Kenshaka Ali- Coaching Greatness
Kenshaka Ali- Coaching Greatness

Kenshaka Ali- Coaching Greatness

Top Pro

$100/hour
starting price


Acting venue(s)
Acting goal(s)

Responds in about 31 min

Introduction: Thanks for your interest in my services! Please be aware that I teach ONLY online, so please research further to find a coach in your area if you are only interested in in-person training. I coach performers, actors, singers, dancers, speakers, and writers to find their greatest creative expression. I have over 20 years experience teaching acting and directing productions professionally and at over 15 universities, colleges, and conservatories across the United States and abroad. I hold MFA, MA, and BA degrees in Theater/Interdisciplinary Arts, as well as memberships in SAG/AFTRA and AEA. Additionally, I am a licensed Spiritual Practitioner, helping artists and others find greater creative insight, purpose, clarity and freedom. I grew up in the New York theater, and Method Acting was a calling, a lifestyle, a spiritual path to artistry. So, my foundation is the Stanislavski system, but is also eclectic, celebratory and physical, as Stanislavski himself advised us to never stop growing. I’ve learned to incorporate things I’ve learned through years of studying martial arts, yoga, Suzuki, Lecoq, modern, jazz and African dance, and voice. More than anything, I teach acting as an art of joy, discovery, discipline, and wonder; with the intent to facilitate transformations and spiritual growth in individuals. Also, to prepare artists for the rigors and vagaries of the industry. I love seeing students on film and television, but more than that, I love the palpable feeling of freedom and epiphany when a student expresses openly and honestly. I most enjoy helping others become more expressive and empathetic beings. I know that everyone has something unique to offer, with latent talents and capabilities beyond what is generally recognized or accepted. I feel that acting is a spiritual skill we are born with. I have literally hundreds of techniques and exercises culled through my years teaching to help any performer unlock their greatest creative gifts. I love being a coach and have mentored countless students who've won entry to prestigious graduate programs, conservatories, or go on to have careers as working artists and/or found their own arts organizations. Nothing gives me greater joy than to witness someone transformed and empowered through the acting process. Please take me up on my offer of a discounted online mini lesson/conference to experience for yourself why I am the coach for you!
Overview

Current Top Pro

Hired 438 times

26 similar jobs done near you

Background checked

1 employee

27 years in business

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.

Top Pro status

Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.

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2023

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2022

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2021

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2020

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2019

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2018

Featured Projects

41 photos

Reviews

Exceptional 5.0

225 reviews

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Customers say...

This pro is a knowledgeable and caring acting coach who helps students connect with their authentic selves and improve their craft. They provide valuable resources and offer personalized guidance, resulting in growth and confidence for students. Customers praise the pro's patience, professionalism, and ability to create a safe space for exploration. They also appreciate the pro's accessibility and responsiveness.

AI-generated summary of customer reviews

pro avatar
Jiyoon S.
4 weeks ago
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

I've had two sessions with Kenshaka and I'm already blown away by his approach to coaching! He provides a safe comfortable space that allows me to explore my emotional depths and vulnerability, yet challenges me to push the boundaries and adopt unfamiliar perspectives. I appreciate his spiritual approach to acting as well, especially around centering the heart space in performance rather than the ego. Learning with Kenshaka is a great way to discover unknown parts of myself and process complex emotional experiences and expressions in new, refreshing ways. It's not just about acting skills; it's a tremendous journey through self and life.

Details: 26 - 44 years old • Beginner • To explore as a hobby • Film • Not applicable; lessons are for personal interest • Scene study • What the teacher recommends • Cold reading • Method acting • Classical acting • Physical theater and movement • No specific focus • 1 person • My home, venue, etc. • Remotely (phone or internet)

Kenshaka Ali- Coaching Greatness's reply
Hi Jiyoon! Thank you so much for the wonderful review! I am honored to be on this journey with you and looking forward to many more revelations. Thanks again!
Acting Lessons
pro avatar
Josh D.
6 days ago
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

Kenshaka is a wonderful, inquisitive, and thoughtful acting coach that understands the dynamicism of his students. Mindful of where they are in the world and in their lives, Kenshaka takes on the entire self of the individual. I cannot recommend him enough.

Details: 26 - 44 years old • No experience • To build confidence • To explore as a hobby • Not applicable; lessons are for personal interest • What the teacher recommends • Method acting • Classical acting • No specific focus • 1 person • At the pro’s location • Remotely (phone or internet) • My home, venue, etc.

Acting Lessons
pro avatar
Onike m.
4 weeks ago
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

I had an excellent time learning from Kenshaka. He was professional yet friendly and warm which made me comfortable working with him. His communication was clear and had a good pleasant voice. This was my first time to take an acting class and was not exactly sure what to expect. Kenshaka was empathetical and patient which made the whole experience easier for me. I highly recommend him!

Details: 65 years or older • No experience • To build confidence • To prepare for an audition • Film • TV commercial • Cold reading • What the teacher recommends • Strengthen vocal projection • No specific focus • 1 person • At the pro’s location • Remotely (phone or internet)

Kenshaka Ali- Coaching Greatness's reply
Onike! Thank you so much for the great recommendation! Looking forward to seeing you again.
Acting Lessons
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Rasha R.
4 weeks ago
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

Kenshaka is absolutely incredible! As someone who tends to be shy, I felt he truly brought out the actor in me. From our very first session, he provided invaluable pointers and advice on what it truly means to embody a character and excel as an actor. His guidance has been instrumental in my growth and development in the acting world. I highly recommend Kenshaka to anyone looking to enhance their acting abilities and truly get in touch with their full potential to be great in this industry.

Details: 26 - 44 years old • Intermediate • To build confidence • To continue professional development • Theater • Film • TV episode • Improv theater • What the teacher recommends • No specific focus • 1 person • Remotely (phone or internet)

Kenshaka Ali- Coaching Greatness's reply
Thank you so much Rasha! I'm so honored to participate and witness as the actor in you reveals itself so powerfully. Let's continue onward and upward! Thanks again for the wonderful review.
Acting Lessons
pro avatar
Lynne T.
Feb 15, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

I have never in my life worked with someone like Kenshaka. He is so exceptionally in tune to your deepest passion and purpose, and knows how to transfer that into an authentic experience elevating you in your acting pursuit and in your own personal growth & purpose. I am a better person because of working with him and I cannot wait to continue this journey.

Details: 65 years or older • Beginner • To prepare for an audition • Not applicable; lessons are for personal interest • Theater • What the teacher recommends • No specific focus • 1 person • Remotely (phone or internet)

Kenshaka Ali- Coaching Greatness's reply
Hi Lynne! Thank you for the wonderful review! I'm also looking forward to continuing this journey with you. Let's make it happen!
Acting Lessons
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Kenshaka Ali