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Alfio

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​Tell me a little about yourself:
My name is Alfio and I’m 30 years old.  I’m a non-practicing lawyer who works in health care administration after spending a few years in the banking industry.  I went to school to study economics and law, but have always been passionate about film and curious about acting.
 What made you decide to take an acting class?
About a year ago when I turned 30, I finally worked up the courage to research some acting classes and see if it was something that I could reasonably explore and pursue given the constraints of my career.  It was a matter of ultimately giving myself the permission to try acting and not fixating on the idea that I was either too old or it was too late in life to try it.  There was a lot of fear around how I would be perceived by my family and friends by finally trying it because it was something I never spoke about or let anyone in on.  I called a few different places and didn’t expect to hear back from any of them.  A few days later I got an encouraging voicemail from Regina, and here I am. 
​Do you remember what that first class was like?
Oh yeah, it was quite terrifying, but also cathartic in its own way.  We had to bring in a personal object of ours and share a story about it.  Right away, we had to be open about our personal lives and the adversity we all had been through.  I was nervous to go up in front of the class and share my tragic story about a lost loved one, but after watching each person go up before me and the support they were shown, I felt like it was an environment in which I could be vulnerable and not judged.  I think that’s what I remember most about the first class, the idea that we longer had to hold back or censor ourselves when there.  In hindsight, I feel like I was looking to share parts of myself and get some things out that I was probably holding back on for most of my life.
​Has your idea of acting changed after taking class?  If so, is it more or less than you expected?
Absolutely.  In the past, I would be able to talk myself out of trying it because I saw it as something only vain people would pursue, or that it wasn’t really making a difference in people’s lives unless it was done professionally on screen or on the stage.  This idea could not be further from the truth.  I have found that acting has opened me up in ways that I could never have imagined.  It can be very technical, and I’ve learned that having an approach and properly preparing is important, but so much of it is just letting go and surrendering to the moment.  You realize how important it is to be relaxed and present, and just letting things come to you.  Being in position and knowing your lines doesn’t even scratch the surface of what acting is, but that’s how I thought of it before finally trying it myself.
Was there a turning point in your journey that  really affected you? 
It would have to be the first time I went up in front of the class to perform my monologue, a short one from the end of Death Of A Salesman by Biff Loman.  I went up there, I knew my lines, and I said them with what I “thought” was feeling, not realizing I wasn’t really feeling anything.  After getting through it the first time, Regina made me stand up and do it again while two classmates locked my arms behind me and held me back.  I was told to fight with all my might to break free while saying my lines as angry as I could.  One of the guys holding my arm told me to just go for it and don’t hold back.  That support was huge in getting me to really open up.  It was honestly the first time in maybe forever I heard myself raise my voice and I remember my hands shaking and my heart racing afterwards.  I couldn’t believe what I sounded like and the feeling was so foreign to me, but that moment was kind of a breakthrough where I was finally able to let go of how I was being perceived and just go for it each and every time.
What type of roles do you like to play?
Honestly, at this point, I don’t really have a preference.  I’ve done a couple of scenes where I’m angry and lashing out at others, and those are fun to play and can serve as an outlet.  You get to explore parts of yourself that you may not have known were even there, but they slowly come out when you’re looking for the wants and needs of the character.  Any role where the character is kind of obsessive or conflicted always appeals to me because there is much there to work with and dive into.  You really never know what’s going to come of it and feeling it evolve within you is one of the most interesting parts of acting to me.  With that said, I’m yearning to work on something comedic and expand my range.
What’s your favorite thing about class?  
It would be easy to say performing, but it would have to be the camaraderie.  I’ve met so many extraordinary people through taking classes and it’s been a pleasure to work with and watch them all grow.  Many of us have developed relationships and have become friends, often going out together after class.  We pull for each other and are supportive without being critical or judgmental.  I didn’t play organized sports and was never part of a “team” growing up, so the camaraderie in class is something I really cherish and value, as cliché as that sounds. 
 How has acting affected other parts of your life? 
I think the better question would be how hasn’t it?  Acting has changed my life in immeasurable ways.  I no longer struggle as much with showing empathy and being comfortable with vulnerability.  I also feel more self-assured in my life, because I found something I am passionate about outside of my work.  It has brought a balance and fulfillment to my life that I personally was seeking for a long time.  Truthfully, it has also caused some upheaval and uncertainty in my life due to how it’s changed me and my perspective on certain things, but I wouldn’t change a thing and can’t imagine going back to life before it. 
Do you see yourself continuing to act?  If so, to what capacity?
Definitely.  I am still taking classes and continuing to work on my technique and preparation.  It feels like being on an unending path of self-discovery.  I don’t know when or even if I’m going to pursue it more seriously from a professional standpoint, so right now I’m just going with it and not chasing some desired outcome.  I do plan on auditioning though, and hopefully landing a part in a local play or production and seeing where that takes me. 
What would you say to someone who has always wanted to try acting, but hasn't yet?
If you’re even the slightest bit curious, go for it.  You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

MAYA

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Tell me a little about yourself: 
My name is Maya. I love sports like lacrosse and basketball.  I have a twin sister named Zoe and one French Bulldog named Izzie. I love all of my friends and hope to meet more along the way.
What made you decide to take an acting class? 
 I always wanted to be an actor and a writer.  My parents always encouraged me to do things that I liked even if I was shy about it.
Do you remember what that first class was like?   
Yes!  I was very nervous because I felt like there was not a lot of people I knew.  I also thought that I was going to fail miserably and embarrass myself, but then I learned to love the class! 
Has your idea of acting changed after taking class?  If so, is it more or less then you expected? 
It definitely changed.  It was much more than expected because at first I was obsessed with being a writer, but now all I want to do is be an actress!
Was there a turning point in your journey that  really effected you?  
Yes.  I  remember waking up on the day after my first performance and thinking,  "Wow that was really fun!  I really like acting!" 
What type of roles do you like to play? 
Well, I feel like my acting teacher puts me mostly in roles that are funny and once in awhile maybe some that are more dramatic.
What’s your favorite thing about class? 
I love how it makes me feel free, like I can be myself and go crazy. ​​
​How has acting effected other parts of your life?    
I felt more open after I started acting ... maybe because I was learning about different characters and different feelings.

Do you see yourself continuing to act?  If so, to what capacity?   
I definitely see myself continuing to act!  I want to go to a good college for acting and see where life takes me after that.

What would you say to someone who has always wanted to try acting, but hasn't yet? 
 
I would say, "Wait ... you want to, but haven't?  Why?  I was very nervous to try it, but once you do, you will love it!"

Dyan

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Tell me a little about yourself:  
I am a mom to two amazing kids (ages 22 and 15) and have worked as a legal secretary for the same law firm in NY for almost 35 years. 
What made you decide to take an acting class?  
Four years ago I auditioned for a bra commercial  - I didn't get the part - but there was something about the experience and I knew it was something I was going to try when the time was right. 
 Do you remember what that first class was like?  
Yes!! I was nervous and excited at the same time.  It was so terrific meeting everyone and hearing about why they were there too.  I LOVED IT!!  I smiled from ear to ear the whole way home. It was amazing!
Has you idea of acting changed after taking class?  If so, is it more or less then you expected?  
​I haven't watched a movie or TV show the same since! I had no idea what goes into a scene. It's wonderful how words on a page can come to life. 

Was there a turning point in your journey that  really effected you?  
Everyone is so supportive. One of my first assignments was to say, not sing,  the words to a song. When it was my turn, I forgot the words.  I kept trying but I was blank. And even though I was embarrassed, everyone clapped and said I did a great job and that made me smile. 
What type of roles do you like to play?
I like roles that have different emotions so I can show that there is more than one side to a character. 
What’s your favorite thing about class?  
Just one lol?? I love listening to Regina - whether she's talking to me or another actor in class. I love that she brings out the best in all of us because she wants the best for all of us.  
 How has acting effected other parts of your life?  
People say that I've inspired them to do something that they've always wanted to do which I am so happy to hear. And my kids think that mom's acting is pretty cool too!  
Do you see yourself continuing to act?  If so, to what capacity?
Absolutely!  I'd like to start auditioning and see where it takes me. It's definitely an important part of my life now. 
What would you way to someone who has always wanted to try acting, but hasn't yet?  
Please go for it!!!  If you don't try it you'll never know. You will be so proud of yourself.  ​


Here's a little taste of what some of our students have been up to!

Congrats to Ashley C. on her new lead role in a female action film shooting this Spring

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Kaitlyn S. just booked a supporting role in "Evil lives here" on Investigation Discovery Channel

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Alfio D. just booked his first role in a play that opens in April!

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Michael S. is performing in a one act play festival this spring. 

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Anastasia Joy was just accepted into the Broadway Arts Lab Summer Conservatory!

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Congrats to self tape client, Tamala B. for booking a role in a new series, "Curvey Girls Rock".

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Congrats to Dolores D. on her fabulous review in the play, "WHY TORTURE IS WRONG AND THE PEOPLE WHO LOVE THEM". 

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Congrats to Dominick C. for his call back and producer read for Adam Sandler's new film! 

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 Kylie S.
booked a webseries for Warner Bros. Scooby Doo and a national Lego commercial! 

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This Fall, Tim S. begins shooting the pilot for the series, Rockk Island. Tim just completed filming the feature, "My City".

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Self Tape client, Nicolette P. can be seen in Verizon Fios' latest commercial starring Gaten Matarazzo, from Netflix' series "Stranger THings".

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Barbara W. booked a webseries "You can't choose your friends" and performed in the play, "Little Red".

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Congrats  to Joe L who just booked his first film, the comedy/horror short, "QUOTA".


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FEATURED STUDENT INTERVIEWS

February 28, 2017

Timothy S.

Tell me about you.

My name is Tim, I am a poet, songwriter (singer someday) and actor. I am in sales as my day job.
​

What are some of your hobbies?​

Hiking. Keeping in shape, mentally and physically.
​

How did you get involved in Acting?​

In high school a friend signed me up for the role of Police Officer in "Hello Dolly", I reluctantly accepted the role (nobody else wanted it) and I was scared to death of performing in front of an audience. 30 years later, an actress friend of mine suggested I get head shots taken and try getting booked for commercials. I signed up for an Intro to Acting class with Regina and now I’m hooked! It is the next right thing for me at this point in my life.
​

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How long have you been an actor? From where did you get started? ​

About 6 months, but I stretch the truth and say ‘since 2016’ so it seems like it’s been a full year- I don’t want to come across like a complete rookie. Bare Bones first, now Take2.
​

Who is your favorite actor/actress?​

Denzel Washington ​

Which has been your favorite character that you have performed? ​

Ansel Smith from "Killer Joe". I had a lot of fun playing this role. Regina gave us the freedom to expand our character and get creative, which made the scene a lot more fun and interesting to the audience. ​

What kind of roles do you prefer? ​

Wise ass detective roles, seem to fit my personality best, but I also really like comedy roles.​

What scene or material are you working on in class?​

"Waiting for Lefty", Joe and Edna scene.
​

What do you enjoy most about acting class?​

Watching everyone go from ‘day one’ with a scene to the ‘finished product’- it’s an amazing process. Regina’s directing ability makes us all look good come show time.
​

Fill in the blank:
​Acting makes me_______________________________________________.

Acting makes me HIGH!
​


December 16, 2016

John B.

​Tell me about you.

​My name is John, I'm 58.  I'm a Tax Accountant.  I plan on moving onto something completely different hopefully sooner than later.

​​What are some of your hobbies?

Exercising, watching and talking about sports, acting.

​How did you get involved in acting?  ​

​When I was in the 4th grade I played Scrooge who was all humbug about Spring.  I had a crush on the girl that played the bumble bee and remember being in the play was a good and special  experience.  I don't know what happened the last 50 years but I am back!  Took my first class with Regina in January  and it's the best thing I have have done for myself in a very long time.

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​​Who is your favorite actor?

​Robin Williams, Tom Hanks and Clint Eastwood

​​Which has been your favorite character you have performed?

​Bruce in Beyond Therapy.

​​What kind of roles do you prefer?

I like to make people laugh so comedy and anything else that brings out another emotion.

​​What scenes or material are you working on in class?

​I just completed the Actor's Gym Fall Showcase.  I performed a scene from Vanya and Sonia and Marsha and Spike playing Vanya.  And also a monologue from The Braclet.

​​What do you enjoy most about acting class?

​Acting brings me to this wonderful place where I can hop off the train of life for a while and lose myself but yet in some ways be me.


November 27, 2016

Devyn B.

​Tell me about you.

I'm Devyn, I'm an actor and I'm 16 years old.

​What are some of your hobbies?

Anything involving the performing arts.

​How did you get involved in acting? 

When I was younger I decided to audition for a show at my camp and when I was up on that stage performing the monologue the director handed me, I realized that I had just discovered a side of me that I never knew existed!

​How long have you been doing it?

I have been an actor since I was nine years old, so I guess it has been about eight years now.

​Who is your favorite actor?

​Idina Menzel

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Devyn working with partner Jonathan C. on a TV scene.
​Which has been your favorite character you have performed?

​The Waitress from Almost Maine

​What kind of roles do you prefer?

​Dramatic Roles

​What scenes or material are you working on in class?

​Right now another actor and I are working together on a scene for a short film.

​What do you enjoy most about acting class?

​The feeling of escaping reality as well as the fact that this is who I am and I love being able to inspire others to get more involved too!

​Acting make me ___________________________________  (Fill in the blank).

​Acting makes me feel complete, I couldn’t imagine my life without it.


November 2, 2016

Dolores

Tell me about you.

My name is Dolores de Poto, I am a Cardiovascular Technologist who is back in the acting field after a 16 year hiatus. I have a beautiful 15 year old daughter who has been keeping me busy over the years ​

What are some of your hobbies?

​I love to walk the beach, decorate my house and throw parties.

How did you get involved in acting?  How long have you been doing it?

I got my start in acting very early on. I used to write plays and cast my younger brother and sisters. We’d dance, sing, have dress rehearsal. We’d performed in front of my parents and my older siblings.  I even charged a nickel.  In grammar school I took up Summer Stock which was a lot of fun. Things didn’t take off for me until College. I had some acting friends who were auditioning for the College Main Stage Play.  I thought I’d follow suit and try out as well. To my surprise I was cast as the lead in the play. From there it just started happening- I’d audition and I’d get cast, it was all so exciting and rewarding. When I was in college I was nominated for the Irene Ryan Award. Irene Ryan is a Tony and Emmy nominated actress who played Granny in “The Beverly Hillbillies”. The National Award was given to a gifted actor and provided recognition, honor as well as Financial Assistance for an Outstanding Student. It was such an honor to be nominated. Shortly thereafter I took acting classes in the city at HB Studios. I booked some Regional Theatre Gigs, Musicals, Comedies and Drama. I was performing at Dinner Theatre and I did some Off Off Broadway. Traveled Long Island and the Tri-Sates area.   ​​

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Who is your favorite actor?

​I’d say the actor I admire most is Meryl Streep, hands down, That lady can play just about any role and make it believable. I admire her tenacity, grace strength and talent. She has no airs about her and she gets down to the business of acting, I just love her.

Which has been your favorite character you have performed?

My favorite character was Claudia Faith Draper in “Nuts”. Second to that would have to be Diane Symonds in Christopher Durang’s “Sister Mary Ignatius Explains it All for You”. ​

What kind of roles do you prefer?

​The roles I prefer are the colorful, crazy victims and heroes. Any character with a multitude of layers is always a pleasure.

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Dolores in a scene from our One Day TV Drama Intensive
What was the last class you took?

The last class I took was Take 2 Actor's Studio’s On Camera class. I have always thought of myself primarily a stage actress, however,  this class taught me to be aware of my body and movement in front of the camera. Which has come in handy because I will be performing my first Indy Short come November. I am truly thankful to Regina for guiding me and teaching me something new. I have learned it is always important to hone your craft. You can never be too good to learn. ​

What do you enjoy most about acting class?

That’s easy, having the pleasure of working with individuals who share the same acting passion, making connections and creating. ​

Acting make me ___________________________________  (Fill in the blank).

​Acting makes me fulfilled in a way no other tangible thing can, I just love it!


October 10, 2016

Stan L.

​​Tell me about you.

My name is Stan.  69 years old.  I own an Actuarial Consulting Business in New York City and East Northport.  An actuary is someone who wanted to be an accountant, but didn't have the charisma!​

​​​What are some of your hobbies?

Travel. Running. Writing.  Boxing.  Acting.

​​​How did you get involved in Acting?

46 years ago, while working as a NASA Contract Mathematician, I answered an open audition in Washington D.C. for a play.  Got the part.  Did second play.  Got a lead in Bury the Dead, an anti war play.  Loved it.  I studied at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts summer program in 1971.  Then took off 45 years until I took class with Regina last year.  The rest is history!  

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​​​Who is your favorite actor/actress?

Robert Duvall. (early) Jack Nicholson.  Anouk Aimee.

​​​Which has been your favorite character that you have performed?

The son (Gene) in I Never Sang For My Father was interesting, although I didn't like my character.  In Odd Couple scene class at AADArts- I was Oscar.  I liked the role, I liked the character.

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Stan and actress, Karen L, in a scene during Actor's Gym class.
​​​What kind of roles do you prefer?

Comedic Roles.  Angry Roles.

What scenes or material are you working on in class?

Arthur Miller, All My Sons. I play Joe Keller in very powerful scene.

​What do you enjoy most about acting class?​​

The chemistry of the students and teacher create an atmosphere I feel comfortable in; in a way that let's me be the actor I could be if I were alone in a room.

​Fill in the blank:
Acting makes me _______________________________

In the last year or two- Emotionally brave.  Free.

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Stan driving "The Emotional Bus" during an exercise in class.

September 21, 2016

Brody O.

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​Tell me about you.

​My name is Brody.  No current occupation.  I'm 16.

​​What are some of your hobbies?

​Art, surfing, skateboarding, acting.

​​How did you get involved in Acting?

​In the 5th grade. 

​​How long have you been an actor? From where did you get started?

​My first time acting was in a 5th grade play where I played Prince Charming in the school production of INTO THE WOODS, ever since then I've fallen in love with the idea of performing and acting. 

​​Who is your favorite actor/actress?

​ James Dean 

​​Which has been your favorite character that you have performed?

​ Sweeney Todd 

​​What kind of roles do you prefer?

​Dark, or complicated. 

What do you enjoy most about acting class?​​

​Being able to externalize my thoughts and ideas. 

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Brody and John B. in a scene for Acting On Camera class.
​Fill in the blank:
Acting makes me _______________________________

Acting makes me  free.


September 7, 2016
Jenny L.

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Tell me about you!

My name is Jenny.  I am a Practice Secretary for Northwell Health.  I'm 33.

​What are some of your hobbies?

Painting, doodling, watching lots of TV.  Traveling, dancing, listening to podcasts. Going to live music shows. Any excuse to dress in silly costumes! Comics, zombies. Playing with my dog. Crosswords. And, of course, acting.

​How did you get involved in Acting?

I've always wanted to become an actress. Since I was very young. 
​I wanted to be on "Saved by the Bell".  But I've never had the courage to try and pursue it. 

​How long have you been an actor? From where did you get started?

​I have been in school and church plays when I was much younger, and I've even won some "Best Actor" awards.  Finally, at age 32, I decided to look into some local theater classes and found the wonderful Regina.

​Who is your favorite actor/actress?

This is a toughy!  There are too many factors to think about- looks, films, diversity in roles, talent, looks, personality, looks....
​Here's some off the top of my head:  Robin Williams, Leo DiCaprio(not for looks, not my type) Tom Hanks, Elijah Wood, Sandra Oh, Natalie Portman, Kirsten Dunst.  Looks: Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Jason Sudeikis (I love my men funny.)

​Which has been your favorite character that you have performed?

In the 6th grade, our class put on the musical play "How to Eat like a Child".  I got the role of the runaway child and sang "Sayonara". I felt like a real superstar and at the time it was a very relatable role. 

​What kind of roles do you prefer?

Comedy almost feels easier for me.

​What scene or material are you working on in class?

Catherine in "Proof".  I requested a more dramatic piece so I can grow and gain more confidence in drama.  This (role) is great.

​What do you enjoy most about acting class?

It's very therapeutic.  I suffer from PTSD, severe panic disorders and depression.  Acting class has been more therapeutic and healing than any meds or doctors.  It let me open up and let me be me...but playing others. And it's so fun just learning what I've always wanted to do.

​Fill in the blank:
Acting makes me _______________________________

Acting makes me  sane... or crazy.  Depending on the role.

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Jenny and Stan L. in a performance from Bare Bones Student Showcase.



​August 24, 2016

Karen L.

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Take 2 Actor's Studio student, Karen L.
Tell me about you.

My name is Karen. I am 57 years old and I have been married for 36 years. I have 2 grown sons. I am a payroll manager for a large transportation company, but my Bachelor’s Degree is in Psychology and I love working with people.

What are some of your hobbies?

Traveling, reading, and crocheting.
​

How did you get involved in acting?

I have always been interested in acting but I was always too busy working to pursue it. In the last year, I just decided I needed to find something that I would love to do and I decided I would look for some acting classes on Long Island.

How long have you been an actor? Where did you get started?

I have been acting less than a year. I started classes at the Bare Bones Theater in January 2016

Who is your favorite actor/actress?

Tom Hanks/Sally Field

What kind of roles do you prefer?

​Not sure yet-I am a big fan of Law and Order so I would love to play a role in that type of show. However, I really do like making people laugh so I would like to do more comedy.

Which has been your favorite character you have performed?

Jessie Cates of ‘night Mother. It made me open up to expressing many deep emotions.

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​Karen in a scene from Acting On Camera Class.
​What scene or material are you working on in class?

​I am working on a scene from All My Sons written by Arthur Miller.​​

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Karen and John B. in a scene from Beyond Therapy.
​

​What do you enjoy most about acting class?

​I love being able to express emotions and feelings in the scene work that we do.  Regina guides us to explore our deepest thoughts and encourages us to be our best with kindness and love.  I am always so excited to go to class to see what we will do next.

​Acting makes me (__fill in the blank___)

Acting makes me feel free and extremely happy!

TAKE 2 ACTOR'S STUDIO
​15B GREEN STREET, HUNTINGTON VILLAGE, NY
​(631)446-3336

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