Leading with Curiosity
In the classroom, I start with curiosity. I often tell my students that my knowledge base is “the breadth of a lake but only an inch deep” in several areas. I am always seeking to learn more and encourage my students to do the same. When students are engaged and curious, they are more likely to further investigate information or ask more questions. A piqued curiosity tells me that I am on the right track as a teacher.
Preparation for the Classroom
As an instructor, preparation is essential. I craft my syllabus around my intended end goal for my students. I create learning materials such as slide decks, handouts, and multi-media examples of the work at hand. In my acting courses, scenes are selected for the students based on their specific needs, interests, and skillsets. Lectures are sculpted and practiced beforehand for content and timing. I always enter an academic space with a plan.
Flexibility in the Syllabus
Because the craft of acting is such a personal artform, the work and what is successful will be highly individualized for each student. By being flexible, I can adjust my lesson plans in real time to better reflect the needs of my students. My nearly two decades of experience gives me a huge lexicon of exercises, assignments, and techniques to share with the next generation of artists.