Get to know TAS Coach Sam Salery

Get to know TAS Coach Sam Salery

All of our acting coaches are highly qualified working actors who participate in the Film/TV industry in a variety of ways, in addition to coaching acting classes. But we want to give you a more in-depth look at who they are as people
 
This month we are sharing some insights that will help answer the question, 
“Who Is Samuel Salary”  Read on to find out:

What Makes You Feel Confident?

Just being in front of a camera or on stage makes me feel confident. But what helps me get there is realizing that it’s not just about me. When you’re on set, you are a part of a team and a community of people working together to make an amazing picture. Remembering that takes the pressure off of me. If I’m lucky and skilled enough to be able to showcase that in front of a camera and my peers, then that makes me feel confident.

How did you first get into acting?

I started acting in middle school. I did a play called, ‘Melanie and the Trashcan Troll’. Yep, I was the Trashcan Troll!! Ha! After that, my next step was to find out more about the acting community. So I auditioned for more plays in school and discovered they were my tribe. Being in theatre was where I felt most comfortable being able to express myself freely.

What has been your biggest struggle in the industry?

Learning that it’s OK to be myself. I had to stop trying to give casting what I thought they wanted to see. Now I just try to present my best self. I don’t know if I have completely tackled it completely yet because I wrestle with it still. But, I think it’s more about learning to be OK with the things that you think that are flaws. Most of the time the things that are loud to us, are quiet to others. I keep that in mind which helps me keep chopping away.

Besides acting, do you pursue any other interests in the entertainment industry?

Yeah, I love music. I love to sing so hopefully one day I’ll write a couple tunes that people will want to listen to. I really enjoy all kinds of music. My iTunes varies from Michael McDonald to 50 Cent, but I tend to gravitate towards R&B music and Neo soul. I used to go to open mic nights and sing all the time.

Why did you get into coaching?

I think coaching found me. Now that it’s here, I can say that I love to coach since I really do love helping people.

What is one bit of advice that you always love to share?

Write down your goals and find creative ways to put them around you. That way you have a reminder of what you are working towards and you can shape your decisions around said goal. 

What do you hope that your legacy will be?

As an actor, I really want to be a great scene partner. Someone that my peers can say “that guy is a joy to work with”.

My coaching legacy:  I would hope that my students would mirror the same sentiments 

Finally, do you have any acting resources that you love?

 Yes, I’m big on audiobooks and podcasts! You can also find some of your favorite actors teaching classes online as well.

Some of my favorites books are:  “On Acting” by Stanford Meisner, and “The Audition Bible” by Holly Powell.

My favorite podcast is: “The Real Life Actor with Jeff Seymour”.

Samuel Salary Bio:

Samuel Salary is a Kansas City native who started his acting journey in 2014 in theater. With shows like, “Hands on a Hard Body”,  “Jitney”, and “A Christmas Carol”. Samuel moved to Atlanta and started to attend The Actor’ Scene in 2017 and  is now represented by Susan Toler Walters at STW Talent Agency. Recent credits include “Imaginary” (Blumhouse And Lionsgate), Tyler Perry’s “She’s the People” (Netflix) and “Stranger Things” (Netflix). Sam is excited about being a coach at The Actor’s Scene and hopes to uplift, encourage, and inspire.

Coach Sam currently teaches our Meisner and Beyond class for advanced actors.

He’s also available for private lessons to help prep for auditions or discuss on-set technique.

 

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Am I Too Late? A Blog for Adults

Am I Too Late? A Blog for Adults

A discussion that needs to happen…

If there is one question The Actor’s Scene’s Front Desk staff hears more than any other, it may just be: “Am I too late?”

Am I too late to consider acting? Am I too late to start taking classes? Am I too late to be “bookable”? 

The answer quite frankly is a big old “N-O”. 

"You are never too late to reinvent yourself."

Why? Because acting is different than working in other industries- it doesn’t follow a set pattern. There is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach that will guarantee your success. Many actors that you see in film and tv are younger (which comes with it’s own set of issues!), but that should never make one feel like they’ve missed their shot. In fact, many of the biggest A-List actors didn’t get their big break until later in life and still managed to build a career: Alan Rickman 32, Viola Davis 43, Morgan Freeman 50, Samuel L. Jackson- 41. The beloved and iconic character, Michael Scott of The Office, would have never been the same without Steve Carrell- and he didn’t begin acting until 43.

Acting represents LIFE and life takes all different kinds of people. You have a story, talents, quirks, dreams- and they deserve their chance. Don’t give up on yourself yet. Let’s talk about some reasons why your acting career can work! 

For one thing, getting into acting has never been easier. It continues to require hard work, but being seen in this industry is easier than it has ever been…

Alan Rickman began acting at age 42
Viola Davis began acting at age 43
Morgan Freeman began acting at age 50

Before we dive into the logistics of why let’s hear from one of our current TAS students, Hiro Ortiz, on why it’s never too late to get started: 

Thanks Hiro! Now let’s get into it. 

To begin with, the majority of auditions are taped instead of in person. This opens things up for actors in several ways, namely in terms of timing. Actors are now able to set their audition taping at a time that is most convenient for themselves. You’ll no longer have to call out of your day job or drop responsibilities at a moment’s notice when an audition comes your way. You get to decide when the best time to tape your audition is within the allotted time frame. This is especially great for those who have established lives and need to have more flexibility when auditioning. 

The topic of taped auditions leads us to the next reason you’re not too late: The industry has spread out! Actors no longer have to move to L.A. or New York to build a career. Between film tax breaks in different states and wider accessibility to film technology there are opportunities to act on film and television all over the US. Look at us! TAS isn’t in L.A., we are located in a suburb of Atlanta and we watch student after student succeed in this career.

Many new actors look for their ‘big break’ but don’t have the first idea what it’s like being on set. With local filming options, we encourage you to try being an extra or working in a short film (or student film)! These things are a great way to start building your resume and connections- while also building knowledge through experience. We cover this in our classes, but you can also reach out for a Career Coaching Session if you’d like to discuss your options for jumping into filming opportunities. 

Outside of those logistical barriers, the key to making it in this industry at any age is finding a like-minded community. This career is tough no matter what age you find yourself pursuing it. It requires a lot of hard work, there is a lot to know, and you face a lot of rejection. Having a supportive acting community will encourage you through that and guide you as you take each step. 

If you are new to acting, you may have some false ideas in your head about acting classes. The stereotype being a critical coach and competitive peers as everyone tries to outshine one another. But that is NOT a healthy environment to help you grow. At TAS, we believe there’s room for EVERYONE at the table- so there’s no need for competition in a classroom setting.

Instead, we focus on cultivating encouragement, accountability, safety, and a growth-oriented approach to each student. Our coaches step in to mentor each student, helping them to identify their options and their goals, then take one step at a time- celebrating successes along the way. 

Make sure that your class is one where you feel supported, challenged, and safe. As you start auditioning and working on set- you want to have your community in place around you!

Let’s hear what current student, Jeremy Hunt says about how his community helped him:

Thanks Jeremy! It goes to show that a solid community can truly help you make the right decision. 

Okay, now you know that it isn’t too late…what next? What does a taped audition look like? How do I get these auditions where I live? And how in the world do I find a community? 

While the environment in a classroom should never feel competitive, we guarantee you that the industry is. These days there are hundreds, if not thousands, of people jumping at a feature film role. How do you know what to expect so you can audition (and perform) with confidence? How can you not just do the right things but really stand out? 

Here is where we talk about acting classes again. Sales gimmick? Not at all. In fact, most agencies require their clients to invest in ongoing training. Acting is something you should be working on constantly- beyond gaining focus and body control, you should be learning how to build characters, create a script analysis, show flexibility in emotion. And that’s just the fun ‘acting parts’. What about the business side; you need to learn about agent relations, audition technique, on-set etiquette, etc. We cannot stress enough the importance of classes for new actors, or at least private lessons. 

Let’s see what advice previous student and current taping actor, Joe Geracie says: 

Ready to take a chance and sign up for a class? If you’re in the north metro-Atlanta area we would be honored if you tried a class at The Actor’s Scene. Which one do we recommend?

Most new actors are encouraged to go through On-Camera Foundations. It’s a program designed with the new actor in mind and goes over a lot of what we covered above. Though, as you advance, we do have classes for working actors. Such as The Taped Audition (for those wanting to build proficiency in their audition success rate) or Script & Set Study(for those wanting to learn longer on-set etiquette and character management), we even have a film production class, The On-Set Experience, for those wanting to explore the production side of acting. 

We recommend checking out our classes or giving us a call at 77904-6646. Our friendly Front Desk team can help you find the perfect class for your experience level and goals. 

Most importantly, it is the perfect place to find your community. The majority of our class options are 32 weeks which gives you plenty of time to get to know your Coach and your fellow classmates/actors.  Our classes also range from ages 4 years old to 104, so you’re sure to find plenty of others in your age group to build relationships with. 

The best part: If you head over to our “Classes” tab, you’ll find that you aren’t too late to sign up for our 32 week classes. AND you are never too late to begin acting! 

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

770-904-6646

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About The Author

Kirsten Krehbiel

Kirsten Krehbiel is an Atlanta based actress, director, and writer who enjoys bringing people new truths through the art of storytelling. She has a love of acting both on camera and on stage, having been lucky enough to be a part of incredible productions in both worlds. Kirsten joined the TAS team in 2020 as a coach, a job she loves because it lets her watch first hand as students grow and gain self confidence as actors. When she is not creating or coaching, you can find Kirsten hanging out with her grumpy cat on their back porch. 

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Get to know TAS Coach Linda Meadows

Get to know TAS Coach Linda Meadows

All of our acting coaches are highly qualified working actors who participate in the Film/TV industry in a variety of ways, in addition to coaching acting classes. But we want to give you a more in-depth look at who they are as people
 
This month we are sharing some insights that will help answer the question, 
“Who Is Linda Meadows?”  Read on to find out:

What Makes You Feel Confident?

What makes me feel confident is experiencing LIFE and making choices with good intentions. Staying open to learning new things and practicing what I learn. I feel confident when I take good care of myself by staying active, eating clean, and appreciating the life I have. All the good and bad have molded me and made me strong and resilient. It’s so freeing.

How did you first get into acting?

As a child, I always fantasized about being an actor. Those crazy, intense situations and adventures looked like so much fun. When I moved to the Atlanta area, I didn’t realize that dream could become a reality. So I started looking around and did some background work to experience what being on a set was like. I did some Stand In work as well. Dropped out for a while as it didn’t quite work into my life at the time. Jumped back in a few years later and decided to go for it! I was actually more interested in STUNTS at first as I have an athletic background that included gymnastics. As I was getting into things and being a logical thinker realized that there was more in acting for me than just stunts. Don’t get me wrong! I love action scenes and intense fight choreography! But my love for acting comes first. All my acting comes from my chest and outward.

What has been your biggest struggle in the industry?

My biggest struggle with the industry is when the pendulum swings away. This could mean my type may not be currently in demand and then of course, the speedbumps the industry has suffered. From covid to strikes and everything else in between.

How do you tackle the slow seasons and make the most of your down time?

I do my best to keep my skills sharp, my body conditioned and my heart open! And most importantly, you must LIVE LIFE! Visit the places that refresh your soul! Surround yourself with positive people that nourish your mind and spirit! Look at it as a long, life time commitment. There is no end game. It’s what you do to prepare for inevitable opportunities that come back around.

Besides acting, do you pursue any other interests in the entertainment industry?

I have several other interests in the industry! I want to write, produce, and direct! I also love photography and have had my hand in it with past businesses. I am learning about headshot photography as well. Being an acting coach really helps me understand people and how to bring looks to the surface.

Why did you get into coaching?

I got into coaching for several reasons. I love to educate and empower people! It is especially needed in this industry! There are so many moving parts to becoming an actor. From the art of bringing a real and grounded character to life to the business side of it. Understanding verbiage and how things really work on a set. I love pouring into people that really want to learn. I don’t gate-keep. I share all my tips and tricks from getting into character, learning lines quickly and truly becoming someone else. I also feel it is important to go through and explain breakdowns and what to avoid from contracts, productions to safety on sets. The more you know, the more confident you will be in your auditions and gigs.

What is one bit of advice that you always love to share?

One important bit of advice I like to give to all my students of all ages and levels of experience is RELAX! We all make mistakes. We all flub lines every once in a while. Don’t let that make you trip and stumble. Recover immediately and go again! Training and practice will get you in the right state of mind to confidently roll through it!

What is your proudest coaching moment?

I have many proud coaching moments! One of them is watching a connection happen. When I have a student working on an audition and they are struggling to ground the delivery, I will run few little exercises with them while we work on it. This helps get them outside of their heads. And when they do the scene again and it hits them that they really nailed it; the way their faces light up and they get excited about it brings me joy. Then, THEY start making creative choices on their own and really bring it to life!

What do you hope that your coaching legacy will be?

I want my acting legacy to leave you feeling something. I want to portray characters that you can relate to or are affected by watching their journey. I want you to lose yourself while I breathe life into these characters for you. I want you to be entertained!

Finally, do you have any acting resources that you love?

I love following other acting classes and PR Media groups on social media. Sometimes I’ll learn a new trick or a better way to promote ourselves.

Linda Meadows Bio:

Linda Meadows is an American actress born in Virginia to an Irish American father and Thai mother with a touch of Native American. Having grown up in a military family with her father being in the army, she has traveled all over the United States and to other parts of the world. As a child she loved sports such as track, tennis, and gymnastics. She shared a love for horror with her father as they loved watching classics together. She participated in school plays but did not make the leap into the industry until she was an adult. Linda is currently acting and now makes the time to teach others. Mentoring up and coming actors is such an important job to have as it can alter someone’s trajectory in life. Teaching, training, helping to develop good techniques, and foundations brings her joy. She feels very strongly about having good etiquette with others on and off set. Helping others exercise patience, self-control, and compassion for fellow actors is always a focus as this helps everyone become better people. Thus, a happier and healthier environment we can all thrive in!

Want to follow Coach Linda? 

Check out her:

Instagram

IMDb

Actor’s Access

TikTok

Here are the types of classes you will find Coach Linda leading:

Improv Foundations, The Taped Audition, Script & Set Study, and On Camera Foundations

 

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A Blog for Everyone! Let’s Talk Soft Skills…

A Blog for Everyone! Let’s Talk Soft Skills…

And why they are more important than ever!

In this post-pandemic world, we have found ourselves thrust even further into technology. Some of this is a positive, like the convenience of doing taped auditions (which has become the film industry standard), but reliance on technology also has its drawbacks, like our lack of comfort with daily tasks- such as having face-to-face conversations.

Even basic skills have become a source of anxiety. We see this in studies that show 60% of millennials struggle to make phone calls, like setting up a doctor’s appointment. Or that 70% of American workers feel fear about speaking up at a business meeting even when they have valuable insight. This hits hardest for the generation that finds itself newly joining the workforce: Generation Z. 

“A new General Assembly survey found that over a quarter of executives wouldn’t even consider hiring a recent college graduate today…surveyed managers feel the most significant shortcoming for Gen-Z workers is a lack of critical interpersonal skills, often referred to as ‘soft skills.’”Forbes

Luckily it’s The Actor’s Scene to the rescue! We realize that not only is Gen-Z struggling with “soft skills”, but generations older than them were affected as well. That’s why this fall we are introducing the Offline Communications class for ages 9 and up. 

What do employers look for in new employees? According to business leaders, while the three "R's" (reading, writing, and arithmetic) are still fundamental to every employee's ability to do the job, employers view "soft" skills as even more important to work readiness. These skills include:
-Professionalism and work ethic
-Oral and written communication skills
-Teamwork and collaboration skills
-Critical thinking or problem-solving skills

WAIT… What are “soft skills”? And how is a school for acting going to help with that? 

Let’s start with soft skills. Soft skills are key non-technical abilities like communication, teamwork/collaboration, and conflict-resolution. These are skills that are crucial for enhancing workplace relationships, school relationships, and even improving your personal relationships. 

Yes, school and work are important- the majority of your waking moments will be spent on these activities! But even more important are the relationships and community you build that will shape your world. Simply put, the ability to connect with those around you- both professionally and personally- will determine your quality of life. 

Okay, so how is an acting school going to help with that? 

Of course The Actor’s Scene is known for successfully teaching on camera acting skills (as well as our more recent additions of film production and theatre classes) but more importantly it specializes in confidence. Every single class at TAS is founded on building up its students’ confidence both on camera and in life- and that especially includes the upcoming Offline Communications class. 

Just check out the feedback we received from our acting students and and their parents this past year! This is why we are known as Confidence Makers:

However, the Offline Communications class is one of a kind. In it, students will practice trust and opening up to each other while learning techniques that will help them with their soft skills. This class is a combination of:

  • Self-discovery
  • Open discussion
  • Video lessons from communication professionals
  • Coach-lead lessons 
  • And communication technique learning games.

All with the intent of working on different soft skills. 

What does the class work on? 

In session one students will start with work on face to face communication. This includes a focus on skills like eye contact, vocal quality, and active listening. It is so important for all of us to get back to face to face communication. In fact, listen to what the Professional Leadership Institute says about eye contact: 

Being comfortable meeting the eye of the person you are speaking with can help build trust. It can show that you are confident in what you’re saying which may gain you respect. Eye contact is also a way to confirm that your audience is receiving and understanding your message.”

The Offline Communications class will help with just that: your confidence when communicating face to face! Our small class sizes and hands-on approach to learning means that students will get plenty of time to engage with one another while receiving personalized feedback by a professional coach. 

Students then learn skills in collaboration and working as a team.  Students will do exercises that involve working together; leading up to fun group projects and challenges that build important interpersonal skills. Students will note what skills or talents they personally bring to the table in a group setting. They will also learn to communicate as a team. These four weeks will prepare students for what comes next: conflict resolution.

Conflict resolution is a skill every single one of us needs whether at our jobs, in class, or in line at the grocery store. As long as we are around others we need to know how to resolve conflict. The lessons during this month of the class will break down the different types of conflicts and the different styles of dealing with them. Both are important for resolving any issue. 

The first semester wraps up with work on phone call and email etiquette. While these aren’t as “face to face” as the rest of the class; we recognize that soft skills are still important in these communication outlets. Students will get to practice making  phone calls and emails, that replicate real circumstances, with their fellow students and Coach. 

After our mid-session break, students will come back to taking the skills they learned in the first session and using them to work on negotiatingStudents will learn to understand their worth and what they deserve whether it be in their job, on a sports team, or getting into college. They will also learn about managing expectations and how to handle situations that don’t go as expected.

Students will learn also to think critically in their professional lives and personal lives. With the world at our finger tips, it’s important to sift through the opinions and remember to note the facts. Students will learn important skills like being a problem solver, not just a problem identifier. Finding creative ways to address obstacles and benefit the people/environment around us.

TAS completes this course with a focus on confidence in two of the trickiest places to feel confident: networking/socializing in large groups and interviewing. Students will learn the art of small talk, conversation transitions, introductions, as well as their own 60 second elevator pitch and how to prepare for an interview.  

What are students working towards? 

All of this sounds great right? Well, there’s more! 

We know that one of the highlights of our program is the TAS Showcase. Why? Because it gives the students a chance to show off their skills in a real ‘industry’ environment. We want for our Offline Communications Program students to get the same chance to practice what they’ve learned in a ‘real’ setting.

That’s why we have several exciting events planned to finish off the year! How often do you go into an interview and get honest feedback on the impression you made for the person running the company? How often do you get to network with top industry professionals? How often do you get to work with your colleagues to solve real problems in a safe place with personalized input? We have all this planned (and more!) as we end the year with special guests and fun opportunities. 

Amazing, right? We think so too! So don’t miss out and get over to our classes page to sign up for the Offline Communications class today!

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

770-904-6646

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About The Author

Kirsten Krehbiel

Kirsten Krehbiel is an Atlanta based actress, director, and writer who enjoys bringing people new truths through the art of storytelling. She has a love of acting both on camera and on stage, having been lucky enough to be a part of incredible productions in both worlds. Kirsten joined the TAS team in 2020 as a coach, a job she loves because it lets her watch first hand as students grow and gain self confidence as actors. When she is not creating or coaching, you can find Kirsten hanging out with her grumpy cat on their back porch. 

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Get to know TAS Coach Maddie Compton

Get to know TAS Coach Maddie Compton

All of our acting coaches are highly qualified working actors who participate in the Film/TV industry in a variety of ways, in addition to coaching acting classes. But we want to give you a more in-depth look at who they are as people
 
This month we are sharing some insights that will help answer the question, 
“Who Is Maddie Compton?”  Read on to find out:

What Makes You Feel Confident?

I feel most confident when I’m prepared. The more time I spend working on something, the more grounded and sure of myself I feel—especially when it comes to acting. I like to dive deep into the details of my character and their circumstances, and I always research the creative team behind a project to gather as much context as possible. Preparation fuels my confidence, but so does perspective. I like to  remind myself that no one else can bring exactly what I bring to the table. Knowing that I am 100% uniquely made gives me confidence—because it means I have something special to offer, just like everyone else does.

How did you first get into acting?

Ever since I could talk, I’ve been telling stories and playing pretend. As a kid, I loved putting on performances for my parents—thankfully, they noticed that passion and enrolled me in acting classes at TAS. That’s where I truly fell in love with the art of storytelling, and I haven’t looked back since! When I first started, I only saw myself as an on-camera actor, but over the years I’ve grown to love all mediums of performance, including theatre and voiceover. 

What has been your biggest struggle in the industry?

My biggest struggle has been staying motivated and encouraged during slow seasons. While balancing acting with high school and college, I often had to prioritize my education over my career. On top of that, navigating the COVID shutdown during my performing arts degree—and later, the SAG strike—meant facing long stretches without professional opportunities. During those times, I had to get creative and find new ways to keep my love for performing alive.

How do you tackle the slow seasons and make the most of your down time?

I’ve tackled—and continue to tackle—slow seasons in the industry by practicing my craft in any way I can, whether it’s through a professional job or not. Acting in student films, creating content with my creative friends, or simply working through a scene with a fellow actor are all ways I keep my artistic spirit alive. I also hold the mindset that I’m never done learning. There are always new techniques to explore and skills to refine. Taking classes, reading acting books, and staying active with monologues or scene work are just a few of the ways I keep myself growing, even when things are more quiet professionally.

Besides acting, do you pursue any other interests in the entertainment industry?

While I haven’t formally pursued other roles in the industry yet, I’ve always been fascinated by the casting process and could definitely see myself exploring casting one day. It plays such an important role in fantastic storytelling, and I’d love to find out if I have an eye for it! I’m also a voice actor, which has been an exciting new pursuit over the last few years. I really enjoy the specificity and nuance that voice acting requires—since you’re relying so much more on your voice and expression than on other acting tools.

Why did you get into coaching?

I began teaching because I wanted to share my love for the performing arts with others. I’ve seen firsthand how acting training can transform a person—not just in skill, but in confidence, empathy, social abilities, and creativity. Being an acting coach is also just so much fun! I love helping others work toward their goals while also supporting their personal growth. Plus, I’m always learning from my students, which is an incredible bonus for someone like me who is passionate about growing and evolving alongside them.

What is one bit of advice that you always love to share?

I always want to tell my students that their biggest strength is their uniqueness. None of us are exactly the same, so no one can bring exactly the same performance to a character. When you enter a room (audition, rehearsal, set) with a strong sense of confidence in who YOU are, you have an undeniable power to bring something awesome to what you’re doing. 

What is your proudest coaching moment?

I don’t necessarily think I have one single proudest coaching moment. I feel proud every time one of my students experiences growth in skill, confidence, or joy in their craft! It’s particularly exciting when my students approach me with curiosity or a desire to understand something even deeper. To me, that means they’re excited about what they’re learning, which makes me feel like I am doing something meaningful for my students. 

What do you hope that your coaching legacy will be?

I hope that each of my students leave with confidence in being themselves, curiosity about what excites them artistically, and a stronger sense of empathy. My favorite thing that acting teaches us is how to understand and put ourselves in other people’s shoes, and I hope that’s a quality that my students will carry with them outside of the classroom. 

Finally, do you have any acting resources that you love?

Erica S. Bream’s Instagram account has some great info, directly from a casting director! (@ericasbreamcast)

I recently started doing The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron, and it’s been such a cool experience so far. 

Maddie Compton Bio:

Hi! I’m Coach Maddie Compton. I’ve been acting for almost 15 years, and I’m so excited to be coaching at the very studio where I once trained as a student. I have a BFA in Acting and experience in both professional theatre and on-camera work. I’m also a voice actor and work professionally out of my home studio. I love being creative in any way I can—especially through arts and crafts—and when I’m not teaching or performing, I’m usually traveling or spending time with friends and family. Teaching is one of my biggest passions, and I love helping students grow in confidence, skill, and self-expression. I believe in creating a supportive, playful environment where students feel safe to take risks and express themselves fully! 

Want to follow Coach Maddie? 

Check out her:

Instagram

IMDb

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Get to know TAS Coach Adam Breazeale

Get to know TAS Coach Adam Breazeale

All of our acting coaches are highly qualified working actors who participate in the Film/TV industry in a variety of ways, in addition to coaching acting classes. But we want to give you a more in-depth look at who they are as people
 
This month we are sharing some insights that will help answer the question, 
“Who Is Adam Breazeale?”  Read on to find out:

What Makes You Feel Confident?

My wife. Coach Leah, my partner in life and in coaching the On Set Experience, is such a bright light that helps me through the darkest moments. I would not have made it through the struggle that was finishing the edits of 15 different projects in one month if I didn’t have the steady constant that is my wife.

Did you know that Coach Adam is married to TAS Office Manager and fellow Coach, Leah Merritt? Awe! 

How did you first get into acting?

I have always wanted to be an entertainer of some sort. I’ve loved performing and singing as a kid. I was always going to the musical rehearsals after school in elementary school where my sister was performing and singing. I was too young to be on the stage with her at the time, it was only 4th and 5th graders who were allowed in the after school musicals, but I loved watching it and I always wanted to follow in her footsteps. Ironically she grew up and got a psychology degree while I continued down my path and eventually found my way into a Bachelor of Science in Film Production. So it all worked out.  

The thing that made me fall in love with it in Theatre camp was the community. I loved collaborating with other actors to build out a project together.

What has been your biggest struggle in the industry?

Finding consistent work, and finding time to still fulfill the creative kid who fell in love with storytelling hiding deep inside of me.

How do you make the most of your time when work is not consistent?

You find your people and your moments to make your own projects and to sit in the captain’s chair as a lead creative on set. You also find smaller jobs to fill in the gaps, like my work with Coach Molly at Moon Trip Productions. We make wedding videos and small media content that helps to fill the spaces and give us creative freedom.

Besides acting, do you pursue any other interests in the entertainment industry?

Yes, I mostly pursue the behind the camera positions in Cinematography, Directing and Writing which is what brought me to The Actor’s Scene as a coach focusing on behind the scenes work.

Why did you get into coaching?

In college I had multiple assignments a semester that were all focused around making a short film. In my final year I was taking a Directing class and I had to direct a short film as the final project. At the same time I was taking Behavior and Movement at the Actor’s Scene under Coach Jeanne and I had the idea to make the short film with our class and present it as our Showcase piece. We worked it out and got such a good reception that I was asked by Coach Leah and the higher ups at TAS if I wanted to make a class out of that idea: filmmaking with the goal of a short film at the end. I, of course, accepted and it has just blossomed from there.

What is one bit of advice that you always love to share?

Watch movies! If you want to work in film, in either an Actor or Crew position, watch movies. That’s the work you want to do. If you want to take it a step further ask yourself what did you like/dislike about the movie/scene/episode you just watched. Now can you put into words how that specifically was done? What camera angles were used, what was the verbiage the characters chose to say, what did the choice of shot or pacing of the edit make you feel in that moment. Then file that away so you can maybe replicate it in the future.

What is your proudest coaching moment?

We finished the Creator’s Lab, which is the second year course after On Set Experience, with our original crew (the first group to ever take On Set Experience). We put on a film festival to showcase and celebrate all of the work our students have done. Hearing them talk about the reasons they made their films, seeing them grow over two years and become intellectual and purposeful with their choices is probably one of the most rewarding and proud moments of my life.

What do you hope that your coaching legacy will be?

I hope that I leave some creative people with the tools to act on their creativity so they no longer feel frustrated or like the art of filmmaking is out of their reach.

Finally, do you have any acting resources that you love?

I love watching movie reviews and video essays about movies on YouTube. Just hearing what others have to say about the things I want to do and getting other ideas about what they liked or didn’t like often tickles my creativity and encourages me to think how I might incorporate or even avoid what was praised or criticized.

Adam Breazeale Bio:

I am Adam James Breazeale and I am a filmmaker and actor in the North Atlanta area. I love filming and creative storytelling. It’s what has drawn me to filmmaking and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. In my personal life I take that creative storytelling drive into my hobbies, my number one time sink outside of work being Dungeons and Dragons. Beyond that I love hanging out with my wife and our cat, playing board games or watching some new show or movie. 

Want to follow Coach Adam? 

Check out his:

Website

Moon Trip Productions Website

Here is what students are saying about Coach Adam:

Coach Adam has been my film coach throughout both years of OSE. He and Coach

Leah not only built the course but made it such an engaging and informative experience. Coach Adam constantly pushes his students creatively — and whether intentionally or not — he expands our vocabulary just to keep up with him.

Thanks to his guidance I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned in class to several outside projects. We’ve now worked on five films together, and with each one, he’s taught me how to grow further as a filmmaker. 

I couldn’t ask for a better coach.

TAS Student and Intern, Peyton Cooper

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Get to know TAS Coach Jake Alexander Williams

Get to know TAS Coach Jake Alexander Williams

All of our acting coaches are highly qualified working actors who participate in the Film/TV industry in a variety of ways, in addition to coaching acting classes. But we want to give you a more in-depth look at who they are as people
 
This month we are sharing some insights that will help answer the question, 
“Who Is Jake Alexander Williams?”  Read on to find out more about one of the newest coaches at TAS!
 

What Makes You Feel Confident?

I get my confidence by continually pushing myself and striving to be better everyday. 

How did you first get into acting?

I got into acting as a kid. My mom signed me up for a theatre summer camp and I fell in love with it.  

What was it specifically about theatre that sparked your interest?

The thing that made me fall in love with it in Theatre camp was the community. I loved collaborating with other actors to build out a project together.

What has been your biggest struggle in the industry?

My biggest struggle in the industry, and I am sure others do the same thing, is I sometimes find myself comparing my journey and my career to the careers of others. We all have different paces, and you have to remember to look at the positives.

When you find yourself comparing yourself or your journey to other actors, what do you do to combat those negative thoughts?

I combat those thoughts by reminding myself this career is a marathon, not a sprint. Everyone’s journey is different 

If you are in a 'down' moment, how do you maintain your passion for what you do?

The thing that keeps my love alive is the craft itself; being able to tell stories- whether it be my own or someone else’s. Getting to be a part of something so special is such an honor and I love doing it. 

Besides acting, do you pursue any other interests in the entertainment industry?

 I am also a writer and director. I have some pretty cool projects coming up, however I can’t talk about them just yet. 

We love to hear that you are branching out into writing and directing! How did you get into that?

I received my degree in Film and Digital Media at UNG. From there I started directing and writing my own things, and I really love getting to share stories from my own brain. I have been working with a few studios recently and we are working on building funding for a feature we will hopefully be shooting next year.

Why did you get into coaching?

 I got into coaching because I love this industry, and I want to share everything I know about it with the new generation of actors. 

What is one bit of advice that you always love to share?

 Your career is in your hands. take control of it, and be loud about it.

What do you hope that your coaching legacy will be?

I feel like I would like to let my legacy be that I helped everyone take their first step into this career, and gave them the confidence they needed to take a leap.  

Finally, do you have any acting resources that you love?

Just One More Thing, a book by Peter Falk. In Just One More Thing, Peter Falk, an award-winning actor takes us behind-the-scenes into his professional and private life.

Check it out HERE

Jake Williams Bio:

 Jake Alexander Williams is an American Filmmaker, who can be seen on and off the camera. Jake has been working in the film industry for over a decade and has been acclaimed by publications such as Rolling Stone, USA Today, Film Threat and more. After receiving his degree in Film and Digital Media, he focused on the art of storytelling. Since then, he has gone on to write, direct, and act in numerous projects. Some awards he has won include Best New Director at Onorios, Best Actor at Cannes Shorts, Best Young Director at Absurd Film festival, Finalist for Best Writing of a Feature Film at Rome Prisma, and many more. 
 
 His goal as a director is to create unique stories that visually and emotionally lead audiences through an encapsulating experience.

“I want the audience to know how greatly I care for them, because without them this beautiful craft would not exist. To prove this, I will never give this art form any less than one hundred percent of my effort.”

Want to follow Coach Jake? 

Check him out on:

IMDb

Instagram

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On-Set Etiquette 101

On-Set Etiquette 101

Practical Tips for Working Actors

You did it! You booked a role! Now what? 

Going to set is a thing to be celebrated, but being on set is like being in a new country complete with its own rules and language. As an actor, specifically one that wants to have a long career, it is important that you understand this new “country’s” rules. That’s why today we are looking at having proper on set etiquette.

Proper on set etiquette starts before you even get to set. That’s right, the work begins when you are cast. There are three areas you need to prepare around before getting on set: Script/Character, Who’s on Set, and Shoot Date Plans. You can prepare these in any order as long as you get them done. 

"There is really only one thing I think all professional actors have in common. It's Dedication."

Script and Character: 

You should already know some of this thanks to your research during the audition process, but now is the time to dive deeper. If you have the ability to get your hands on the whole script, DO IT! Do it and read it over and over again. Be as familiar with the full script as possible. This is most important for short/feature films and theatre productions. Depending on the type of project this can change! For a commercial you may need to make sure you are familiar with the product while for a TV episode you’ll likely need to make sure you’ve watched previous episodes. This way you have a full understanding of the project you are a part of. 

This will also help you understand your character better. Give your character a full background and develop your character’s physical characteristics to make them fully real. Also make sure you are aware of who all the other characters in the script are and how your character relates to them. And of course, memorize your lines! 

Doing your script and character work will not only ensure that you show up to set prepared and professional, but will also ensure that you’re able to adjust lines/movements confidently if it is asked of you on set.

Who’s on set? 

You will find that there are quite a lot of people on set even if it’s a small indie project. First of all it’s important to know the different roles there are on set. It’s not just actors and directors. There are A.D.s, script supervisors, prop masters, camera operators, gaffers, costume designers, and makeup artists to name a few. It is your job to know what each of these people do and how they are important to the set. 

Once you know who the crew is look into your fellow actors. Who will you be acting with? Are you familiar with this actor or do you need to look into who they are? This way you will show up confident and comfortable with whomever you act across. Remember to be kind and grateful to each crew member as they are working hard to make you look amazing. 

Who each of these people are on your set can be found a couple of ways. One: research online. Use information from your original audition, look up the project on IMDb, and use just a plain old search engine. Most projects will have enough information out there to help you prepare. If not you will have to rely on option Two: your call-sheet. This will be given to you the day before you shoot. It will have a list of the crew, talent, locations, scenes, and scheduling. 

Knowing who will be there will help you navigate your way on set so you don’t end up somewhere you’re not supposed to be. It will also give you confidence in you performance and help you show your professionalism to the other people around you in your industry.

Example of a Call Sheet

Example Call Sheet by: CAREERSINFILM.COM

Shoot Date Plans: 

You need to arrive to set early so help yourself out and prepare! You will want to know: 

Where you are going, when you need to be there, and what you need to bring. These answers will change depending on the project so pay attention to the information you are given. Smaller indie productions may require you to bring your own makeup and costuming. Big, union projects may fly you out ahead of time and pay for your hotel. Whatever the case, you will always want to bring a “quiet activity” with you, a.k.a. something that will help you pass the time without being loud. Being on set is a lot of “hurry up and wait” and you don’t want to get bored on your long day. 

All this work and preparation will help you arrive on set a professional, but there are things to remember once you’re there to remain a professional. Let’s break them down into Holding On Set and Filming On Set. 

Holding On Set: 

As we said before, ARRIVE EARLY for your call time. This will ensure you have time to park and get where you need to be. Since you’re prepared, you already know who to talk to or where to go. Now you need to stay out of the way. Scheduling is tight on set and any distractions can harm that. Stay quiet and out of the way, but also alert and ready to be brought on to film. 

Depending on the set, you may be far enough away to have a conversation. This is a great time to run lines with scene partners or network with crew members and other actors. Use this time to your advantage! 

Filming On Set:

This again starts with being ready! Know your scenes, lines, and any adjustments production has made. Be aware of the camera shot: is it a wide angle or a close-up? This will help you know how big to make your movements. Also know your eye-lines. Are you looking directly at your scene partner or do you need to be looking somewhere else? What are your movements? Do you need to hit a mark or do you stay in the same place?  The P.A. or Director should give you this information when you arrive if not ask for clarification. 

Once things are rolling your job is to keep acting until the director has called “cut!”. This means even if you’ve messed up and flubbed a line, if the director doesn’t say “cut” you keep going. Adjust the line in character or go back a line and deliver it again. This also means to keep going even when the scene is done. Keep the scene going and show the director what you believe your character’s next move is, or what is called your “moment after”. Some directors will expect you to show them a little more afterwards. You should be comfortable enough with the character to do just that. 

Before you leave set make sure you thank everyone you can. Not one bit of your experience on set could have happened without all the work from every member there, and you’d best take the time to thank them all for it. Of course, don’t go stopping a shot to thank someone. If you miss an opportunity to thank the director or anyone else, take the time to send them a thank you note afterwards.

This has just scratched the surface of on set etiquette. If you’d like to dive in deeper or felt a bit confused by some of the terminology, reach out to our Front Desk today. They can guide you to a class or coach who can get you On Set ready! 

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

770-904-6646

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About The Author

Kirsten Krehbiel

Kirsten Krehbiel is an Atlanta based actress, director, and writer who enjoys bringing people new truths through the art of storytelling. She has a love of acting both on camera and on stage, having been lucky enough to be a part of incredible productions in both worlds. Kirsten joined the TAS team in 2020 as a coach, a job she loves because it lets her watch first hand as students grow and gain self confidence as actors. When she is not creating or coaching, you can find Kirsten hanging out with her grumpy cat on their back porch. 

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Student Highlight: Jai Soundar

Student Highlight: Jai Soundar

You can spot Jai this year in Tiny Fugitives and Superman. 

Not only do we love watching our students gain confidence and succeed at The Actor’s Scene, but we also love to share their successes with the world! One student that has really caught our attention lately is Jai Soundar. Jai has a background in theatre and commercial, but is getting ready for a big launch on the film scene this year. You will spot him in Seth Rogan’s upcoming film, Tiny Fugitives, and the new Superman film.

Let’s hear more about his acting journey so far: 

Jai, thank you so much for taking the time to share your story with us! It's an honor to speak with a young actor who is filled with purpose and vision. Let's start at the beginning, what made you want to become an actor?

What made me want to become an actor is that when I was about five or so I was watching a movie, and I asked my mom, “Why doesn’t anyone on TV look like me?”. In response my mom said that I should be the change I wanted to see, which is a quote by an Indian major leader, Gandhi. I didn’t understand what she said at first, but as I grew up and became an actor I could interpret what she said all those years ago. I think she meant I could either sit at home and keep wondering or get up and try to be THAT kid on TV; that way other kids wouldn’t have to ask that question anymore. 

This is so cool! Acting is already a wonderful experience, but it is much more meaningful knowing that you get to be a part of the change you wanted to see when you were younger. What do you think 'little Jai' would have said if you told him that he would one day be acting in movies?

What I think little me would most likely feel in that moment is a sense of excitement and determination- and for a young little boy, a little excitement can go a long way! I’d also be excited because I had found a way to time travel in a later part of my life. You don’t know how much I wanted to learn how to time travel!

What would you say to those who want to make a positive change in the world, but feel overwhelmed by getting started?

To those who want to make a big change to the world through acting make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons; such as because you love it or because you were inspired. Be wary, though, of the other reasons some people go into acting. You should never do acting if you don’t want to or if you’re forced to. Don’t act for the popularity because if you act for popularity you mix up your career life and your personal life.
 
Also even though it’s scary, just try and push through the fear because it’s better than not attempting it at all!

What is it that you love about being an actor?

I can express my feelings and emotion through acting in ways I couldn’t if I wasn’t an actor. I also really like acting because I can inspire kids of all ethnicities to do what they want to do. The stories out there should include people who look different. I think that’s meaningful and makes people feel like they belong in this world. 

What was something that surprised you about first working on a set?

The first time I ever went on a set my role was a small role, but even the smallest role can have a big impact! Although my role was small, I had to stay there for a week- which just shows that there are no small roles, only small actors who don’t feel blessed about acting in any role (no matter how big or small).

I was also surprised by how much was involved in making film and TV. The crew on every set work SO HARD. They are the best, and I always try and remember to say Thank You to them. 

Yes! Staying grateful and thankful are so important! Tell us, what are some of your favorite types of acting moments?

Some of my favorite moments in filming are probably scenes with stunts because they give me a sense of exhilaration. I love doing things that are built around the concept of exhilaration, such as rollercoasters, competitions, and exhilarating video games. Also some of my favorite moments are acting with other people. I love watching other people act and I love laughing or smiling with them after Cut is called. 

So many actors are curious about what it's like doing stunts on a set. Can you tell us more about what you did (or what you saw) and what the process was like?

Since the movie I did a stunt in is not released yet I can’t say too much, but what I can say to those who don’t know what the stunt process is like, it is very safe since we have stunt doubles. Stunt doubles do stunts so that the actual actor is safe from all the trouble. Everyone on set always made sure I was comfortable and fine with everything I was doing, which was really nice. 

Very cool. Let's switch gears and talk about about your acting training. What is some of the best acting advice you have been given?

Most of the tips that have been given to me have morphed me into the actor I am now. An example of one of those tips is the One-to-Ten Energy Scale, ‘One’ meaning use very low amounts of energy (nearly the amount of energy people use when they sleep) and ‘Ten’ means go all out, be energetic, like the life of the party.

Another tip I will always remember is when someone told me to act in a way people can connect with you. I don’t know if I always do that, but I try. 

You know that at TAS, confidence is very important to us. So, we have to know, what makes you feel confident?

When it comes to acting I feel confident in a quiet place while practicing lines because I have room for error. When it’s quiet I can increase my knowledge on acting while also being able to get to know my character.

Making space to be quiet is wonderful advice! Tell us more about your process for 'getting to know your character'. Tell us the steps you take and what you find helpful.

I mark up all my scripts with the emotions I’d use for each line, the way I will move my body, and the level of energy I will use. It takes the longest part of my prep, but it’s the most helpful for me. I also try not to get too set in stone on my ways, in case the director wants me to change my tone or approach. 

What would be your dream role or acting project?

My dream project would be, to be in the expected Third Avatar the Last Airbender series because I love the series concept. I’m also a huge fan of the Sci – Fi genre.

Two other films I’d like to be in are Pokémon (the anime) and The Diary of a Wimpy Kid movie. And any DCU or Marvel movie would be icing on the cake. 

Finally, what advice do you have for other young actors just getting started?

I’d give them the advice, “No matter who you are or where you’re from you can do anything you want… you just have to put your mind to it” As well as to do what you want to do, if you want to be an actor that’s great and if you don’t want to be an actor, that’s okay. Don’t let anybody pave the way for you.

I also learned something important from Johnny Knoxville when I worked with him on a recent film. He told me that if there isn’t a movie or a role you’re getting out there, MAKE a role for yourself. Create something and make yourself unique. I will never forget that. 

Parent's Corner

Parents know that it takes a lot of hard work to make sure their babies shine brightly in the spotlight. We are so thankful to have Jai's mother, Devi, join us with some tips and advice for parents of young actors.

Devi, thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions. To start off, what is some advice you’d give to other parents of young actors?

We are fairly new to this ourselves, but I would say what has helped us as a family is:

  1. We check in with Jai often on his feelings about the industry. We often ask him if he is enjoying himself, as this process can be very confusing when you submit tapes and are not expected to hear feedback- especially at such a young age!
  2. We also reassure him that we are just here to support him and if at any point he wants to stop, we can! That way, he doesn’t feel a certain pressure or harbor a feeling that he is letting us down.
  3. We rely heavily on advice from his wonderful acting/music coaches, as they’ve navigated this much more than we have as his parents.
  4. We listen to podcasts about how to help support child actors in such a tough industry (Parenting in the Spotlight by Denise Simon) is a great one. 

That is wonderful advice! Do you have any helpful tools you picked up along the way?

 My husband and I poured into all the research we could regarding how to properly support a child actor. We have watched a few helpful masterclasses on voice and acting, as we ourselves have no personal background in performing arts. In our family, we keep it simple by asking Jai 3 questions after every set day. 
1. Are you gaining joy out of this? We remind him a ‘win’ is not booking. He should enjoy the character breakdown, self-tape, audition, and callback process too–because they are all a part of his craft. We also tell him that every part of acting is just self-betterment. If he doesn’t end up an actor, at least he will have an immense understanding of emotional intelligence, confidence, public speaking skills, etc. 
2. Do you feel like you’re using your own voice? Through our research, we noticed child actors can especially be overlooked or feel the pressure of acting in a way unnatural to them to impress adults. Even during our self-tapes, I try to remind myself that I can’t ask Jai to change the way he’s acting, because he’s the experienced one in it, not me! And if he’s not using his own voice and own approach, it just won’t come out authentic. 
3. Are you giving back? It’s pretty unconventional for a 10 year old to have a job in general!  After a project he did in school, Jai really felt compassionate about donating to Smile Train, a nonprofit organization and charity providing corrective surgery for children with cleft lip/palates. Jai came to us and said he wanted to donate some of his last earnings from his film to the charity, and we were proud to hear it. 

Honestly this is a side of acting that you don't hear talked about very often. There is such a tremendous opportunity to spotlight those in need; you must have been incredibly proud to hear your young actor want to get involved and help. How did you foster that conversation and desire to make a difference?

Thank you, we are so very proud! To be honest, I don’t know how, but Jai has always been very emotionally aware. When we travel to India, he is always overwhelmed with the disparities he sees in some of the areas we travel. What made him specifically passionate about assisting children with cleft lips is after a discussion at his school when he saw pictures and heard stories of kids who struggle, not just with physical appearance but with some abilities to speak due to the disability. We like Smile Train because they do so much more than surgery–they also help children with nutritional, speech, orthodontic support, hearing care and psychosocial counseling.  

Tell us what makes it all worth it? Why do you keep going, even when things get hard?

Jai looked up at us when he was five and asked us- point blank- why no one else on TV looked like him. We were shocked and didn’t know what to say at the time, mainly because it was so young for him to pick up on that. Fast forward to now, what makes it all worth it is when we see Jai get so excited about seeing diversity on the screen.

We keep going because his mission is to tell stories and work with actors/directors who want to cast all ethnicities. Even though he gets half (if not a third) of the auditions his peers receive, because he doesn’t always fit the description, he works several hours a day because he wants kids watching him at home to feel they can be a part of any narrative, too. Though acting is a completely new territory for our family, we do it for that five year old Jai who taught us how impactful representation can be. 

That is amazing! Way to go Jai, and thank you Devi, for taking the time to answer these questions for us. We know that other parents will find your input a valuable part of their own journeys.

Want to keep up with Jai?

Check him out on:

IMDb

Instagram

Actor’s Access (Resume)

Jai and his family support Smile Train, a charity that benefits children around the world who are born with cleft lips. 

Read more about Smile Train HERE.

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Where will you be this time next year?

Where will you be this time next year?

Have you got dreams for your acting career? What are you doing to get there?

Are your New Year’s acting resolutions already feeling out of reach? You even set your sights on some realistic acting goals, but a few weeks in and you’re feeling doubtful you’ll ever get there. Don’t worry because The Actor’s Scene has got your back! 

We at TAS know that this career can be tough, intimidating, and indeed overwhelming at times which is why we are focusing on your goals for next year. Let’s look at where you could be next year and what you can do now to get there. 

The deadline to register for classes this year is January 25th. Read on to find out how to register, or how you can audit a class for FREE! 

"While nearly half of Americans make New Year's resolutions, only about 25% of people actually stay committed to their resolutions after just 30 days, according to Columbia University. And even fewer, less than 10%, accomplish their goals."

By this time next year, you could book real work in the industry!

We know students need to learn not only how to act on-camera or on stage but also how to navigate this wild industry. That’s why each class combines acting lessons with camera or stage specific techniques and industry information. Students will discover things like: preparing and taping industry standard auditions, researching local agents and casting directors, and paying attention to what’s happening in the Southeast film area. With class discussion time they are also taught why it’s important to know all of this information which gives our students the skills to navigate the industry with ease and book more roles! 

If you just look at our recent post on Feature Friday (found monthly on Facebook or Instagram) you’ll see numerous examples of how this knowledge helps our students right away. For instance, take TAS students: Audrey Lyn Marie and Devyn Millsap. They are just two examples out of many who have booked industry work recently. Audrey Lynn-Marie had a co-star role in the new Lifetime movie “Don’t Let Him Find You” or student Devyn Millsap who had TWO recent bookings; a Winter Beach Club commercial and the “Wild Robot Egg Drop Challenge” on Peacock. 

By this time next year you could have an acting career!

Sometimes you need a little extra help with your audition tapes or want to focus on a specific aspect of your acting career. TAS also has taping services and private lessons to help you!  Our taping equipment and set up is top notch and with the help of our trained taping coaches your auditions will be of the highest quality. You can book a private coaching session with one of our talented coaches to work through tough or important auditions. You can also book a bundle of private lessons to really focus on what you need to do to enhance your personal career. 

At TAS, we are not just an acting school; we are a place to identify and achieve your dreams! A big part of this is through acting training, but we strive to provide our students with knowledge, tools, and opportunities.

By this time next year you could be signed with an agent!

 Signing with an agent is a HUGE step in an actor’s career and we have made it easier to do so here at TAS. All of our on-camera based class students also get to participate in Showcase. Showcase is an opportunity for our students to perform for agents, casting directors, managers, and production companies who are looking to sign eager actors. This is HUGE! In fact that’s how many of our students get an agent or book their first project. Students have a chance to not only sign with agents from our market here in the Southeast, but also with agents from LA, New York, the Midwest, and several places in between. Instead of going through the traditional process of submitting and waiting our students get the chance to show their talents to multiple agents at once! 

By this time next year you could be in a community of like-minded creatives. 

This is the beauty of our 32 week classes. You get knowledge, understanding, and skills; yay! But you also get a community. Week after week you will work with the same coach and students, learning and growing together. Remember, this industry is tough and it is so important to have a support group that will not only encourage you when you’re down, but also celebrate your wins with you, and keep you focused and guided towards your goals. Just look at what this parent said about a couple of our coaches:

Christy Shubert: Aaron’s mom from Creator’s Lab: “There have been a few times where the class as a whole needed to be given constructive criticism, and I think Coach Leah’s approach to that is spot on. She acknowledges the kids’ successes first, but also reminds the students that a part of growth in the industry is learning how to take constructive criticism in order to improve. Even in needing to call out a course correction, Leah leads with professionalism and curiosity first and foremost. Challenging situations offer opportunities for growth and development. Aaron’s [very smart!] brain has been sufficiently engaged and challenged in this class through the help of Adam and Leah’s knowledge, expertise, and leadership! We love and appreciate you guys so much!”

By this time next year, you could be a more confident YOU! 

To be a successful actor you need all the things already mentioned: a support group that will be honest with you, knowledge of the industry, skills in acting, understanding camera/stage technique. But to really make it in this industry you need confidence. That’s what TAS is all about! What better way to showcase our motto of ‘Confidence Makers’ than with some awesome quotes from our students or parents of students:

Parent Megan Ross of Callie Ross in On Camera Foundations with Rick: “Every time that Callie comes out of class she is so excited to tell me what she learned…Coach Rick has been great! Callie feels like she has a good connection with him and he always makes her feel good about her abilities.”

Jiyun “Quinn” Shim’s mom Meg about On Camera Foundations with Adam: “We are absolutely thrilled with how the  class has been going for Jiyun! It’s been incredible to see how the sessions inspire her and bring out her creativity and confidence. She genuinely enjoys every aspect of the learning experience, and it’s been wonderful to watch her grow and develop new skills.”

Carol Terry in Kristi’s Adult Improv Foundations class: I’m loving my time at the actor scene, gaining more confidence and knowledge with the nuances of improv. I’m very thankful for the feedback I’ve received from Coach Kristi, Coach Rick, and Coach Molly big shoutout to them they have really helped me grow! I appreciate all that you guys do and I’m very thankful for the time and care you’ve provided us students. I’m very happy to be a student of the actors scene!!

Does any of this sound like where you want to be next year? Check out our classes today! You can STILL sign up to be in our 32 week classes AND participate in Showcase. But you have to hurry! The deadline to register for classes is January 25th! 

Call our Front Desk at 770-904-6646 or check out available classes on our website to get started. You can even audit a class for FREE. Give us a call or click on the links below to get started. Let us help you get to your goals!

We at TAS know that this career can be tough, intimidating, and indeed overwhelming at times which is why we are focusing on your goals for next year. Let’s look at where you could be next year and what you can do now to get there. 

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

770-904-6646

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About The Author

Kirsten Krehbiel

Kirsten Krehbiel is an Atlanta based actress, director, and writer who enjoys bringing people new truths through the art of storytelling. She has a love of acting both on camera and on stage, having been lucky enough to be a part of incredible productions in both worlds. Kirsten joined the TAS team in 2020 as a coach, a job she loves because it lets her watch first hand as students grow and gain self confidence as actors. When she is not creating or coaching, you can find Kirsten hanging out with her grumpy cat on their back porch. 

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