Discover our history, mission, values, and meet the talented team behind Chicago's leading acting academy.
The Lumina Acting Academy was founded in 2010 by renowned Chicago actress and director, Evelyn Reed. Evelyn envisioned a space where aspiring actors could receive comprehensive training, personalized guidance, and a supportive community to nurture their talents. What started as a small workshop in a rented studio has blossomed into a thriving academy located in the heart of Chicago's vibrant theater district.
From its inception, The Lumina Acting Academy has been committed to providing a holistic approach to acting education. We believe in fostering not only technical skills but also the creativity, emotional intelligence, and professional acumen necessary for a successful career in the performing arts. Over the years, we have proudly witnessed our students excel in theater, film, television, and beyond.
The academy's growth is attributed to our unwavering commitment to excellence, our dedicated faculty of industry professionals, and our vibrant community of passionate students. We continually adapt our curriculum to reflect the evolving landscape of the acting world, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges and embrace the opportunities that await them. Our connection to the Chicago theater scene remains strong, with many of our instructors actively involved in local productions, providing invaluable networking opportunities for our students.
Our building, a beautifully renovated historic warehouse, stands as a testament to our dedication to the arts. Featuring state-of-the-art studios, rehearsal spaces, and a black box theater, the academy provides a stimulating and inspiring environment for learning and creativity. We’re located at 742 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654, easily accessible by public transportation and surrounded by the energy of the city's artistic pulse.
At The Lumina Acting Academy, our mission is to empower aspiring actors to achieve their full potential by providing exceptional training, personalized guidance, and a supportive community.
We are committed to upholding the highest standards of excellence in all that we do. We believe in acting with integrity, fostering a culture of trust, respect, and ethical conduct. We encourage creativity and innovation, providing a space where students can explore their artistic voices without fear. Collaboration is at the heart of our approach, recognizing that the best work often comes from shared ideas and collective effort. We celebrate our vibrant community of students, faculty, and alumni, fostering connections that extend far beyond the classroom. Finally, we strive to make acting education accessible to students from all backgrounds, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Founder & Artistic Director
Evelyn Reed is an award-winning actress, director, and acting coach with over 25 years of experience in the theater and film industries. She holds an MFA in Acting from the Goodman School of Drama and has performed in numerous productions at prestigious theaters across the country. Evelyn's passion for nurturing talent and fostering creativity is the driving force behind The Lumina Acting Academy.
Head of Acting
Marcus Bell is a seasoned actor and educator with a background in classical and contemporary theater. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and has worked extensively in both the UK and the US. Marcus brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as Head of Acting, guiding students through the fundamentals of acting technique and advanced scene study.
Head of Improvisation
Olivia Chen is a renowned improviser and comedian with a background in sketch comedy and stand-up. She is a graduate of The Second City Conservatory and has performed at comedy clubs and festivals around the world. Olivia's energetic and engaging teaching style makes improvisation accessible and enjoyable for students of all levels.
Voice & Movement Instructor
Daniel Hayes is a certified voice and movement specialist with expertise in Linklater Voice, Alexander Technique, and Laban Movement Analysis. He has worked with actors, dancers, and public speakers for over 15 years, helping them to develop vocal power, physical presence, and expressive movement. Daniel's approach is holistic and transformative, empowering students to connect with their bodies and voices in new and meaningful ways.
The Lumina Acting Academy is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students. We strive to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities and to create a welcoming and supportive community where everyone can thrive. We offer a range of accessibility services, including:
For more information about our accessibility policies and services, please visit our Accessibility page or contact us at [email protected].
Discover your passion and hone your skills at The Lumina Acting Academy. We invite you to explore our courses, meet our instructors, and schedule your audition today.
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