TESTIMONIALS
Richard has trained a generation of artists who are revitalizing the field of theater, and I’m humbled to be a part of that tradition. As a theatre director in New York City, I am constantly drawing upon the wellspring of his teaching, aspiring toward the commitment and caliber of performance he is able to elicit from actors. Acting with Richard is a bootcamp of the mind, body, and soul. He raises the bar, and you will rise to meet it. Expect to work hard. Expect to leave your shit at the door: your ego; your angst. With Richard, you will remember what it really means to act. It isn’t about you. It’s about reaching for something beyond yourself. And in that reaching you will discover yourself.
Shayok Misha Chowdhury, Director, Writer, Theater-Maker
“What beliefs are you willing to die for?” I had never in my life been asked that question. No director I knew would have asked it of us. But that is what makes Richard Weingartner an amazing teacher. He asked the questions the play demanded of us and asked us to rise to the occasion. And then he gave us the tools to do so.
I can honestly say that no teacher I’ve had since has challenged me in the same way. He knew before I did that it was a challenge that I could rise to. He instilled in us the values that to be a part of our ensemble meant unconditional love. If you didn’t have faith in who you were working with, why should anyone in the audience give a damn about the work you do? I know that I am a better actor for having been instilled with that mantra.
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Cato Crumbley, Actor, Stella Adler Teaching Assistant and Alum
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Richard Weingartner has been the most influential teacher (not named mom) in my life. I’ve trained with Richard in acting, voice, and public speaking, learning countless techniques that have served me well in my 20 years working as a nationally recognized producer in television and film. Confidence and self-awareness are central to Richard’s teaching. I am a better producer, leader, and person because of Richard.
Ramen Cromwell (With 15+ years’ experience producing nationally for ABC News in New York City. Ramen currently works for WCVB’s Chronicle in Boston.)
I don’t think I would be as successful a screenwriter today if it wasn’t for the character work I learned in Richard Weingartner’s acting classes. He’s a master of his craft who will not only help you find the truth inside your characters, but also the truth inside yourself.
Rick Suvalle, Head Writer – Amazon’s “The Stinky & Dirty Show”
Richard defines being a teacher. He approaches each day armed with a wealth of knowledge about acting and theater so that he can bring whatever is necessary to unleash the talents of those he is working with. I have watched many directors and teachers work with actors. I have never seen anyone pull things out of people, young and old, the way that he does. He paves the way for actors to fully realize their potential.
Valerie von Rosenvinge, Author, Teacher, Director, Playwright
Richard's teaching established the foundation of my acting approach to this day. His mantra "Story Comes First" instills a level of discipline in his students. Richard's creative approach to theatre inspires actors to think and to make choices in ways they never imagined. With a rigorous and supportive work environment, Richard creates an engaging process for any dedicated storyteller to thrive. To know him and to work with him has been nothing short of a blessing, personally and professionally.
Danielle Barrett, Actor, Director, Playwright
Richard is one of those coaches and directors who always seems to pull things out of you that you never thought possible. My favorite story about working with Richard is the day he showed me how to walk like Marilyn Monroe. I had been struggling for weeks with that walk and in less than 5 minutes I finally got her (it's all in the knees by the way). Richard is wise, intuitive, perceptive, and genius in his ability to help you find just the right action to create the strongest moment on stage. He wants to see you shine, and he will push you to get your best work. He doesn't baby you, but he is always your friend. I would stand in line any day to work with Richard as both an acting coach and director. He is one of Boston's best.
Cindy Barlow, Author of Playing You! Acting Secrets to Create the Life You Really Want, Actor, Teacher, Playwright and Director
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