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Vincent Michael Shae

“I am a better actor because of him. Michael has been a true mentor and inspiration. Each session was informative, challenging, and most of all fun. He taught me skills and techniques that I will continue to use, and gave me confidence in myself.”

- Vincent Michael Shae

 

Candice Gilliam

In working with Michael, it's quite obvious from your very first lesson that he knows what he's talking about and can help you develop and explore your acting talent. I didn't know what I was capable of until my coaching sessions with Michael. He has a way of helping you see beyond just the words on the page. His passion for acting and love of teaching make him a joy to work with. If you're a theatre actor looking for someone that understands the struggle of transitioning into film and television acting, Michael is your man! Thanks Michael!

Thanks again! Candice

 

Dayle McLeod

"I took Micheal's uditioning course at Humber College and it literally changed my life. After graduating, I knew that I had to continue to train with him. In our semi-private scene study class, Micheal created an open, fun and challenging environmentand we explored our craft. His direction is very clear, always positive and enthusiastic. He helped me discover some of my acting problems and to face my fears and overcome them. He is a man who loves the craft himself and loves to inspire others. I would work with him again any day." - Dayle

 

Melissa Lem

Michael, thank you for your unfailing encouragement, professionalism and patience. You are a master at challenging without intimidating, and respecting an actor’s process while maintaining honesty and realism. Coming from a decidedly non-acting background in academics and music, I really appreciated your focus on character analysis and intuitive approach to performance. Within two weeks of completing our workshops this complete novice had already auditioned for a national commercial, booked her first paying role in an industrial and was featured in a music video slated for national release. I’m so happy to know that any future acting successes I may have started in the hands of such a wonderful teacher!

All the best,
Melissa Lem

 

Briar Knowles

Michael is wonderful every step of the way! He never ceases to be kind, helpful and encouraging when he coaches: I improved so much under his tutelage and for that I am eternally thankful. I am in a much better place in my acting career because of him! Thanks so much Michael, we will continue working together! -- Briar Knowles

 

Ben Schnetzer

I met Michael when I first arrived in Canada to start work on Happy Town. After having been told about this great acting coach, I made a phone call first thing. The ensuing three months of work with Michael, not only helped me establish a foundation on which to develop the character I was portraying, but it moved me to feel more comfortable with what I have to offer as an actor. I know I’ve said this to him a number of times, but when Michael and I would meet, more often than not, it felt like it was an ‘in-character therapy session.’ With his responsibility, wealth of knowledge and great talent Michael allowed me the freedom and security to explore and feel uninhibited whilst developing a piece of work; that development being a process, as any actor knows, that is invaluable. Strangely enough, though, whenever Michael and I would meet to work, despite the effort put in on both our parts, it never really felt like it was work; it was fun, it was relaxed, and at the same time, it was truly rewarding.

Thank you for everything, Michael; your kindness, talent, knowledge, guidance, generosity and friendship made my Happy Town experience an infinitely richer and more fulfilling one. I can’t imagine what the experience would’ve been like without you.

-Ben Schnetzer

 

Erin Jones

Michael is honest and constructive as a coach. He will tell you what you might be doing wrong and how you can fix it, but he will always put the greatest emphasis on the positive – he’ll help you identify your strengths; what you’re doing right, and what you personally have got going for you. Michael takes the time to get to know you and your goals, and he’ll give you his ideas on the best ways to work toward getting whatever it is that you want out of the acting experience. I chose Michael because something set him apart. I recognized him from his work. I knew that he was a working actor who would know his stuff and have current, valuable knowledge to share. I was right. In addition to being a sensitive and engaged coach, Michael is a talented and well-connected mentor, known to actors and instructors in the industry as a veteran of the business. I couldn’t be more excited. Thanks Michael and bongo productions!

Teresa Janes

"Working with Michael every week whether in a private or semi-private lesson, allowed me to enter a place I was truly welcomed and not judged. Michael has a great way of teaching the craft and helping to develop a character.
"Michael is encouraging, kind, gentle and authentic. My passion to act was enhanced every time I walked through the studio door. Thank you Michael for sharing your gift with me."

Teresa (Tess) Janes

 

Monica Cojocaru

Thanks a lot, for everything! I have learnt a lot and I am extremely grateful for your teachings, advice, patience and sincerity. Monica Cojocaru

 

Mike Liverpool

It was a pleasure working with Michael his training has given me the confidence to pursue this exciting career. Michael’s scene study gives actors a solid grasp on who their character is. He has great patience that helps an actor find their character and develop into a great performance. I am very glad I chose Bongo Productions as a stepping-stone into an adventurous career. Michael Liverpool

 

Krista Hovsepian

Michael Caruana is brilliant, compassionate, genuine, and extremely patient both as an acting coach and as a friend. Whether coaching privately or semi-privately, Michael's kind, generous demeanor makes processing and practicing his directions seem effortless as he instinctively knows how to effectively guide his students into strengthening their connection to the text while freeing their intuitive reactions to each line. With over 15 years of training behind me, I can confidently say that Michael takes a deep and personal interest in every one of his students, pushing each individual to grow as much as possible. Through the exploration of truth, depth, and immense courage, Michael Caruana encourages all of his students to dare to shine. I certainly look forward to continuing our work together in the future!

 

Adam Del Degan

Working with Michael has been nothing short of amazing. He has taught me the proper techniques to aid me in becoming a successful actor, and has shown me how to use the right tools to make everything I do unique and creative. Michael is humble, honest, and passionate about his teachings which has helped me become more confident in myself and my work. I would strongly recommend Michael’s classes to anyone at any level of acting and can guarantee it will be very beneficial and you will be very satisfied. Michael, I cant thank you enough for everything you have taught me and I look forward to working with you again in the near future!

 

Elitsa Bako

I've worked very closely with Michael, and wouldn't be lying if I said he is the dream teacher! He is comforting and encouraging, yet very forward with his observations! He finds a unique way to shine a light on the missing pieces of the puzzle and with the right directions, allows you to put it together on your own. Kind, compassionate and exact in his teachings, he truly helps the artist rise within!

 

Neil Whitely

When my actor friends ask me to recommend a good coach Michael Caruana is the first name that comes to mind. Michael was the first acting coach that I chose t work with when I decided to pursue an acting career at a relatively late stage of my life. At first I didn’t understand many of the principles he was trying to teach me but now years later I am still using the techniques I learned thanks to Michael. In the past five years I have been fortunate enough to appear in feature films, episodic television and commercials. I owe much of that to Michael Caruana. Thanks Michael.

Bremner Duthie

Michael gave me simple, clear and effective methods on how to develop my craft as an actor and how to work with the camera. I've been on stage for 15 years and was working with Michael to make the switch to film, and his lessons were filled with enthusiastic, supportive and constructive criticism that left me understanding exactly where I needed to push myself to advance in this craft. And, as a plus, he's a really nice guy who takes the work very seriously but still manages to make his lessons a pleasure. It was a treat working with him.
Bremner Duthie, www.bremnerduthie.com

 

Kamiran Aldabbagh

"Michael, I came to you for guidance and advice to get my career started and I was so right to choose you as my teacher. You mentored me and helped mold me into the confident actor that I am today. Coming from a theater background, the sheer frustration of adapting to film and television was wiped away by your knowledge, wisdom, techniques, enthusiasm and patience. Thank you so much coach!"

 

Michael Mercy

"In addition to acting, I also write, direct and edit my own independent films. I sought Michael's instruction to not only improve my own acting ability, but improve my communication with actors that I will be directing in future projects as well. Michael Caruana is a rare breed in the entertainment business. He's enthusiastic while at the same time patient. He's honest (which is extremely important for anyone trying to break into the business), but always encouraging and inspirational. His insight has taken my performance to a whole new level and will no doubt aid me in my future directorial efforts, and his attention to detail and emphasis on specificity is sure to influence my writing as well."
-Michael Mercy

 

Lindsay Marie Branton

Taking Michael's Certificate Program showed me what it means to be a well rounded actress. Coming from a background in theatre, he made it very clear to me how to adjust to acting for the camera. Michael is an extremely well qualified instructor whose patience, sincerity, experience and industry contacts make him an ideal teacher for actors of all ranges. I am truly grateful for his help and consider myself lucky to have worked with him!

 

Vicki Noels-Cornish

"Michael is such an equisite acting resource. His knowledge of the craft and the business provided great insight and his encouragement and support fostered confidence and motivation to move forward. Thank you so much!" - Vicki Noels-Cornish

 

Caitlin Alexander

"I'm glad to have found Michael! He is an extremely talented actor and teacher, with great personality and depth and he is also a trusted friend. I couldn't mention the number of times I emailed him saying 'help ...! I'm stuck on ...

Thank you for everything Michael!"

 

Analuisa Almada

"Having classes with Michael is a really refreshing experience. He loves working with actors and it shows. In the workshop he gives such thorough information and guidance about on-camera auditions, which is very helpful. I would recommend his classes to everbody interested in acting." Analuisa Almada

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ko3Ik9wd3Ww

 

Anne-Marie Caicco

Michael, I really loved working with you and I look forward to more soon! Working with you is fun and productive. You've helped me find new ways to explore character and led me towards a better understanding of focus and energy. You're passionate, patient, present and a pleasure to work with!

 

Nadine Eldib

I want to say a BIG THANK YOU to Michael for giving me such a wonderful learning experience. His combined knowledge and expertise in the industry is like no other. His encouraging words will always inspire me to pursue my career in acting. Thank you Michael, I highly recommend you. Nadine Eldib

 

Stephanie Sheri

"Michael's patient and attentive teaching style is greatly inspiring. He offers supportive and honest feedback. His ease made me comfortable and his openness to share his extensive knowledge of the film and television industry was a huge benefit. Many thanks Michael!" Stephanie Sheri

 

Annabelle Ramjit

Michael, You are an inspiring coach and phenomenal mentor. I am very honored to be one of your students. You have encouraged me to "be in the moment" and to dig deep within . You're truly a master of the craft. I will continue to learn and gain knowledge through your coaching and encouragement. I am, today, at a different place in my life because of you. I'm so glad I took your classes! I am very grateful. Thank you, so much! Annabelle

 

Deanna Palazzo

I am an actor, producer, director and writer. I am the co-founder of pivotal (arts) theatre company, inc. and a student with the Second City Conservatory program. I have been performing since the age of 10 and first worked with Michael 10 years ago. I learned a great deal from him then and jumped at the chance to work with him again. “I am a theatre trained actor and Michael helped me learn to internalize the characters emotions and understand the significance of a simple look in exchange of dialogue on film.”

 

Evan Cameron

Hi Michael,
Just wanted to thank you again for a GREAT learning experience!

 

Richard Cordeiro

"I highly recommend Michael Caruana. He has a rock-solid reputation in the Biz! I give his Acting classes and more specifically, 'Acting in front of the Camera' classes Two thumbs up! I'm honoured to be learning from someone like Michael who has a proven track record and has done a ton of stuff himself on film and for TV commercials..."

 

Trevor Smith Diggins - Director

After 30 years in theatre, the transition to film acting required new
insights to replace some well-oiled techniques. Michael and I worked
together in a show (circa 1987), so I knew he was a fine actor. But his
skill as a coach is equally inspiring. His respect for the actor's
process, his passion for honesty in every moment, and his candid
encouragement has helped me to explore new depths, and to find a new level
of truth in my craft. Michael, you're simply the best. I'm ready for my
closeup now.

 

Wesley Morgan

Following a nationwide search, Wesley won the role of "Jack Braddock" in the first live teen comedy for the Teletoon network. It will be called "Majority Rules" and begins filming in Jan'09.
Much thanks to you for getting Wesley off to such a successful start.
Louise Morgan

 

Peter Brandt

"In Feb. 2008 I walked into Michael's Successful Audition Workshop and didn't even know what 'slating' meant. Michael’s one on one teaching style in his workshop, scene study and private classes has been vital in transforming me into the actor I am today. My career change is going much faster than even I could have dreamed. It’s Aug. 2008 and I’ve been cast in 6 movies so far this summer. Thanks Michael for taking my fear away and replacing it with knowledge and confidence.” Peter A. Brandt

 

Thet Win

Michael is a very knowledgeable acting coach dedicated to his student’s honing of the craft. His style of teaching enabled me to expand my instrumental and craft explorations. I consider him to be one of the finest acting coaches in the city.
- Thet Win

 

William Gair

' Thanks Michael. This meeting came at such an important part in my life. Your classes have allowed me to awaken my craft and perfect my talent. The one on one coaching sessions have encouraged me to learn and have a better understanding of how to act and how to prepare a character. You are truly knowledgeable and I recommend anyone seriously considering acting to train with Michael.'

 

Cara Sands

"Michael's intuition and timing make him the perfect coach, as his training is as individual as his clients. His approach is not "one size fits all" but rather, tailored to pull "the highest and the best" from his talent." -- Cara Sands

 

Jolie Adelle

'Michael's combination of knowledge and ease allow for amazing breakthroughs each and every time!'

 

Jennifer Turano

"I have worked with Michael for almost 2 years and in that time his coaching has been nothing but ingenious. His ability to help you explore, develop and fine tune the craft has been endless. Michael THANK YOU for your honesty, guidance and refreshing sense of humour it is always a real treat to work with you".

 

Rich Piatkowski

"I have worked with Michael a handful of times and I always learn something new to enhance my performance. He's a great guy with plenty to give and unlimited direction to provide."

 

Marina Stone

'Michael thank you for everything, you've helped me advance so much. With your workshops and training I have discovered new ways of connecting with the character and auditioning. I look forward to working with you long term and learning more. '

 

Patrick Smith

"Hi Michael,
I want to thank you for working with me on my technique in our
On-Camera Scene Study. The value that you provide is unmatched! Not
only did I feel that your direction truly pulled the most out of me,
but I also found your honesty and professionalism to be incredibly
refreshing. Your direction on all aspects of our scenes heightened my
On-Camera awareness and consequently made me a more effective and
dynamic Actor. Thank you!
Your Friend,
PB Smith"

 

Sascha Gafoor

"Michael's acting AND coaching abilities are absolutely god-like!"

 

Patricia Rego

Michael's insightful feedback translates into improved technique,
he gives you practical advice to improve your work and get you work!

Caroline Fernandez

"Michael's nurturing and patient method of coaching is very encouraging. He has a keen eye for the elements that matter most in an actor. I've now taken two workshops with him, and will continue to work with him as we add dimensions of truth and meaning to my skills. Michael's approachable nature makes it so easy to get comfortable around him and develop a character. "

 

Jacqueline De Amicis

"Michael is an encouraging and enlightening teacher. His ability to bring out truth and raw emotions out of an actor is remarkable. He provides honest guidance, answers endless questions about the "business" and never, ever stops you from believing you can achieve your dream."