Acting Faculty
Eleanor Vance
Head of Acting Department
Professor Vance brings over 25 years of experience in theater and film to The Auroras Academy. A graduate of the Yale School of Drama, she has performed in numerous Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, as well as several feature films. Her specialties include Meisner technique, Shakespearean acting, and contemporary scene study.
Experience & Expertise
- Master of Fine Arts in Acting, Yale School of Drama
- Broadway credits: "Hamlet," "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Death of a Salesman"
- Film credits: "The City Lights," "Midnight Bloom"
- Recipient of the Tony Award for Best Actress (2010)
Teaching Philosophy
“I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where students can take risks and explore their full potential. My goal is to help each student discover their unique voice and develop the skills they need to succeed in the competitive world of acting. I emphasize the importance of emotional honesty, strong technique, and a deep understanding of the text.”
Eleanor Vance in a production of Hamlet.
Samuel Davis
Acting Instructor
Mr. Davis is an accomplished actor, director, and playwright. He has worked extensively in regional theater and independent film. He holds a BFA in Acting from Northwestern University and is a certified teacher of the Stanislavski method. His areas of expertise include character development, improvisation, and playwriting.
Experience & Expertise
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting, Northwestern University
- Directed over 20 regional theater productions
- Award-winning playwright: "The Last Bookstore," "Echoes of Silence"
- Certified Stanislavski Method Instructor
Teaching Philosophy
“I am passionate about helping students find the truth in their performances. I believe that acting is about connecting with the character on a deep emotional level and bringing that authenticity to the stage or screen. I encourage my students to embrace their vulnerability and to use their personal experiences to inform their work. I focus on building a strong foundation in acting technique while fostering creativity and imagination.”
Samuel Davis directing a play.
Olivia Thompson
Acting Instructor
Ms. Thompson is a versatile actress with experience in theater, film, and television. She graduated from the Juilliard School and has performed in numerous Off-Broadway productions. She is also a skilled voice actress and has lent her voice to several animated films and video games. Her specialties include voice and speech, audition technique, and on-camera acting.
Experience & Expertise
- Graduate of The Juilliard School
- Off-Broadway credits: "The Glass Menagerie," "Angels in America"
- Voice actress for "The Enchanted Forest" and "Galactic Warriors"
- Specialist in audition technique and on-camera acting
Teaching Philosophy
"I am committed to empowering my students to be confident and versatile performers. I believe that strong vocal technique and clear articulation are essential for any actor. I focus on helping students develop their vocal range, improve their diction, and project their voices effectively. I also provide guidance on navigating the audition process and mastering the art of on-camera acting. My goal is to prepare my students for success in all areas of the performing arts."
Olivia Thompson performing in a television show.
Marcus Jackson
Acting Instructor
Mr. Jackson is a celebrated acting instructor with 15 years of experience teaching at various prestigious institutions. He brings a wealth of knowledge in the fields of acting, improvisation, and playwriting. Marcus holds a Master's degree in Fine Arts from the University of Southern California.
Experience & Expertise
- Master of Fine Arts in Acting, University of Southern California
- Expert in Improv Technique and Characterization
- Taught at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute
- Guest lecturer at renowned Universities
Teaching Philosophy
“My teaching philosophy is rooted in creating a nurturing and challenging learning environment where students are encouraged to take creative risks and explore the depth of their potential. I believe in the transformative power of acting and its ability to foster empathy and self-discovery.”
Marcus Jackson performing a comedic stage role.