Testimonials
Douglas Lyons is a multi-hyphenate artist. His Broadway acting credits include the Book of Mormon, the Original Cast of Beautiful and Tony award winning Broadway revival of Parade.
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“During my sophomore year at Hartt, I distinctly remember an aha moment that occurred in Diana’s acting class. I had earned laughter performing a monologue and Diana asked if I knew why - I didn’t. “Figure out why, so you can recreate the moment,” she said. “That’s technique.” That epiphany became a pivotal turning point in understanding my process as an actor. Three Broadway shows later, I’ll never forget that advice.”
Matt Faucher
Broadway - “Beautiful the Carole King Musical”
National Tour - “Jersey Boys”
Adjunct Professor of Acting and Voice at Pace University
"Diana taught me so much during my time at the Hartt School of Theatre. She introduced me to some of the foundational principles I still lean on to this day. Such principles as: listening with your heart and body, spatial awareness, status, and an introduction to Meisner Technique.
Whether I’m on a Broadway stage or teaching in the classroom I’ve found her training invaluable, as it molded the artist I am today."
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Stuart Younse
Former Director of Theater, Simsbury High School
"Each year I send my college-bound theatre students to Diana for coaching on their collegiate audition material. She is simply the best. She is engaging, helpful, supportive and one of the most effective acting coaches I know. My students love her. For me, not having lots of time to coach college auditions, I know and trust that they are receiving outstanding instruction in a supportive environment."
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Shawn-Caulin Young
Professional Storyteller - Actor | Writer | Director | Producer
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"Under the unparalleled guidance of Diana, I was transformed for my award-winning lead role in the feature film, 'The Hammer.' Her innovative techniques deepened my understanding of the character's psyche and feelings. When grappling with the most challenging scenes, her coaching illuminated the way to the truth of the moment. I truly couldn't have delivered such a vulnerable and complex performance without her. A master of her craft, she is an asset to any actor's journey of self-discovery."
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Nancy Andersen
Chair: Vocal Studies Dept, The Hartt School Community Division, University of Hartford
"Diana is one of the best acting and monologue coaches I've ever met. She meets with each student individually and helps them choose the right monologues for each audition. The students learn how to prepare contrasting pieces in classical and contemporary styles and perform them authentically. Diana teaches them how to cut monologues, and still leave the audience feeling like the audition cut is a complete experience. I am constantly amazed how each student's acting skills are developed and refined so quickly with Diana's insight and supportive guidance."
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Alan Rust
Retired Artistic Director, Theatre Division
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"I believe Diana Moller-Marino was one of the most influential acting teachers while I was the Artistic Director of the Hartt School Professional Actor Training Program. Her work in Viewpoints as well as basic acting skills showed its success in the actors' work both while in school as well as in their professional careers. I am encouraged to learn she is continuing her good work and making it available to actors in the profession. I strongly recommend her as a teacher of acting for anyone pursuing a career or already in the profession looking for continuing work on their craft."
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Shannon Fish
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"I have worked with Diana for the past 1½ years and in this time I have grown immensely as both an actor and human.Her commitment to creating a safe space has allowed me to explore the depths of my soul, and in turn create genuine, richer connections to characters, allowing for the most authentic voices to be heard.
Although I do not have much theatrical experience Diana’s expertise and guidance has equipped me with the tools and confidence needed to develop my own process, and compete on the MFA Graduate level.
I will be pursuing my MFA, Acting from Columbia University and I cannot thank Diana enough for her dedication and unwavering support. I truly could not have done it without her!"
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Mike Morris
NY-based composer, orchestrator, music director, and producer
"For nearly twenty years I worked alongside Diana as a member of the Hartt School Theatre Division faculty, and during that time I saw again and again the enormous impact she had on her students, expertly guiding them to reach their full potential as actors, and perhaps more importantly, as citizens of the world.
I also served as Music Director for several Hartt School productions that Diana directed; she is a generous collaborator who brings a keen dramaturgical eye to the rehearsal room, and is a very effective leader and communicator while helming the productions of a musical or play.
Diana is also one of the most empathetic souls I know, filled with grace, kindness, and humility."
Jayce Johnson
Denver area actor
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"Diana has been, without a doubt, the single greatest influence on my craft as a working actor. No other teacher has surpassed the insight and humanity she brings to character, nor her ability to quietly foster self-discovery from her students. Diana won't let you get away with anything less than the truth, which is why I don't hesitate to say it's been an honor to have her as a friend and mentor."
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Emily Sullivan
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Diana has been my saving grace! Without her help, I would not have been able to get accepted to Western Connecticut State University for Acting. She is truly an angel and an incredible teacher that will push you to work hard!
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