. WAKE UP And LIVE’s Actors’ Studio serves a diverse community with emphasis on women, older adults and other minorities, high school and college drama students. We provide alternative, low-cost, economical ways for those who have limited financial resources to pursue a dream, prepare for their profession, and build an acting or other performing artist’s career. The Actors’ Studio also allows those who are not pursuing acting as a profession, to enhance the quality of their life by developing improved self-_expression and communication skills in their relationships at work, at home and in social settings.
. WAKE UP And LIVE’s Actors’ Studio is a 501(c)3 non-profit performing arts and education organization which offers an array of Performances, Presentations, Training, and Services for actors, other performing artists, corporate and business professionals which “. . . Help you get to where you want to be.”
. The “PlayActs to Go” Performances, presented by the WAKE UP And LIVE’s Actors’ Studio team of professional actors, through the Sue Johnson Business & Leadership Seminars, use a unique concept and approach which incorporates the use of acting skills and techniques for increased professional performance. Recent Acting Performances and Presentations for Business include, “Tricks of the Trade: Effective Customer Service,” “Acting Techniques to Enhance Your Public Speaking” and “Acting Techniques to Enhance Your Sales.”
About Sue Johnson & Chris Fortunato. . .
. Sue Johnson, Founder, Director, WAKE UP And LIVE's Actors' Studio offers "Tricks of the Trade: Acting Seminars for Business & Leadership Training" consultations, workshops and private coaching which are well-known throughout the performing arts and corporate community. Sue has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years as a small business consultant and as a small business owner. She shares her expertise based on her extensive experiences and the most up-to-date business development practices.
. Sue is an actor, director, producer and talent coach whose professional credits include recent appearances in Cleveland area theatres, including Agents and Assets, an LAPD production at Cleveland Public Theater. She has directed My Big Fat Dysfunctional Office, a commissioned play, numerous "PlayActs" Performances, staged readings for Jim Spriggs' Terror on Biddle Stree t(2005), and Faye Sholiton’s All Things Being Equal (2006) for Karamu's Arenafest. TV credits include A & E's 100 Centre Street, and films, Antwone Fisher directed by Denzel Washington, and The Year That Trembled, Jay Craven, Director. Her talent resume lists numerous TV commercials, industrials, and voiceovers.
. As Director, Sue also combines her professional acting and motivational speaking talents to present her widely acclaimed Sue Johnson Acting Seminars for Business, Life Enrichment Programs, Personal Power Series and Guest Artist Presentations.
. She produces, directs and co-hosts WAKE UP And LIVE with the ARTS TV show with Chris Fortunato, which showcases and celebrates the diversity of the performing arts and artists, and cultural arts in northeast Ohio. The performing & cultural arts program airs Adelphia Cable, ch. 21, eastern suburbs and ch. 23, western suburbs, on Cox Cable, ch. 45 & Cleveland Access, ch. 25.
. Sue is also an author & currently writes “Tricks of the Trade” articles for Blue-ize, the Magazine for Young Performing Artists.
Some of her publications include:
TRICKS OF THE TRADE . . . TECHNIQUES, TOOLS, TRAINING & SURVIVAL SKILLS FOR ACTORS, an Actors’ Handbook for Aspiring and Experienced Actors
Living Your Life with Smiles & Light, A ‘goofy ‘ guide to get you through your day.
Tricks of the Trade. A Spiritual Approach to Pursuing Your Passion, a booklet of inspiration and affirmations.
Harlem Blues, a one-act play, co-authored with Ruby Fox and Gary Webster
Norma, “holds court” with the WAKE UP And LIVE’s Actors’ Studio team |
Christopher Fortunato, "The Actor's Lawyer", is Associate Director of WAKE UP And LIVE's Actors' Studio. A criminal and civil lawyer since 1987, Chris has also prepared income and estate taxes for clients. One area he has knowledge of is self-employment matters, having been self-employed for a number of years. While pursuing his law practice, Chris still “pursues his passion” and has appeared in local professional productions at Porthouse, Ensemble Theatre, Cain Park and Beck Center. He is an EMC and a member of AFTRA
. . . . .
Here is a sampling of what people are saying about . . .
WAKE UP And LIVE’s Actors’ Studio
and
WAKE UP And LIVE with the ARTS
"Sue Johnson and Adelphia are to be commended for providing a format that helps support arts activities in the region. I enjoyed being interviewed by Sue and Chris Fortunato. They were professional, warm, engaging and very complete in their questions."
Fred Sternfeld
Producer of Theatre for the Jewish Community Center
Director, School of Theatre & Fairmount Performing Arts Camp at Fairmount Center
Free-Lance Director
“I greatly admire your professionalism and kindness. You're doing a lot of good by sharing what you know.”
Sarah Morton
Playwright
“My experience with the Actors' Studio was extremely positive. I came to the sessions seeking a refresher for my rusty voiceover skills, having been out of the business for many years. The workshops opened my eyes to just how much the business had changed. I learned a lot not only from Sue Johnson, but some of the other experienced participants, as well. The patience, professionalism and expertise Sue possesses was invaluable to me. Sue goes above and beyond the "call of money" to be helpful. You can count on Sue outside of class to volunteer her time for one-on-one "tutoring," professional guidance, and any other support that's needed. She genuinely wants her students to succeed and excel, for in doing so, she succeeds and continues to excel. I came to the first class with a narrow view of my abilities and left with the confidence to be successful in the theater, in front of the camera, and as a voice talent, too. I have improved and developed many skills through being involved with the worthwhile Actors' Studio.”
Renee Harrison
Owner, Gift Baskets with Personality, Inc.
“WAKE UP AND LIVE WITH THE ARTS TV show has been an inspiration and I feel honored and blessed to be a part of Sue Johnson's dream for artists of all ages . . . . . and as a team member I'm looking forward to devoting my time to master my craft and fulfill my artistic goals, and inspire others to fulfill theirs at WAKE UP AND LIVE WITH THE ARTS TV SHOW, the place where artists can begin to make their dreams a reality . . . . . You are not only an inspiration but my mentor as well.”
Clarise Carlisle
Aspiring actress and writer
“Wake Up and Live with the Arts was a wonderful venue for my husband's band 'STRATOS' to be showcased. Sue Johnson and Chris Fortunato are fabulous hosts and the atmosphere at the studio is one of 'fun and family'. That is not to dismiss the professionalism of the entire team. They work to to properly 'prep' the guests and instruct them on what to expect each step of the way, while still making sure that everyone is comfortable and at ease. All the STRATOS members are truly grateful to have had the opportunity to perform on the program and be seen by the community.”
Brenda J. Davis-Smith spokesperson
for Alphonzo G. Smith, Jr. and STRATOS
“I would just like . . . . . to say that the experience of being on your show was a wonderful experience. Your staff was very professional and the outcome was excellent. As a guest I felt like I was at a 4 star Hotel. Everyone made me feel right at home. I look forward to seeing your show on TV for many years to come.”
Damion Fontaine
Contracted Producer/Director
Cox Communications, Inc.
“. . . . . thank you for having me as a guest on your "Wake Up and Live with the Arts" television show. I had a great time being on your panel and was very impressed with the professionalism of you and your crew. In our oft times negative world, it is so refreshing to know such positive information and attitude is being provided to it's viewers. Feel free to contact me any time you need a guest. I'm proud to appear on such a well-run production.”
Mary Faktor
Faktor's Talent Network, Inc.
The Angel's Nest Retreat House
"We really enjoyed appearing on 'WAKE UP AND LIVE with the ARTS' in 2005 with Sue Johnson and Chris Fortunato. The show provides an excellent opportunity to feature and explore Northeast Ohio's many diverse artists, artistic organizations and arts events. Since Sue and Chris are both professional artists themselves, the discussions are informed and lively and thought-provoking. I know of no other television forum which regularly interviews artists in Cleveland, and this serves a critical purposes for two reasons: it allows the artists to be seen, and it allows hiring venues and funders and potential partners to learn what these artists have to offer. Since the arts are an important part of any society, this show also provides an important civic service to the general community, as well! I hope this show continues to perform this wonderful service for Northeast Ohio!"
Tom Kerr
Executive Director
Kulture Kids, (a non-profit arts organization serving schools, child care centers, and other educational venues with multicultural arts programs and workshops)
“. . . . . becoming a member of the Wakeup and Live team has been fun; and has given me the opportunity to work in areas . . . . . where I was given hands-on experience before and behind the camera.”
Iris Tucker-Berry
Actor, Playwright, Director
“I would like to express my thanks and appreciation to Sue Johnson, WAKE UP And LIVE, for motivating me to continue my writing. Because of her praise and dedicated devotion to the arts, I was able to have one of my plays accepted and produced at an off Broadway theater in New York.”
Ruby Fox
Playwright
“The Actors' Studio is an awesome place to hone your craft, experiment with a range of characters and situations, as well as learn new techniques. Above all things, I would have to say that Sue Johnson is the best part about this experience. She is like the Maya Angelou of Cleveland. She is a writer, an educator, an author, an actress, a playwright, a producer, a director, and a vessel of wisdom and unique power. She is full of wisdom, compassion, joy, creation, fun, and life. There is a lot of poetry and beauty in her words, and most importantly, she is a mentor. There is so much to be learned when in her presence. The Actors’ Studio is great for personal growth and taking initiative in your career.”
Bernadette Lords
Actor, Author
“The Actors’ Studio was the catalyst that jump-started my involvement into acting after a long period of procrastination and insecurity because of age and skill ability. Sue Johnson was knowledgeable about agencies and persons I needed to contact to get started and also taught me very valuable skills in my quest to be a voice over performer. Although I have not yet become the voice over or commercial actress I want to be, I have performed in several plays and have been asked to audition. I would recommend the Actors’ Studio to anyone. Thanks Sue.”
Pam Howell
Actor
“WAKE UP and LIVE with the ARTS is a vital part of Cleveland's theatrical community, and the TV Show is another link in this growing chain of successes. Their ability to bring local theatre artists together to compare notes and offer 'insider tips' is invaluable. The program is a real blend of enthusiastic encouragement to keep following your artistic dreams, mixed with clear-eyed advice on how much work it will take to reach those dreams. And it's a lot of fun."
Eric Coble
Playwright
"I had a wonderful time appearing on WAKE UP and LIVE! Sue is just a delight to work with and it was nice to be able to talk in such a relaxed setting. The other guests were so talented I was honored to be among them. It's really an extremely unique opportunity for not only the guests, but the audience to have so much entertainment and information right at their fingertips. The show provides the audience with the chance to preview a lot of local talent for themselves without having to rely on a review or other people's opinions - and they don't even have to leave their house! Keep it growing!!!"
Jennifer M. Hoffman
Theater Education/Front Desk Coordinator
Solon Center for the Arts
“. . . . . I've worked with Sue Johnson and the Wake Up and Live Actors Studio since 1998. As Playwright- in-Residence, Sue has given me the opportunity to hone my skills as an actor, writer, and director as well as mentoring me in many phases of the acting and entertainment industry.”
Gary Webster
Actor, Playwright, Director
“I have had the pleasure of working with Sue Johnson of Wake Up and Live Actor's Studio as both a coach and director. Sue shares her knowledge of all things entertainment with an obvious joy. What I most appreciate about her are her honest assessments and her sincere encouragement. These are things actors' cannot do without, on the road to success. I recommend Sue Johnson and WU & L no matter what your area of interest in entertainment.”
Beverly Kristy
Actor
“I love to be a part of your show, WAKE UP AND LIVE WITH ARTS. It is truly a great experience working with you all on the set . . . . . THANK YOU VERY MUCH . . . . .”
Jerome Cook, Intern
Ohio Center for Broadcasting
“Sue has been a guest lecturer for several years. She easily communicates with the students . . . expresses her ideas confidently and helps them understand the field of theatre”
Arleen Hartman
Former Professor, Arts & Humanities
Capital University
“Because of Sue Johnson’s incredible communication, sales and marketing skills, our Arts in Strongsville organization has benefited enormously.”
Sandra L. Kornich
Former Founder & President
Arts in Strongsville
“Ms. Johnson . . . consistently gets excellent comments from participants. Many people have enrolled in (one) workshop and end up taking the whole series.”
Debbie Simpson
Former Coordinator, Continuing and Professional Education
Cuyahoga Community College
. . . . .
Contact us . . .
Contact us at: wakeup4664@aol.com. Or, write to:
Sue Johnson, Director
WAKE UP And LIVE’s Actors’ Studio
P.O. Box 201524
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
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