STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
“I’ve been able to experience Aleah as a teacher and a director, and both have been phenomenal experiences. She understands her students and truly finds a connection with each one. Her teaching methods are effective and you can see the passion and drive she has for her craft. Aleah truly is a gem amongst the teachers I’ve had in my college education.” - Smith McWaters
Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“As a Black femme teacher, Aleah has made my experience as a young, black femme actor so warm and welcoming. She is selfless when it comes to sharing knowledge for professional development and guidance in the business side of theatre. Aleah isn’t afraid to challenge actors but still stay within their personal boundaries. When she teaches, I don’t feel the need to question her creative genius because she establishes trust with all actors. Being artistically led by Aleah is a great professional and personal honor.” - Courtney Cox
Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“I had the pleasure of working with Aleah in October 2020 where she was my acting / music coach for a showcase I worked on. Aleah provided a very open space where my ideas were heard and understood. This allowed me to try things, and if they didn’t work, there was room for criticism to be shared and received that would help me grow as a performer. Overall, my time working with Aleah was one I’ll never forget and that I’m very thankful for.” - Jared Sanchez
Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“Aleah is an artist who spreads encouragement, especially during these tough times. She coached me through a monologue and a song. I was nervous and not show-ready at the time, but Aleah made sure that I was able to find my authentic voice as an actor and singer for the two pieces I was working on. She guided me through using my nervous energy. In addition, I have seen her work very well with others, and I can say that I am still using her coaching advice to this day.” -
Shahd Abbas
Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“Aleah was my Acting 1 teacher, and I absolutely adore her. She kept the lessons fun and engaging while making sure to get the material across. She encouraged everyone to participate and made each student feel comfortable with being themselves, and while keeping the environment professional, she was a very kind hearted individual. The lessons she taught inside the classroom have also been applicable to outside the classroom.” -
Natalia Lewis
Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“Aleah is more than just a fellow artist and teacher, she is a friend. I always felt I was in a comfortable space while working on a very difficult character but her encouragement and positivity made the process far easier. Her feedback was always clear and concise. She made table work fascinating and a great opportunity for exploration, and she wasn’t just willing and open to collaboration— she advocated for it. Her creative vision, talent, and beautiful energy is something I now look for in every artistic space. She has a contemporary perspective, is a natural born leader, and is able to create synergy in any space.” -
Gwyneth Doppelt
Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“Aleah is extremely kind, supportive, and passionate about the arts and people. It shows in her teaching. She helped me have more confidence in my theatrical abilities, and also opened my eyes to theatre opportunities where I live, which I never knew of.” - Amber Descheneaux
Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville