For individuals
I need to learn an accent
Anyone can learn an accent with the right support and plenty of practice. I have been helping actors act authentically in accent for over 15 years. I’ll give you the tools and step-by-step support to help you to feel confident about your accuracy and authenticity performing in accent. We’ll make a targeted plan based on the specifics of the character, the project, your timeframe, and the audience. Before we meet, I’ll provide sound samples of native speakers and a guide to the accent. As with any new skill, the amount of time and effort poured into your practice between sessions affects how quickly you’ll absorb it.
Authentic acting always takes priority over technical precision! We aren’t done until you feel that you’re able to use your new accent as a pathway to deeper understanding and expression.
What about "accent reduction?"
Everyone has an accent! I believe that how you speak is an essential part of your identity. Occasionally, however, you may find yourself in a situation where you’d prefer to sound more “neutral” -- either for casting purposes, or to be more clearly understood by clients and colleagues. If you fall into that category, don’t despair! Together, we can isolate the specific sounds that are causing you trouble and practice your American accent in a way that feels natural and flexible. You’ll be able to use it whenever you need it while still feeling like your authentic self.
I don't like the sound of my voice
Well, you are certainly not alone! Your voice is your most powerful communication tool-- available to you 24/7 and absolutely free-- yet most people don't think too much about the way they sound (until the dreaded moment they hear a recording of themselves). I can help you identify challenges and goals for developing a healthy, durable speaking voice that expresses who you really are. Vocal work sessions might address breath support, release of tension in the body, increasing access to resonance, or articulation exercises. Be ready to move around and make some noise!
I have an audition
Whether you are working on monologues for application to college or professional training programs, sides for an audition, or just want to work on skills, I can help. With an MFA in acting from the American Conservatory Theater and 15+ years in the business, I am well-versed in acting for stage, TV, and film. You'll leave the coaching session with a clear understanding of your character, what they want in the scene, and how they try and get it-- physically, vocally, emotionally and psychologically. We can also address managing nerves and logistical audition things like slating, taking adjustments from the director, etc.
Nuts and Bolts
Sessions are on Zoom, Skype, or in person (Charlottesville). I am vaccinated and boosted, and ask that you are the same if we meet in person. Zoom sessions are recorded and sent to you after the session for your convenience.
20-minute Zoom consultation: free
half hour session: $50 | one hour session sliding scale: $75 -$110
Cancellation within 24 hours of scheduled appointment will incur a $25 fee
Payment via Venmo preferred
For productions
I’ll support your cast with their voice and speech needs throughout the process including warm-up technique, projection, vocal ease and comfort, and articulation. If you're using them, I will design accents so that the production is cohesive but each actor brings her own interpretation to the stage, and provide lots of sound samples and supporting material. In general (and if scheduling and budget permit), I’ll take a listen at an early read-through, then meet with actors individually during rehearsal, then attend run-throughs up through opening night to give notes. I’ll be in communication with the director throughout (ideally from before rehearsals start) to ensure that my feedback grows out of and supports the overall vision of the production.
Flat fee or hourly rate available
I need to learn an accent
Anyone can learn an accent with the right support and plenty of practice. I have been helping actors act authentically in accent for over 15 years. I’ll give you the tools and step-by-step support to help you to feel confident about your accuracy and authenticity performing in accent. We’ll make a targeted plan based on the specifics of the character, the project, your timeframe, and the audience. Before we meet, I’ll provide sound samples of native speakers and a guide to the accent. As with any new skill, the amount of time and effort poured into your practice between sessions affects how quickly you’ll absorb it.
Authentic acting always takes priority over technical precision! We aren’t done until you feel that you’re able to use your new accent as a pathway to deeper understanding and expression.
What about "accent reduction?"
Everyone has an accent! I believe that how you speak is an essential part of your identity. Occasionally, however, you may find yourself in a situation where you’d prefer to sound more “neutral” -- either for casting purposes, or to be more clearly understood by clients and colleagues. If you fall into that category, don’t despair! Together, we can isolate the specific sounds that are causing you trouble and practice your American accent in a way that feels natural and flexible. You’ll be able to use it whenever you need it while still feeling like your authentic self.
I don't like the sound of my voice
Well, you are certainly not alone! Your voice is your most powerful communication tool-- available to you 24/7 and absolutely free-- yet most people don't think too much about the way they sound (until the dreaded moment they hear a recording of themselves). I can help you identify challenges and goals for developing a healthy, durable speaking voice that expresses who you really are. Vocal work sessions might address breath support, release of tension in the body, increasing access to resonance, or articulation exercises. Be ready to move around and make some noise!
I have an audition
Whether you are working on monologues for application to college or professional training programs, sides for an audition, or just want to work on skills, I can help. With an MFA in acting from the American Conservatory Theater and 15+ years in the business, I am well-versed in acting for stage, TV, and film. You'll leave the coaching session with a clear understanding of your character, what they want in the scene, and how they try and get it-- physically, vocally, emotionally and psychologically. We can also address managing nerves and logistical audition things like slating, taking adjustments from the director, etc.
Nuts and Bolts
Sessions are on Zoom, Skype, or in person (Charlottesville). I am vaccinated and boosted, and ask that you are the same if we meet in person. Zoom sessions are recorded and sent to you after the session for your convenience.
20-minute Zoom consultation: free
half hour session: $50 | one hour session sliding scale: $75 -$110
Cancellation within 24 hours of scheduled appointment will incur a $25 fee
Payment via Venmo preferred
For productions
I’ll support your cast with their voice and speech needs throughout the process including warm-up technique, projection, vocal ease and comfort, and articulation. If you're using them, I will design accents so that the production is cohesive but each actor brings her own interpretation to the stage, and provide lots of sound samples and supporting material. In general (and if scheduling and budget permit), I’ll take a listen at an early read-through, then meet with actors individually during rehearsal, then attend run-throughs up through opening night to give notes. I’ll be in communication with the director throughout (ideally from before rehearsals start) to ensure that my feedback grows out of and supports the overall vision of the production.
Flat fee or hourly rate available