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Miranda D. Lawson
Owner & Proprietor
Mentor with a focus in Music, Auditioning, & Vocal Techniques
Miranda D. Lawson is the owner of MDL Voice and Acting Studios and brings over two decades of industry experience. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Jacksonville University, her journey in theatre and theatre arts education has taken her across multiple states, where she has developed a teaching approach that blends technical expertise with personal mentorship. Miranda is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students of all backgrounds can explore their creativity and develop their skills.
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At MDL Voice and Acting Studios, Miranda focuses on nurturing growth and fostering opportunities for her students. She emphasizes both the mastery of performance techniques and the cultivation of confidence and resilience. Miranda is passionate about the transformative power of arts education, advocating for its importance in personal development and community enrichment. Through her work, she aims to inspire and empower aspiring actors and vocalists to pursue their dreams with dedication and humility.
William I. Schmidt
Community Outreach & Mentor with a focus in Acting and Monologue Work
William Schmidt is a local teacher and performer with a degree in Theatre from Sacramento State. William brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to MDL Voice and Acting Studios as our newest mentor, with a focus in acting. With a robust background in the performing arts, William is set to feature in two upcoming San Francisco productions: *Peter Pan the Panto* at the Presidio Theatre and *Choir Boy* with Shotgun Players.
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William is renowned for his empathetic approach to teaching, adept at understanding and addressing the unique needs of each student. His ability to connect with a wide variety of ages ensures that all students receive personalized and effective instruction. William's focus is on creating a supportive and nurturing environment tailored to each student's individual growth and success in the performing arts.
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McKenna Jade
Social Media & Marketing Lead
McKenna Jade serves as the social media and marketing assistant for MDL Voice and Acting Studio. With over a decade deeply immersed in theatre and theatre education, McKenna's journey was shaped under the mentorship of studio owner, Miranda D. Lawson.
Beyond receiving rigorous training, McKenna has had the privilege to perform with Miranda, and also me directed by her on numerous occasions. Grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the studio in a new capacity, McKenna values her transition from student to an integral team member. She is passionate about continuing her education in musical theatre in college, with aspirations to establish a lasting career within the industry.
Caitlin Skinner
Growth & Outreach Lead & Mentor with a focus in Dance Technique & Musical Theatre Fundamentals
Caitlin Skinner is a Sacramento local, born and raised in its theatre scene. She loves bringing a variety of skills to the stage, with a passion for connecting movement and storytelling.
With a background of training from William Jessup University, her dedication as a teacher is to create safe spaces that both embrace and challenge a performer’s unique ability on and off stage.
Caitlin values the importance of fostering a sense of joy and play in the learning process, believing that creativity thrives in an environment where students feel free to explore and experiment. Marrying technique and enthusiasm for the arts is beneficial for any age, at any performance level, and is at the heart of her teaching style.
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