Meet Our Expert Instructors

At Thespian Arts Academy, we pride ourselves on having a team of highly experienced and passionate instructors. Our faculty members are not only accomplished actors and directors but also dedicated educators committed to helping you unlock your full potential. They bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the classroom, providing you with the skills and guidance you need to succeed in the competitive world of performing arts. From seasoned Broadway veterans to acclaimed film actors, our instructors are here to inspire and mentor you on your journey to becoming a confident and versatile performer.

Headshot of Eleanor Vance, founder of Thespian Arts Academy

Eleanor Vance

Founder & Artistic Director

Eleanor Vance is a renowned stage actress with over 30 years of experience in the theatre industry. She has starred in numerous Broadway productions, earning critical acclaim for her performances in classic and contemporary plays. Eleanor is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with aspiring actors and is committed to providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment. She holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Acting from Yale School of Drama and has taught acting at several prestigious universities.

Eleanor specializes in classical acting techniques, character development, and scene study. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of discipline, creativity, and collaboration. She believes that every actor has a unique voice and potential, and she strives to help her students discover and develop their individual talents.

Headshot of Samuel Jackson, Acting for Film & Television Instructor

Samuel Jackson

Acting for Film & Television

Samuel Jackson is an award-winning film and television actor with over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He has appeared in numerous blockbuster films and critically acclaimed television series, working with some of the most respected directors and actors in Hollywood. Samuel is a sought-after acting coach and mentor, known for his practical and insightful approach to on-camera performance.

Samuel specializes in acting for film and television, on-camera techniques, and audition preparation. He helps students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fast-paced and demanding world of film and television. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of authenticity, presence, and adaptability.

Headshot of Isabella Rossi, Voice & Speech Training Instructor

Isabella Rossi

Voice & Speech Training

Isabella Rossi is a highly respected voice and speech coach with over 15 years of experience working with actors, singers, and public speakers. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Voice Studies from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and has taught voice and speech at several leading performing arts institutions. Isabella is passionate about helping her students develop a strong, resonant, and expressive voice.

Isabella specializes in voice and speech training, accent reduction, and vocal performance. She helps students improve their vocal control, projection, and articulation, essential skills for stage and screen performance. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of breath control, resonance, and vocal health.

Headshot of Benjamin Lee, Improvisation Instructor

Benjamin Lee

Improvisation for Actors

Benjamin Lee is a seasoned improviser and comedian with over 10 years of experience performing and teaching improvisation. He is a founding member of the award-winning improv troupe "The Spontaneous Combustion" and has performed at numerous comedy festivals around the world. Benjamin is a dynamic and engaging instructor, known for his ability to create a fun and supportive learning environment.

Benjamin specializes in improvisation, comedic timing, and character development. He helps students develop spontaneity, creativity, and collaboration skills, essential for both comedic and dramatic performance. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of listening, risk-taking, and embracing the unexpected.

Headshot of Amelia Greene, Musical Theatre Performance Instructor

Amelia Greene

Musical Theatre Performance

Amelia Greene is a triple-threat performer with extensive experience in musical theatre. She has starred in national tours of Broadway hits and has performed in regional theatres across the country. Amelia is passionate about sharing her love of musical theatre with aspiring performers and is committed to helping them develop their vocal, acting, and dance skills.

Amelia specializes in musical theatre performance, vocal technique, and choreography. She helps students develop the skills they need to succeed in musical theatre auditions and performances. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of versatility, discipline, and passion.

Headshot of David Chen, Stage Combat Instructor

David Chen

Stage Combat & Movement

David Chen is a certified stage combat instructor with over 15 years of experience choreographing and teaching stage combat for theatre, film, and television. He has worked on numerous productions, ensuring the safety and realism of fight scenes. David is passionate about teaching actors how to move confidently and safely on stage.

David specializes in stage combat techniques, movement for actors, and physical theatre. He helps students develop body awareness, coordination, and physical storytelling skills. His teaching philosophy emphasizes safety, precision, and dramatic impact.

Headshot of Maria Rodriguez, script analysis instructor

Maria Rodriguez

Script Analysis & Dramatic Literature

Maria Rodriguez is a dramatic literature scholar with over 20 years of teaching experience at the university level and now at Thespian Arts Academy. She brings a wealth of knowledge to her course on script analysis. She holds a PhD in Dramatic Arts, and a Masters in Scenography.

Maria specialises in breaking down the layers of dramatic text so her actors can extract all necessary information. She is patient and thorough and very much loved by her students. Her students have a deeper, richer understanding of the play from the start.