TESTIMONIALS
"Jack has coached me on basically every audition that led to a booking
in the last two years including my current series regular role.
His anti-technique takes all the stress out of auditioning and makes it fun.
Really! Jack can so quickly determine what is blocking an actor and turn
your audition around in seconds. It's like he has a third eye. I should
really start paying him comission."
- Darlene Hunt (HELP ME HELP YOU, THE MERRY GENTLEMAN, WILL & GRACE, SABRINA, I HEART HUCKABEES)
"Jack
is a master of human behavior and psyche. With his understanding, he
is able to help actors find what is special, funny, and powerful about
themselves, and combine these elements with character work. The depth
of his knowledge is invaluable, and his ability to articulate it is a
gift." - Kali Rocha (GREY'S ANATOMY (Recurring), MEET THE PARENTS, BUFFY, TEACHERS, BOSTON LEGAL, BONES, LAW & ORDER)
"15
minutes with Jack Plotnick will not only get actors tons of residual
checks down the road, but will get them the most valuable kind of
residuals there are-- an unshakable foundation and rock-solid audition
mindset upon which to draw for the rest of their acting lives, and the
the rest of their lives period. What he teaches applies not only to
acting but to every aspect of life, on and off the stage."
- Mary Birdsong (RENO 911 (Series Regular), CROSSBALLS, MADE OF HONOR, B'way: HAIRSPRAY, FAME BECOMES ME)
"I
finally had my breakthrough that I hear so much about in these Plotnick
testimonials! After just a few days of reciting Jack's affirmations
before going into auditions...well I can't even tell you the difference
it's made! And his approach is simple and easy! The power of
thought/suggestion is quite miraculous! I felt calm, cool and collected
and let my nervous energy channel through as excitement! I felt like I
was actually enjoying my auditions in the moment, instead of watching
them happen and giving myself running commentary. I love that my
nerves don't have to get the best of me anymore!" - Tom Lenk (BUFFY (Recurring), ANGEL, TRANSFORMERS, DATE MOVIE, THE NUMBER 23, ELI STONE, HOUSE M.D., SIX FEET UNDER)
"I met Jack when I was in serious need
of a fresh approach to my acting. Overwhelmed by feelings of fear and
doubt, I was exhausted from working so hard to be a good actor and “get
it right” at auditions. In a very short time, Jack helped me turn this
all around and reminded me of what I love about performing. I now look
forward to auditions as a chance to play and have fun!
I recently
went in for a small role in an independent film. They gave me five
minutes to look at another role, and, thanks to the work we’ve done
together, I booked the lead!"
- Cate Cohen (WITHOUT A TRACE, MOONLIGHT, COLD CASE, ALIAS, ACCORDING TO JIM, CSI MIAMI, BUFFY, GODS OF CIRCUMSTANCE)
"I
have had such an amazingly successful year as an actor because Jack’s
incredibly motivational and inspirational method of acting has gotten
me out of head, and out of my need to please. Now I am just having fun
and living in the material.Not only did meeting Jack improve my acting, but it really unlocked my spiritual life. I feel that I am on such a beautifully authentic and open journey and Jack has been such a wonderful influence in my transformation. I just had to take a moment and thank Jack and acknowledge him for the impact he has had on me and so many others."
- Jeffrey Todd (NOT ANOTHER HIGH SCHOOL SHOW, WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE, TUNNEL RATS, SOPRANOS)
"I've
been relying on Jack's 'New Thoughts For Actors' for over a year now.
They center and calm me when I forget that I am enough, or to have fun,
or that I'm exactly where I need to be. Jack is so not fooled by
thoughts of fear or insecurity. His only agenda is to get you to
experience the joy and confidence you felt when you first realized,
'Hey! I love doing this!'"
- Stephanie Courtney (MAD MEN, CAVEMEN, THE HEARTBREAK KID, THE COMEBACK, ER, BLADES OF GLORY, GROUNDLINGS Main Co. Member)
"There
are so many 'acting' classes to choose from in LA. To be quite honest,
many of them are useless. They involve scene partners, numerous
rehearsals, and a theatrical approach; elements you will NOT be dealing
with in a room with a casting director. Jack's class combines the
technique of one-on-one cold reading, with the one thing that gets in
most actor's way: THEMSELVES. He gets you to the next level and pushes
you every week to go even further. Any actor with real aspirations of
success, who is willing to work on THEMSELVES, would greatly benefit
from Jack's approach. Quite simply the best class I have ever taken.- Brian Hedden (WHAT ABOUT BRIAN?, GENERAL HOSPITAL, National TOYOTA Commercial)
"I have joined the
ranks of many many people who are profoundly affected by the truth you
teach. I took two classes, and during the second one it struck me that
before I went up to work, I was no longer viewing the experience as a
firing squad (as it had become after having a lot of negative audition
experiences), but suddenly, doing the scene struck me as a sandbox
where I was about to get good and messy and have a lot of fun. That is
a seriously dramatic turn around for me. I’ve started using the
affirmations constantly and, aside from the pleasure of carrying around
less negativity on a daily basis, I’m happy to report that just after
the workshop I booked a film, and then after that, I booked my first
national commercial. I have no doubt that reading your book, working
with you, and putting it all to practice became the pivot point for
getting these results. Thank you so much."- Kathryn Merry (PLASTERHEAD, THE CULT OF SINCERITY, GUIDING LIGHT, Productions at Aquila Theater Co., La Jolla Playhouse and LaMama)
"Jack’s audition techniques have changed my life. Before taking his class, I dreaded auditioning, needing so much to “get it right” and be exactly what they were looking for. Now I enjoy auditioning again! The affirmations get rid of all the negative thoughts and allow me to love myself and my craft. Even when I don’t book the gig, I feel confident that I am doing what I love and am where I’m supposed to be. Like a four-year-old in a sandbox, I’m free to explore, discover and PLAY!"- Matt Hussong (PETER PAN and WIZARD OF OZ (national tours), THE LOST COLONY (Sir Walter Raleigh), DOUBLE PLATINUM (Diana Ross and Brandy))
"The
insights that Jack shares in his workshops are invaluable. I used to
spend a lot of time arguing with the negative voices in my head before
my auditions. But when I use his affirmations and suggestions my focus
instantly shifts to the reality of the scene instead of those anxious
thoughts about how I can "control" how things will go. It is a huge
relief and has given me a great sense of freedom as an actor."
- Elizabeth Connors (COLD CASE, LAW & ORDER, NUMB3RS, NCIS)
"Prior to taking Jack's workshops, it was impossible for me to imagine how his method could really change how I approach auditioning. But, the day after my second workshop with Jack, I had an opportunity to do a scene for an up-and-coming television producer. I did my affirmations, plucked and roasted my flock of vultures, approached the scene like an improv and let choices happen. And most importantly (for me): I allowed myself to be "selfish" and checked my "nice guy" tendencies at the door. The scene felt GREAT. I felt fantastic. And to quote the producer: "You just blew me away. I'm sitting here stunned because I forgot I was watching a actor. Are you going to be available this Fall?"Here's to looking forward to auditions again... and to no more self-sabotage. Thanks Jack!
Oh by the way, I just booked my first national commercial. And it was the first audition I had gone on with my new skills in place. Coincidence? I think not!
- Anthony DeVito (RESCUE ME, Vh1's BEST WEEK EVER, upcoming film THE APOSTLES OF PARK SLOPE)
"I
felt like what I was doing was never enough. I had to put a spin on
everything - decorating it with 'frosting'. Jack helped me to see that
it is enough for me to come right from where I'm at and to release the
judgments I have about my work. He helped me to be authentic and
kinder to myself at auditions. I feel much lighter and have a sense of
fun about my auditions. And it's paying off in getting more work in TV
and film."- Lori Hammel (B'way- MAMA MIA!, Off B'way- FORBIDDEN BROADWAY, 30 ROCK)
"When I began Jack's class, I brought with me everything I used to haul into each audition: HUGE, overwhelming need to show 'them' the perfect scene and the character I thought 'they' wanted to see. The problem with that thinking is that it is always accompanied by immense self doubt and crippling anxiety that 'I'm going to fail' or 'what if I screw it up'... Thanks to Jack's honest and loving approach, I was able to shed all that and begin to believe that I am entirely enough.
Also, I began to use Jack's 'Affirmations' in my daily life and have found that I am able to move through each day with more ease and joy. I hear less negative self talk and then when it comes time to audition, this new perspective comes more naturally to me.
In short, by implementing the simple, and powerful ideas I have adopted from Jack I no longer come apart in my head at auditions, I am able to play more, have more fun with each scene- producing much more exciting and truthful moments.
Taking Jack's class is by far the best decision I have made in terms of Television/Film training in my career thus far."
- Christian Hagen (HAIRSPRAY, NEW YOU TV, OUT OF THE SHADOWS)
"In just one hour-long session with Jack I was able to reach places as a performer that no acting class ever took me. I'm proof that you don't need to be an accomplished actor with lots of training and experience to take away the fundamental lessons that Jack is teaching. Amazingly, his message transcends auditioning and acting entirely, delving into your perception of the world and the manner you approach life. The anxiety of "acting" is gone for me and has been replaced by a love of the moment and comfort in allowing the scene to happen. My time with Jack was invaluable and I can't wait to continue exploring my horizons on and off the screen."
- Matt Joseph (DUPLICITY, modeling campaigns; TARGET and GAP)
"After
I began studying with Jack, I started booking considerably more work
than I ever had before. With the help of his affirmations, I have been
able to rid myself of useless insecurities, and no longer feel the need
to apologize for being myself."
- Colin Kim (CSI, UGLY BETTY, DAY BREAK, THAT'S SO RAVEN, VERONICA MARS, THE LONGEST YARD)
"I
took your actors workshop in NYC a few months back and I just wanted to
thank you for all the help you gave me. Ever since I have landed every
audition I've been on and I feel so much more free to be myself and
have fun. I really learned a lot from you and I will continue to grow
and work from the techniques you have shown me. Thanks a lot Jack."
- Monica Moskatow (I FALL, Video for Howcast.com, Six Web Series, UDA National Champion)
"I
am so happy to have found Jack's class. After years as a working actor
in LA, I was losing the sheer joy of acting as I got wrapped up in the
'business'. Now, not only is that joy back in my life, but I actually
have fun at auditions! Thanks, Jack, for helping me get out of my own
way."- Todd Sherry (HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER, WILL & GRACE, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, THE O.C., GET SMART, MISS CONGENIALITY 2)
"Before I began working with Jack, I would get so frustrated at auditions. I had almost begun questioning if my lifelong passion for acting was the right path for me, because auditioning had become so miserable (watching myself, planning every word and movement, not believing myself as the character, and criticizing my own performance). I had studied many 'techniques' (with some very well-respected teachers) which did absolutely nothing for me in the actual audition process. Jack has freed me from myself and gotten me to love auditioning. I am booking more and getting called back constantly, but more importantly I’m enjoying my auditions. It’s astounding how simple and fun acting has become for me thanks to Jack, his class, and his website."- Mark Cirillo (WILL & GRACE, HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER, QUINTUPLETS, AMERICAN BEAUTY)
"'I
love that f*ckin' class!' Those are the words that run through my head
every time I leave Jack Plotnick's class. He always finds a way to
help me trust myself and the magic of the moment. When people used to
tell me that auditioning was fun, I wanted to punch them in the face.
However, Jack has helped me to realize that it actually can be. And
thankfully, I've been having so much more FUN. Except...people keep
punching me in the face. Oh well, it's a small price to pay for
finding joy and great results in the auditioning process. I can't say
enough amazing things about his class. I love that f*ckin' Jack
Plotnick!"
- Danielle Hoover (REVENGE/FOX Pilot '07, WAKING DREAMS, THE RERUN SHOW)
"Jack's
ability to see what gets in your way as an actor is invaluable. He
has the best eye for an honest performance that I have experienced in
the industry. What is unique about Jack is that his teaching insights
come from
being an actor and not just watching actors by virtue of one's position as a
casting director or acting teacher. He knows exactly how it feels to be in
the room, because, more likely than not, he was in that room yesterday."
- Christopher T. Wood (ER, THE MIDDLEMAN, THE OFFICE, 40 YEAR OLD VIRGIN, ARR. DEV.)
"I
have tried to follow the teachings of those who serve the masses with
their "how-to" and "better yourself" programs, but I've never found
their words applicable to my chosen career. We may know the truth in our hearts but integrating that truth to our profession somehow seems illusive.
Jack
has found a way to incorporate these teachings into the zany and
unpredictable world of show business. As far as I know no one has ever
done this before! What a blessing to hear these words offered in an
actor-friendly way.
Thanks for illuminating my life with your
bright words. I had forgotten my reasons for being an actor and your
gentle yet firm guidance reminded me that the pursuit of my own
happiness was in the palm of my hand. I am so thankful to have the pleasure of your sound advice and good heart. Your name should be shouted from the rooftops!"
- Jay Rogers (Off-B'way: THE NEW CENTURY, WHOOP-DEE-DOO, WHEN PIGS FLY (Drama Desk nom.), THE MOST FABULOUS STORY EVER TOLD)
"I had my second audition in this town for a national commercial two weeks ago, and thanks to Jack I booked it! His acting class is like none I've ever been to before. His teaching
allows for moments that give me great joy, and enables me to be free
and play and do what I love. In the past, all this pressure and anxiety would handicap me. But now, I am able to release and destroy all the negative thoughts that try to ruin my good time. He
teaches from such a compassionate, loving, understanding place in his
heart. Thank you for your wisdom, kind words and amazing ability to
help struggling actors overcome their biggest fears. You're one in a
million and I thank and love you for it."
- Noel Bax (Emerald Nuts Commercial)
"Jack
Plotnick's work is about personal emotional discovery and revelation,
which was something that was always missing for me in acting training.
More like actor 'therapy' than acting lessons, we discuss my personal
blocks and issues (such as my childhood need to protect myself) as much
as we discuss the scene I'm working on. He possesses the insight and
knowledge to help me make those discoveries. This kind of work has
opened more doors for me than five years of acting classes."
- Ben Campbell (HOUSE M.D.; the upcoming film LEGEND OF MARY WORTH)
"Jack's
workshops are insightful, revealing and most importantly accessible. He
provides an environment wherein the actor can explore without
judgement, question without embarrassment and perform with utter
confidence. The effects of his workshops are far reaching and rarely
limited to the acting process. Simply put, he de mystifies the
audition experience, strips away false notions of control and leaves
you with the one element every auditioner craves: the truth." - Shelagh Ratner (VH1'S ALL ACCESS, Gotham City Improv, veteran stand-up comic)
"I’ve
been familiar with Jack’s website for about two years, and I carry the
stories and affirmations from it to auditions. I find myself
recommending it to every artist I know. So often, when we admire
someone from their writing and philosophies, it's very different when
we're able to meet them in person. After meeting and working in class
with Jack, he is even more wonderful than I had imagined! (And I have
a VERY vivid imagination!) I LOVE his classes! Jack is fun, creative,
passionate, and inventive. I witnessed him with Broadway-level
veterans, as well as with neophytes to the business, and his approach
is so positive, engaging, and playful. Each person comes away with a
deeper, clearer, true-er understanding and approach to their art. As
for me, after just these few weeks in Jack’s class, I feel I’ve
reclaimed my joy in auditioning and performing. I wish every performer
could experience the kindness, enthusiasm, skill, charm, and veracity
that Jack Plotnick brings to this industry."
- Rose
Pedone (Regional theatre: Audrey in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, Dot in
SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, and The Witch in INTO THE WOODS)
"After
only one session with Jack, I feel like my acting has changed for the
better. I no longer care about trying to impress casting directors or
"needing the job". Jack's teachings have helped me relax more and to
have fun instead of beating myself up and stressing out over trying to
be perfect with my acting. I've been receiving positive feedback from
casting directors and just recently signed with a legit film/tv agent,
and I credit both of these to my ONE session with Jack. I owe Jack a
lot for bestowing his wisdom about the craft and opening my eyes to a
new way to approach acting from a positive more healthy standpoint.
Thank you Jack."- Nnamudi Amobi (DIRTY SEXY MONEY, AS THE WORLD TURNS)
"The
last time I was coached by Jack for a specific audition, he had given
me the exact same adjustments that the director wound up giving me at
the callback. Since I had already done the work with Jack, I was able
to stay present and really take the note - and it felt great! Jack
empowers you to use what you're naturally feeling in a scene which
makes your acting feel incredibly honest."
- Larry Dorf (UGLY BETTY, EVAN ALMIGHTY, FUN WITH DICK AND JANE, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, THE KING OF QUEENS, MALCOLM IN THE MIDDLE)
"After working with Jack for the first time on an audition for a film, I got great feedback. I applied what we worked on and it really freed me up - I had a lot of fun with it...guess it showed - I got a callback on that audition - went to meet the director the next day...been taking what we worked on into all my auditions. Jack's approach is truly effective and valuable. He gets you out of your head and into the moment."
-Renee Faia (HIGH ROLLER, WHERE THE RED FERN GROWS, THE SONNY & CHER STORY)
"Working with Jack, your auditions
become easier, more fun, and most importantly, more effective. Coupled
with a healthy philosophy toward acting and life, his approach will
help free you from the pressure that so many actors associate with
looking for work."
- Jeremy Johnson (LAS VEGAS, ALL MY CHILDREN, SHAKESPEARE'S R&J Off-Broadway)
"Jack
helps you find the difference between trying to please people (you are
auditioning for) and playing. He has an acute eye for telling those
two things apart and he helps actors sniff out and name their own
individual bullshit in a gentle insightful way. I think he's great and
the workshop is great."- Kristine Zbornick (B'way - A CATERED AFFAIR, Off B'way - FORBIDDEN BROADWAY, MAMA MIA, MAN OF LA MANCHA)
"In
just one session with Jack, I came to realize that the only thing
standing between me and a great audition is old ideas and history. He
helped me to discover, 'release and destroy' those ideas and showed me
that I've got everything I need to create a truly free performance.
His joyful spirit and straightforward approach made it simple. I never
thought I'd say this, but I can't wait to get to my next audition. If
you are ready to get to work, Jack is the guy to see."
-Wyn Wilson (I'LL DO ANYTHING, NOISES OFF, NIGHT COURT)
"When I first started running competitively I dreaded racedays. It wasn't until I got a coach whose style worked for me that I began to look forward to them. The same was true for me with auditioning and it was Jack's style of teaching along with his methods that brought about the change. Since taking Jack's workshop I have been anticipating auditions and viewing them as opportunities for discovery and growth rather than as necessary evils to surmount. Jack's workshop has forever changed the way I approach acting, be it in an audition or a rehearsed scene, and has redefined for me what it truly means to be an actor."
- Dave Trachtenberg (SCRUBS, THE LAKEHOUSE, ER)
"Jack teaches each actor to recognize and release negative views formed over the years and let go of the need to be something so that you are freed to actually be it. He provides a more healthy way of looking at acting."
- Brett Glazer (STRANGERS WITH CANDY, ALL MY CHILDREN, THE SOPRANOS)
"In
just two sessions with Jack, I have regained so much confidence.
Learning to release the need to be perfect (not being afraid to f*ck
up) really makes me feel free and excited for my next opportunity to
perform. This work will allow me to "let it rip" and be able to take
huge risks in the room."
- Timothy Brennen (GROUNDLINGS Main Co. Member; HANCOCK, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, CURB)
"Thank
you so much! (Your friend) directed me to your site when I asked for
advice on how to calm nerves. I never thought anything could work this
well. Your website is INCREDIBLE! It has given me so much more
confidence and poise in auditioning and performing. I used to have
this awful habit of scratching the side of my thumb until it was raw
whenever I performed and it's gone, 100% gone!"
-Jen McMorrow (Aspiring High School Performer)
"Jack
Plotnick doesn't give you a silver bullet or a magic pill; he lets you
find your own way through a scene, guiding instead of shoving. You
don't leave his workshop just knowing your material better, you leave
understanding and trusting yourself better. I now go into auditions
confident in my approach and comfortable in my character's skin. Only
Jack can make that possible."
- Steve Mallory (THE JOE SCHMO SHOW II, RENO 911, I'M WITH BUSEY)
"Jack Plotnick has established a simple and effective dialogue with his students that allows them to clearly understand the way to achieve their own personal goals. In the short time I have taken Jack's class I already feel I am on the road to become a better actor."
- Rick Coons (Actor/Writer of the play ONE MOMENT PLEASE)