APPLY FOR ADMISSION
FIRST YEAR MEISNER ACTING PROGRAM
Begins January 7th, 2025
Call To Schedule an Interview
(917) 794-3878
Gigi Rippolone: Two Year Acting Program Interview
-
5m- 0
5m
0
The two year acting program at the Maggie Flanigan Studio prepares actors for a long professional career. In this video interview, Gigi discusses how the two year acting program has changed her as an actor and as a person.
What did you think acting training was before you started studying at the Maggie Flanigan Studio?
Before I started the program at Maggie Flanigan Studio, I had no idea what I was in for. I never would have thought that I would be the person that I am or where I am now. I had read some books, taken classes and workshops and thought that was what you have to do to be an actor.
I quickly learned through our acting class and also the other classes offered in the program, like voice and movement, how to view your body as an instrument. This taught me what that means and how to create behavior with it. I learned what acting is and how much you have to train physically and mentally to really do that well. This means creating an experience not only for yourself but also for the audience to go along that journey and experience it with you.
What happened during the two years that changed your perspective on training and acting?
Through the work very quickly I learned that I was so indifferent about things I learned, that I had to have a point of view. I learned confidence and opening that and how to bring that into my work which is something I think over the years. Before this program I was always trying to be what other people wanted me to be rather than figuring out who I am and being who I am. I know now what makes me unique and have had to face a lot of fears that I did not know were there. I was able to lean into them through the support of my class mates and the teachers here. It was amazing to have the breakthroughs and experiences that have had in this program. I never would have had them if I would not have enrolled.
What did you learn about yourself that was a surprise?
I learned how to be vulnerable and how many sides of my temperament that I have and how many experiences I can have and how vivid my imagination can be and how creative I am that I definitely forgot because it had not been used in years and being able to recreate that and have a piece of work you are so proud of and to have an experience that you are proud of when you are performing. Knowing that I will always have this foundation now is priceless. It is the best gift and the best surprise that I could ever achieved living in New York taking this program.
How do you feel now that you have graduated and you are starting your professional career?
I feel very emotional now that the program is over. These people are my family. It is amazing and it is a big change. It is also exciting. I know that I am ready. I know that. I will always have the support of my teachers here. My friends here will be my family for life. I am so excited to bring this work into the world and also to see what everyone else that I have studied with how they also bring that into the world and change it for the better, which I think that this work does.
Apply Now for Admission to the Two Year Acting Program
To learn more about the two year acting program at the Maggie Flanigan Studio and how you can apply for admission, call the studio directly at (917) 794-3878.
You can also see another interview about the two year acting program in NYC from this blogpost: Charlie Wesfal: Two Year Acting Program Interview
Recent Post
9m
0
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
“I was placed in the intense reigns of Charlie Sandlan. I became a better artist, actor, friend, sibling and daughter because of the studio. Even now, I crave the studio every day. What I learned is present in my work every day. I truly believe in everything they stand for.”
“Maggie taught me that I could control my work, my acting, and to throw all of the bullshit out that I had in my head about ‘what I should be doing’ and to just listen and respond honestly, in the moment. She gave me a craft. She is, quite simply put, THE BEST.”
“Maggie Flanigan taught me the true meaning of artistry, passion, and professionalism. I am certain that I continue to work as an actress because of my training with Maggie. At every audition and every performance, her guiding voice is with me. It is a gift beyond measure.”
“Maggie Flanigan is uncompromising, her instincts as a teacher are razor sharp. She doesn’t miss a beat”
“Maggie Flanigan has been one of the most important people in my artistic life. I want to work with Maggie trained actors. As an actor myself, she is my first source. I do not say this lightly, if you are serious about acting, and willing to work very hard, then go to Maggie.”
“Maggie helped me find my sense of truth, an actors greatest asset. Maggie is an expert at instilling that vital ingredient, which allows an actor’s potential to become limitless. My work will forever be rooted in the clarity and honesty she helped me develop.”
“After working for ten years, I did the 2 year program, and now feel that I have the tools I need to become the actor I’ve always dreamed of being. Maggie Flanigan instilled in me a clear sense of truth and a standard of perfection. I am a better actor because of this studio.”
“As an actor, the core of what you have to rely on is your sense of truth and humanity. Maggie allowed me to discover and embrace mine. Trusting my sense of humanity and truth has given me the ability to take risks in my work and my career decisions.”
“Maggie Flanigan has the unique ability to get an actor to the essence of what is true in a moment. She creates a safe and caring environment in which to work.”
“Maggie Flanigan introduced me to my own spirit and my own sense of Truth. Her passion for teaching and ability to communicate are rare gifts to any actor looking for a technique to set his or her talent free. Maggie’s voice has been the one constant guide in my career.”
