Acting Lessons in Hollis. Amazing Teachers.

I help actors personalize their characters by utilizing textual clues and establishing trust in their natural impulses.

Through a variety of acting techniques and exercises, you'll create a dynamic performance which illuminates the playwright's vision and also brings your unique gifts to the forefront.

Acting involves an incredible balance of specificity and spontaneity. In order to achieve that balance, we must prepare and conquer the many technical (physical and vocal) as well as personal (emotional and intellectual) demands we face in our careers and lives.

Public Speaking, Acting, Improv, and Communication Skills

"Speaking publicly was always my greatest fear until I had an opportunity to be coached by James. In just 5 one-hour lessons, my fear of public speaking was eliminated. James was able to convey that my fear of public speaking was irrational, and with several key preparation techniques I would be able to overcome this lifelong challenge. All true! Thanks James!"
--Senior ranking administrator in a private educational institution

The #1 fear of business people is addressing an audience. Effective oral communication, especially speaking in public, is a skill integral to confidence and leadership in the business world. Like any skill, it can be learned. Using breathing, stretching, and relaxation techniques from British theatre training, you will learn how to overcome stage fright and build confidence, so that you can stand in front of a group of people and convey your ideas convincingly, without fear, and become a ...

Fun, spontaneity and practicality are the key to Matt's approach! We'll find the humor and excitement in whatever you're working on, with intelligent analysis and more than a little silliness. Matt is experienced in working with all age groups, from 3 1/2 years old to adults.

Alyssa has been performing since 2003. She has a Bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance from Northern Arizona University (2016) and is pursuing her Master of Music degree in Opera Performance at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee (2018).

Skills taught include: vocal technique, audition preparation, role preparation, movement, preparation, and presentation.

Alyssa's most recent operatic roles include: Parpignol (La Femme Boheme), Anna Reich (Die listigen Weiber von Windsor), Lucinda (Dark Sisters), and Susanna (Le Nozze di Figaro). Alyssa also performs regularly in private concert events.

Alyssa's most recent musical theatre roles include: Lois Lane/Bianca (Kiss Me, Kate!), Mrs. Segstrom (A Little Night Music), and in scenes as Roxie Hart (Chicago), Audrey (Little Shop of Horrors), and Mayzie (Seussical the Musical).

I have a degree in Theater from Hofstra University, and have taught Theater Arts for over two decades. Many of my students have gone on to careers on Broadway and in professional film and TV. I can help you with character study, script annotation, scene breakdown, improvisation, and more! Let's create some characters!

Welcome! As a singer and actress, I am very excited to share my passion for the performing arts. We will begin with a monologue of your choosing. If you need help finding one, I have some to start with! We will work on breathing, enunciation, projection at first, then move on to emotions and background for your character. The best performances reach their audience because when you feel it, they will feel it!
I have a bachelors in singing and have taught music and drama for over six years. If you need help preparing for an audition, you’ve come tot he right place! I have helped countless students prepare for auditions at the school where I previously taught. Or if you just want to increase your acting skills, coaching with me will be fun and effective!