Our Expert Instructors
At StageReady Academy, we believe that exceptional instruction is the cornerstone of a successful performing arts education. Our instructors are seasoned professionals with years of experience in their respective fields. They are dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the competitive world of performing arts. Located in Chicago, the heart of theatrical innovation, our instructors bring real-world experience and connections to the classroom.
Alistair Davies
Acting Instructor - Scene Study, Character Development, Improvisation
Alistair Davies is a critically acclaimed actor with over two decades of experience on the Chicago stage. He has performed in leading roles at the Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, and Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Alistair's teaching philosophy centers around empowering students to find their authentic voice and connect deeply with their characters. He specializes in scene study, character development, and improvisation techniques, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in the art of acting. He holds a BFA in Acting from Northwestern University and an MFA in Theatre from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Alistair's recent credits include starring in "A Streetcar Named Desire" and directing "Hamlet" at a local Chicago theatre. He is also a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) and has appeared in several independent films.
Bianca Rossi
Dance Instructor - Contemporary Dance, Ballet, Choreography
Bianca Rossi is a former principal dancer with the renowned Joffrey Ballet. Her expertise spans a wide range of dance styles, including contemporary, ballet, and jazz. Bianca's classes are known for their challenging yet supportive environment, where students are encouraged to push their boundaries and explore their artistic potential. She emphasizes technique, artistry, and improvisation, helping students develop a strong foundation and a unique voice as dancers. Bianca also teaches choreography, guiding students through the process of creating their own original dance pieces. Her accolades include the prestigious Chicago Dance Award for Excellence in Performance and numerous grants from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Prior to joining StageReady Academy, Bianca served as the Artistic Director of the Chicago Youth Dance Ensemble. She has also choreographed for several musicals and theatrical productions throughout the city.
Seraphina Moreau
Vocal Instructor - Classical Voice, Musical Theatre, Contemporary Styles
Seraphina Moreau is an internationally acclaimed opera singer and vocal coach with over 15 years of experience. She has performed in leading roles at opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Seraphina's teaching approach is rooted in classical vocal technique but adapts to various styles, including musical theatre and contemporary pop. She focuses on breath control, vocal projection, and performance techniques, helping students develop a powerful and expressive voice. Seraphina holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Juilliard School and has received numerous awards for her vocal performance and teaching excellence. Her ability to identify and nurture vocal talent is unparalleled.
Seraphina also provides private coaching for professional singers and actors preparing for auditions and performances. She is dedicated to helping her students achieve their vocal goals, whether they aspire to perform on the opera stage or in a Broadway musical.
Julian Vance
Stage Combat and Movement Instructor
Julian Vance is a certified stage combat instructor with extensive experience in theatrical movement and fight choreography. He's skilled in various combat forms, including sword fighting, unarmed combat, and theatrical weaponry. He has worked on numerous theatrical productions throughout Chicago, ensuring the safety and realism of fight scenes. Julian focuses on teaching actors to safely execute complex movements and fight sequences, emphasizing storytelling through physical expression. His credits include fight choreography for 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Macbeth' at local Chicago theatres. He is passionate about training actors in physical techniques that enhance their performance and bring authenticity to their roles.
Isabella Rodriguez
Musical Theatre Instructor
Isabella Rodriguez is a vibrant and experienced musical theatre performer and instructor. She has performed in numerous regional and national tours of Broadway musicals, showcasing her talents in singing, acting, and dancing. Isabella specializes in integrating these three disciplines to create compelling musical theatre performances. She offers workshops and classes focused on audition preparation, character interpretation through song, and developing stage presence. Isabella holds a degree in Musical Theatre from the Chicago College of Performing Arts and is dedicated to helping students find their unique voice in the world of musical theatre.