The Official Del Shores Website
TESTIMONIALS RE: WORKSHOPS, PRIVATE COACHING & AUDITING
"I have been a film acting coach in Dallas for over 18 years, and in that time I have only recommended one person to my actors for workshops. She is a casting director that got her start in Texas and loves the Texas actors. Then I met Del Shores. It all started when I requested he be my friend on Facebook, and he accepted. We exchanged emails and he invited me as his guest to audit his upcoming Dallas workshop for SAG's ProAct program. I fell in love that day! What an amazing workshop and what an amazing man Del is. He's so incredibly talented, caring and hysterically funny. He gives the actors tools they can use to breathe life into their characters and a plethora of auditioning and nerve reducing techniques. I was so impressed I asked Del if he would come back to Dallas and give a workshop for the actors from my studio, R.E.A.C.T. All of my actors knew how excited I was about Del and what he had to teach that they filled up one entire two day weekend workshop and part of another. They have all been raving ever since. In fact, many are signing up for his auditioning workshop coming up in May. So, my dear sweet Del, you are now officially only the second person I have ever recommended to my actors...and I will continue to do so for many years to come. And, yes, Dallas adores you!" MICHELE CONDREY, R.E.A.C.T. Acting Studio, Dallas.
"Acting is not a solitary experience and even veteran actors need a community in which to develop their craft. In his scene study and audition workshops, Del creates such a supportive environment for the work, that everyone is encouraged to take risks as well as to understand their own casting and where they are likely to be successful. Working actors contribute to the discussion of industry trends adding to the professional value of Del's classes, and there are opportunities for networking, another big part of this business. I learned as much watching him work with everyone else as I did when I was up myself." STEPHANIE DUNNAM, Dallas Audition Workshop, 5/16 & 5/17
"Attended Del’s audition workshop yesterday, and I have to tell you it was worth every penny. He has a real affinity for the actor and his craft. His work with each individual was personal, and I know each of us went away with something tangible and of use to our profession. I was blown away by his ability to transform our audition styles into really useful tools. What a great teacher!" RICHARD OLSEN, Dallas Audition Workshop, 5/16 & 5/17
I'm so glad that I came to both of your workshops. I got so much from both the scene study and the auditioning workshop. As crazy as it sounds the scene study workshop was life changing for me in several different ways that I can't thank you enough for!! It took me a couple days to let it all sink in but once it did a whole new light for me !!! I believe you have truly been given a gift to connect with people and it shows so I think that's what makes you so AWESOME at the things you do from directing,writing,or just coming and doing the workshops. Your know one of my FAVORITE people ever !!! I would recommend anything your doing to any one !!! I trust you and love ya !!! that's not easy to come by these days so when I come across it I feel truly blessed !! Tell Jason he rocked as our reader!" JENNIFER PILARCIK, Dallas Audition Workshop, 5/16 & 5/17
"The audition workshop was fantastic! Del truly is a fan of the actor. If I knew everyone in Hollywood was as sweet and compassionate as Del, I would have moved there a long time ago. I highly recommend his workshop. The workshop is a must for all actors at all levels. I learned techniques and tricks that I will use for the rest of my professional career." ANDREA COHEN, Dallas Audition Workshop, 5/16 & 5/17
"Your audition workshop has made ALL of the difference in my auditioning confidence. Because of your practical steps for calming nerves, I now walk into auditions and own the room. The fight or flight response used to kick in and I was never able to perform up to my true abilities. All that has changed. The marketing tips were also fantastic, your “think out of the box” philosophy gives actors a leg up on the competition. You have an innate talent for finding the uniqueness in each performer and the gift of nurturing that into something amazing, even in beginning actors. I could go on and on. You’ll never know the difference you’ve made in the life of this actress. I’m excited to see what the future holds for me. Your workshop gives actors the secret ingredients to success from someone who is there every day and knows exactly what we need to bring into the audition room. Thanks Del , from the bottom of my heart." ALLISON LUMBATIS, Dallas Audition Workshop, 5/16 & 5/17.
"I took Del's audition workshop and it was one of the best choices I've made since I moved to L.A. Del, is so positive, kind and gentle. He starts all feed back with the positives. He really knows how to put the actor at ease, so they can do the "work" instead of battling nerves the entire time. All his direction and feedback improved each monologue or scene that went up that day. One guy was brand spankin' new and had never taken an acting class before in his life. By the end of the day - his transformation was staggering. Del, knows what he's doing and knows how to communicate his knowledge in the most simple, easy to understand ways. I will take every workshop I can with Del. It was just flat out fun. Oh, and everyone in the workshop was so supportive unlike some other workshops I've been to in this city. His energy inspires that setting."
KINNA MC INROE, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
PRIVATE COACHING: "Why did I make Del Shores my first call for audition coaching for my first "series regular" audition? Because he's one of the best professional writers, directors and producers that I've worked with in the business. Del knows what questions to ask about the character & storyline and right away he helps you to make strong, specific & honest choices. And with Del's invaluable production experience, he knows who's in the room from pre-read to network/studio and he shares with you what an actor should know and expect at all steps along the audition process. My audition coaching experience with Del Shores prepared me for a successful audition."
MICHAEL TAYLOR GRAY, Los Angeles, January 2009
“I strongly recommend Del Shores' Audition Workshop. The perfect class for anyone who has struggled with nerves on an audition (and who hasn’t?). Perfect for working actors as well as those just getting into the business. I especially love the small size of the class which provides everyone an opportunity to work a few times. All this and the opportunity to be directed by Del Shores! Absolutely a great career investment.”
JASON HENKEL, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
"Dear Del, Ever since I took your audition workshop it has totally changed my auditioning. I have been in callback city!!! Last night I was going thru all the notes I took in your class for a movie callback I have on Mon. I was thinking! Jeezus! Del
needs to write a book on auditioning!!!! Thanks again :) your pal-a preacher's daughter's daughter." Heather LeRoy, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
PRIVATE COACHING: "Del worked with me on eight pages of sides, including a long monologue for an audition I had the next day. It was my first time working with him and I was nervous on the way over. It lasted until I walked in the door! I immediately felt at ease and we worked hard together over the next hour, exploring the material and the character. I left our private session feeling high about my work and thinking, “Shit, I just worked with Del Shores! I can do this!” When I walked into that room the next day, I was confident, completely connected, nailed the audition and felt like a star. The work he did with me helped take the edge off any nerves and this audition felt like a new beginning for me, after many years of auditions. Del is a highly successful director, producer and writer, yet he worked with me like I was his best friend. If you’re an actor, no matter what level, you should experience his invaluable expertise from both sides of the camera, his fine work ethic, and his incredibly supportive style of coaching."
MADONNA CACCIATORE, Los Angeles, January 2009
"Del Shores Audition Workshop is one of the best investments I have done as an actor so far. This workshop is especially designed to help actors of all levels to develop and reinforce the skills necessary to prepare an extraordinary audition that will always be remembered. With his honest feedback, professional attitude and energetic teaching technique, Del Shores helped me to get rid of my nerves, be powerful onstage and instinctively make choices that gradually embellished my performance as an actor/actress. As an actor who does drag, it is gratifying to find a writer who is able to create parts for Drag Queens and a director who is willing to work with you without prejudice. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I'll do it in a New York minute!"
AARON BARRERA, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
"Del's class was not only informative, but fun as well. He took my existing knowledge of the industry and built on it, filling in all the gaps with real-world experience. I would recommend this program to any actor wanting to learn from not only a true industry professional, but from a great person as well!"
MATT MOORE, Dallas, November 8, 2008 Audition Workshop
Del Shores' "Auditioning and Getting the Job" Workshop has opened my mind to the many possibilities that being comfortable and prepared for auditioning
can do not only for my career, but for my personal growth as well. His insight into the industry and depth of knowledge and talent, make Del one of, if not the MOST, formidable teachers in all of Los Angeles! Del and his workshop helped to fuel my fire and passion for acting and has encouraged me to embrace the art of auditioning. Thanks Del!"
GUY WINDSOR, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
"I found auditing Del's workshop to be an experience that transcends the stage. The tools he offers both from a spiritual and practical side not only assist the actor, but lend themselves to a fresh perspective on business meetings, corporate interviews, and personal communication. The level of energy and creativity Del pulls from seasoned actors and newcomers is infectious."
JAY WHITE, Richmond, Virginia - Los Angeles January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
"The Del Shores Audition Workshop was the best "shot in the arm" I could have asked for to get me excited again about auditioning. Unlike other workshop instructors, Del allows the actor ample opportunity to work so that he can provide constructive, honest feedback. The confidence I've gained from the workshop has made my recent auditions fearless and enjoyable as opposed to the nerve-racking ordeals they used to be. I auditioned the very next day, got a callback and booked the job!!"
MELISSA JOBE, Dallas, November 8, 2008 Audition Workshop
"After I took Del Shores audition workshop the first thing I did was to contact my manager and tell her to have every single client take the class. Not only is Del knowledgeable and informative but he is also warm and caring. When he gives you any criticisms not only is it spot on but it is delivered with a since of caring that I have not often found in acting teachers. Del is definitely an actor's director but also and perhaps more important he is a people's person. He just honestly gives a damn!"
KATHYJEAN HARRIS, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
"Del has a keen eye, and he offers great incite on auditioning and scene preparation for the working actor."
LISA HARPS, Los Angeles, January 24, 2009 Audition Workshop
"I learned a lot from the workshop. Working on auditioning with my favorite playwright was an eye-opening experience.I learned both from working in front of Del and the audience of other actors, and from watching all the acting work...especially the feedback Del gave to myself and the others. It has changed how I perceive both acting and auditioning. I feel it has redirected my acting path and sent me in the right direction. It was a fantastic experience."
ROBIN RAVEN, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
"Del Shores' workshop surpassed all expectations for me! His insight into the industry that he shares so willingly, and his energy, passion and honesty for everyone who attended the workshop should not be missed. If you have an opportunity to spend a day with Del, you should make every effort to be there."
TERRI SIMMONS, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
Del runs his workshops with humor, passion and great support for the actors. I learned several tips that I will carry with me to my next audition. It's apparent that Del loves what he does and wants to share his experience and enthusiasm with his students. I recommend is workshops highly!
BONNIE CAHOON, Los Angeles, January 17, 2009 Audition Workshop
"I am in the beginning stages of getting back into the world of acting. Being new to Los Angeles, I wasn't sure where to turn or how to even get started. Del provided a non-threatening, very nurturing experience that allowed me to benchmark, conduct a reality check and get excited about auditioning again. This workshop is extremely valuable for the most green and the most experienced actor."
JEFF ADAMS, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, January 24, 2009 Audition Workshop
"WOW! I can’t even begin to think of a better way for an actor to spend some incredible hours learning. Whether you are new to the business or are working, you must take Del Shores' Audition Workshop. Del gives such unique attention to each actor and sincerely wants them to improve their techniques. With him, it’s about our uniqueness as individuals and he pushes hard for the actor to make choices without taking unnecessary risks. Even though I have been in the business a while, the audition experience has always been the bane of my career. Del takes all of that nervousness of the audition process and literally forces you in his wonderful way to turn it incredible positive energy. In just one day I was able to quit “acting” my way through an audition and start “being” He sincerely wants actors who really want to improve to get better and better. He is your best cheerleader and candid coach, all rolled into one. And he’ll tell you the truth. I can’t wait to get back into one of Del’s classes and I highly encourage any actor who is sincere about the craft of acting take one of his classes. Don’t delay, Do it now! You’ll come out on the other side a more confident performer, guaranteed!"
TOM MC HENRY-HOUSTON, Los Angeles, January 24, 2009 Audition Workshop
I'm just writing to tell you I had a wonderful time yesterday. You're an amazing coach. I had a ton of fun and learned a lot. Hopefully I can take some private coaching lessons in the future, I'd love to learn more from you. THANK YOU!
TOREY WIDENER, Los Angeles, January 24, 2009 Audition Workshop
I've known for a long time that you have a tremendous gift for getting good performances out of actors. Over the years you've created many a unique and memorable character and brought them to life by choosing the right actors for those roles. Your audition workshop was a fantastic glimpse at the process you employ to find the best in actors and how you encourage actors to find the best in themselves. Your special way of putting actors at ease is most certainly a gift, which in a perfect world would be bottled and distributed to every casting office in the land. I left the workshop feeling empowered and looking forward to the next audition. I've got a whole new set of shiny new tools to work with. Thank you for opening up your time and talents to teach, inspire and motivate. In a town where time is money and money is tight, I can say wholeheartedly that it was worth every cent and every minute.
WYATT EARP, Los Angeles, January 24, 2009 Audition Workshop
I just wanted to write and express my gratitude for Saturday! It was a profound experience...I've been in a barren period as an actor for a quite awhile, and my world has been consumed by different forms of creative expression.
Being on my own, in my head, and away from acting had amplified my insecurities. Doing that scene for you was the first piece I had done in a few years. Your supportive words tore away a wall I had. The workshop, both the audit and the participation, re-stored something that I had misplaced. For that, I cannot thank you enough!!!
RICHARD LEVI, Los Angeles, January 24, 2009 Audition Workshop
Del Shores will show you what works and what doesn't work when you're in front of those people responsible for hiring you. And then he's going to inspire you to take one of those small steps forward toward fulfilling your dream.
ROSS BLAKE, Dallas 2/14/09 Audition Workshop
"With his obvious affection for actors and his multi-layered experience in this business we call "Show", Del is an inspired coach, champion and advocate for his students' personal growth and success! Two thumbs up!"
CJ CRITT, Dallas 2/14/09 Audition Workshop
“It was great to see the actors shift under your guidance that helped them calm their nerves, find their levels and shine like the stars they are. What a treat to hear so many different scenes that have emerged from you! I still giggle over you naming the hooker in my scene Sparkle—it gives an actor so much with which to work. And I know all of us appreciated how supportive and direct you are with each person."
LISA DALTON, Dallas 2/14/09 Audition Workshop
"I've been in the business for twenty years and have never had a class or workshop where I learned or enjoyed myself more. To miss a workshop with Del is truly an opportunity wasted, I couldn't recommend Del more, a terrific experience."
PAUL SPEAKS, Dallas 2/14/09 Audition Workshop
Dear Del,
First, let me say that I knew you were incredibly talented in many areas, but you are not only a brilliant writer. You are a prolific writer.
Your workshop last week (was it only last week) was invigorating and illuminating. I have acted, directed and taught for many years ( I am what you call a mature actor) in many circles. You reminded me why I am in this industry. To communicate and share truth and humor and love and pain and get connected with life through art. You are compassionate and honest and supportive of everyone learning this craft and you are inspiring on every level. Thank you for sharing your gifts and talents....
LINDA LEONARD, Dallas 2/14/09 Audition Workshop
"I have been acting 40+ years, in fact I have a pension from Screen Actors Guild, and I learned a great deal of very helpful info in Del’s Scene Study and Audition workshops. The opportunity to work out in such a loving and supportive group was affirming, enlightening, inspiring and downright fun." ROSEMARY ALEXANDER, Los Angeles Scene Study, 2/28 and 3/7 2009
Del:
Thank you so much for having me in the class, Del. I learned lots of new things, and feel more confident about auditioning and scene work now. You're the best." CALPERNIA ADDAMS, Los Angeles Scene Study, 2/28 and 3/7 2009
I had been away from the craft I love for too long, and was looking for a place to 'work the rust out.' I jumped in to Del Shores' class and couldn't have given myself a better gift. Del is an actor's director, a gifted teacher and coach, who establishes an atmosphere in class that is as supportive as it is kick-ass inspiring.
As a teacher, Del has an eagle eye, a compassionate way of reminding us what we already know, and offers shrewd insight and fresh information that come from his wealth of experience as a producer, writer and director. I would wholeheartedly recommend Del's classes to all actors, at all levels of skill and accomplishment.
BEVERLY NERO, Los Angeles Scene Study, 2/28 and 3/7 2009
I have taken 2 of Del's workshops in LA, and they were both amazing. He is a true actors friend. He is very compassionate but also truthful. He really wants you to succeed as an actor, and it shows in his teaching. I reccomend Del to everyone interested in nailing a good audition!!! DONNY MEACHAM, Los Angeles Audition Class, 2/24 & 3/14
"The audition workshop was fantastic! Del truly is a fan of the actor. If I knew everyone in Hollywood was as sweet and compassionate as Del, I would have moved there a long time ago. I highly recommend his workshop. The workshop is a must for all actors at all levels. I learned techniques and tricks that I will use for the rest of my professional career." ANDREA COHEN, Dallas Audition Workshop, 5/16 & 5/17.
Dear Del,
Thank you for a terrific audition workshop on Saturday. Bev has spoken highly of you, so it was great to have the opportunity to meet you and take your class. I really enjoyed this workshop, and there were several lessons that stood out for me: be in control and own the room from the moment you walk in. Also, decide when to start the scene (or nod if you don’t have the first line). It was great to hear these things and realize that we can walk into an audition and be able to do those things. Sometimes, it’s easy to follow someone else’s lead—-uncertain of the extent of what we can do, and what would be crossing the line…so it was great to have this affirmed and also see firsthand through the actors in class on how these methods can be efficient. I also really appreciated the insightful and positive feedback that you gave to each actor. I learned a lot from your comments, which also helped to create a safe and nurturing environment where I wasn’t afraid to take risks. Taking your class made me want to do workshops everyday, or at least, on a weekly basis. Acting truly is a muscle that needs to be exercised continuously, and I’d love the opportunity to train and expand my range—-learning how to play different types of characters more efficiently. Thank you for this, and please let me know when you’ll be teaching more workshops. I look forward to learning more from you, and even better yet, hope to work with you someday.
Sincerely, KALEN FEENEY, Los Angeles Audition Class, 3/14
Hola Del,
I am so glad I went to your workshop. It was a great experience and your approach and feedback were right on the target. Your direction and indication to the details helps the actor, at least me, to bring the acting to the next level. You watched and judged our "audition callback" process and I think you overshadow Simon from American Idol with your sharp and helpful comments. I really enjoyed doing my "mock audition", as well as, watching the others, because I learned from every one; especially because you knew how to speak to each individual actor and in doing so, it helps to bring forth the best of every one or at least to get in touch with that creative energy. Thank you and for sure I will be looking forward to get one on one coaching. I appreciate the introduction to Ferne Cassel, she asked me for Headshot and Demo Reel, would you send me her email address and info.
Saludos y disfruta tu viaje a Dallas. JORGE JIMENEZ, Los Angeles Audition Class, 3/14
"Del's audition workshop was inspiring and encouraging. His insights were dead-on, his support was genuine. I enjoyed every minute of it. I actually LOVE to audition again!" JILL TURNBOW, Los Angeles Audition Class, 3/14
I attended the Del Shores workshop this weekend and what a fabulous director, coach and most of all someone who loves his work and loves actors. I can tell you Del's workshop is more than worth your money. So be glad you signed up. DEBORAH JONES, Dallas Scene Study Worshop, 3/21 & 3/22.
Dear Del...Thank you! I mean it...THANK YOU!!! I got more out of this workshop than any other that I've attended. Your care and concern for actors is a real breath of fresh air. We're all such a bunch of nerve-riddled flakes that it was nice to have someone who kinda ''gets it.'' I felt totally comfortable. I wish you continued success, my friend. Your work has made the tapestry of the show-biz world a little better, and a hell of a lot more colorful. Thank you again for a great weekend! Kind regards, FRANK STEEL, Dallas Scene Study Workshop 3/21 & 3/22
I’ve been an acing coach with R.E.A.C.T. for 14 years, and have been acting since I was 14. I have taken dozens of workshops/seminars over the years. Del is by far, the most passionate, giving, informative and hysterically funny person than any I’ve ever experienced in a workshop environment. He truly loves actors, and you feel safe to do your best work. He is insightful, and makes simple changes producing complex, and often brilliant results. I’ve never been in a workshop where I’ve seen so many actors consistently exhibiting excellent work. That speaks to his commitment to your greatness. I learned more specifics about the “business” of the business. He empowered us, many times, to take control of our careers, get ourselves in front of the powers that be, and make something happen. He shared several personal stories to illustrate these points resulting in his successes, never to brag, only to show that it can be done with a lot of hard work from us. He definitely lit a fire in me. I highly recommend this workshop for talent at any level, from beginners to seasoned veterans. All actors should have a weekend like this one! Better than chocolate! NANCY CHARTIER, Dallas Scene Study Workshop 3/21 & 3/22
"I was so very fortunate to participate in Del’s scene study workshop here in Dallas; I also completed the audition workshop held in February. I found Del to be an amazingly gifted and brilliant director and coach. I have done a number of good workshops over the last few years. And I have worked with some very good directors and coaches. But I have to say without a doubt, Del’s workshops exceed anything I have experienced. The thing with Del is that he LOVES actors and is so compassionate, and you feel safe with him to take those “risks”. He totally understands the humanity of the character you become in the work you are doing. The direction and guidance he provides truly helps you to deliver the essence of the scene, whether it’s comedy or an intimate dramatic piece. If you should have the opportunity to do his workshop, do it. It is worth your time and money with a huge return on your investment. And the experience will go above and beyond anything you have probably encountered." MARGARET SANCHEZ, Dallas Audition Workshop 2/14 and Dallas Scene Study Workshop 3/21 & 3/22.
Del’s scene study workshop this past weekend reminded me why I love acting and how much fun it can be. He loves working with actors and it shows. The combination of encouragement, honesty and amazing direction is what sets this workshop apart from the many other’s I’ve taken. His enthusiasm when talking about the craft inspired me to not only be a better actor, but to remember that it’s called show “business” and we are responsible for our own success. I loved the way Del took his time with each person and made sure that everyone’s work was evaluated at their own experience level. I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone. By the end of the weekend I saw people take giant leaps in what they felt they were capable of. Thanks again Del for empowering us all.
KRISTEN MC CULLOUGH, Dallas Scene Study Workshop 3/21 & 3/22
Del: I think i need to really thank you a lot. I hadn't booked any of the television jobs i went out for in 2008 (kath & kim, terminator, new adventures of old christine, emancipation of ernesto, mind of mencia, dexter). before that I'd average 3-4 a year since 2003. Since your workshop, I've booked every audition I went on. I told you about Southland and using the breath in/breathe out the character thing you talked about and booking it. But I also just booked & filmed a (comedic) co-star on Bruckheimer's ABC pilot and 5 pages on Criminal Minds & a few random others. I think it was a combination of you teaching about walking in feeling like a star and making me make big choices and just leave it all in the room. Whatever it was, thank you. WILLAM BELLI, Los Angeles Scene Study Workshop 2/28.
Today was brilliant, Del. It will forever change the way I audition. So glad to soak up some of your energy. I was blown away by the talent ... some I was aware of, many were new to me. It was inspirational! DANNY PROCTOR, Nashville Audition Workshop, 4/3
Thanks for a phenomenal workshop! You have an amazing ability to "peel the onion" and get a core performance that the actor didn't even know was there. What a gift! The workshop was transformational. I am going to take all of your advice and I'm looking forward to moving to the next level. THEREN WOMACK, Nashville Audition Workshop, 4/3
Recently I took Del Shores Audition Workshop in San Francisco. Wow, what a treat. Del was very spent time with each actor honestly critiquing their audition peice. He worked with each of us individually giving us notes on where to change and how to approach the scene. It was amazing how he was able to make each of us comfortable and move us forward. I so appreciated his ideas about auditions--especially to treat each audition as a performance--boy does that take your nerves away! Since taking the class, I have had three auditions and booked each one! Thanks Del--You are awesome and wish you the best! I hope to work with you again very soon. SCOT WEAVER, San Francisco Audition Workshop, 4.19.09
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