Meet Our Expert Instructors
At Emerald Coast Acting Academy, we are proud to have a team of dedicated and experienced instructors who are passionate about helping you develop your acting skills. Our instructors bring a wealth of knowledge from various areas of the performing arts, including stage, film, and television. Get to know the talented individuals who will guide you on your acting journey.
Eleanor Vance
Introduction to Acting, Scene Study
Eleanor Vance is a seasoned actress and educator with over 20 years of experience in the theatre. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Acting from the Yale School of Drama and has performed in numerous regional theatre productions across the country. Eleanor specializes in helping aspiring actors build a strong foundation in acting techniques, including improvisation, character development, and scene analysis. Her approach is rooted in fostering creativity and self-discovery, empowering students to find their unique voice and bring authenticity to their performances. Eleanor is passionate about creating a supportive and inspiring classroom environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and exploring their full potential.
- Master of Fine Arts in Acting, Yale School of Drama
- Certified Meisner Technique Instructor
- Extensive experience in regional theatre productions
Eleanor Vance is a dedicated acting instructor specializing in introductory courses and scene study at Emerald Coast Acting Academy.
Jasper Thorne
Advanced Scene Study, Method Acting
Jasper Thorne is a renowned acting coach with a deep understanding of method acting and advanced scene study techniques. He trained at the Actors Studio in New York City and has worked with numerous award-winning actors in film and television. Jasper's teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of emotional connection and personal exploration in creating compelling performances. He guides students through rigorous exercises designed to deepen their understanding of character motivations and develop their ability to fully immerse themselves in a role. Jasper's classes are challenging yet rewarding, providing students with the tools and insights they need to excel in their craft. He also offers private coaching for actors preparing for auditions and professional engagements. Jasper has a BFA in Theater from NYU.
- Trained at the Actors Studio, New York City
- Expert in Method Acting techniques
- Extensive experience coaching professional actors
Jasper Thorne is an experienced method acting instructor focusing on advanced scene study at Emerald Coast Acting Academy.
Seraphina Blake
Acting for Film and Television, Audition Techniques
Seraphina Blake is a versatile actress with a successful career spanning both stage and screen. She has appeared in numerous independent films, television dramas, and commercials. Seraphina brings her practical on-set experience to her teaching, providing students with valuable insights into the unique demands of acting for the camera. Her classes cover a wide range of topics, including on-set etiquette, audition techniques, and how to deliver a compelling performance in film and television productions. Seraphina is committed to helping aspiring actors develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the competitive world of film and television. She holds regular mock auditions and provides personalized feedback to help students hone their auditioning skills. Seraphina graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
- Graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, London
- Extensive experience in film and television acting
- Expert in audition techniques and on-set etiquette
Seraphina Blake is an experienced instructor specializing in acting for film and television and advanced auditioning at Emerald Coast Acting Academy.
Alistair Finch
Musical Theatre Performance
Alistair Finch is a multi-talented performer and educator with a passion for musical theatre. He has performed in leading roles in numerous Broadway and West End productions, showcasing his exceptional skills in acting, singing, and dance. Alistair's classes are dynamic and engaging, integrating all three disciplines to help students develop their skills in musical interpretation, stage presence, and ensemble performance. He creates a supportive and collaborative environment where students feel comfortable exploring their creativity and pushing their boundaries. Alistair's goal is to empower aspiring musical theatre performers to unlock their full potential and pursue their dreams with confidence and passion. He has won several regional theatre awards for his direction of musical productions. Alistair has a PhD from Columbia University. He also specializes in voice coaching.
- Extensive experience in Broadway and West End productions
- Specializes in vocal coaching and musical interpretation
- Award-winning director of musical theatre productions
- PhD from Columbia University
Alistair Finch is a dedicated musical theatre instructor, specializing in vocal and performance aspects at Emerald Coast Acting Academy.
Bianca Moreau
Voice and Movement for Actors
Bianca Moreau brings a unique blend of physical and vocal training to the Emerald Coast Acting Academy. With a background in both classical dance and voice performance, Bianca helps actors connect with their bodies and voices to create more dynamic and believable characters. She holds a certification in the Alexander Technique and has worked extensively with actors on breath control, posture, and vocal projection. Bianca's approach is holistic, encouraging actors to find the connection between their physical and emotional selves. She emphasizes the importance of presence and awareness in performance, teaching students how to command the stage with confidence and authenticity. She is also fluent in French and often incorporates techniques from European theatrical traditions. Bianca studied at the Jacques Lecoq International Theatre School in Paris.
- Certified in the Alexander Technique
- Fluent in French
- Graduate of the Jacques Lecoq International Theatre School in Paris
- Expert in breath control and vocal projection
Bianca Moreau is an expert in voice and movement for actors at Emerald Coast Acting Academy.
Caleb Rivers
Improvisation and Comedy
Caleb Rivers is a master of improvisation and comedic performance. He has toured with renowned improv troupes across the country and has years of experience teaching the art of spontaneous storytelling. Caleb's classes are high-energy and fun, designed to unlock students' creativity and build their confidence on stage. He focuses on developing essential improv skills such as active listening, agreement, and quick thinking. Caleb also incorporates comedic techniques into his teaching, helping students find their comedic voice and deliver memorable performances. He believes that improvisation is not just for comedians, but a valuable skill for all actors, fostering spontaneity, adaptability, and collaboration. Caleb holds workshops for corporate teams and uses improv techniques to improve communication and problem-solving skills. He is an alumnus of The Second City Conservatory in Chicago.
- Alumnus of The Second City Conservatory, Chicago
- Extensive touring experience with improv troupes
- Expert in comedic techniques
- Offers improv workshops for corporate teams
Caleb Rivers is an improvisation and comedy specialist and instructor at Emerald Coast Acting Academy.