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More About Coaching, Classes and Testimonlials

Caliban

SHAKESPEAREAN BRILLIANCE

Learn how to act Shakespeare!

The Acting Shakespeare Road Map: An intensive program blending Shakespearean performance with the Meisner Technique. Perfect for individuals looking to bring depth and nuance to classical roles and enhance their capacity in all roles.

Harness the Art of Acting and Refine Your Craft

Acting is not just about performance—it’s about exploring emotions, developing one's self, and mastering methods that bring characters to life. Whether you’re looking to pursue new opportunities or refine your craft, Paul is here to show you how to connect deeply with your roles and act with authenticity.

Through personalized guidance, Paul helps you discover new aspects of your skill and develop self-assurance that will serve you. His approach focuses not only on technical acumen but also on the idea that great acting comes from taking risks and being present. Paul’s students learn to embrace the unknown, understanding that art is a journey with no shortcuts—only fine-tuning and continuous growth.

Paul works with actors across the country, offering guidance to those who are just starting out and those preparing for major auditions. Additionally, his expertise extends to voiceover work and industry insights, ensuring his students are ready for the realities of the business, whether their goal is personal growth or achieving fame.

Book your free consultation today and discover what it means to fully commit to your craft. With Paul’s help, you’ll be prepared to meet challenges regularly, head-on, and ultimately exceed what you thought was possible.

A Philosophy Rooted in Joy, Love, and Risk

Paul Hopkins believes that acting thrives when fueled by joy, love, and risk—key elements that inspire creativity and growth. In every acting class or session, he creates a supportive environment where performers feel safe to embrace challenges and connect with their inner life, leading to authentic, powerful performances.

Paul’s method encourages performers to take risks, stay in the moment, and unlock emotional truth in their roles. Whether preparing for a casting director or exploring new approaches in an acting studio, his goal is to nurture each actor’s individuality and artistic expression. With years of experience and the influence of working alongside some of the best acting coaches, Paul applies proven techniques that help clients not only land the right job but also thrive throughout their careers.

Each session feels more like an immersive course in discovery—where artists are encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones and grow with every role they take on.

Why Work with an Acting Coach?

Unlocking Skills with the Guidance of an Acting Coach

Working with an acting coach offers personalized feedback that helps artists sharpen their skills, master audition techniques, and build confidence. One on one attention provides individualized support that is often hard to find in group acting classes, ensuring faster and more focused growth.

The Benefits of Private Coaching vs. Group Acting Classes

While acting classes offer valuable group learning experiences, private coaching brings the added advantage of tailored instruction. Paul’s sessions allow performers to focus on specific areas—whether it’s mastering a new acting technique, preparing a monologue, or receiving targeted feedback before an audition.

Are Acting Coaches Worth It? Insights from Hollywood

Many top Hollywood stars rely on acting coaches to keep their skills sharp throughout their careers. Paul’s teaching draws on techniques like the Meisner Technique, empowering performers to perform with emotional authenticity and spontaneity. As Sanford Meisner emphasized, “Living truthfully under imaginary circumstances” is the key to great acting, and Paul ensures his students achieve exactly that.

Paul Hopkins: From Film and Stage to the Classroom

A Professional Actor with a Career Spanning Television, Film, and Theatre

Paul Hopkins’ extensive experience includes standout roles across television, film, and theatre. From playing Mouse in the Emmy-winning Tales of the City to his role as Dale in Disney’s Zombies, Paul brings depth and versatility to every project. His work also spans over 25 guest appearances in series like Suits and 19-2, along with roles in feature films such as Red 2 and The Art of War.

Directing, Producing, and Mentoring the Next Generation of Actors

Beyond acting, Paul’s career reflects his dedication to fostering creativity in others. As the Artistic Director of Repercussion Theatre for many years, Paul championed innovative productions and earned praise for his leadership. His involvement in projects like Civilized, which received rave reviews across Canada, showcases his ability to excel both behind the scenes and on stage.

Paul’s teaching draws on this wealth of industry experience, help each actor to develop not only their acting skills but also the practical insights needed to navigate the complexities of a professional acting career.

Comprehensive Coaching Programs Tailored for Success

One-on-One Support for Emerging Talent

Paul offers private coaching both online and in-person, giving performers the flexibility to learn from wherever they are. Whether preparing for an audition or mastering acting techniques, these tailored sessions focus on each student’s unique needs. Packages are available for both short-term preparation and long-term career development.

Specialized Workshops and Programs for Focused Growth

  • Acting Shakespeare Road Map: An intensive workshop blending Shakespearean performance with the Meisner Technique. Perfect for individuals looking to bring depth and nuance to classical roles.

  • Meisner Technique Training: Foundational and advanced courses to help cultivate emotional authenticity and respond naturally in any scene.

  • Audition Preparation and Monologue: Customized sessions designed to impress casting directors and deliver compelling performances under pressure.

With these programs, you can explore different acting techniques, and refine their craft under Paul’s expert guidance​​.

The Meisner Technique: Authentic Acting at Its Best

What is the Meisner Technique?

The Meisner Technique focuses on spontaneity, emotional truth, and moment-to-moment reactions. Developed by Sanford Meisner, this method encourages one to respond authentically within a scene, creating performances that feel natural and compelling.

Paul Hopkins’s Training and Expertise in Meisner

Paul studied the Meisner Technique with renowned teacher Jacqueline McClintock and trained in Los Angeles alongside accomplished artists, refining his skills through this transformative method. His training draws from these experiences, helping students connect with their inner life and develop emotional depth in their performances.

How the Meisner Technique Enhances Character Development

Through structured exercises and scene work, Paul’s Meisner courses help performers fully inhabit their roles. By staying present and embracing the unknown, students learn to build nuanced characters that resonate with audiences. This approach benefits both new performers and seasoned professionals seeking to refine their character development​​.

Testimonials: What Other Actors and Teachers Say

Success Stories

Paul’s mentorship has left a lasting impact on many professionals in the industry, helping them grow both personally and artistically.

  • “Paul! You’re a huge reason I’m even in this industry at all. There are no words to capture my gratitude.” — Jeff Ho, Writer, Actor, and Asssociate A.D., Tarragon Theatre

  • “More than one of the best Shakespeare coaches around, Paul is an inspirational teacher. His coaching goes beyond the craft and into life itself.” — Tyler Ross, Dora Award Winner and Grammy Nominee

  • “Lessons with Paul are always filled with creativity, kindness, and improvement. He helps me create performances that feel true to both the story and myself.” — Sarah DaSilva, current student accepted into Boston University’s School of Theatre

Paul’s ability to connect with his students on a deeper level ensures that his guidance resonates long afterwards. His influence on other teachers also demonstrates his dedication to the community .

Navigating the Acting Industry: Insights and Career Development

Practical Tools for Building Confidence and Breaking into Hollywood

Navigating the competitive world of acting requires more than just talent—it takes strategy and preparation. Paul offers coaching that goes beyond performance skills, providing essential guidance on script analysis, networking, and audition strategies to help break into the industry, whether that means Hollywood, Toronto, Montreal and other markets.

Industry Connections and Agency Partnerships

With established partnerships in Toronto and Montreal, Paul helps actors connect with the right opportunities. His students benefit from insider knowledge, learning how to approach casting directors, market their skills, and build a lasting career. Whether you're aiming to land your first role or transition into larger projects, Paul’s coaching is designed to develop both your confidence and qualifications​​.

FAQ: Common Questions About Acting Coaches

What Does an Acting Coach Do?

An acting coach provides personalized guidance to help actors refine their abilities, prepare for an casting, and build a sustainable body of work. Coaches tailor their feedback to the actor's individual strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring focused growth.

Do Hollywood Actors Have Acting Coaches?

Yes, many Hollywood actors work with coaches throughout their careers. Even seasoned performers like Leonardo DiCaprio rely on coaches to maintain and enhance their craft. Paul’s mentoring reflects these industry best practices, helping his students stay sharp and prepared.

Are Acting Coaches Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you're seeking to elevate your performance or overcome specific challenges, coaches offers direct and impactful support. Many other actors credit their success to working closely with a trusted coach who provides both practical tools and emotional insight​​.

Unlock Your Potential with Paul Hopkins

Harness the Art of Acting and Refine Your Craft

Acting is not just about performance—it’s about exploring emotions, developing one's self, and mastering methods that bring characters to life. Whether you’re looking to pursue new opportunities or refine your craft, Paul Hopkins is here to teach you how to connect deeply with your roles and act with authenticity.

Through personalized guidance, Paul helps you discover new aspects of your skill and develop self-assurance that will serve you. His approach focuses not only on technical acumen but also on the idea that great acting comes from taking risks and being present. Paul’s students learn to embrace the unknown, understanding that art is a journey with no shortcuts—only fine-tuning and continuous growth.

Paul works with actors across the country, offering guidance to those who are just starting out and those preparing for major auditions. Additionally, his expertise extends to voiceover work and industry insights, ensuring his students are ready for the realities of the business, whether their goal is personal growth or achieving fame.

Book your free consultation today and discover what it means to fully commit to your craft. With Paul’s help, you’ll be prepared to meet challenges regularly, head-on, and ultimately exceed what you thought was possible.

An acting coach provides personalized guidance to help actors refine their abilities, prepare for an casting, and build a sustainable body of work. Coaches tailor their feedback to the actor's individual strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring focused growth.

Do Hollywood Actors Have Acting Coaches?

Yes, many Hollywood actors work with coaches throughout their careers. Even seasoned performers like Leonardo DiCaprio rely on coaches to maintain and enhance their craft. Paul’s mentoring reflects these industry best practices, helping his students stay sharp and prepared.

Are Acting Coaches Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you're seeking to elevate your performance or overcome specific challenges, coaches offers direct and impactful support. Many other actors credit their success to working closely with a trusted coach who provides both practical tools and emotional insight​​.

Ferdinand

MONOLOGUE COACHING

Elevate your monologue game: Personalized coaching for audition prep. Customized sessions designed to impress casting directors and deliver compelling performances under pressure.

Puck

ACTING TECHNIQUE

Paul’s method encourages performers to take risks, stay in the moment, and unlock emotional truth in their roles. Whether preparing for a casting director or exploring new approaches in an acting studio, his goal is to nurture each actor’s individuality and artistic expression. With years of experience and the influence of working alongside some of the best acting coaches, Paul applies proven techniques that help clients not only land the right job but also thrive throughout their careers.

Each session feels more like an immersive course in discovery—where artists are encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones and grow with every role they take on.

Steffano

Practical Tools for Building Confidence and Building a Lasting Career

Navigating the competitive world of acting requires more than just talent—it takes strategy and preparation. Paul offers coaching that goes beyond performance skills, providing essential guidance on script analysis, networking, and audition strategies to help break into the industry, whether that means Hollywood, Toronto, Montreal and other markets.

TESTIMONIALS

Tyley Ross

TYLEY ROSS (NYC)

More than one of the best Shakespeare coaches around; Paul is an inspirational teacher and mentor.  His coaching will leave a lasting impression on your craft that radiates beyond art and into your life.

Dora Award Winner and Grammy Nominee

Stephanie Moore

STEPHANIE MOORE
(TORONTO)

With Paul’s insight, my acting is more grounded and focussed than ever. The work is natural and breathes. I have booked 2 auditions with his help, in the last month alone.

Best known for her roles on Queer as Folk as Cynthia,[1] and in the Degrassi franchise as Diana Hollingsworth...

Jeff

JEFF HO (TORONTO/MONTREAL)

"Paul! You're a huge reason I'm even in this industry at all. There's really no words that can capture that gratitude for you."

 Writer, actor and Associate Director Tarragon Theatre

Coached, taught and mentored Jeff from 2009-2012 

Nolan

NOLAN DAUGHERTY (INDIANAPOLIS)

"Working with Paul has been an incredible experience! Our Son, Nolan has been working gain knowledge in acting to move forward with his acting, theatre career. We've seen so much growth and understanding how to look at characters differently on stage. Paul has shown he truly cares about the development of Nolan by making himself available during important auditions."

Tricia, Nolan's mother. Current Client

alina

ALINA VUORINEN

"I learned so much about Shakespeare and classical theatre and it made me love it even more."

Current Client (performing in Anne in Anne of Green Gables in New Hamburg

Sarah

SARAH DASILVA (BOSTON)

"Lessons with Paul are always an open discussion filled with creativity, kindness, and improvement. He helps me create effective performances which feel true to the story and myself. I am truly grateful for his guidance!"

Recently accepted into  Boston University School of Theatre

kimberly-barber

KIM BARBER

"Paul’s energy and enthusiasm are infectious, spurring students on to heights they could not have imagined on their own."

Wilfrid Laurier Professor, Voice, Opera, Faculty of Music

Coaching: Clients
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