I believe that transformation lies at the heart of education, of art, and of artists. In theatre or musical performance, words or notes on pages are transformed through the work and craft of performers into stories that can inspire, enlighten, entertain and change the audience. Art awakens us and connects us to our history, our common humanity, and ourselves. Similarly, education is an ongoing transformative process comprising committed learners, professors, and administrators who desire to deepen their understanding of and engagement with the world around them. I believe teaching performers means serving the student as learner and artist, balancing timeless techniques and standards with the evolving requirements of the profession, and guiding, supporting and truly believing in the possibilities of personal transformation.
I believe that excellence in acting and singing comes from a deep desire to communicate and connect truthfully. An actor is best served by being open and willing to try various approaches to learning. There is no "one right way" to a truthful performance. I avoid "methodolotry" in my teaching by sharing tools that act as pathways to personal discovery and encouraging students to build their own process. Being a successful performer requires a significant and ongoing work ethic coupled with the discipline, skills, attitudes, and values necessary to work in a collaborative medium with other artists and creators. Modeling this concept in my classroom, and most importantly with my colleagues, teaches my students to develop specific effective habits as part of their journey in the profession.