ACTING COACHING

Work One-on-One with Eric Thal

Are you ready to take your acting to the next level? Whether you’re preparing for an audition, developing a role, or refining your craft, I offer private coaching tailored to your needs. With years of experience as an actor, director, and teacher, I understand what it takes to deliver compelling, truthful performances.

“Eric helped me prepare for my off-Broadway show, not only by refining my lines but also by offering invaluable advice as both an actor and director. His coaching went beyond pronunciation—it strengthened my overall performance. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!”

— Michi Yamamura

My Background as an Actor

I began my professional acting career in 1991 when legendary filmmaker Sidney Lumet cast me in the lead male role opposite Melanie Griffith in A Stranger Among Us. Since then, I’ve worked in leading and supporting roles in film, television, and theatre with some of the industry’s top directors, including Fred Schepisi (Six Degrees of Separation), Scott Hicks (Snow Falling on Cedars), and Garland Wright (Sex and Longing at Lincoln Center).

My career has spanned a wide range of characters, from intense dramatic roles to sharp comedic performances. My experience in both American and British stage and screen productions gives me a unique perspective on different acting styles and approaches.

“Not only did Eric help me improve my Standard American English, but he also gave me insightful adjustments to my approach on scripted material. During my workshops with casting directors, they specifically commented on how fantastic Eric is as an actor—and that the best way to prepare for an audition is by coaching with a working actor.”

— Wayne Chang

My Background as a Teacher

In addition to acting, I have spent years coaching actors privately, helping them refine their skills for auditions, performances, and ongoing training. My coaching philosophy blends structure and spontaneity, allowing actors to explore different choices while staying true to the writer’s intent.

I work closely with each actor to identify strengths and challenges, offering practical techniques that improve performance, confidence, and presence. Whether you’re preparing for a role or building foundational skills, my approach is designed to make you a stronger, more dynamic actor.

Teachers Who Shaped My Craft

My own training includes studying with some of the most respected acting teachers in New York and beyond. I trained in Shakespeare with Ada Brown Mather, Patsy Rodenburg, and Kristin Linklater; scene study with Wynn Handman, Suzanne Shepherd, and Alice Spivak; and Meisner Technique with Richard Pinter of the Neighborhood Playhouse. I also worked extensively with private coaches, including Harold Guskin, Jack Waltzer, and Andrea Haring, among others.

This diverse training has deeply influenced my own coaching style, allowing me to tailor my approach to each actor’s unique needs.

What to Expect in Coaching Sessions

My coaching sessions are collaborative, supportive, and focused on helping you deliver your best work. Depending on your goals, we can work on:

• Audition preparation
• Scene study
• Monologue work
• On-camera technique
• Character development
• Voice and speech refinement
• Accent elimination

Every actor has different needs, and I adjust my approach accordingly. The goal is to arrive at performances that feel spontaneous, original, and deeply connected to the material.

Get Started

If you’re interested in working together, I invite you to schedule a session. Private coaching is available both in-person and online. To book a session or ask any questions, reach out today.