For students at Texas A&M University-Commerce interested in receiving more one-on-one private acting coaching for free, look no further than the actor’s lab taught by Dr. Carrie Klypchak.
Klypchak, an assistant professor of acting and directing, has been offering an actor’s lab for those students who want to better prepare themselves for classes and auditions at A&M-Commerce since August 2006.
The lab is designated for students enrolled within the Department of Mass Media, Communication and Theatre, but Klypchak said that she would not turn away anyone.
“It’s not just for acting,” she said.
The 30-minute sessions are also recommended for students who are taking public speaking classes. Klypchak believes that the lab is beneficial for not only acting, but for giving speeches and presentations as well.
The phrase “those who can’t do, teach” sometimes can be used when describing instructors or professors, but Klypchak’s experience in the professional acting field has exempted her from this cliché.
Having received her education at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy at Manhattan, New York, and professional experience in the New York theatre scene, Klypchak feels she is more than qualified for the job.
“Private acting coaches outside of the university could cost students up to $40-$50 an hour,” Klypchak said.
Klypchak believes that the lack of cost for the actor’s lab will be enough reason for students to consider taking the actor’s lab to help develop their acting abilities and prepare them for their careers.
Klypchak has seen a wide variety of students, ranging from those who have been acting for years and are considering making acting their careers to students who have never acted and are there for development.
Sessions are available for reservation on a sign-up sheet outside Klypchak’s office door in the Performing Arts Center, room 129.
Students can also set up appointments with Klypchak by phone at 903-886-5344 or by e-mail at Carrie_Klypchak@tamu-commerce.edu.