Testimonials
"With Francis I was able to explore new writers, taking me outside my comfort zone, in a space that felt safe and creatively energised. It was a joy to work with such an intelligent and sensitive coach, who possesses a deep understanding of the craft of the actor and their professional life."
Josef Brown
Dance Academy, Neighbours, Spartacus
"Francis has taught me to access the skills, theory and appreciation for acting that I’ve found nowhere else in Melbourne. He is a precious commodity as a prolific actor in his own right and an effective acting coach. The one-on-one sessions with Francis opened up a world of new capabilities for me on stage and screen. In addition, my understanding of writing has deepened as a result of his practical insights."
Simon Taylor
Former writer for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Shaun Micallef's Mad as Hell
Host of Live on Bowen, That Start Up Show, Beat Streets and Melbourne 22
Teaching
Learning to act is like learning to make a violin.
It’s a craft.
It takes practice and guidance.
I have been working and teaching in Melbourne and around Australia for over 25 years and in that time I have amassed a depth of knowledge about acting philosophies and acting in Australia.My private classes take the student through a practical yet theoretically based method of acting that is easy to grasp and also focussed on the demands of working in the acting industry in Australia.These sessions are ideal for working actors looking to brush up, or prepare for auditions, and students wanting to break into the industry or audition for Drama School.
Flexible times to suit individual schedules, and reasonable rates
Skype sessions available
For details please email me.
Drama Schools I have taught at include The National Drama School, Monash University, Actor's Performance Studio, International School of Film and Television, Ballarat Academy, Patrick Studios Academy and MooreGrace Studio.
"Knowledge and experience of the industry, art and craft of acting are things Francis undoubtedly has in spades but this is not what sets him apart as a truly great acting coach.
It’s his insight into the actor themselves that allows Francis to work on a level that only few can.
I believe this is a rare skill that goes beyond the scope of what is usually considered necessary criteria for a coach but it’s what makes Francis invaluable.
I’d already had previous actor training and remember going to my first session with Francis unsure if I had what it took. I left KNOWING that I could do it and continue to return and grow as an actor."
Josh Hodge
Newton's Law