Testimonials

The real bonus with Jeff is his insight into the craft of acting. Bennett has clearly digested most of what’s in print on the subject and distilled it down to a startlingly clear system.

Jeff is a seasoned director who encourages his actors to take risks and create interesting characters that complement the piece as a whole. I love working with him because he is passionate and has an infectious energy that makes the process fun and exciting. Jeff is also very organized, so when it comes times to perform, the actors feel prepared and confident to go on. He also supports his actors by coming to see their film and theater performances outside of Bare Bones. Everyone involved in the Bare Bones Theater Company collaborates very much like a supportive family that inspires, creates, and feeds off each other.

Jeff’s powerful teaching style and caring personality create an acting environment where anything is possible.

Jeff Bennett is not a one trick teacher. There is never one answer to an acting problem in Bennett’s class. I still use the tools I learned in his classes in my job today.

It all comes down to having the courage to be honest and instinctual, to trust yourself and allow yourself to play, to just focus and be. That’s what Jeff taught me.

I’d never set foot on a stage before entering Jeff’s program — never even thought to — but after just one class I knew I was hooked. Jeff has a way of making even a complete beginner feel totally at ease, and he draws out talents and skills you never knew you had.

As a person who never had the nerve to get up in front of people to speak I must say that taking Jeff’s class has given me the courage to let myself go and be the person that I am today. I enjoyed the class as much as the students that joined me in it.

Jeff’s methods of teaching make me feel extremely comfortable. He makes me excited to get on the stage and always helps me to find that place my mind and body needs to be while performing!

As a folk- and square-dance caller at schools and corporate parties, I thought acting lessons might reinforce my presentation skills. With Jeff Bennett, I learned techniques that improved my voice, concentration, memory, stage presence and confidence…all in a supportive, entertaining, and loving atmosphere.

Jeff is passionate about the craft of acting, and his enthusiasm is absolutely contagious. He was a great ally in the casting of my film “The Marconi Bros.” and is constantly championing his talented students inside the film industry. As a teacher of the craft, he will always be my Lee Strasberg.

I truly enjoyed the productions I’ve viewed at The Bare Bones Theater. The actors and direction of the production were of Broadway caliber.  As an actor myself it was inspiring to see and made me want to work that much harder and better.  I would highly recommend anyone to attend.

Unending enthusiasm! He created a real professional atmosphere during productions. His love for the piece was always catching.

I have taken classes from lots of instructors over the years, but I have to say that Jeff’s class is in a league of its own. With his straight-forward technique and incredible communications skills, I was able to become a better actor than I thought possible.  His passion for the craft is unmatched by anyone else I know.

As a trial attorney, I wanted to find a way to challenge myself and gain a competitive edge on the courtroom stage. Jeff welcomed me with open arms into the theater world and gave me opportunities to grow. I enjoyed working with Jeff and my fellow students at Bare Bones, whom I can now count among my personal friends.

I would happily match Jeff Bennett against any of the vaunted acting teachers in Manhattan anytime.

Having never acted before, I joined Jeff’s class to gain skills and increased confidence for public speaking in business. To my surprise, the atmosphere of Jeff’s program released and nurtured an actor hidden deep within me. You walk into the class for the first time and soon realize that your are among students returning for the 4th or 5th time. They’re hooked on Jeff’s style and approach to creating believable performances.

One of the reasons that I enjoy Jeff’s classes so much, is the welcoming atmosphere–which reminds one more of a family gathering than of formal instruction. Secondly, his ‘take it off the page’ approach has helped me tremedously in auditioning.

Acting has been a passion and hobby of mine since I was young. Working with Jeff and my fellow actors in Bare Bones has enhanced my skills and enriched my life. It is a wonderful place to study the craft of acting. Jeff really gives you the freedom to take chances and have fun with characters.

Jeff is an extraordinary teacher and theater director. Over the years he has continued to bring to the experience fresh, innovative, and challenging techniques that encourage his students to explore and develop their talents.

Having participated in numerous dramatic interpretation competitions in the past, I’ve received a good deal of instruction about acting. Jeff Bennett stands head and shoulders above other instructors. He has a gift for maximizing his students’ acting potential. He is a master at casting as well as directing! I always look forward to his classes!

Jeff’s acting classes have an atmosphere of giving and trust. Under those conditions, anything is possible. Whether you are a recreational actor or a serious thespian, Jeff will be able to stretch your possibilities. The actor will gain dimension, growth, and range. You will become a versatile actor as your skills flourish!