Meet Our Expert Instructors
At StageLight Acting Academy, our faculty is comprised of seasoned professionals with years of experience in the theatre and film industries. They are dedicated to providing our students with the highest quality training and mentorship, helping them to develop their skills and achieve their artistic goals. Get to know the instructors who will guide you on your acting journey:
Eleanor Vance
Artistic Director & Acting Instructor
Eleanor Vance is the founder and Artistic Director of StageLight Acting Academy. A graduate of the Yale School of Drama, Eleanor has worked as an actress, director, and playwright for over 25 years. Her acting credits include Broadway productions of "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "Death of a Salesman," as well as numerous film and television roles. Eleanor is passionate about nurturing the next generation of actors and providing them with the tools they need to succeed.
Marcus Bell
Improvisation & Comedy Instructor
Marcus Bell is a renowned improviser and comedian with over 15 years of experience performing and teaching improv. He is a founding member of the Philadelphia-based improv troupe "The Spontaneity Shop" and has toured extensively throughout the United States and Canada. Marcus's classes are energetic, fun, and designed to help students develop their spontaneity, creativity, and comedic timing. He holds a BFA in Theatre from Temple University.
Natalie Chen
Voice & Movement Instructor
Natalie Chen is a highly skilled voice and movement instructor with a background in dance and vocal performance. She holds an MFA in Voice Studies from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London. Natalie has worked with actors of all levels, helping them to develop their vocal technique, physical awareness, and stage presence. Her classes focus on breath control, articulation, and movement improvisation.
Jordan Walker
On-Camera Acting Instructor
Jordan Walker is a working actor and filmmaker with extensive experience in film and television. He has appeared in several independent films and television shows, and he has also directed and produced his own short films. Jordan's on-camera acting classes provide students with practical training in camera technique, auditioning, and scene study. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and emotional connection in on-screen performances.
Samantha Davis
Musical Theatre Instructor
Samantha Davis is a versatile performer and educator with a passion for musical theatre. She has performed in numerous regional theatre productions, including "West Side Story," "Chicago," and "A Chorus Line." Samantha holds a Master's degree in Musical Theatre Performance from the University of the Arts. Her musical theatre classes cover all aspects of performance, including singing, dancing, and acting. She prepares students for auditions and helps them to develop their triple-threat skills.
Olivia Grant
Shakespeare & Classical Acting Instructor
Olivia Grant brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her teaching of Shakespeare and other classical texts. Holding a PhD in Shakespearean Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, Olivia has dedicated her career to understanding and interpreting the works of the Bard and his contemporaries. She helps students unlock the beauty and power of classical language, teaching them how to connect with these texts on a personal and emotional level. Her approach emphasizes both historical context and contemporary relevance.
Instructor Credentials
Our instructors at StageLight Acting Academy possess impressive credentials and a wealth of experience in the performing arts. Each instructor is carefully selected based on their expertise, teaching ability, and commitment to student success. Here's a summary of the typical qualifications of our faculty:
- Advanced degrees in theatre, film, or related fields (MFA, MA, PhD)
- Extensive professional experience as actors, directors, playwrights, or designers
- Certifications in specific acting techniques (e.g., Meisner, Stanislavski, Method Acting)
- Awards and recognition for their contributions to the performing arts
- Ongoing professional development to stay current with industry trends
We are proud to have such a talented and dedicated group of instructors at StageLight Acting Academy. Their passion for teaching and their commitment to student success are what make our academy a truly special place to learn and grow as an actor.
Contacting Our Instructors
For general inquiries about our instructors or their courses, please contact the StageLight Acting Academy administrative office. We are happy to answer your questions and provide you with more information.
StageLight Acting Academy
123 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: (215) 555-ACTS (2287)
Email: [email protected]
While direct contact information for individual instructors is generally not provided, students enrolled in our courses will have ample opportunity to interact with their instructors during class time and office hours. We encourage students to take advantage of these opportunities to ask questions, seek feedback, and build relationships with their instructors.