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Student Testimonials
What actors say about training at Elena Stejko Actors Studio. Every testimonial here was written by a student of the studio's classes or a participant in one of Elena's workshops, and is published in their own words.
From Students of the Weekly Classes
These come from actors in the studio's term classes, from newcomers in the beginners class to actors on their fourth course.
Where to begin! In my many years of working with various coaches, I have never met one like Elena. I can certainly say I have never been so creatively flexible, in tune with my body and craft, and so full of growth as since I’ve started working regularly with her, and it’s been such a fulfilling process.
The atmosphere of class always feels inclusive, encouraging and challenging, and it’s clear she has a genuine care for the journey of her students. Elena has fundamentally changed the way I see the craft, my inner and outer world, and has resparked my love for acting in a whole new light. I consider it a huge honour to learn from Elena and would recommend any creative to do the same!
I am beyond grateful for my Tuesday nights with Elena. It might seem over-the-top to say but Elena Stejko’s classes breathe life into actors and artists. When I first joined her classes I was feeling overwhelmed and stuck. I knew I needed to act, to feel and to expand myself as an artist and human but I didn’t know where to begin.
Through spending time with Elena and the Michael Chekhov technique I feel inspired by life again, endlessly curious about the human heart, and full of joy in the knowledge that I am an actor. Elena’s work lifts us out of our limited experience of life and allows us to be more than we ever could have imagined. On the floor, we are reminded why we love our art form so much as we feel deeply and surprise ourselves.
The tools she provides are simple yet incredibly profound and inspiring. Taking Elena’s classes has definitely led me to become a more easeful, available, versatile actor. But perhaps more importantly they have led me to a more authentic version of myself.
As a newcomer to the industry and the craft, I found the classes very approachable and comprehensive at the same time. The students ranged from all backgrounds and experience levels, and the work we did really pushed the individual to grow and excel. Elena is an extremely caring and attentive teacher who will go out of her way to make sure everyone meets and surpasses their potential. Definitely a must for any aspiring actor or actress.
I have found the Actors’ Studio an emotional and artistic safe haven. I love how the classes are centred around igniting our imaginations and honouring our capabilities as an artist. I feel empowered and trusted as an actor in Elena’s classes. Would highly recommend the Actors’ Studio to any actor looking for a safe, friendly space to stretch their craft and learn new tools to inspire their acting!
I cannot recommend these classes enough. The lessons actors learn are tangible and give a strong foundation on which to build believable, complex characters and performance. These classes really are invaluable.
If you want to be transformed and jump off the cliff of creativity this is the place for you. I cannot speak highly enough about Elena and the environment she creates for actors to do what they need to do. The technique is beautifully yummy and just inspires you to do your best work. I was ready for the spark that I knew was coming, but I was blown away by the inferno that blazed inside of me every time! If you want to renew your pride and joy of being an artist come to this studio.
I couldn’t recommend Elena’s classes enough. Her dedication to the craft is nothing short of inspiring. She subscribes to no gods but Chekhov and Stanislavski and imbues every lesson with that kind of grand spiritualism.
Both nurturing and forceful, Elena has encouraged me to explore not only my own capabilities as a performer but also how I perceive the world.
I was drawn to Elena’s classes because of her in-depth industry knowledge. Her practical approach to acting, touching directly on the artists that we want to be, the journey and application of in class work to real world situations. Now enrolling in my fourth course, I continue to find growth with each class. Elena’s ability to make each student feel seen and tailor feedback and instruction to each individual keeps me coming back for more.
Spending time in the Actors’ Studio has equipped me with tools that have helped further define my craft, and understanding of the performing arts.
By practising what I have learned through Elena in my career, I am able to more fluidly navigate the work, and connect with myself as a performer.
The lovely Elena Stejko is one of a kind! Her loving heart and openness to everyone that comes in the door is second to none. Every time I go to class I feel seen and encouraged, the way she teaches is so authentic and always brings out our best.
I’d recommend her class to anyone wanting to upskill, especially in the area of connecting deeper to your character’s emotion and story. I always leave feeling challenged and having felt deep emotion which I haven’t found anywhere else. She is amazing! Highly recommend!
The Themes in What Students Say
Read together, the testimonials return to the same few things.
- The room feels safe. Students describe an emotional and artistic safe haven, and a class atmosphere that feels inclusive, encouraging and challenging.
- The tools are practical. The lessons are called tangible, and the tools simple yet incredibly profound.
- Every student is seen. Several mention feedback tailored to the individual and a teacher with a genuine care for each student's journey.
- People come back. One writes of enrolling in a fourth course, another of regular Tuesday nights.
The method they are describing is the Michael Chekhov technique, which you can read about on our page explaining how the technique works. The teacher is Elena Stejko, whose training and credits are set out here.
Trained With Elena? Tell Others
If you have taken a class, a workshop or a coaching session with Elena, a review on Google helps other actors find the studio. It takes a minute, and every student is welcome to leave one.
From Workshop Participants
These come from people who took part in Elena's confidence and communication workshops.
I had more energy and I enjoyed learning a new perspective and skills. I would not have been able to do these things without the guidance and knowledge that you provided. It was fun and valuable.
Elena, you are masterful at what you do, and I loved experiencing it firsthand. I can’t wait for the next workshop. I can highly recommend Elena’s workshop and if you get the opportunity to work with her, go for it.
I totally loved it. Even though the time went so quickly, it was so packed with the knowledge, the techniques and practice. It was so friendly and safe. And every single thing made sense.
Such a joy to be taught by Elena. Her love and passion for what she does is incredible. Thank you.
Contact Us
If what these actors describe is what you are looking for, tell us a little about yourself and we will suggest where to start. To reserve a place straight away, use the booking page.
021 675 977