Jacob OA

Hello! I'm Jacob, a passionate actor and experienced acting teacher based in Los Angeles, California. With an MFA in Acting from The Ohio State University and years of professional experience in theatre and film, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my teaching practice.

As a graduate teacher at The Ohio State University I taught various undergraduate courses in acting, movement, voice, and Shakespeare. My teaching approach is grounded in the principles of Rudolph Laban, Stanislavski, Stella Adler, and Uta Hagen, focusing on helping students develop their craft through scene work, monologues, and ensemble-based exercises.

My professional acting career spans across theatre and film, with notable roles in film work like being the lead in the new movie Lotus (2026), the lead in Timon Hates You (2026), and the lead in Aaban (2025).

When it come to notable theatre productions my credits include Henry IV (The Porters, Hollywood),  'Guards at the Taj' (Central Square Theatre Company), 'The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity' (Company One), and 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' (Actors' Shakespeare Project). I have been recognized for my work with an Elliot Norton Award for Best Actor and nominations from the Independent Reviewers of New England.

As an acting coach, my goal is to create a supportive and challenging environment where students can explore, grow, and refine their skills. I tailor my approach to each student's unique needs and goals, drawing upon my diverse experience in classical and contemporary theatre, as well as on-camera work.

Whether you're a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an experienced actor seeking to deepen your craft, I am committed to helping you unlock your full potential as a performer. Through personalized feedback, engaging exercises, and industry insights, we'll work together to develop your technique, confidence, and artistic voice.

I understand the challenges of pursuing an acting career and am dedicated to providing my students with the tools, guidance, and support they need to thrive in this competitive industry. Let's collaborate to bring your acting skills to the next level and help you achieve your creative goals!

My teaching style is centered around creating a nurturing, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating environment where students feel empowered to take risks, explore their creativity, and develop their craft.

Drawing upon my extensive training in the methods of Rudolph Laban, Stanislavski, Stella Adler, and Uta Hagen, I employ a holistic approach that integrates physical, vocal, and emotional techniques. I believe in the power of ensemble work and encourage students to learn from and support one another throughout the learning process.

In my lessons, I prioritize:

1. Individualized attention: I recognize that each student has unique strengths, challenges, and goals. By providing personalized feedback and guidance, I help students identify areas for growth and develop strategies to overcome obstacles.

2. Active learning: My lessons are designed to be engaging and participatory, with a focus on practical exercises, scene work, and monologue exploration. Students learn by doing, applying techniques and theory to real-world performance situations.

3. Foundational skills: Whether working with beginners or advanced students, I emphasize the importance of building a strong foundation in acting techniques, including character analysis, objectives, actions, and emotional connection.

4. Industry preparation: With my professional experience in theatre and film, I provide students with valuable insights into the audition process, self-promotion, and navigating the business side of acting. I aim to equip students with the tools they need to succeed both on stage and off.

5. Constructive feedback: I believe in the power of specific, actionable feedback to facilitate growth. I create a safe space where students can receive honest, constructive critiques and celebrate their progress and achievements.

My lessons are tailored to the individual needs of each student, whether they are preparing for a specific role, auditioning for drama programs, or simply seeking to deepen their understanding of the craft. I offer a range of lesson formats, including one-on-one coaching, small group workshops, and online classes, to accommodate different learning styles and schedules.

Above all, I am committed to fostering a love for the art of acting and helping my students unlock their full potential as creative, expressive, and resilient performers.