captain and as a Choreographer reminded me how much I enjoy helping people and how satisfying it is to be able to pay it forward after having had so much support when I was a novice. Eventually I was approached about being a Teaching Artist in the Education Department at the Guthrie Theater. One of my favorite experiences as a Teaching Artist was teaching a summer class for high school students who were interested in pursuig Acting in higher education. It was a joy to work with them on monologues and scenes and help them feel more prepared and confident to walk into any audition room. 

I have worked with my peers (fellow professional actors in the industry) as well as high school students.  

Recently I had the privilege of playing “Belle” in the Guthrie Theater’s production of “A Christmas Carol"! 

In terms of acting, it would be useful for the student to make a list of some of their strengths and also what they would like to improve upon.