The Training Studio
Advice & Insight For Aspiring Theatre Artists
Directors, Let’s Reinvent Giving Notes
I love rehearsal. I love growth. What I do not love is the nightly end-of-rehearsal notes dump that makes everyone feel like they’re being graded in front of the class. Directors, can we reinvent this?
What My First Role Taught Me and Why I’ll Never Forget It
My first role taught me everything: be ready, be flexible, and show up when it counts.
Dear Divas: They’re Not “Your” Understudy
One of my biggest theatre pet peeves: actors saying “my understudy.” Nope. Understudies aren’t accessories — they’re essential artists hired for the role, the production, and the audience.
Weird Auditions Don’t Make Better Theatre
I heard about a weird audition and I haven’t stopped thinking about it. At what point did casting become a group therapy session instead of, you know, acting?
If Your Community Theatre Can’t Afford an Intimacy Coordinator, Are You Ready to Do This Show?
If your community theatre can’t afford an intimacy coordinator, should you still do the show? The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. But “we’ll be fine” isn’t a safety plan, and checking a box at the last minute isn’t care.
To All Directors - Let Actors Act, Stop Giving Line Readings
Line readings are the quickest way to turn a rehearsal room into a one-person show with a bunch of understudies.
Actors, Let’s Talk About Crying on Stage
Let’s talk about crying on stage. Why it doesn’t always show up when you want it to, why forcing it rarely works, and what actually matters more than tears.
If You Did Well at Callbacks, Why Weren’t You Cast?
Ever wonder why you can get a callback, do well, and still not get cast? From the other side of the table, here’s what’s actually being considered—and why it’s rarely personal.
Lesson #1 - You Can’t Rehearse a Show You Don’t Have the Rights To
A community theatre announced a show, held auditions, and scheduled rehearsals—only to discover they never secured the rights. It’s an uncomfortable but important reminder: before dates, before casting, securing the rights has to come first.
Community Theatre, Prop Guns, and the Responsibility We Share
Prop guns aren’t just props, they carry real responsibility. A reminder that safety, training, and clear protocols aren’t optional—they’re part of the craft.
When Callbacks Don’t Actually Call You Back
One of my biggest audition pet peeves: the pointless callback. If there’s no direction, no curiosity, no intention behind bringing people back, it’s just wasting everyone’s time.
Being Confident on Stage, Not Arrogant Off It
There’s a difference between “I can do this” and “I’m the only one who can.”
When It Comes to Casting “Rocky Horror”, Age Matters
Every fall, “Rocky Horror” takes the stage. I love this show as much as anyone, but casting minors in it is not bold, it’s reckless.
Tips for Auditioning for “Legally Blonde: The Musical”: Pink, Sparkle, and Heart
Thinking about auditioning for Legally Blonde: The Musical? Pink, sparkle, and energy will get you in the door, but heart and honesty are what book the role.
Why Community Theatre Directors Should Personally Call the Actors They Don’t Cast
Directors: if you’re brave enough to cast a show, you should be brave enough to call the actors you didn’t cast. It’s uncomfortable, but it matters.
Trusting Yourself on Opening Night
Opening night isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about trust, connection, and stepping into the light with courage.
Callbacks vs. The Cold Shoulder: The Agony of Audition Limbo
“The audition grind: that nerve-wracking wait, the crushing silence, and the bittersweet thrill of callbacks that don’t guarantee a role. Here’s a raw, honest look at what actors really go through in audition limbo.”
Confronting My Fear of Heights in the Theatre
“I never thought I had a fear of heights until college theatre. What followed was an unexpected journey of anxiety, growth, and learning how to function through fear.”
Your Follower Count Matters: Truths Aspiring Actors Need to Hear About Social Media
“Let’s start with the uncomfortable truth. Yes, your follower count matters. No, it’s not the only thing that matters, but if you think social media is just a distraction or a popularity contest you can afford to ignore, you are missing a crucial part of today’s entertainment industry.'“
Directors, Keep it Simple with the Notes in Programs
“In a world of digital playbills and deep thematic essays, wouldn’t it be refreshing if more directors just... told us a fun story from rehearsal?”