Hanna Gaffney

Due to COVID all classes were taught via zoom, but with such talented and adaptable students this proved not only effective but useful for an ‘acting for the camera’ class. We played original acting games like “Take the Note”, which enabled students to learn to take direction, studied the vernacular of being ‘on-set’, prepared and performed multiple commercials and learned the difference between them.

To sign your child up for a Walnut Street Theatre Education Class, click HERE.

One of my favorite experiences as a teacher, or in this case a “professor” was at the Fiddleheart Academy! Nestled in Lambertville, NJ students arrive to an old mill site, which will now be their magical campus! Each professional actor created a character that they lived in, as an immersive theatrical experience for the attending students. I taught lessons about “dark magic” and students worked together to solve the mystery afoot on campus. Fiddleheart teaches kids (of all ages) how to work together, listen intently, play hard, and approach their fellow students (and their lives!) with empathy, respect, and compassion. To sign YOUR young one up for class, or for more information please click HERE.

At Chester County Arts Association I teach one of my favorite skill sets "Special Effects Makeup". We work on an array of gore effects like bruising, blood and open wounds. Students learn how to work with gelatin, grease paint, liquid latex, and make homemade blood to create a final unique look at the end of the week.
Check out my Makeup Design website HERE.

In Theatre Horizon’s Summer Drama Camp, I work with a co-director to teach young actors how to work as an ensemble to create an original play. Everything from the setting to the plot to the characters are created by the students. On the last day, they perform their world premiere play for an audience with props and costumes!

At WOLF PAC in Bryn Mwar, PA I worked with several other teaching artists to help the students develop their acting, singing and dancing skills as well as understanding the importance of ensemble. I taught elective classes such as “table-top stories” while assisting with the final production.

When I find myself home in Wisconsin I love coming back to work at the Souls Song LLC where students of all ages work to learn how to "Act the Song" in preparation for an audition, competition, performance, or sometimes just to help the younger students break out of their shell. We discuss moment before, intentions, arc and concrete needs to build the song and help the actor feel more comfortable and confident with their piece.

I also teach master classes at my High School alma mater Oconomowoc High School in Wisconsin. I talk with the aspiring actors about what it means to be in the business today, how to decide on audition material for auditioning for college, and professional auditions, and even directing and playwriting your own work.