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Acting Coach for Film, TV & Theatre – Take One!

This pro is currently not available for Acting Lessons
This pro is currently not available for Acting Lessons

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About
In Person Coaching in Sherman Oaks/ Los Angeles or Zoom from anywhere in the world! Taking in students ages 8 and up. We care about our actors and make sure we can support them in ways that they individually need. So whether you are just starting out, need confidence in public speaking, or currently auditioning and want to hone your craft- we are here for you. ABOUT YOUR COACH: Melissa pursued her education in Acting at Syracuse University, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Her dedication to mastering her craft led her to immerse herself in classical work at the prestigious Globe Theater in London, further expanding her repertoire and understanding of the art of acting. Melissa's talent and versatility have graced screens big and small, with her credits spanning across renowned platforms such as HULU, Disney+, PEACOCK, NBC, and NETFLIX. Her work has also been showcased in esteemed film festivals and featured in numerous commercials. With over eight years of experience as an acting coach, Melissa has cultivated a reputation for excellence in teaching on-camera techniques, improv, scene study, and audition preparation. Her classes cater to individuals of all ages and levels of experience, providing a nurturing environment where aspiring actors can flourish and grow. Her techniques draw from a rich toolbox that includes UCB Improv, Meisner, Stanislavski, Uta Hagen, and the Chekhov Technique. She has taught all over the US and currently coaches private and group lessons. Whether you're new but eager to explore the world of acting or a seasoned performer looking to refine your skills, Melissa is dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential and achieve your goals. 🎉 Student & Client Shoutouts! – Recent Highlights: 🎉 So proud of these amazing young artists and their recent accomplishments! Lily – Congrats on getting booked for the play Barbeque by Robert O’Hara! 🎭 Omar – Congrats on getting a Chicago Rep for film and TV! 🎬 Hunter – Congrats on getting a manager for commercial, film, and TV! 🌟 Valli – Congratulations on your acceptance to the highly regarded OCSA! 🎭 Zoe – Congrats on booking an AT&T commercial! 🎬 Lea – Congrats on getting into the prestigious Frank Sinatra High School in NYC! 🌆 Kerala – Way to go on your acceptance to Vassar! 🎓 Matt– Huge congrats on your callback for a series regular role on a new Peacock show! 📺 Valentina – Congratulations on booking Veruca in Willy Wonka in your regional production! 🍭 Autumn – Exciting news! Congrats on signing with a commercial rep! 🎬 Sevde – Amazing job booking Faith of Light and How To Get Away With Murder! 🌟 Lia – So proud of you for landing a lead role in your first short film! 🎥 Yollecotte – Way to go on getting your professional headshots and booking a video game! 📸 Souri – Incredible work booking both a commercial AND a guest star spot on a TV show! 💥 Katie – Congrats on getting into multiple BFA Acting Programs—including Pepperdine, Emerson, Ithaca, NYU, and Syracuse! 🎭 Kayleen – Huge congrats on booking a McDonald’s commercial! 🍟🎉
Overview

Hired 39 times

Background checked

2 employees

8 years in business

Business hours

This pro hasn't listed their business hours.

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Venmo, and Zelle.

Top Pro status

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2024

Services offered
Acting venue(s)

Theater

Improv theater

Musical theater

Film

Level of experience

No experience

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Acting goal(s)

To prepare for an audition

To build confidence

To explore as a hobby

To continue professional development

Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and value.

Exceptional 5.0

32 reviews

5

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4

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pro avatar
Kevin B.

Oct 2, 2025

Hired on Thumbtack

My daughter looks forward to meeting with her acting teacher every week. She’s also very accommodating to my daughter’s busy after school schedule. I would highly recommend her!

Details: 14 - 17 years old • No experience • To explore as a hobby • Film • TV episode • What the teacher recommends • No specific focus • 1 person • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc. • Remotely (phone or internet)

Acting Lessons
pro avatar
Omar M.

4 weeks ago

Working with Melissa over the last seven months has been a complete game-changer for my career and my craft. As both an acting and vocal coach, she possesses a rare ability to bridge the gap between technical precision and raw emotional truth. Whether we are breaking down complex dramatic scripts or tackling demanding vocal exercises, Melissa pushes me to find a level of excellence I didn't know I had. Her approach is disciplined, insightful, and results-driven. In our time together, my resonance, articulation, and 'inner life' on camera have transformed significantly. She doesn’t just teach—she builds artists. If you are serious about reaching an elite professional standard, Melissa is the coach you need in your corner. Seven months in, and I’m still uncovering new layers of my instrument every single session. Highly recommended!
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Kelli K.

1 month ago

Melissa is an amazing acting coach. She improved my sons acting skills so much in such a short time. Not only did she do that, but he was almost ready to give up and she brought the joy and the passion of acting back to him. She brought more of his abilities out of him then even we knew that he had. We absolutely treasure her and would recommend her to anyone. She care not only about building acting abilities, but about the person that she is working with.
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Collette R.

Oct 19, 2025

Melissa has been such a wonderful acting coach for my 8-year-old! Her Zoom classes are engaging, encouraging, and perfectly designed for beginners. Plus, my daughter loves them. Each session blends fun and learning — from tongue twisters and make-believe games to performing short scripts that build confidence and creativity. Melissa creates a warm, supportive environment where my child feels seen and celebrated. I can’t recommend Melissa enough for any young performer starting their acting journey!
pro avatar
Oscar B.

Jul 28, 2025

Hired on Thumbtack

I’ve been working with her for a couple of months now, and the growth I’ve seen in my public speaking has been real. She’s clear, patient, and knows how to bring the best out of you. Each session feels purposeful. I’ve become more confident and intentional when I speak, not just in public, but in everyday conversations. If you’re serious about improving your communication, I highly recommend her.

Details: Beginner • 18 - 25 years old • Verbal delivery • Speech content • Body language • Connecting with audience • To build confidence • To develop a skillset • To explore as a hobby • Business • At the pro’s location

Public Speaking Lessons
Credentials
Background Check

Melissa Lawson

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