Supportive Acting and Public Speaking Coach for Beginners Preparing for Theatre and Film Auditions

Find out more about Ivy

• 1) 1) When did you start practicing? How did this passion find you?

  I have always been drawn to the stage and to public speaking from a very young age. I began performing ballet at age four, started singing publicly at eleven, and picked up the guitar at seventeen. That eventually led me to writing and performing my own original music throughout New York City. At twenty, I shifted my focus toward acting and became a Theatre Performing Arts major, where I gained experience both onstage and behind the scenes. Performing and storytelling have always felt like a natural part of who I am.

• 2) Which artists or works affect you the most?

  There are so many artists who have inspired me throughout my life. Musically, I have always been influenced by artists such as Bob Marley, Van Morrison, Gavin DeGraw, Billy Joel, and Andy Grammer. As for actors, I deeply admire Audrey Hepburn, James Dean, Ben Kingsley, Edward Norton, Leonardo DiCaprio, Robin Williams, River Phoenix, and Diane Keaton. In film, directors like Steven Spielberg have had a tremendous impact on me creatively, and it was truly an honor to have had the opportunity to work with him.

• 3) What are the qualities and skills required to succeed in this area?

  Success in this industry requires persistence, adaptability, discipline, and a genuine passion for the craft. My transition from student actor to SAG-AFTRA member in 2019 taught me the importance of resilience and continuously learning how professional environments operate. Most importantly, passion is essential. Without passion, it becomes difficult to withstand the challenges and rejection that naturally come with creative careers. Failure should never be feared — it is often one of our greatest teachers and strengths.

• 4) What is the most valuable advice you can give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  Always stay creatively active. Continue learning, exploring, practicing, and challenging yourself. Growth in the arts never truly stops, and there is always room to improve your craft. Keeping yourself immersed in creativity — no matter the medium — helps maintain inspiration, discipline, and artistic momentum.

• 5) How would you describe your passion; how does it make you feel?

  It is honestly difficult to put into words. To me, creativity feels more like a calling than simply a career path. It is something deeply rooted within you — a feeling that you were placed on this earth to contribute something meaningful through your art, voice, and perspective.

• 6) What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  I am especially proud of becoming a SAG-AFTRA member and being accepted into the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. I am also incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to work alongside actors and directors whom I admired growing up. Those experiences reinforced my passion for this industry and my desire to continue growing within it.

• 7) Have you ever been surprised by a student; by their ability or quick progression?

  Absolutely. One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is witnessing a student discover strengths and abilities they may not have fully recognized in themselves. It is incredibly inspiring to work with students who are dedicated, passionate, and eager to grow. Their enthusiasm often reignites and deepens my own passion as a teacher and mentor.

• 8) Being a Superprof is an art! What is your secret?

  For me, it begins with human connection and understanding. Creating a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment is the foundation of my teaching style. When students feel comfortable, understood, and confident enough to take creative risks, that is where real growth and transformation begin.