Actor, Improviser, Director, Film Acting Coach

I grew up as an incredibly shy, super awkward pre-teen that only knew the life of a competitive gymnast. I had zero friends in school, and was bullied constantly. During, my sophomore year in high school I had the opportunity to take a speech and drama class, and it literally changed my life!

 

My teacher was a former Second City Improv performer, and she taught us everything she could about improv. Not only did I become more socially confident and exhibit leadership qualities, but I found myself raising my hand in class more. I discovered how important it was to let my voice be heard, and even more so, I realized that it was okay to be myself!

 

Well, the rest is sort of history! I found a passion in improv, and a drive to pursue every single avenue I could in performing arts, while focusing on improvisation. David Stork, former Gotham City Improv Director and my SCAD Improv Professor, encouraged me to follow my dreams as an improv performer and teacher! Under his direction, I performed with The Mobb Line (2013 Southeastern College Improv Tournament Champions) and directed the Moxie Improv Team. I continued my coaching endeavors in Charlotte, NC as the co-founder of Queen City Comedy and founding director of the AOS Improv program at Acting Out Studio.  I also developed my own non-profit organization called Comedy Connects that provides applied improv sessions for underserved populations, including senior citizens.

Today, I serve as the Head of Improv at the School of the Arts, Dept of Theatre at Virginia Commonwealth University, while also holding a joint position as the Director of Medical Improv with the Center for Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Care.  And trust me... I am not just a teacher!  I perform regularly in Richmond, VA and various regions with my improv duo called BABE starring myself with Anthony Brazeau and my duo Bianchi and Byland starring Jenn Bianchi and I are a nationally recognized duo that have performed at theatres and festivals across the nation!
 

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