Come train with Moving Arts. We are a premier development program for playwrights, we are now expanding into developing actors. We are so proud to have incredible Ann Noble as our lead acting teacher.
TO SIGN UP: classes@movingarts.org
Ann’s Artists Statement:
While I am trained extensively in classical drama & comedy (Northwestern, BADA-with Yale, Antaeus, CTG of Chicago), I am also extremely well-versed with all the great master-teachers’ techniques of the previous century: Hagen, Stanislavsky, Meisner, Gister, Barton, Adler, “The Method”, Moss, Campbell. So I do have an extensive “tool-belt” as I coach and teach today. Which is the key. It’s today. It is not last century. Today’s acting student is not the student that Strasburg was teaching/coaching back in the day. And while all these incredible teachers are important and their techniques have a timeless quality to them, we are not those students anymore. We have different ears and eyes, and so we need a different language, a different vision in order for us to grow and learn as actors today. Perhaps the most important thing I focus on when teaching is what each actor needs. Every student comes to class with a completely different background, and it is vital, in my opinion, that each student is met where they’re at. To put yourself into a class, to admit you need to learn, is a profoundly vulnerable act. Especially in a world where we are told, relentlessly, that our value is tied to the coolness our “brand” and the level of our “platform engagement”. We are told to be utterly unique, and, at the same time, the same as everyone else. It’s maddening and it’s disheartening, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s a lie. What makes you a good actor is your capacity to be fully alive, fully present, and, at the same time, serve the story you are trying to tell. That’s it. It’s that simple. And that difficult. Especially today. In my experience, there are very few actors who can really do that. But we all have the capacity to. If we are held well. And if, in addition to being given strong, solid skills and training our vision to see as the actor needs to see, we are reminded that we ourselves are the ground from which our work blossoms. I will meet you where you’re at. And remind you who you really are, and, crucially, what you really can do. Come and see. –Ann
But if you want to hear more, listen to what some of her students have to say:
Ann Noble’s classes have allowed me to grow so much as an actor! She is a master at meeting her students where they in their own ability as performers while simultaneously elevating each and every one of her students in the most respectful and considerate way. She teaches through gentle direction that allows her students room to explore their own interpretation, style, and creative process, honoring the unique things that each of her students brings to class and making all of her students feel welcome and supported. The techniques and philosophies that Ann teaches have helped me build the foundational skills that have been essential to my growth as an actor. She has given me the ability to meld the analytical and emotional elements of my own acting persona in a way that has liberated my performance abilities and given me the confidence I need as an artist. Ann Noble is the best!
–Ann L.
Teaching is a skill in and of itself, and Ann Noble is a phenomenal teacher! Perhaps it is because she regularly works as an actress and director herself, giving her a rare three-part perspective on acting (that of actor, director, and teacher). I first encountered her as a substitute teacher for another class, and she got significant improvements out of almost all students, in a way that stood out from the prior instruction. I’ve worked with multiple acting coaches, and Ann’s understanding of characters, scripts, and motivations is unrivaled. She has a deep knowledge of what’s ‘playable’ and common acting traps. But there is no ‘one size fits all’ in her class, as she is keenly focused on identifying each actor’s unique stumbling blocks and providing tools for each person to reach new heights. Encouraging and supportive, but frank when she needs to be. She has my highest recommendation!”
–Dan N.
Ann Noble has made me a better actor, but more importantly, she’s helped me learn who I am and what I need as an artist. She’s helped me shape a process that works for me, and I am a more confident and consistent actor now than I’ve ever been. I no longer find myself unsure of where to start when I receive an audition or start working on a piece, because I know my way into the work. The longer I work with Ann, the better I know myself as an actor.
–Emily B.
I started studying acting with Ann in July of 2021. I went from a complete novice who didn’t know what a headshot was, to a working actor. This year alone I’ve been in over 30 productions from feature film to commercial to theatre, and it’s only September of 2024! The community in her acting classes has also given me close friends who are both committed and determined in terms of their careers.
–Rob B.
Watching Ann in her most recent performance on stage in The Skin of Our Teeth at A Noise Within Theatre was a masterclass in acting. Her presence, humanity and vulnerability on stage is stunning; and she’s funny. If you want to be just “good” don’t take her class. If you want a safe place to explore and mine new depths of your talent and grow as an actor, then don’t miss an opportunity to take a class with Ann. You will discover delicious surprises as you live in the moment of a scene or character. Her class makes you realize why you love the craft all over again.
–Sandra C.
Ann helped me develop my process of finding the truth within me. She created a safe space for me to take risks, which really opened me up creatively and emotionally, freeing me in my work. Whether through Shakespeare, Chekhov, or contemporary works, I’ve learned so much from Ann! Also, she is an incredible and caring human!
–George P.
I absolutely adore working with Ann. Not only is she one of my favorite actors to watch, but she has taught me to be a curious actor and provides an array of tools for building a world to play in and expand as an artist. Her in-depth knowledge of story structure provides a solid framework for breaking down scenes and auditions, allowing me to feel prepared for working on new material. I find her teaching style allows the actor to feel like they have agency in creating their own process while respecting the craft of effective storytelling.
–Mikki H.
I’ve had the absolute honor to learn from Ann. She is the most honest, daring, and unapologetic artist. Just being around her is inspiring, because she has the gift of seeing right through one’s “mask”. Ann’s class is nothing but a challenge, with many laughs, cries, and cathartic breakthroughs. Couldn’t recommend it enough.
–Emily F.
Ann is a sensational coach who really helps you get to the root of what the character is trying to say, and always works with the actor to find their best way into that character.
–Tiffany B.
Ann was the first teacher I worked with, after graduating from theatre school, who allowed me to really witness a growth within my work. She’s always been a major cheerleader and support system, and she has a way of speaking to actors that feels very personal, playful, yet focused. I felt myself overcome doubts I had as an actor while working with Ann because she never boxed me into certain “types” of roles and always challenged me to go further. Finding an acting teacher who cares as deeply about her students as Ann does doesn’t come around very often.
–Sarah S.
Ann Noble’s acting class is a warm and inviting space where any and all materials can be explored. Ann offers deep insight and expands actors’ understanding of story, vulnerability, and playfulness. She can answer any question, whether it’s about Shakespeare, modern plays, or film/TV. With a rich background in acting, writing and community service, her classes provide a freeing stage for actors to grow and build their foundation. Ann plants roots for actors of all levels and creates a home they can always return to…along with a deepening of craft that they take with them wherever they go.
–Cristal R.
Couldn’t speak more highly of Ann. Studying with her has completely changed my approach. She doesn’t just teach techniques—she takes a holistic view, focusing on each person’s unique style, talent, and spirit. It’s like she knows exactly what you need and helps you develop a process that truly works for you. Beyond being an incredible teacher, she’s also an amazing person who genuinely cares about her students—and that level of care is rare. I feel so fortunate to continue learning from her!
–Joyce H.
Ann Noble sees what everyone else sees, but no one else can articulate it like she does! I’ve been learning from Ann for years now and I STILL feel like I’m growing every time I walk out of her class! From helpful self-tape tips to enlightenment of your unidentified habits to various scene perspectives–that are specific to the (screen)play genre or style–Ann crafts a community that focuses on motivational growth and pairs it beautifully with play and challenge. Ann handpicks who will (and can) be in what class to ensure the proper chemistry and balance per group. I can’t explain how grateful I am to have found the students in this class and the woman herself!
–Julia M.
I started taking Ann’s class in January if 2022. Even though I was essentially brand new to acting, on the very first day she made me feel comfortable, safe, and supported. I was doing a monologue from a Terence McNally play and she gave me the simple but poignant adjustment that would not be the last time I’d have to make: now actually imagine there’s a person in front of you; why do you need to say this to them? She lead me through an understanding that brought more truth and nuance to the moment. Ann has a way of zeroing in on ways to help the actor lock into the scene, and meeting an actor where they are through a holistic approach. Her understanding of the written word is masterful; I’ve seen time and time again, even with texts she’s never heard/seen before, she provides insight into the story and character that help bring you to that “aha!” moment you needed to dive deeper. With text she has encountered before, her memory is astounding, both in its breadth and detail, which is a testament to years of work as an actor/writer/director. Ann is brilliant, but she’s also fun, funny/silly, and especially — kind. I can’t recommend her highly enough to any actor, at any point in their journey.
–Sam A.
TO SIGN UP: classes@movingarts.org