Meet 2025 Teacher of the Year for Acting Stephanie Barton-Farcas

We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Acting, Stephanie Barton-Farcas, to share insights into her journey as a working actor and educator. In this Q&A, she reflects on what drew her to acting, why understanding the realities of the entertainment industry is essential, and how she structures a focused, professional learning environment for her students. She discusses the mindset and practical skills she emphasizes to help students grow, the essential tools and resources she recommends for modern auditions, and highlights accomplishments from both her own career and her students’ successes in 2025. Finally, she shares guidance on goal-setting, career management, and what aspiring actors can expect when studying with her as she continues to evolve as a performer and teacher.

What drew you to learning about acting?

I am a working actor and voice actor and fully believe that the world of entertainment is easier the more information you have about what really works. Teaching others everything from audition prep to self taping, scene and monologue work, getting an agent - all these things are possible if you just follow the right steps!

How would you describe your teaching studio?  

My teaching studio is clean and free from distractions, just as an audition space should be. 

If you could gift your students one piece of automatic knowledge or ability about acting, what would it be? 

Mindset is half the battle. How you think about yourself and prepare for this industry is half in your mind and half the actual acting work. We work on both to build you up into a real working actor.

What are some of your most indispensable pieces of gear?

All acting students in 2026 should have a tripod and ring light, as well as an iPhone. This equipment is what every casting director wants you to have in order to audition. It’s that simple. 

Are there apps / texts / other resources you often recommend?

I do have apps I recommend in my classes, as well as other resources I give out during lessons.

Anything you'd like to share about yours or your student’s accomplishments from 2025? Do you have guidance for goal-setting for students of acting, or generally?

My students have booked film, tv, audiobook and voice work, commercials and more in 2025. I myself have done video games, TV, animation and am flying into NYC in 3 days to do a film. My being a working actor helps my students because I am plugged into the current industry trends and needs. I do guide my students into goal setting as well as assessments of how they manage their careers!

Is there anything else you would like to share with potential students about acting?

Come and study with me! You learn about the real industry, your talents and needs as an actor, your acting brand, every type of auditioning and how to book the work and find an agent.

If you are interested in learning more about Stephanie or would like to book a lesson with her, please visit her Lessonface profile here. 

Also, be sure to check out all of Lessonface’s 2025 Teachers of the Year here!