Our Experienced Instructors
Eleanor Vance
Founder and Artistic Director
Eleanor Vance is the founder and Artistic Director of StageCraft Academy. A highly acclaimed actress and director, Eleanor brings over 30 years of experience in the theater and film industries to her teaching. She has received numerous awards for her performances and directing work, including a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role and a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Director. Her passion for nurturing talent and fostering a supportive learning environment is at the heart of StageCraft Academy's mission.
Experience Highlights:
- Tony Award Winner (Best Actress in a Leading Role)
- Drama Desk Award Winner (Outstanding Director)
- Directed over 20 theatrical productions
- Starred in numerous films and television shows
- Taught acting at prestigious universities for over 15 years
Testimonials:
"Eleanor Vance is an inspiring mentor. Her guidance and expertise have been invaluable to my growth as an actor."
Marcus Jones
Method Acting and Scene Study Instructor
Marcus Jones is an experienced acting coach specializing in method acting and scene study. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Marcus has worked with numerous successful actors in film, television, and theater. His approach to teaching emphasizes emotional honesty, character development, and a deep understanding of the text. Marcus holds a Master of Fine Arts in Acting from Yale School of Drama and is a certified instructor of the Stanislavski method.
Experience Highlights:
- Master of Fine Arts in Acting, Yale School of Drama
- Certified Stanislavski Method Instructor
- Coached actors for Emmy Award-winning performances
- Extensive experience in film, television, and theater
- Published author on acting techniques
Testimonials:
"Marcus Jones's scene study class was transformative. He helped me unlock a deeper level of understanding in my characters."
Serena Williams
Voice Acting and Vocal Coach
Serena Williams is a professional voice actress and vocal coach with over 15 years of experience in animation, commercials, and audiobooks. Her versatile voice and expertise in vocal techniques make her a sought-after instructor. Serena has voiced characters in numerous animated films and television shows, and her voice can be heard in commercials for major brands. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from The Juilliard School and is passionate about helping students discover their unique vocal talents.
Experience Highlights:
- Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, The Juilliard School
- Voiced characters in over 50 animated films and television shows
- Commercial voiceover work for major brands
- Audiobook narration for bestselling authors
- Conducted voice acting workshops internationally
Testimonials:
"Serena Williams is an amazing voice acting instructor. Her guidance and encouragement helped me develop my vocal range and confidence."
James O'Connell
Improvisation and Comedy Instructor
James O'Connell is a renowned improvisation and comedy instructor, bringing over two decades of experience in stand-up comedy, improv theater, and sketch writing to StageCraft Academy. He honed his skills at the prestigious Second City in Chicago and has performed and taught workshops around the globe. James's classes focus on developing quick thinking, collaboration, and comedic timing, empowering students to find their unique comedic voice and excel in both performance and writing. He is a firm believer that everyone can be funny and enjoys helping students unlock their inner comedian.
Experience Highlights:
- Graduate of The Second City, Chicago
- Performed stand-up comedy at major comedy clubs worldwide
- Led improvisation workshops internationally
- Written and produced numerous comedy sketches for television and online platforms
- Coached comedians who have appeared on late-night talk shows
Testimonials:
"James O'Connell's improv class completely transformed my stage presence. I'm more confident, quick-witted, and having more fun than ever before!"
Olivia Harrison
Acting for Film and Television Instructor
Olivia Harrison is a highly sought-after acting coach specializing in acting for film and television. She has a successful career as a working actress with credits in numerous acclaimed television series and independent films. Olivia's teaching focuses on the nuances of on-camera performance, including techniques for adjusting to different camera angles, working with close-ups, and delivering authentic performances in a variety of genres. She is dedicated to helping students navigate the audition process and build successful careers in the entertainment industry. Olivia holds a BFA in Drama from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts.
Experience Highlights:
- BFA in Drama, New York University's Tisch School of the Arts
- Starred in multiple television series and films
- Coached actors for successful television and film auditions
- Expert in on-camera acting techniques
- Provides personalized career guidance to students
Testimonials:
"Olivia Harrison's acting for film class gave me the confidence and skills I needed to land my first television role. She's an amazing teacher!"