About Veridian Acting Academy

Our Story: The Founding of Veridian

Veridian Acting Academy was founded in 2010 by Eleanor Vance and Marcus Bellweather, two passionate Chicago theater professionals with a shared vision: to create a nurturing and challenging environment where aspiring actors could hone their craft and realize their full potential. Eleanor, a director renowned for her innovative interpretations of classic and contemporary works, and Marcus, a seasoned actor with extensive experience on stage and screen, recognized a need for a training program that emphasized both technique and artistic expression. They envisioned an academy that would not only equip students with the skills they needed to succeed in the competitive world of acting, but also instill in them a deep appreciation for the art form itself. Located in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, Veridian Acting Academy quickly established itself as a leading center for acting education, attracting students from across the city and beyond.

Eleanor Vance's directorial work has been seen at the Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, and Lookingglass Theatre Company. Her innovative approach to storytelling and her ability to elicit powerful performances from actors have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Marcus Bellweather, a graduate of the Juilliard School, has appeared in numerous stage productions, television shows, and films. His versatility and his commitment to his craft have made him a respected figure in the Chicago acting community.

Together, Eleanor and Marcus have created a unique learning environment at Veridian Acting Academy. They have assembled a team of experienced instructors who are dedicated to helping students develop their individual talents and pursue their artistic goals. They have also fostered a strong sense of community among students, creating a supportive and collaborative atmosphere where actors can learn from each other and grow together. From its humble beginnings, Veridian has always been guided by the principles of artistic integrity, intellectual curiosity, and a deep respect for the power of storytelling.

Our Mission

At Veridian Acting Academy, our mission is to empower aspiring actors with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in the competitive world of performing arts. We strive to cultivate a supportive and inspiring learning environment where students can explore their creativity, develop their individual talents, and discover their unique artistic voices. We are committed to providing rigorous, professional-level training that prepares our graduates for careers on stage, in film, and beyond. Our commitment is reflected in the core tenants of our mission:

• To provide comprehensive training in a variety of acting techniques, including scene study, improvisation, voice and speech, movement, and on-camera acting.
• To foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can take risks, experiment, and grow as artists.
• To connect our students with industry professionals, including casting directors, agents, and working actors, to help them launch their careers.
• To instill in our students a deep appreciation for the art of acting and a commitment to lifelong learning.
• To cultivate a diverse and inclusive community where all students feel welcome, valued, and respected.

Our Core Values

Our academy is guided by a set of core values that shape our curriculum, our teaching methods, and our overall approach to acting education. These values form the foundation of everything we do at Veridian Acting Academy:

• Excellence: We are committed to providing the highest quality acting training, taught by experienced professionals who are passionate about their craft.
• Creativity: We encourage our students to explore their creativity, take risks, and develop their own unique artistic voices.
• Collaboration: We foster a collaborative learning environment where students can learn from each other, support each other, and grow together.
• Integrity: We are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in all that we do.
• Inclusivity: We embrace diversity and strive to create a welcoming and inclusive community where all students feel valued and respected.
• Community: Veridian Acting Academy cultivates a community that celebrates the shared joy of performance, fostering camaraderie amongst students.