ABOUT MYSELF…
As a kid growing up in a small town in Texas, I dreamed about becoming an actress. But it truly seemed impossible. Then one day I heard that a film production was coming to our little town. It would star Hayley Mills! With no training or experience, I bravely went on the audition and…I got the part! I was devastated when my parents forbade me to do it. Alone with my dream and no support, I buried my longing for many years. For a brief time, my dream resurfaced in college when I did a couple of commercials. But later, it had to be put back on the shelf when I married and had children.

Some dreams are persistent and have a way of popping back to the surface. That’s what happened to me when I met June Chandler and began studying acting with her. She showed me how to honor my dream and taught me the skills to make it happen. Almost immediately during my training, I got an agent, and went on over 200 auditions in my first year. Since then, I’ve kept very busy with print, commercial and acting assignments.

 I manage to juggle a lot of plates. In addition to being a wife and the mother of two terrific teenagers, I have also been a fine arts consultant for a local area school district for the Iast 12 years, and I am currently teaching classes in art history, history of costume and studio art at a local college.

Dreams don’t have to die – I am living mine!

ABOUT THE CLASS…

In our acting classes, we focus on Commercial as well as Theatrical training, making sure each child feels comfortable as they prepare to accept and conquer new goals.

We work on-camera every week, and each student gets their own video tape to keep. We also work on auditioning techniques, so students know what is expected from agents and casting directors. Learning camera technique is very important and is a skill that takes practice.

Students develop a sense of professionalism, how to take direction, concentrate and act like a pro. Special attention is given to parent training, through a combination of special parent sessions, handouts , class observation and counseling. Parents are taught about the tools of the industry – photos (a special discounted photo shoot is available), resumes, and the right way to enter the industry.

WHY I TEACH…

It is my belief that children learn best when provided with a safe, nurturing, yet challenging environment . At all times, I seek to hold that as my standard while we explore the world of acting. Along the way, I have met some adorable, brave, expressive and very talented kids, all of whom I have truly enjoyed teaching. The progress these young people have made continues to inspire me.

The results have been amazing! It is true that children learn quickly, and when I see the confidence gained by even the shyest student, and when I see the joy these young people bring to their work, I’m glad that I have something to offer these very special young actors.