Our Expert Instructors
Eleanor Vance - Head of Acting
Eleanor Vance is a Tony Award-winning actress with over 30 years of experience gracing both the stage and the silver screen. A graduate of the prestigious Juilliard School, Eleanor's passion for acting ignited during her childhood performances in community theater productions in her hometown of Philadelphia.
Her career blossomed with leading roles in numerous Broadway productions, including "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "Death of a Salesman," earning her critical acclaim and the coveted Tony Award for Best Actress. Beyond the stage, Eleanor has appeared in several critically acclaimed films and television series, showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress.
As Head of Acting at Thespian Arts Academy, Eleanor is committed to nurturing the next generation of acting talent. Her teaching philosophy centers on fostering a supportive and challenging environment where students can explore their creativity, develop their skills, and discover their unique voices. "I believe that every student possesses a unique spark," Eleanor says. "My goal is to help them ignite that spark and transform it into a roaring flame of passion and artistry." She emphasizes the importance of rigorous training, disciplined practice, and unwavering dedication to the craft of acting.
Eleanor’s classes focus on a range of essential acting techniques, including Meisner, Stanislavski, and method acting. Students will learn to develop characters, analyze scripts, and deliver compelling performances that captivate audiences. She also guides students on navigating the often-challenging landscape of the acting industry, providing invaluable advice on auditions, networking, and self-promotion.
Eleanor’s dedication extends beyond the classroom. She actively mentors her students, providing guidance and support as they pursue their professional goals. Her former students have gone on to achieve success in Broadway productions, television series, and independent films, a testament to her exceptional teaching and mentorship.
Eleanor believes that the Thespian Arts Academy offers something special: "We provide a safe and supportive environment where students can take risks, experiment, and learn from their mistakes. Our goal is to empower them to become confident, skilled, and versatile actors who are ready to take on any challenge."
Marcus Bell - Voice Acting Instructor
Marcus Bell is a renowned voice actor with credits in numerous animated films, commercials, and video games. His journey into the world of voice acting began with his childhood love for cartoons and mimicking voices. He honed his skills through years of practice, improvisational workshops, and formal training in voice techniques.
Marcus's voice has brought life to a diverse range of characters, from quirky cartoon creatures to heroic video game protagonists. He has voiced national commercials for major brands, lent his voice to award-winning animated films, and created memorable characters in popular video games. His versatility and ability to embody different characters have made him one of the most sought-after voice actors in the industry.
At Thespian Arts Academy, Marcus shares his industry insights and techniques to help students excel in the world of voice-over. His teaching philosophy centers on nurturing students' individual voices, developing their vocal range, and mastering the art of character portrayal. "I believe that everyone has a unique voice that can be developed and shaped into a powerful tool," Marcus says. "My goal is to help students discover their vocal potential and unleash their creativity." He emphasizes the importance of proper vocal care, microphone techniques, and understanding the nuances of different voice-over genres.
Marcus’s classes cover a range of essential voice acting techniques, including character voice development, commercial voice-over, animation voice acting, and audiobook narration. Students will learn to create distinct character voices, deliver compelling commercial reads, and bring stories to life through the power of their voice. He also provides guidance on building a professional voice acting career, including audition techniques, demo reel creation, and marketing strategies.
Marcus is not just a teacher; he is a mentor and a guide for his students. He actively encourages them to explore their creativity, experiment with different voices, and take risks. His former students have gone on to work in national commercials, animated films, and video games, a testament to his exceptional teaching and mentorship.
Marcus' passion for voice acting is contagious. He inspires his students to embrace their individuality, find their unique voices, and pursue their dreams with unwavering dedication. "Voice acting is more than just reading lines," Marcus says. "It's about bringing characters to life, telling stories, and connecting with audiences on a deep emotional level."
Seraphina Rossi - Stagecraft Instructor
Seraphina Rossi is a seasoned set designer and stage manager with extensive experience in Broadway productions. Her journey into the world of stagecraft began during her college years when she volunteered as a stagehand for a local theater company. She was captivated by the magic of creating immersive theatrical environments and decided to pursue a career in stage design.
Seraphina has worked on numerous Broadway productions, designing sets, managing stage operations, and collaborating with directors and actors to bring their visions to life. Her innovative set designs have transformed stages into enchanting worlds, earning her critical acclaim and industry recognition. She has also worked on off-Broadway productions, regional theater projects, and independent film sets, showcasing her versatility and expertise in the art of stagecraft.
At Thespian Arts Academy, Seraphina teaches students the fundamentals of creating immersive and visually stunning theatrical environments. Her teaching philosophy centers on fostering creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. "I believe that stagecraft is an art form that requires both technical skill and creative vision," Seraphina says. "My goal is to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to design and manage successful stage productions." She emphasizes the importance of understanding the technical aspects of stagecraft, as well as the artistic elements of design and collaboration.
Seraphina’s classes cover a range of essential stagecraft techniques, including set design, lighting design, sound design, costume design, and stage management. Students will learn to create detailed set designs, plan lighting schemes, manage sound effects, design costumes, and oversee stage operations. She also provides guidance on working with directors, actors, and other members of the production team.
Seraphina is a hands-on instructor who encourages her students to experiment, take risks, and learn from their mistakes. She provides them with opportunities to work on real-world projects, allowing them to apply their skills and gain practical experience. Her former students have gone on to work as set designers, stage managers, and lighting designers for Broadway productions, regional theaters, and independent film companies, a testament to her exceptional teaching and mentorship.
Seraphina believes that stagecraft is an integral part of the theatrical experience. "Stagecraft is the silent storyteller," she says. "It sets the scene, creates the mood, and enhances the audience's emotional connection to the story."
Jonathan Lee - Screen Acting Instructor
Jonathan Lee has appeared in numerous films and television shows, captivating audiences with his talent and versatility. He discovered his passion for acting during his high school years, where he starred in several school plays. He honed his skills through formal training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and years of experience on film and television sets.
Jonathan has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, earning critical acclaim for his performances in both leading and supporting roles. He has appeared in a wide range of genres, from action-packed thrillers to heartwarming comedies, showcasing his ability to embody diverse characters and deliver compelling performances. He is also an advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry, actively working to promote opportunities for underrepresented actors.
At Thespian Arts Academy, Jonathan provides students with invaluable insights into the world of film and television acting. His teaching philosophy centers on developing students' natural talents, fostering their creativity, and equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in the competitive world of screen acting. "I believe that every actor has a unique story to tell," Jonathan says. "My goal is to help students discover their voice, hone their craft, and share their stories with the world." He emphasizes the importance of understanding on-set etiquette, camera angles, and the nuances of acting for the screen.
Jonathan’s classes cover a range of essential screen acting techniques, including on-camera performance, scene study, character development, audition techniques, and on-set etiquette. Students will learn to deliver compelling performances in front of the camera, analyze scripts, develop authentic characters, ace auditions, and navigate the complexities of the film and television industry. He also provides guidance on building a professional acting career, including creating a compelling demo reel, networking with industry professionals, and marketing themselves to potential employers.
Jonathan is not just a teacher; he is a mentor and a role model for his students. He actively encourages them to pursue their dreams, take risks, and never give up on their passion for acting. His former students have gone on to appear in major films and television series, a testament to his exceptional teaching and mentorship.
Jonathan is deeply committed to helping his students achieve their goals. "I want to empower students to create meaningful art, have successful careers, and make a positive impact on the world," he says.
Amelia Hernandez - Improvisation Instructor
Amelia Hernandez is a celebrated improvisational comedian and instructor, known for her quick wit and infectious energy. Her journey into improv began unexpectedly at a local comedy club, where she spontaneously jumped on stage and discovered her natural talent for creating hilarious scenes on the spot.
Since then, Amelia has performed at numerous comedy festivals, theaters, and corporate events, delighting audiences with her spontaneous humor and impeccable comedic timing. She has also taught improv workshops for students of all ages and skill levels, helping them develop their creativity, spontaneity, and teamwork skills. Amelia is passionate about using improv as a tool for personal growth and self-expression. She believes that improv can help people overcome their fears, build confidence, and connect with others on a deeper level.
At Thespian Arts Academy, Amelia teaches students how to develop their spontaneity, creativity, and teamwork skills through improvisation. Her teaching philosophy centers on creating a safe and supportive environment where students can take risks, experiment, and learn from their mistakes. "I believe that improv is not just about being funny," Amelia says. "It's about listening, connecting, and collaborating with others to create something meaningful." She emphasizes the importance of active listening, agreement, and playing with commitment.
Amelia’s classes cover a range of essential improv techniques, including character development, scene work, game play, and long-form improvisation. Students will learn to create memorable characters, build compelling scenes, participate in hilarious improv games, and develop complex long-form narratives. She also provides guidance on using improv skills in other areas of life, such as public speaking, presentations, and team meetings.
Amelia is a highly engaging and enthusiastic instructor who inspires her students to embrace their creativity and have fun. She creates a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and pushing their boundaries. Her former students have gone on to perform improv professionally, participate in comedy festivals, and use their improv skills to enhance their careers in other fields, a testament to her exceptional teaching and mentorship.
Amelia believes that everyone can benefit from learning improv. "Improv is a powerful tool for personal growth and self-expression," she says. "It can help you become more confident, creative, and adaptable in all areas of your life."
David Chen - Musical Theatre Instructor
David Chen is a multifaceted musical theatre performer and instructor, whose passion for the performing arts spans acting, singing, and dance. His journey began with piano lessons at a young age, quickly followed by vocal training and dance classes. David's natural talent and unwavering dedication led him to pursue a career in musical theatre.
David has performed in numerous Broadway productions, regional theaters, and touring companies, captivating audiences with his dynamic stage presence and exceptional talent. He has starred in classic musicals such as "West Side Story," "Les Misérables," and "The Phantom of the Opera," as well as contemporary productions such as "Hamilton" and "Dear Evan Hansen." He has also worked as a vocal coach and choreographer, helping aspiring performers develop their skills and achieve their dreams. He is a strong advocate for arts education, believing that it plays a vital role in fostering creativity, self-expression, and personal growth.
At Thespian Arts Academy, David teaches students how to combine their acting, singing, and dancing talents in this dynamic musical theatre course. His teaching philosophy centers on developing students' technical skills, fostering their creativity, and building their confidence. "I believe that musical theatre is a powerful art form that can inspire, uplift, and transform audiences," David says. "My goal is to help students discover their passion for musical theatre, hone their craft, and share their talents with the world." He emphasizes the importance of proper vocal technique, dance training, and acting skills.
David’s classes cover a range of essential musical theatre techniques, including vocal training, dance choreography, acting for musical theatre, and musical interpretation. Students will learn to sing with proper technique, perform complex dance choreography, act effectively in musical theatre productions, and interpret songs with emotional depth. He also provides guidance on audition techniques, performance etiquette, and career development.
David is a dedicated and supportive instructor who inspires his students to push their boundaries and achieve their full potential. He creates a positive and encouraging learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and expressing themselves. His former students have gone on to perform in Broadway productions, regional theaters, and touring companies, a testament to his exceptional teaching and mentorship.
David believes that musical theatre is a collaborative art form that requires dedication, hard work, and a strong sense of community. "Musical theatre is about more than just singing and dancing," he says. "It's about telling stories, connecting with audiences, and creating a shared experience that transcends cultural boundaries."