Your TEACHERS
JOANNE WILSON’S career has spanned decades and has encompassed a wide range of performing; as an actor on stage and in film and television (see credits on IMDB) and as a voice actor in animation, commercials, narration and radio dramas. She has also worked in broadcasting as a radio DJ, an interviewer and host of several nationally syndicated radio programs, and as a television lifestyle reporter/host. It’s this experience and understanding of the craft and challenges that go with it that led her to bring Mindfulness into her twelve years of working as an acting teacher and coach at the Victoria Academy of Dramatic Arts, Canada, among others. Joanne is a member of the Association of Acting Coaches and Educators (AACE), dedicated to building safe and respectful learning environments.
Joanne developed the Acting Mindfully programs to address both the emotional and artistic needs of the actor and performer. As a fully Certified Mindfulness Instructor, Joanne received her training through the Lab of Meditation in Vancouver, Canada. Additionally, she has studied with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach as well as many other excellent Mindfulness teachers. She is also a fully trained Life Coach which she brings into her work in a powerful way.
Joanne also believes strongly in the power of giving back. Over the years she has volunteered with many non-profit organizations in the areas of child and family health and with environmental groups. She has made it a practice of donating a percentage of her class fees to various not-for-profit organizations. She has often given her time to teach Mindfulness classes on a purely volunteer basis. And as a lifelong vegetarian/vegan, Joanne is and has always been a strong advocate for animal rights. She is a proud mother of three.
As well as a Certified Mindfulness Instructor, Life Coach and teacher, Joanne is a member of UBCP/ACTRA and CAEA (Canadian Actor’s Equity). To learn more about her, check out her website; JoanneWilson.com or IMDB.
JONATHAN MASON currently performing the role of Romeo at the renowned Stratford Festival. Jonathan studied in the UK and holds a Master’s with Distinction in Classical Actings from the London Academy of Dramatic Arts (LAMDA). He is also a graduate of the Birmingham Conservatory at the Stratford Festival. As a Stratford Festival company member he has performed in many shows including Romeo and Juliet (Romeo), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Demetrius), Two Gentlemen of Verona (Valentine), as well as other shows and with other theatre companies. He was also a resident instructor/director at New Image College in Vancouver and at the Victoria Academy of Dramatic Arts, Canada.
With a rich background in classical theatre, TV, voice acting, directing, and dance, he bridges old and new approaches to performance and acting. Jonathan's unique style blends traditional techniques with modern technology, as seen in his innovative virtual reality projects. As a teacher, he prioritizes well-being through breath work and movement, avoiding the exhaustion of trauma-driven methods. Running his own VR performance capture collective alongside his full-time acting at Stratford, Jonathan embodies a holistic and forward-looking approach to the arts.
COURSES & EVENTS
Taught by Joanne Wilson
A six-part course that explores various Mindfulness techniques specifically tailored to the needs of the actor or performer.
On-line. Available now.
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ACTING MINDFULLY LAB; TV & FILM (In Person)
Taught by Joanne Wilson
As well as exploring the various Mindfulness techniques specifically tailored to the needs of the actor, this course brings in script work to enable use of these techniques in scene and audition work.
Live and in person.
Next Session: October 8-November 12, 2024
Cost: $360.00 (CAD)
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AUDITIONING MINDFULLY; TV & FILM (Zoom)
What are your first steps when you get an audition? Panic? Let’s get a plan on understanding the genre, the sides and script analysis, the character, relationship to others and how your character fits into the world or the universe of the show you’re auditioning for. We’ll spend time on how to make a great self-tape including setting up a self-tape facility at home (with minimal cost). And yes, if nerves or focus is getting the best of you, we will use our Mindfulness Techniques to get us back on track.
Via Zoom
Next Session: TBA
Cost: $360.00 (CAD)
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AUDITIONING MINDFULLY; THEATRE (Zoom)
Taught by Jonathan Mason
This course explores the art of auditioning for theatre; from how to stay centred, calm and grounded, to script and character analysis. We also explore how to make the best choices for monologues and prepare you to have a minimum of two prepared pieces at hand.
Zoom
Next Session: TBA
Cost: $360.00 (CAD)
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AUDITIONING FOR THEATRE SCHOOL (Zoom)
Taught by Jonathan Mason
This course explores the art of auditioning for theatre and acting schools; from expectations to how to stay centred, calm and grounded. As an undergrad and graduate of he knows the challenges and rewards of getting into a great acting program and will help you make the best choices for a successful audition.
Zoom
Next Session: TBA
Cost: $360.00 (CAD)
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COACHING
By either Jonathan Mason or Joanne Wilson
As trained working actors, our teachers have a clear understanding of how to approach an audition.
Rates: $70/Hour (CAD)
Via Zoom
If you are interested in coach, please register to be on our mailing list.
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Learn how to make the most of your life as a creative. As a trained Life Coach (level ACC), Joanne will partner with you to make your dream life a reality.
TESTIMONIALS
Studying with Joanne has allowed me to access a new level of focus, tranquility and self-compassion. As an actor, these three traits are particularly important because focus is essential on set, on stage, or on the mic, tranquility is vital for peace of mind in the turbulent world of show business, and self-compassion is indispensable when faced with the constant unpredictability of casting decisions. Thank you Joanne for bringing your wisdom, peace, joy and love to the world!"
Victor Dolhai, Actor: Supernatural, Siren, Reboot, Stratford Festival
Joanne is one of the most compassionate human beings I have ever met. I found that my mindfulness moments with Joanne were very relaxing and enjoyable. Joanne leads with kindness and care which made me feel very safe and loved. Joanne's soothing voice helped guide me to a place of focus, grounding and calm - a great place for an actor to be! I highly recommend spending time in mindfulness alongside her. If you are looking to deepen your connection to yourself in your art, I urge you to reach out to Joanne and start your adventure!
Demelza Randall, Actor: Alaska Daily, Twilight Zone
Joanne's Mindfulness sessions are enjoyable and effective. I was interested to see how meditation sessions would be over Zoom and I actually loved being in my own bedroom with headphones; nothing was lost from an in person experience, in fact I preferred it. I especially appreciated how Joanne taught self compassion - something I struggle with as an actor as it's such a competitive industry. Her voice is so soothing, she radiates peace and kindness. I can't wait to continue to learn and practice mindfulness with Joanne in her classes specifically for actors.
Katherine Slingby, New Year's Kiss, A Rose for Christmas
It was such a wonderful gift to ‘attend’ (via zoom) weekly mindfulness sessions with Joanne. Her gentle guidance always brings me to a peaceful place where my heart rate slows and I become aware of the beauty and love that surround me. On days that start with her guided meditation, I find I that I accomplish more and with more focus. I particularly enjoy intentionally sending love out into the world and am so grateful that this is included in the mindfulness sessions.
Deirdre Tipping, Theatre Actor
As soon as I learned about Joanne's Mindfulness Classes, I couldn't pass it up. My brain was like "you need this!" The time I had with her was always so healing - her voice just calms you down instantly, from dropping your shoulders to unclenching your jaw. Her practice was a large factor in helping me overcome my fear of starting my own small business. She was so meant to do this! Thank you so much Joanne - forever grateful to have you in my life! ❤️
Nikita Auchter, Actor and Jewelry Designer. IG: @smoll.raven