Our Instructors
Eleanor Vance
Eleanor Vance is the founder and Artistic Director of Emerald Coast Acting Academy. A Pensacola native, Eleanor earned her BFA in Theatre from Florida State University and her MFA in Acting from the Yale School of Drama. Before returning to Pensacola to establish the Academy, she spent fifteen years working as a professional actress and director in New York City, appearing in Off-Broadway productions and regional theatre across the country. Her directing credits include critically acclaimed productions of "Hamlet," "A Streetcar Named Desire," and "The Importance of Being Earnest." Eleanor is passionate about nurturing the next generation of actors and providing them with the skills and training they need to succeed in the performing arts.
David Chen
David Chen is a seasoned actor and voice coach with over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He holds a degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Michigan and has trained with renowned voice teachers from around the world. David has worked extensively in voice-over, lending his voice to commercials, animated series, and video games. He is also an accomplished stage actor, having performed in numerous productions ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary drama. At Emerald Coast Acting Academy, David specializes in vocal technique, diction, and performance for both stage and screen. He is dedicated to helping actors develop their vocal instrument and find their unique voice.
Maria Rodriguez
Maria Rodriguez is a dynamic acting instructor with a passion for improvisation and comedy. Maria graduated from the University of West Florida with a degree in Theatre and has trained at the Groundlings Theatre & School in Los Angeles. Maria brings a wealth of experience to the Academy, having performed with various improv troupes and comedy groups throughout the Southeast. She is known for her energetic and engaging teaching style, creating a supportive and playful environment where students can explore their comedic potential. At Emerald Coast Acting Academy, Maria teaches improvisation, comedic acting, and sketch writing. She believes that laughter is a powerful tool and encourages her students to embrace their creativity and find the humor in everyday life.
James O'Connell
James O'Connell is an accomplished film and television actor who brings real-world experience to the Emerald Coast Acting Academy. James has appeared in numerous independent films, television shows, and commercials. He's worked alongside acclaimed directors and actors, gaining invaluable insights into the craft of acting for the camera. James is dedicated to helping aspiring actors navigate the unique challenges of on-screen performance. He provides practical training in on-set etiquette, camera angles, and audition techniques. With his guidance, students learn to deliver compelling performances that capture the attention of casting directors and producers. James's expertise makes him an invaluable asset to the Academy.
Sarah Jenkins
Sarah Jenkins is a highly respected acting coach and performance specialist, with a focus on the Stanislavski Method and Meisner Technique. Having obtained her advanced diploma in Dramatic Arts from the prestigious National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney, Australia, Sarah brings a global perspective to her teaching. She has worked extensively with actors of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, helping them unlock their full potential and connect deeply with their characters. Sarah's approach is rooted in empathy, honesty, and a commitment to fostering a safe and supportive learning environment. She is particularly skilled at helping actors overcome performance anxiety and develop the confidence to take risks on stage.
Robert Smith
Robert Smith brings a wealth of experience in stage combat and physical theatre to the Emerald Coast Acting Academy. Certified by the Society of American Fight Directors, Robert is an expert in creating safe and convincing fight choreography for stage and screen. He has worked as a fight director for numerous theatrical productions, ranging from Shakespearean tragedies to contemporary dramas. Robert's teaching philosophy emphasizes safety, precision, and storytelling through movement. He believes that stage combat is not just about fighting, but about conveying emotion and character through physical action. Students in Robert's classes learn a variety of combat techniques, including sword fighting, hand-to-hand combat, and grappling. He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication between actors and fight directors.