ACTING

Breen wants to inspire a new bravery in the art of performance. To train actors to embrace their impulses boldly and without hesitation, despite the difficulties they face, creating forceful performances on stage and in front of the camera in every role.

With an emphasis on Simplicity, Action, Discipline and Courage, students will develop a deep-rooted connection to their bodies, a powerful bond with their partners and a vivid emotional life. 

Breen's key elements include:

- Bringing 100% of yourself to the moment

- Full Commitment to Action

- Organization of Energy and Imagination

- True Listening

- Reacting before you think

- Improvisation

- Concentration

- Script Exploration

- Physicality in Stillness and Motion

Teachers and practices that have inspired Breen’s approach to acting include: Stanislavski, Mamet, Chekov, Oida, Suzuki, Meindl, Alexander, Improvisation (Close, Johnstone, Napier), Viewpoints and tai chi. 

IMPROV

Breen began his improv career as a founding member of Comedysportz Portland in 1993. He has since trained in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles with numerous improv icons including Mick Napier, Amy Poehler and Keith Johnstone. He has performed at IO West, Loose Moose Theatre and at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre on the house team Pound in NYC. He currently performs with Portland's critically acclaimed long-form troupe, The Liberators. 

Breen's long-form classes emphasize:

- Playing as truthfully as possible

- Fully committing to your character's deal

- Nailing and heightening the game

- Developing rich, believable, unique characters

- Identifying and exploring themes. 

STUDIO

All classes take place at The Liberators Studio in the Falcon Art Community building in north Portland.