Education + Directing
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege to not only perform on stage and screen but also to educate, direct, teach, and coach aspiring actors. From leading fundraisers, to providing on-set coaching, I've dedicated myself to nurturing talent and imparting the skills necessary to thrive in this competitive field. My experience extends beyond traditional acting methods, encompassing improvisation and specialized training techniques. Working alongside great individuals from all corners of the globe has enriched my understanding of storytelling and performance, establishing me as a seasoned professional in both cinema and theatre. As I continue to evolve and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the entertainment world, I remain committed to sharing my knowledge and passion with the next generation of artists.
Teaching
I have coached acting talent for over 30 years, using my 50+ years of industry experience and extensive training. I also consult with writers, supplying vital insights while workshopping and developing their scripts.
I work with directors helping them understand the language of acting that help them get the finest possible performances from their on set talents.
I trained at the American Conservatory Theatre, San Francisco State University in the Theater, Film and Broadcasting Departments, Santa Monica City College, in Hollywood with legendary coaches at the Studios of Jackie Benton, Peter Flood, and Harvey Lembeck.
Coaching
I have been artistic director of several improvisation groups; The Flying Penguins, North Bay Improv, Evil Comedy Group, 6th Street Improv and I helped form legendary Los Angeles Theater Sports, now with over 30 years of delighting audiences performing 2+ hour long improvised shows.
Training
I have taught at San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking, where I created the Writers/Directors/Actors Lab and headed up the Acting Department, San Francisco Ruth Asawa High School of the Arts (SOTA), Dominican University teaching school teachers how to use theatre games in the classroom, Sonoma State University teaching Improvisation & Comedy and Commedia del Arte, I am on the teaching staff at the San Francisco Acting Academy, and I started Bay Area Professional Actors Studio. Also, I have led workshops at numerous festivals and expos around the country.
Directing
As a director and consultant, I bring an enormous amount of experience, knowledge and inspiration from my studies, my work on stage, and on screen.
I created the Writers, Directors and Actors Lab at the San Francisco School of Digital Film Making, bringing together students of all three disciplines. The result was a well oiled machine, where writers developing their material were able to see their works come alive, and for directors to learn collaboration and how to speak in actor terms, to get the best possible performances.
I’ve directed films; The Outlaw Billy West and Don’t Tell Me.
I’ve developed and directed stage shows since the early 1980s.
As an on-set consultant, I’ve helped productions with troubleshooting technical problems, directors to get their actors to meet heightened emotional challenges, and coaching non actors into natural performances.
I’ve also helped cast numerous projects, from table reads, on camera talent, musical scoring, to ADR & looping voice talent, often finding the right element to raise the material to increase its entertainment value.