Don't Make Any Sudden Movements
Testimonials
Choosing the right coach or collaborator isn’t just about credentials — it’s about trust. The people you’ll hear from here have spent time in the room with me, whether in coaching sessions, rehearsals, or performances, and their experiences speak to the kind of work we build together: honest, practical, and grounded in real growth. I’m proud of these words not because they’re flattering, but because they reflect the environment I care deeply about creating — one where people feel supported, challenged, and capable of doing their best work.
All reviews
Wedding WirePosted on Google
Carolyn Goff9 days agoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I’m currently having the privilege of working with Shael on Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, and I can honestly say it has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had as an actor. What makes him such an exceptional director is his ability to create a space where actors feel safe enough to be vulnerable, take risks, and truly explore the emotional depths of their characters. Playing Martha is no small undertaking, and having a director who approaches the work with such patience, insight, and genuine care makes all the difference. He doesn’t dictate how a character should be played. Instead, he guides you toward discovering the truth of the character for yourself. He listens, encourages, and knows when to gently challenge you to go a little deeper. There is something incredibly special about working with someone who not only understands the craft but genuinely cares about the people doing the work. I’m so excited for him as he opens his own acting studio. Whether you’re new to acting or have years of experience, I can’t imagine a more supportive and inspiring environment in which to grow. I highly recommend him!Posted on Google
Jasmina Brar15 days agoUnder Shael's direction in his Scene Study class last fall I honed my approach to acting. Truly, previous to his class I was becoming lost in how to prepare a scene. I was over analyzing the text and giving calculated performances. Shael has a brilliant way of leading the actor to find the perfect balance of script analysis and intuition. This has allowed me to feel alive during my scene - like I am living inside of the character's mind. No more rigid and calculated actions and re-actions, just experiencing emotions in real time!Posted on Facebook
Victoria Scott17 days agorecommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook.
Shael has a way of getting you to dig deep and discover different aspects of your character without being a “woo-woo actor” about it. His classes are fun, collaborative and WORTH IT. Will be returning!Posted on Google
Victoria Scott17 days agoShael has a way of getting you to dig deep and discover different aspects of your character without being a “woo-woo actor” about it. His classes are fun, collaborative and WORTH IT. Will be returning!Posted on Google
Keith Thomas20 days agoI took Shael's acting class in spring 2026 and found it very helpful for auditioning for roles in community theatre.Posted on Facebook
Kellyann Paron20 days agoI've participated in Shael's scene study class and it was fabulous!!!! Learned so much and really grew as an actor and gained so much confidence. His classes are small, intimate, well organized and we get plenty of opportunities to showcase our work and receive feedback. 100% recommend Shael's classes.Posted on Google
Kelly Paron20 days agoI've participated in Shael's scene study class and it was fabulous!!!! Learned so much and really grew as an actor and gained so much confidence. His classes are small, intimate, well organized and we get plenty of opportunities to showcase our work and receive feedback. 100% recommend Shael's classes.Posted on Facebook
Lindsay Leigh25 days agoFeeling super lucky and grateful to have had Shael officiate our recent wedding! Many of our guests commented that it was one of the best ceremonies they had ever attended as Shael customized his wedding script with accurate detail of the relationship, beautiful sentiment, and just the right amount of humour to make for an engaging experience. Working with Shael felt authentic, and we knew from the initial consultation that he would bring the energy we were looking for to our ceremony. He made planning the ceremony easy with his website templates, and really took the time to get to know us at our pre ceremony meeting. This was reflective again in the beautiful customized script he presented for us and our guests. We highly recommend! Thanks so much Shael for helping us craft such an amazing wedding day! Lindsay and Jordon September 26, 2026Posted on Google
Melissa Lerner61 days agoWe were incredibly fortunate to have Shael as our officiant. From the very first meeting, he made us feel comfortable and took the time to really get to know us. Throughout the process, he was patient, thoughtful, and a truly calming presence. The ceremony he created was so personal and meaningful, and so many of our guests commented on how special it felt. We can’t thank him enough for the role he played in making our day unforgettable. Thank you, Shael, for helping us start our marriage with such a beautiful ceremony. We will always be grateful. ❤️ John & MelissaPosted on Facebook
Kathy Porteous144 days agoI completed Shael’s scene study course in the fall of 2025. It was so worthwhile and fun that I came back and did the course again in spring 2026. The general structure was similar but I learned just as much the second time through as I did the first. Shael creates a welcoming, safe space; he is thoughtful with his feedback. I thoroughly enjoyed both sessions and highly recommend his course!Posted on Facebook
Laurie Scattergood148 days agoHaving recently completed Shael's 8 week Scene Study course I can honestly say it was very worthwhile. The content was extensive and he provided the tools and guidance we needed to fully understand and apply the principles of scene analysis. I've done other scene study workshops, but this was the most intensive and complete of all of them.Posted on Facebook
Keith Thomas150 days agoI would highly recommend Shael. I recently completed his scene study class. It was amazing to see the growth in the abilities and confidence of everyone over the course of the class. The classes were well run and I especially found the written, structured prep to be very useful.Posted on Facebook
Andra Kelly230 days agoMy son recently had some private acting coaching from Shael to prep for a university audition. He learned so much in such a short time and went in to that audition with confidence and a strong understanding of performing a character. He’s now going to Brock for Dramatic Arts in the fall - I would highly recommend workshopping with Shael.Posted on Facebook
Natalie Leahy330 days agoI recently participated in Shael’s scene study program. He is a fabulous teacher - welcoming, encouraging & spot on with his constructive feedback. I am grateful for the experience I had in his class.Posted on Facebook
Paul Sowerbutts339 days agoI had the great pleasure of participating in Shael's Scene Study course. I found the content to be excellent. The work we did on breaking down the scene, character development and motivations really helped me to understand my character and how I can portray him. Shaels insights into acting and direction are invaluable. He made the entire class feel comfortable and gave us all the confidence to explore acting. I found the materials provided to be professionally done and of great help, I will definitely be referencing them in the future. I feel that this class has given me a set of tools, not only for on stage but for getting onstage.Posted on Facebook
Sophia Daunt378 days agoI had the privilege of working with Shael as a young actor, and his dedication to the craft—and to every member of his cast—was evident from day one. His direction was thoughtful, passionate, and always rooted in a deep respect for the story being told. Shael sets a standard that continues to inspire me.Posted on Facebook
Fanny Mae403 days agoBeing directed by Shael brought me to a whole new level of insight into character, nuance, and family dynamic. He shared a time in his own personal family history to deepen my understanding of what my character endured and lived through. He took a beloved play to whole new heights that brought theatre audiences to their feet with standing ovations night after night. I would work with Shael again in a heartbeat.Posted on Facebook
Des Harty404 days agoI've acted with Shael and been directed by him. He is a wonderful actors' director, directing from an actors' perspective in a way that unites a cast. He cares about the entire cast and crew.Posted on Wedding Wire
Laura798 days agoVerified
Shael is Lovely & Personable Shael was wonderful as our officiant for our Aug 2024 wedding. We asked for a non-religious service with very little need for tradition, just short and sweet. We felt warmly welcomed by Shael’s words during our ceremony and that it checked all our requests. Shael was easy to talk to ahead of our wedding and responded quickly by email. We had a zoom meet & greet call in the beginning that was easy to schedule. A few emails to discuss details and narrow things down. I had a lovely phone call with Shael a few days before the wedding and he was so encouraging -a bride always has a to-do list. It was just that little boost of encouragement that I needed to help get through a very busy day. Even the simple reminder that everyone is usually very busy with last minute details the week before their wedding. Something so simple but it was caring and helpful, just like Shael. My now husband and I would highly recommend Shael for any wedding. Especially if you want someone who will make you feel at ease. Thank you Shael -L & S, August 2024Posted on Wedding Wire
Jody1089 days agoShael brings the magic! Shael made our secular ceremony feel sacred by celebrating our unique values as a couple blending families. His huge heart and endless creativity made him the perfect choice for our wedding in the round! Throughout the planning process, Shael helped us feel heard and supported by encouraging open communication and collaboration. He married tradition with innovation, as well as us! As an officiant, Shael conducts a room with his magnetic presence while also making everyone feel comfortable and included. He is a humanist because he helps people feel seen and valued, regardless of their religion. Thank you, Shael, for crafting a ceremony that created a community of love and a core memory for our friends and family. They were deeply moved by your service and said it was the most intimate and authentic wedding ceremony they have ever attended. With love & gratitude, Jody Geddes & Brian HarganLoad more
