Acting Coach - Charlie Curilan

I am CHARLIE, the acting coach

Mulholland Academy Faculty Member

This intensive beginner’s course was designed to take the novice on an immersive journey through acting fundamentals rooted in the traditions of Stanislavski, hailed the father of modern acting, the predominant acting methodology that initially redefined modern American theatrical and cinematic performance, and thereafter influencing the rest of the acting world.

This is an 8-day introduction to concepts and practices developed by Stanislavski, Strasberg, Stella Adler, Uta Hagen, Sanford Meisner, David Mamet, William H. Macy, and Tony Grahn. It aims to provide the individual a meaningful appreciation of the craft of the actor, a foretaste of what it entails to live the life of a character in story-telling. Whether they aspire to be actors or not, are considering involvement in the dramatic arts as writers, or directors, or are simply searching for ways to express themselves, this course prepares the aspirant for further exploration of the dramatic arts, and deeper study in the various courses offered at the Mulholland Academy.

Charlie received his Diploma in Professional Acting from the Mulholland Academy, Department of Acting, where he is now a member of the faculty. He pioneered the course Intensive Acting for the Absolute Beginner, teaching aspiring actors of various nationalities. Currently, he trains with L.A.-based acting coach and award-winning director Loren Chadima, recognized among “The Best Acting Coaches in the United States” and creator of the course “The Three Pillars of Intentional Acting.” Following his six-month training, he was invited to serve as Assistant Instructor for Loren’s current cycle of classes. Additionally, he regularly attends classes by Andy Garrison, founder of the Actor Training Studio in Kansas City, Missouri, and continues to refine his scene work under Hollywood TV and film actor James Ciccone, Founder, Director, and CEO at Actors Axiom – Show Up to Book the Role, in New York. He also completed Kevin Spacey’s acting course on Masterclass.com.

With his diverse skill set and a passion for teaching, he has been invited to conduct masterclasses in musical theater performance, film acting, and singing at institutions such as Yew Chung International High School in Hong Kong, Big Ben International Academy for Music & Performing Arts in Jakarta, Indonesia, Broadway Youth of Cebu in the Philippines, and the Philippine High School for the Arts. He also provides one-on-one coaching for fellow actors in the Netherlands and the United States, successfully preparing them for auditions. Recently, one of his Absolute Beginners was accepted to the Old Vic Intensive Summer course in London after his coaching. As a language coach, he offers classes in basic Dutch, English, and Accent Reduction.

Charlie’s Intensive Acting for the Absolute Beginner course immerses novices in acting fundamentals rooted in the traditions of Stanislavski, revered as the father of modern acting. His methodology initially redefined modern American theatrical and cinematic performance, subsequently influencing the entire acting world.

Spanning 12 days, the course introduces concepts and practices developed by Stanislavski, Strasberg, Stella Adler, Uta Hagen, Sanford Meisner, David Mamet, William H. Macy, and Tony Grahn. Its aim is to cultivate a deep appreciation for the actor’s craft and provide participants with an experiential understanding of embodying characters within storytelling.

Participants engage in a structured process that integrates foundational principles, applying them through basic scene study, script analysis, audition techniques, and self-taping exercises. Practical insights into industry practices—from navigating the casting process to finding representation and selecting headshots—are also covered. The course culminates in the actor’s first monologue performance, initial self-tape audition, and a headshot photoshoot, equipping participants to navigate the competitive and dynamic entertainment industry.

Designed to prepare committed individuals for further exploration in dramatic arts and more advanced training at the Mulholland Academy, including the one-year full-time Professional Acting Diploma, the course accommodates those uncertain about pursuing acting careers. It appeals equally to aspiring writers, directors, filmmakers, and individuals seeking fresh avenues for self-expression, offering a profound appreciation of the art of acting to curious minds.

Say what?

What the trainees say about Charlie

Every single one of you is so different and that’s so beautiful and amazing. I honestly want to learn all about you all and just keep watching you, just to focus on every single one of you. And I love that It’s not about “better” or “worse” or comparing with each other. It’s just about being, and that’s enough, because we’re all enough as human beings.

It has been such an unexpected joy to get to be a part of such a great group with such special people. Thanks to everyone for being yourselves and making it such a wonderful experience.

I still can’t believe that next weekend there will be no acting class; I’ve kinda’ gotten used to it, it was part of my new routine! Super grateful for meeting my co-actors, it feels like I’ve known them for years. I fully recommend this to everyone, even just as a self-development tool. So precious!

Monologues

“It was amazing going through this as a first step. I want to thank everyone here for this amazing experience.”

“This course gave me so much more than I expected. It was incredibly deep and informative and I had so much fun! Thank you, for showing me the way into the world of acting. Moreover, I’m grateful for the opportunity to meet you all, and get to know you from such a personal artistic side.”

“Thanks to everyone for opening up so much. Very powerful, what’s hidden behind all our exteriors.”

“Thank you for your support and for showing me the world of acting. I don’t know what would happen if my first ever acting class was under another person’s guidance. You made me love acting. I never planned on doing any of this, I wanted to try it once and move on. But you know, I couldn’t, I fell in love and it’s a part of me now. Thank you, Charlie. “