When I was in nine years old I began to have debilitating anxiety attacks that greatly inhibited me as a child. Despite developing some amazing coping mechanisms, (any of my friends from school would be unaware to this day of what I went through) I was eventually diagnosed with Agorophobia, or fear of leaving familiar surrounds.
I went through all my school years unable to go on school camps, and even sleepovers saw me being picked up at 11pm. Right through to when I was studying to be a teacher I was at times crippled with fear behind closed doors.
It was at this time I discovered acting. To say It changed my life is an understatement. With in weeks of starting classes I began to find new found confidence, direction in life and dare I say a reason to live. I eventually left teaching to study the performing arts at University and it was here as a 27 year old when I started the Australian Acting Academy. A place where everyone, no matter what class, creed or colour could feel safe as they grew and discovered their strengths.
This Business has not only developed some great talent, and given professional opportunities to rising stars. It has equally been a place of hope, and somewhere to belong for thousands of students.
Our staff share my passion for the benefits the performing arts give, and are loved and inspired by the students. I often am in awe at the great work the students do, and the results they achieve artistically and personally. As a father of 3, with one on the way, and as a relatively successful actor, I have few regrets in my life, but I can’t help but wonder if my life would have been different had my parents given me the same opportunity when I was younger.
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