Mary Irwin's first day of teaching in the School of Drama at UNCSA was my first day of professional actor training. I only got to work with her for one year during my senior year of high school at UNCSA, but that time left an indelible impression on me. Mary's approach to breath, the body and it's connection to text was unlike anything I had experienced; at once seemingly mysterious and yet incredibly actionable. Self aware without being self conscious. In that year of study, Mary equipped me with two of the greatest tools in an actor's arsenal- Curiosity and Discovery. She gives those she works with access and permission to fully connect to who they are and bring the full breadth and depth of their experience to their work. She expertly guides actors in an approach to text with an awareness of inhabiting one's own body, coupled with the strong desire to articulate what they/the character needs from another person(s)- in the moment, in the scene, etc. This not only makes for good acting, it makes for good humans.
In recent years, I have worked with Mary in private and group classes, as a coach for auditions and as a vocal coach on professional gigs. Her preparation, attention to detail, knowledge of the craft and thoughtful approach to methodology make her an ideal teacher who sets her students up for success.
I cannot sing her praises highly enough.
Don't take my word for it. Sign up for a class. See for yourself.
Gregg Mozgala - Lucille Lortel Award Winning Actor, Cost Of Living; Artistic Director, The Apothetae