THE DIRT UNDERNEATH ACTORS' SPACE

I had a very short notice for my Kim’s Convenience audition and immediately called John.  He challenged me to dig deeper into the scenes and reminded me to slow down and work moment-to-moment. He gave me the confidence to trust my instincts and truly bring myself to the work.

There are so many reasons why I continue to study with John but what I have found most useful over the years is simple: it really is a class.  You aren’t prescribed what your ‘type’ is or given material according to your ‘hit’.  John works with each individual and offers guidance to help actors find a process that is entirely their own.  He creates a room full of curiosities and humour where you are given space to learn and grow, a space where “failing” is celebrated.  The goal is always toward finding truthfulness while breathing and playing with your heart wide open.

Credits: (Kim’s Convenience, Sisters {Soulpepper})

Studying with John came at exactly the right moment in my career. 

The way that Covid has changed auditioning and the sense of community we once had was eroding my love of acting. 

When I started studying with John, I immediately rediscovered why I had worked to become an actor in the first place. In his class, it’s not about being bookable or right for the part. It’s about doing the work. Delving into the scene and exploring the character, connecting with your scene partner and most of all – taking risks knowing there’s no judgement.

John brings a breadth of experience to his coaching and his passion for actors and doing the work is evident. He has a unique, open and humorous way of encouraging his actors to dive deeper into the scene or the character. When I’m in his class, the outside world slips away and I’m completely engaged; whether I’m on camera or I’m watching my fellow actors work and assimilate John’s direction.

Credits: (The Boys, Cross, Workin Moms, Signed Sealed Delivered, The Kennedy’s, YPF, Foolproof)