Brian Powell

I enjoy and excel in helping my students discover who they are as artists and what direction they want to take in their career. I have a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University and over thirty years of experience as an actor, teacher, director, producer and writer in the theatre, film and television industry. I have worked with John Cusack, Tim Robbins, Jack Black, Minnie Driver, Joan Cusack, and many others. I have experience on both sides of the camera and know what it takes to work professionally in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

I am currently based in Louisville, KY.

Working together.

I start with where the student is and work through character development and emotional connection to the work. Scene study and improv provide the foundation, working from a number of proven methods as well as finding what works for each student individually.

I help you bring out what is unique and powerful in your personality and talent. I teach you to approach the work with courage and passion, helping to guide you through your career from the beginning to your first major success.

Let’s work together!

Leah T

I am so grateful to have started my acting journey with Brian! Through his private sessions and scene study classes, Brian has provided both the support and challenge that has helped to grow my artistic expression and confidence.

He is incredibly intuitive and has a way of picking up on the essence of his students to build on their strengths. I have felt very seen and supported by Brian in our work together. And just when I believe I can't possibly do more, he presents opportunities that have felt slightly out of reach, and through his gentle encouragement and instruction, I've surprised myself with what I've been capable of realizing. His sensitivity and attunement to his students, along with his values of playfulness makes for a fun, fulfilling, and magical experience.

Cara C

After a 30-year hiatus from acting, I returned to the craft unsure of what to expect.

I've now had the privilege of working with Brian Powell for over a year, and I can confidently say that his guidance has been transformative for me as an artist.

From day one, he created a space that was deeply respectful, supportive, and challenging - a balance that allowed me to take risks, explore honestly, and grow in ways I didn't expect. His insight into character work, emotional truth, and the creative process is remarkable and helped me expand my toolkit as an actor. What's more, he encourages curiosity and individuality, which has taught me to trust my instincts and bring more of myself to the work.

Because of working with Brian, I began auditioning at local community theatres a few months ago and just got cast in my second show.

That would've felt impossible a year ago!

I am incredibly grateful for the guidance and mentorship Brian has already provided me on this journey. I look forward to continuing to work with him in the future and growing even more as an artist.

Thomas L

I started working with Brian about a year and a half ago, I wanted to find an acting coach and got in touch with him online. Given my experience working with him, I couldn't recommend him more to someone who has a serious desire to improve as a person and artist.

His style is very personal and tailored to helping the individual develop their own process and skills. He has a lot of professional background and experience, and he blends that with his uncanny ability to understand how people operate and what makes them tick. Additionally, he approaches teaching with a deep passion that you feel, and as far as you want to go with your work, he'll go there with you, offering his guidance and experience. If you're passionate about doing the work to improve as an artist and human being, Brian is a great person to help you embark on that journey.

Doug S

I had little to no acting experience before meeting Brian Powell. Honestly, I wasn't sure what to expect after responding to his acting coach ad through my talent agency. To my delight, it was evident from the beginning that not only does Brian know how to act, but he also knows how to nurture that ability in others.

I'm introverted by nature, so acting truly spikes my anxiety levels. But Brian's calm, empathetic, and welcoming demeanor helped ease my anxiety by offering me a safe space to train. His extensive experience in the acting and entertainment world has placed him in a unique position to foster the talents of a new generation of actors, as well as help experienced actors hone their craft to new heights.

Honestly, I consider myself lucky for the time spent training with Brian as I still use lessons learned from him every time I prepare for an audition or role.

I highly recommend Brian to actors of all levels.