Master The Actor Within
Acting Coaching and Classes
Whether you want to do a deep dive into audition prep or challenge yourself to a scene study course, Shael’s coaching sessions are designed to empower community theatre actors to deliver their best performances.
Quick Decision Making
Learn to make clear, impactful choices swiftly to stand out in auditions.
Cold Read Confidence
Approach unfamiliar material with poise and assurance.
Authentic Performance
Stay true to yourself and grounded under audition pressure.
Take Your Lead From Shael
Shael is a seasoned actor, director, and acting coach whose theatre journey began at age 10 at the Leah Posluns Theatre School in Toronto. Under the mentorship of Rose Dubin, Lewis Baumander, and Tom Diamond, he developed a strong foundation in voice, movement, and character work that continues to inform his coaching style today.
With decades of experience on stage and behind the director’s table, Shael has become known as an “actor’s director,” guiding performers to connect deeply with their characters while understanding the bigger picture of a production. His credits include acclaimed performances and directing projects at Whitby Courthouse Theatre, Ajax Community Theatre, and Oshawa Little Theatre, with highlights such as directing Next to Normal and his Thea Award–winning portrayal of Ira Drew in It’s Only a Play.
As a coach, Shael emphasizes authenticity, emotional truth, and trust in the rehearsal room. His scene study and acting technique classes empower actors to take creative risks, refine their craft, and deliver memorable performances. Drawing from his unique blend of education, professional experience, and award-winning artistry, Shael brings both skill and empathy to every student he mentors.
Public Workshops
8-Week Adult Scene Study
Join award-winning actor and director Shael Risman for an intimate 8-week Acting Technique & Scene Study program — designed for adults who are ready to dig deep, play hard, and grow their craft.
This course is offered throuogh Whitby Courthouose Theatre.
Private Coaching
Private Audition Coaching
A focused, one-on-one session tailored to your upcoming audition. We’ll work directly on your material — running it as-is, refining your choices, and running it again with clarity and confidence. Along the way, we’ll sharpen your approach to cold reads, presence in the room, and making strong, playable choices quickly. It’s practical, low-pressure, and designed to help you walk into your audition knowing exactly what you’re doing.
Mock Audition Session
A realistic audition simulation where you perform your piece straight through — no interruptions — just like the real thing. Then we break it down, make targeted adjustments, and run it again. That second pass is where most actors have the breakthrough, gaining a clear understanding of how they come across and what small shifts make a big impact.
40 Minutes, 1-on-1
$50
Performed via
Small Group Workshop
A supportive, hands-on session with 4–6 actors where you work on your own material while also learning from others. Each participant performs, receives direction, and has the chance to adjust and try again, while observing what connects (and what doesn’t) across the group. It’s an affordable, practical way to build audition skills, gain perspective, and get comfortable working under pressure.
90 minutes, 4–6 actors per session
$30
Performed via