09/14/2022
Why create Chelsea Acting Academy?
"I have a passion for training young actors and performers. Helping them dive into a script, discover a character, and develop their skills is one of the most wonderful parts of the theatre performance process." This is the core of why Brian founded Chelsea Acting Academy.
Living in the Chelsea/Westover area for the past 5+ years, Brian has been working behind the scenes preparing for the launch of Chelsea Acting Academy. He noticed that there was no local outlet for theatre for elementary and middle school aged students. There are plenty of incredible options for sports, dance, and music lessons - but there was a hole that needed to be filled.
"I know there are young people in this area that have the talent and desire to pursue theatre. But there are no options available to them. Chelsea High School has a great theatre program, but we are lacking the training at the younger ages to prepare a new generation of theatre performers right here in Chelsea!" Brian wants to give young people the chance to discover whether or not theatre might be a passion that they would pursue. "Just like in many areas of life, so many passions and skills are developed at a young age. If we don't provide an outlet for theatre students, many will never know what they could achieve!"
Brian has the desire to teach theatre in a way that is safe, positive, and fun. "Yes, we can be dramatic - but Chelsea Acting Academy is a 'NO DRAMA ZONE.' This is not the place to discuss agendas. This is a safe place to learn acting, stage presence, improvisation, communication, and so much more."
Brian received his Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Samford University. Upon completion of his degree, we began working in Children's Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills. "My role was to enhance the creative programming for kids but developing music, drama, and creative elements into all of our Children's Ministry programs." From writing and developing curriculum, directing Children's VBS and camps, and directing Children's Musicals, he utilized theatre and arts skills to teach the Gospel. "This time was formative in my life as a leader, minister, and artist. I learned so much and development my personal directing style through these years."
Brian took the next big step in his career when he moved to Tennessee to become the founding director of the Renaissance Theatre program at Bethel University. Brian build an extra-curricular University theatre program that grew to over 70 students. Each year, he directed 3 or more performances including 'Les Miserables,' 'Oklahoma!', 'Mary Poppins,' 'Peter Pan,' 'The Miracle Worker,' 'Seussical,' 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' and "Disney's Beauty and the Beast.' Many of his former students are continuing their journey and performing across the country.
Returning to Birmingham in 2017, Brian has been involved in local churches, national corporate events companies, and has served as a substitute teacher for Shelby County Schools. All the while finding time to develop this idea into reality.
"Now's the time," Brian believes. After speaking with many families about the need for theatre education right here in the community, he is ready to make it a reality. "Theatre can change lives. It has changed mine for the better and I believe that it can do the same for students looking for their place. I also believe that we can teach theatre in a way that, most importantly, honors God. My faith leads me to know that Christ can be honored in ALL things. And it is my responsibility as a believer to use my gifts and passions to share the message of Jesus. God is the creator and Lord of all, and we can become great artists and actors with a foundation firmly rooted in faith."
"The goal is to teach theatre in a way that honors God first, and recognizes His place in our lives and our world. When we have that perspective, we can grow as actors by knowing who we are in relation to Him. Chelsea Acting Academy is open to all students to who have a love for the arts and want to become better performers. We will unapologetically take a Christ-centered approach to teaching the skill of acting. Young people deserve to learn about acting in a safe environment - focusing on the skills needed to become a performer, not all the outside noise."
Brian hopes that everyone who is interested will call, email, or ask questions. He states that while acting lessons for 4th-6th grade is what is offered now, the future holds great potential here in Chelsea. "Camps, workshops, private lessons, musical productions. They are all on the list for the future and I know our growing community will support more arts activities as we grow. There is no limit to the potential right here in Chelsea."
