Darius Journigan
About
[5.0⭐ rating over 27 reviews from another lesson platform]
I'm Coach Darius, an actor, director, and private acting coach based in both Chicago and New York City, with roots in Detroit. My journey in the world of acting has been shaped by over two decades of experience, extensive training, and a passion for storytelling. I honed my craft at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC, California Institute of the Arts, and Marymount Manhattan College, under the mentorship of incredible coaches like Dennis Hilton-Reid and Thomas René.
My professional career has taken me from the stages of New York to international festivals, including a standout performance as Christian in "Ruined" at the Athens & Epidaurus Festival in Greece. I've had the privilege of working under the direction of Tony Award-winning Kenny Leon in "How Black Mothers Say I Love You" at The Public Theater’s Joe's Pub. Recently, I played multiple roles in Shakespeare & Company's 2024 Northeast Regional Tour of "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," and starred in the feature film "McKenzie McCoy," now available on Amazon Prime. I'm also thrilled to be directing a production at Shakespeare & Company in Fall 2024.
In addition to my acting career, I've been teaching acting for 10 years to actors of every experience level. I'm the founder of the annual Working Actor Masterclass and a private acting coach to actors worldwide. My students have gone on to star in commercials, appear on VH1, feature on Amazon, and study at major acting schools across the globe. My teaching experience has allowed me to connect with and mentor a diverse range of talents, helping them to unlock their full potential and thrive in the acting industry.
Reviews from Another Lesson Platform
My teenager has been taking lessons with Darius since last year and is really enjoying the process. We weren't sure how well online lessons would work, but my child has learned a lot. We also have found Darius to be very willing to work with us when we need some flexibility, which is another plus. All in all, loving the experience!
Darius is an excellent teacher. I was lucky enough to have some of the first classes as the only student so I actually had an acting coach for a few sessions and he taught me so much more than I had even hoped for. Later, when other students joined the class, Darius was equally engaging. He gave such good information that I took copious notes and often refer to them when I am stumped on how to proceed with a part. My father was an acting teacher so I came in knowing a bit about acting and was extremely satisfied with his coaching/teaching. You will not find a better teacher out there. Highly recommend.
Coach Darius provides coaching and training that is really beneficial for working actors. His feedback is tangible and helpful to enhance your craft.
If you're wondering who to pick for lessons, Darius is the teacher to pick. For me, I had no clue who was naturally a great teacher. I had to buy lessons, cross my fingers and hope o found someone who could teach me what i was searching for. Darius is experienced in what he does. Yet even better, he knows how to access where you're at in your goals and teach from there. He is able to see where you have natural talent and where theres a need for support in becoming better. He's able to teach high quality classes at every level. I suggest buying three classes from him and notice how lucky you'll be to have finally found someone who can and will bring you to your full capacity. Experience is one thing. Being able to teach is another thing. Sometimes they don't go together. With Darius it does.
He provided good practical information along with song exercises.
This was my first lesson but I was given some great tools to learn by so far. I can't wait until our next session.
Darius is a great teacher. I enjoy our sessions and i am learning a lot. I am a beginner Actor and Darius is very knowledgeable and explains things very well.
Darius is very knowledgeable, open and engaging. I look forward to our future sessions!
Excellent instructor. I have learned so much in such a small amount of time!!
Top teacher. Enthusiastic, dedicated and brilliant. Almost a coach! Super!
Darius is absolutely fantastic! He is professional, patient, knowledgeable, a good listener, fun and provides a safe supportive learning environment. I have learnt so much from our first lesson and as a result, I booked five more lessons with him. Darius's enthusiasm, passion and his excellent interpersonal skills makes learning easy. You will get invaluable feedback throughout the lesson as well as homework to consolidate learning and enhance your acting skills. Darius is so relatable, I am happy he is my teacher. I would highly recommend him for all your acting classes.
Darius is great! He really taught me a lot about character and monologue work, while also making me feel comfortable and giving me great advice during each lesson. I highly recommend him. He’s a fantastic acting coach who can you teach you pretty much about anything having to do with acting.
I knew nothing about acting and just wanted to learn a new art form (I am a martial artist) and Darius' knowledge, wisdom and instruction reminds me of a great sensei AND a coach who inspires and motivates. I, now, Love this craft and am beginning to understand it more and more. I truly appreciate and highly recommend, Darius.
I’ve never thought acting was a learned skill, but Darius changed that. He is the reason I feel better about who I am as a actor and making acting real for me
best acting teacher in the world he was nice and he had amazing scripts for all of us to practice
He has very good energy and very knowledgeable. After my first session I feel more confident and excited to keep working with him!
I have been taking groups lessons and private lessons with Darius for about a year. He is a great teacher who always makes it fun, but also makes sure you are mastering the foundations of acting.
Mr. Darius is an amazing teacher. I’ve learned a lot about acting and the different emotions when it comes to acting. Mr. Darius is truly devoted to teaching acting and, he’s really dedicated to helping his student learn and he’s always there when you have questions.
Darius is the definition of someone who loves what they do. He doesn’t look at the dollar sign when he is teaching he looks at your improvement. Which is something you don’t come by often. Every session was improvement and he helped each step of the way. His teaching methods are out of this world and really get you out of your comfort zone
After a long time of searching for an acting coach, I finally met Darius. His coaching approach is very unique and truly changed my career and skill as an actor. He has a depth of knowledge and is very caring. I highly recommend Darius.
Taking classes with Darius was tons of fun. Helped me through a few problems with a monologue I needed to learn and helped add another layer to it that I didn't even think of. I definitely recommend taking one of his classes as it'll help you reach into whatever piece you're working on and draw out something new for your character work and overall understanding of the play/film/show. if you're wondering whether you should do it or not, I say, take the class! In the long run, you'll be grateful for the help.
Darius is a great teacher. Not only does he care about his students, but his attention to every detail is spot on. A true theatre artist in every respect of the term, Darius is just as talented as a performer and playwright. Take class from him before he becomes the next Lee Strasberg and the waiting list is eons long
I’ve booked 90% of the auditions I’ve worked with Darius on. He should write a book!
Darius really gets it. After 3 years working with him, he still manages to know exactly what I need as an actor for every audition and for every role I land. He’s my coach for life.
Darius helped me develop a sense of awareness that has helped me in every aspect of my life! Since beginning our training together, I am much more confident in my work and continue to book gigs. Highly recommended!
Very helpful experience! The lessons are wonderful and I'm learning so much!
Rated this class 5 stars.
Teaching Style
In my lessons, you can expect a dynamic and immersive approach that focuses on both the technical and emotional aspects of acting. My teaching style is rooted in building a strong foundation in classical and contemporary techniques, with a particular emphasis on voice, movement, and the actor's relationship to space. I believe in the power of ensemble work and encourage collaboration and experimentation within a supportive environment.
I aim to help each student discover their unique voice and hone their ability to connect with any audience, whether on stage or screen. Drawing from my diverse experiences in theater, film, and emerging mediums like VR, I integrate practical exercises that challenge students to explore different dimensions of their craft. Whether you're working on Shakespearean text or a modern monologue, my goal is to equip you with the tools and confidence needed to bring authenticity and depth to every performance.
Curriculum
Check out my self-paced course, "So You Want to Be an Actor"!
This course will take you step-by-step through the basics of Acting. Welcome to Acting 1!
>> Click here for more information. <<
Check out my downloadables
Welcome to a curated collection of resources designed to support actors at every stage of their journey. These downloadable guides are packed with practical tools, exercises, and insights to help you build your skills, deepen your craft, and approach performances with confidence. Whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced performer looking to refine your technique, there's something here for you. Click below to explore and take the next step in your acting journey!
- What is Acting?: Explaining the basics of acting, including what actors do, the different types of acting (stage, film, etc.), and why acting matters.
- How to Get Started in Acting: Practical steps to begin acting, such as finding classes, exploring community theater, and choosing beginner-friendly material.
- Acting Resume Template: An editable word document formatted for an actors resume. Options for actors with and without acting experience!
- Understanding the Script: How to read and understand scripts, including identifying characters, setting, and the basic flow of a story
Credentials & Affiliations
Associate of Occupational Studies in Acting - American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting - Marymount Manhattan College
Member of the Actors Society
