Chicago, IL Theater Acting Lessons

o short films and started working on my own web series, about my life as a singer/voice teacher. I also have an art song project consisting of original material with composer Jaroslaw Golembiowski. As a singer and actress I have performed with many major theaters in the Chicago area, including Court Theater, Victory Gardens, National Jewish Theater, Bailiwick Theater, and Prop Theater.

*** Lesson Details ***
As a classically trained singer I will instruct you in all aspects of singing technique, from breath control and support to improving your tone, range, flexibility and resonance. I have recently completed training in Somatic Voicework, The LoVetri Method, which has enriched my understanding of the mechanics and health of the voice, as well as applications of technique to CCM or contemporary musical styles of singing.
My familiarity with a variety of musical styles from pop/rock, R&B, and country, to musical theater, lounge and jazz makes me an ideal teacher for those interested in contemporary styles.

I have spent many years developing my own style of singing and instruction. I draw on my experiences and training not only in music, but theater and movement, (Linklater, Alexander Technique, Grotowski) to create a well rounded approach to singing and performing. As an instructor, I am most interested in helping students find their true voice and artistic style. I teach students to find expression through and with a foundation of technique, rather then in spite of it. I also am very interested in helping students deal with the mental/emotional aspects of performance, an all important area so frequently ignored by music teachers. My style is nurturing, yet disciplined, and sprinkled liberally with good-natured humor."

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studio space is fully equipped with a piano, P.A. system with microphones, CD, MP3 player for tracks, and ability to record lessons if the student desires.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Please have a piano (in tune!) or keyboard for use in your in home lessons.

*** Specialties ***
I am classically trained, but I am very adept at teaching music in a wide variety of styles, including most contemporary styles of music including pop/rock, roots, swing, jazz and blues, country, r&b, and of course musical theater and cabaret. My band performs an eclectic mix of originals and covers in the roots rock genre, and I write music as well. I have many years of experience in the theater as an actress, and I coach acting technique and performance. I coach singer/songwriters, and all types of singers, of all ages. I have a workshop that specializes in helping people learn to perform better in front of an audience, and I host the Singer's Salon in Chicago, which is a supportive opportunity to perform regularly! I also coach bands, to improve their vocals, harmonies, etc.

n Chicago to attend graduate school. In 2013, I earned my M.F.A. in Acting from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University. Currently, I am Co-Artistic Director and Director of New Works with The Arc Theatre. Additionally, I direct plays for other prominent theatre companies in the city. I am capable of teaching a variety of theatre skills, including classical techniques, performance of literature and speaking voice.

A bit about you:
YOU are a new actor, an experienced actor or "getting-back-into-the-swing-of-it" actor. YOU need help with an upcoming camera or theatre audition, choosing new monologues, developing a script, exploring different techniques, or understanding this fantastic business.

YOU are excited, scared and most importantly READY TO DIVE IN!

I am here for YOU!

*** Lesson Details ***
I am extremely laid back and open to trying new things. In a lesson, you can expect to bravely explore the world of acting in a safe, nurturing environment. I believe in the "YES" philosophy- anything is possible and everything is valid in developing a creative life. There are no wrong answers! Just millions of GOOD questions. Acting is DOING and through trial error, anyone with the drive and determination can be a successful performer. I will instill the confidence and skills you need to take the next step in your acting career- whatever that may be!

*** Studio Equipment ***
I have a growing library of books on acting, auditioning and play scripts. I am happy to loan you material and use any of my resources to further your learning.

*** Travel Equipment ***
We can both provide music, books and props as needed.

*** Specialties ***
Shakespeare, Contemporary, Film, Dialects
*Linklater-Trained

ions that are placed on students in order for them to succeed. In college, I was the head student researcher on a two-year lab project. I took several upper level science courses including: biochemistry, calculus, organic chemistry, calculus based physics, cell biology, anatomy, and physiology. I studied marine biology in the Virgin Islands and am CPR certified.

*** Lesson Details ***
Voice lessons with me are fun and effective. You can expect to hear improved technique from day one, eventually reaching your long term goals. I begin every lesson aligning the students voice through various vocal warm ups and exercises. We then work together to pick repertoire that will suit the singer'€™s voice and they will enjoy singing. During a lesson we will also cover performance presentation, acting, diction, rhythm, musicality, style, and interpretation.

During tutoring you can expect a personalized plan based on your goals and aspirations. Since every student is different you can be assured we will come up with a plan that is designed just for you. I am a laid back tutor but will be sure to get the most out of you after our time together. Most students see at least a one letter grade improvement. My main goal for every tutoring session is student learning and comprehension.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano, recording equipment, large collection of sheet music

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in helping students find their true singing voice.

help with that,too. Are you feeling more confident, and want to focus more on song polishing and getting into the heart of your songs? Let's do it! Confidence an issue? I am a pro with very shy people. I'll get you out of your shell, relaxed, and having fun right away so we can free that voice of yours! I have worked with many singers who have been diagnosed with anxiety: you're in good hands and you can trust me with your voice.

I am also a drama teacher who has worked with groups as well as individuals. I love working with beginning acting students! I'll assist with monologue prep, improvisation, voice for the stage, body awareness, and more. I love being on stage and want you to see how fun it is to jump in and let go,too!

I am a constant student in the world of theatre. I am currently taking many courses with the Drama Teacher Academy, and just received a certificate for monologue work ! Currently studying more improv and musical theatre techniques. I want my students to have as many skills as possible, no matter where their love for theatre or music takes them.

If you're interested in beginner ear training or music theory, I'd love to help you with that as well. I present it in a no-nonsense and fun manner! I'll provide you with simple worksheets to increase your confidence in learning the language of music, as well as run you through increasingly challenging patterns and sight reading for the ear training. Don't be afraid: I make it easy and customize it all. I used to be scared of theory,too- so I know what works!

I have been singing for over 20 years. Performances with the Lira Ensemble and Opera on Tap Chicago, and in master classes with international opera stars Alan Held and Lorna Haywood. Coaching with Collaborative Works Chicago and Rossini Opera Festival. Additional studies in Rock Vocals, Voice Care, Improvisational Comedy, Holistic Voice, Acting, Foreign languages, Dalcroze, Speaking Voice for Singers, , Commercial Vocal Styles/Belting with Lisa Popeil, teacher mentoring workshop with Maestro David Jones. Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance. Additional workshops in Vocal Pedagogy with David Sabella-Mills, Dr. Karen Prokop, Melissa Cross (the queen of healthy scream technique!), Sheri Sanders Rock the Audition training), and Chicago Cabaret Professionals.

Certified CoreSinging Instructor- one of only a few in the U.S. trained by Meribeth Dayme, PhD, respected clinician and authority in vocal pedagogy and author of "The Singing Book".

Completed John Henny's New Science of Singing course as well as Nate Plummer's Musical Theater Coaching course. Currently taking Dr. Shannon Coates' "Vocal Instrument 101". I'm a student, too, and want to better serve my students by constant study.

My students do a variety of great things! One was a top 12 "American Idol" finalist. Current students perform in musicals, top rated choirs, and professional rock , jazz,and blues bands. Many have won awards for their singing at competitions such as NATS. Students of mine have also been accepted to prestigious performing arts high schools for both drama and music, as well as undergraduate music programs in the US and Europe.

Proud member of NATS and the Speakeasy Cooperative, a professional group of independent voice teachers.

I think if you can speak, you can sing. Everyone can and should sing! Don't let anything hold you back. I am a people person that is very passionate about music and singing, and want to be the teacher you'll trust with your voice. Come laugh and learn with me!

*** Lesson Details ***
I teach in person (Northwest Suburbs of Chicago) and online via Zoom, FaceTime or TakeLessons Classroom, of course!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Sing and See Software. Additional materials I use: Funky n' Fun Vocal Exercises, Estelle Liebling Vocal Methods, Bona and Dannhauser for sight-reading, Full Voice workbooks for young and serious singers!

*** Specialties ***
Beginner vocalists! Very shy singers. Children, teens. Lapsed singers, and seniors. Experience in working with those with learning disabilities , special needs, and victims of abuse. Have also worked with the LGBTQ community and studied with experts in transgender voice .I also love to give workshops!

e for a flexible teaching schedule.

I'm also a former cast member of Walt Disney World and am a skilled puppeteer. I'm a funny / nerdy / silly teacher, so all levels of students will feel welcome. I look forward to teaching you! :)

echnique. Whether you’re looking to expand your range, learn how to “belt” or sing classically, or be able to create a true acting connection with a song, I can help you! We’ll start by diagnostically looking at your voice, breaking any “bad habits” and creating a solid foundation on which to build.

I also teach acting, and strive to make sure I meet whatever are my student’s custom criteria: whether that is nailing an audition or callback, how to fully create your own unique approach to a character, or how to make yourself a more flexible and dynamic actor as a whole. I also love helping people crack the daunting code that is Shakespeare and making it more relatable and approachable.

Performing arts teachers are basically cheerleaders, therapists, and mentors all rolled into one; and I hope that I can be that for you! I love teaching because nothing is quite as exhilarating as seeing firsthand how much someone can improve in their skill. So if this sounds like a good fit for you, shoot me a message and let's see just how far you can go to improve yourself and achieve your goals!

ional and regional television commercials to his credit including All State Insurance, McDonald’s and Century 21.

His service and dedication to arts in education has allowed him to instruct youth in many performance methods within various community programs including The New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Chicago Public Schools Advanced Arts Education Program at Gallery 37, After School Matters, Upward Bound, Project CHANCE and the Boys and Girls Club of America. He has worked with Harran Production Foundation to produce “Do you know Your Human Rights” with students from the After School Matters Program at Gallery 37. The group has performed University of Chicago’s Professor Emeritus Dr. Shakeela Hassan’s poem; giving it sound, rhythm, and movement while presenting it at various events including Chicago Unity Month at Soldier’s Field, CUSP Conference, and Chicago Sunday Evening Club’s Greater Chicago Leadership Breakfast.

​He is the Director of Theatre Arts and Co-Founder of the HHW School for the Performing Arts, Director of Programming at Lifevine Works. He currently teaches Oral Communication at Columbia College Chicago and has presently completed a book of scenes and monologues from the African American Christian experience entitled “LIFTED”.