If you're passionate about becoming a skilled actor, you'll be getting one of the very best as a teacher in Melissa Thompson! Aside from being an uber-talented on-camera joy to watch herself, Melissa brings that same passion and energy as a Meisner-trained instructor who knows how to get the most out of her students. Meisner training is not for the faint of heart, but nevertheless no need to fear as Melissa knows how to balance giving you praise and "tough love" right when you need it. Like anything in life, Meisner training is full of ups and downs and highs and lows. Melissa knows how to be your guiding light through it all so that when you finish, you will be more than prepared to not only deal with the "unkowns" that will most inevitably come your way as you pursue this dream, but do so with the kind of confidence that will allow you to exude true freedom as a pro! -Bay Area/Midwest Working Voiceover and Screen Actor www.divineprodigy.net read more

I feel grateful having studied two years with Melissa. She is everything you need from a great teacher: she is strict and demanding but at the same time she truly cares about your growth as an actor and gets genuinely excited for your beak-through moments, which motivates you even further. Needless to say she is very experienced and knows her craft. An added bonus is that she is also super funny! During my two years studying with her, I learned not only about Meisner Technique but also about myself. I grew as an actor but also as a human being. If you are serious about your dream of becoming an actor I can warmly recommend studying with Melissa. read more

First off, let me say if you are serious about pursuing an acting career you must train with Melissa at Empowerhouse Acting Studio. Melissa is a kind, thoughtful, knowledgable, and personable teacher who is dedicated to the success of her students and alumni. Even after you graduate from the Meisner intensive program you will find a sense of community and always have someone you can reach out to who can help with auditions or any questions that will come up. I appreciate the time I spent under Melissa's teachings because she spends time getting to know you meaning she knows your strengths and some things that need to be worked out. Before training with Melissa, I thought I knew some things about acting but guess what I didn't. Where I was when I first started the program versus now as a graduate is miles away. If you want to invest in yourself and your career call Melissa! read more

I've studied the Meisner technique, audition on camera and business from Melissa for close to three years from private group setting to one on one coaching :)! Her keen eyes for details and ability to help uncover strong choices is extraordinary. I was (and still am) constantly amazed by her ability to help me and other students in class dig deeper and cultivate the talent that we all have simmering inside. Studying the Meisner technique with Melissa will help you with building your acting technique. I recommend finishing the full two years of Meisner training alongside with her On Camera Audition and Business class because these classes is just as important for you to go out there to book jobs with the training you've been investing in and most importantly, do what you love! In the On-Camera Audition Technique class, Melissa will help you with building confidence, make quick and strong choices right when you receive your sides. She will not only help you book the job but also book the room! Melissa is great at giving you all the ingredients to help you become a successful actor. Lastly, Melissa is a joy to work with! She's patient, takes time to help you perfect the audition and help you make unique choices that you've missed and no other actors making. She is one of a kind teacher, who gives me and our class the freedom to explore our humanity, explore our authenticity while learning and improving our craft. She's absolutely on top of her game and very accommodating! I feel more prepared and confident that I am doing my best work when I'm in an audition room or when I submit a self tape because of Melissa :)! read more

Melissa is an amazing teacher and mentor. She truly shows you through the beautiful Meisner Technique how to be a truthful and authentic actor. These qualities transfer to your personal life as well. She truly cares about your growth as a human and an artist and I wouldn't be able to show up and be the best version of myself at theater, commercial and film auditions without her teachings and guidance. You will finish her classes prepared to take on the acting world! read more

I studied under Melissa for two years. In that time, Melissa challenged me, empowered me, and pushed me to be the absolute best I could be. She inspired me to work harder than I ever thought possible, and did so in an empathetic and caring way. I consider it a privilege to have been her student. read more

I studied the Meisner Technique for two years with Melissa and it changed who I am as an actor and a person. If you want to learn real authenticity from someone incredibly present, genuine and kind, look no further. From the moment you meet Melissa you sense a deeply grounded presence, and she will help you find that in yourself. If you want to learn the real Meisner technique, Melissa will show you the kind of honest actor you can become. read more

Melissa is hands down the best acting coach I have ever worked with, and I have worked with some amazing teachers throughout my life. She doesn't just talk the talk, Melissa walks the walk. She is an inspiring artist in her personal life and a social activist, as well. Melissa is strict & dedicated, she will push you to be your greatest, while also remaining compassionate & kind. She makes all her students feel safe to be free & make mistakes, while setting a high bar. If you want to be a professional, run to Melissa. Also though, this is good training for any job in life- I felt more free & authentic in school & my job. I trained with her years ago, and I will still go to her if I need coaching for an audition, etcetera. Can't wait to take some more classes with her soon! read more

Melissa is okay with the technique. But interacting one on one With Melissa left me hurting - for instance I asked if if she knew another Meizner teacher on YouTube, and her reply stung me. She said I shouldn't watch that and later told the entire class to not watch anything or read anything from or about Meizner until we finish her course. Now all actors know that when cast in a play, you don't watch others in the play lest you copy them/their choices etc. But classes are different and she is overconfident in her choices imho.When I tried to talk to her about two emails contradicting each other(giving me the consequence of being the only person present for two classes who didn't get to do both activities)she immediately got caught up in being on a high horse telling me I was attacking her. My caregiver husband has to be with me if I am not otherwise with caregiving. Melissa selfishly demanded he was staying in the class and wouldn't be allowed to leave"just because" I was leaving. She lacks the humility to be a pure listener. I mean actually BE an open, sensitive, pure listener because her ego gets in the way. She kept interrupting only to repeat herself over and over, which is the ultimate thing not to do to a differently abled person. Then she tried crying about ME to MY husband. She is an okay instructor if you are brand new to acting. But one thing is for sure, teachers are authority ppl and maybe should have bullseye-style evaluation each class, not each session, each actual class. Certainly there is time for it. The class getting a terse talking to when we are late but keeps us as much as 45-1hr. late when she wants it. I have rights under the Constitution, ppl lawyer, caregiver-patient, the ADA and all the other things I can't think of right now but yes, I indeed said I have those avenues at my disposal, but when she behaved obtusely and just kept threatening to hang up and leaving me anxious with her abrupt labeling and ego-driven madness. Those rights were brought up to keep her from killing me with her broken record techniques. She said to me "to go ahead and do it." (Meaning going to Yelp etc) She put the last nail in the coffin when she cried to MY husband about me. She doesn't know who butters her bread, nor does she respect boundaries between a husband and wife. I didn't appreciate her behavior when looking at a box of photos I offered for her use in a photo shoot. One other classmate and I have stomach flu like issues. She said "It looks like Cheryl has a past" when looking at pictures of me and cast and audience in my 2 year run of Tony n Tina's Wedding in. NYC. She made me feel awkward. And unsafe. And disrespected, and there are many more examples of why she did not truly accommodate me and my disability. She does not know the golden opportunity she had to be able to say she worked with a superfat,dying woman. Melissa would keep asking students to go downstairs and allow others in- while she sat there talking to no one, over and over. She needs to be a teacher, for all that is involved.***i have to add that I didn't have a problem with Melissa overall until I asked her to call me back as soon as possible. She said she didn't know I had such bad feelings toward her (that's' because I hadn't...*before*the call.) No one acting teacher can dramatically change your life. While I am glad my husband is a better listener, he could have got listening training in many places. As for me, there were two classes I fell asleep in. //I left the class only because of Melissa's attitude on that call...it showed me she is self absorbed and doesn't understand that because I pointed out a discrepancy in two of her emails, that I wasn't attacking her and didn't warrant her saying she was gonna hang-up on me. It was such bizarre behavior that I wouldn't feel safe going back to class with her having been wildly unhinged in the call.// I can only say that character is what you have when you think no ones looking and if you look "different" you may have hit the instructors blind spot. PS My classmates made the class. read more

Having studied under Melissa for +2yrs, I can say that those two years were some of the hardest most rewarding years of my life. Having done some acting in the past and taking a few other classes I had this subconscious block that was holding me back from growing as an actor and embracing all the wonderful benefits of the moment to moment authentic technique that is the foundation to not only the Meisner technique but all great acting as well. Through hard work and Melissa's guidance, I was able to identify what this block was and reach a new level of acting and freedom in my craft. I was able to have this breakthrough thanks to Melissa's ability to provide articulate, brutally honest feedback, and foster a loving nurturing environment encouraging pure artistic expression, with no judgment. If you decide to study with Melissa, do the work, give it your all, and leave your ego at the door read more

I have studied with Melissa for over 2.5 years.She played a huge part for me in overcoming my self consciousness and self doubt. Because of that, I have the courage to pursue my dream as an actor. She taught me essentials tools which allowed me to be fully present and truthful. She rejects cliches and encourages authenticity. Melissa is sweet and kind, but also can be tough when necessary. If you're serious about the craft of acting, I highly recommend Melissa as a teacher. read more

Melissa will work hard to help you get closer to your dream. Every class was inspiring because she is very passionate about what she does. She cares about every one of her students, helping each one individually, and really paying attention on areas that you can get better on as you work. If you are looking for a teacher that supports you 110% the whole way, Melissa class is a great place to begin. read more

In addition to learning the craft of acting, I learned so much about myself when training with Melissa. The teaching of the Meisner Technique is unique as it has great emphasis on two things- it's not about you, and you must continually try to be the most emotionally healthy version of yourself to access the kind of emotions necessary to reach others through your craft. YOU are the instrument and if you aren't in tune with yourself then it will show. Also, acting is doing. Acting is reacting, and to react you must be focused on the other person. After training with Melissa I feel like I can confidently say two things: I am an actor, and more importantly, I am the healthiest version of myself. I've gone through a lot in life so I had a lot to work through during the training. The teachings have continued, as some you grow into. The one I'm most pleased with learning and have grown into is this: I can be me.... unapologetically. I believe that's the best teaching I received and I strive to share that teaching with others my life is intertwined with. Thank you. read more

I cannot recommend Melissa enough! She is not only an immensely talented acting teacher but she is also one of the most kind and thoughtful people I know. I started training with Melissa 2 years ago, learning the Meisner Technique. Throughout that time not only did I learn to be a more authentic, truthful, and imaginative artist but a person as well. I saw a noticeable difference in my craft that was immediate and consistent, that continued to progress with regular lessons and practice. I would highly recommend Melissa to anyone looking to improve both themselves and their craft of acting. She is highly qualified, knowledgeable, and experienced. By far one of the best acting teachers and mentors you will find in the Bay Area and beyond. read more

I had the pleasure of working with Melissa a few years back. One of the best decisions I made for my acting career. Her way of teaching is exactly what what the school name is. Empowering. Empowering you to be a powerhouse of an actor/actress. To embrace yourself and be instinctive, attentive, and a problem solver. If you want a solid foundation and a full technique on how to tackle a character and to be free and embrace yourself and your talent/instrument... I fully recommend studying with Melissa! read more

Not only did she teach me to be a good actor, but Melissa taught me how to be fearless, humble, and always be professional. She helped me grow in a way that nurtured my dream and my inner artist. She has a wide variety of knowledge on how to navigate through the business of acting and auditioning, and is an incredible counselor on how to always make the right decisions for you. genuinely one of the best teachers I have ever had, and in those moments in life when I look back on mentors and teachers that helped shape my life, Melissa will always be at the top of the list. read more

Melissa is an exceptional teacher who knows how to truly help artists flourish. Her commitment and dedication to each and every student is profound. Through her classes, your journey will transform not only your acting but your life. Melissa's breadth of knowledge and expertise is immense. This class is not to be missed if your dream is to be an actor! read more

Melissa's commitment to the craft of acting and her students is immediately apparent. She is a wonderful human being and a talented actor. Her ability to pinpoint truthful emotion makes her an incredibly brilliant acting teacher, and her consistent presence with and compassion for each of her students allows for a crucial hands-on approach that cannot be overemphasized. I had the blessing of studying with Melissa Thompson Esaia for two years, and I am grateful for every moment. read more

I have experienced voice/acting classes in both Northern & Southern Ca areas and Empowerhouse Acting Studio is by far my favorite. Melissa Thompson Esaia is not only well educated and connected when it comes to the Meisner Technique, yet she shows a level of compassion and professionalism in her classroom. I have been having the time of my life and am anxious to continue onto her second session. I have never felt more connected and passionate about my craft until now. I can for sure say that Melissa's dedication to her students and her respect for Sanford Meisner is not one to be taken lightly. Although this is true for myself, I can truthfully speak for many of my classmates in that we are having the time of our lives and receiving instruction from Melissa is truly life changing. Thank you again Melissa for all that you have done and will do to enrich the creativity in each of our lives. Thank you for believing in me (& my fellow classmates) and pushing me towards my life long goals and dreams! Infinite Peace, LOVE & LIGHT!! -Tisa T. Peyton read more

Training with Melissa taught me alot about myself, by giving me insight about my personal blocks. Be it emotionally, physically, and anything in between her teachings taught me some of my greatest lessons to date. Melissa is kind, thoughtful, and real. I hope I'm not stepping out of line when I say although first and foremost she is a teacher, she also feels like the bigger sister I never had who's got my back especially when navigating the path on becoming an Actor. The two years with her completely changed my outlook on acting and I believe because of this my experience as an actor has become 10x more healthy. read more

Melissa has been tremendous in teaching the Meisner Technique but also in nurturing a warm and welcoming environment for each individual. She has a fantastic way of speaking uniquely with each actor. I believe Sandy Meisner would be proud to have someone who does such a great job at continuing his legacy. read more

Empowerhouse Acting Studio, what an appropriate name! Founder, Melissa Thompson Esaia, has been empowering dreamers for over a decade, and I'm grateful beyond words to be one of those empowered dreamers! I give this school my highest recommendation! Studying under Melissa, I experienced her patience when I struggled, her joy when I experienced break through, her demand for more when I needed stretching, her expertise in reading behavior and knowing what I needed when I needed it... she never failed to meet me where I was in my journey to becoming free and give me just what I needed! Melissa is very giving teacher, however more then what she's given me, she taught me to earn it! And in doing so, I've been empowered! read more

Melissa is a true powerhouse: a straight shooter, sensitive, creative and passionate! Her devotion to and mastery of The Meisner Technique along with a beautiful acting and teaching career have armed her with the discipline and dedication to instill in her students, vital ingredients for success in this industry. The two years I spent studying The Meisner Technique under Melissa have helped me reach my truest, most authentic self both in real life interactions as well as imaginary. read more

Melissa is an incredibly gifted and nurturing Acting Teacher. In my 15 years plus acting career I have worked with many. There are those that know the craft and those that know and are able to TEACH the craft of acting. Melissa is one of those rare breeds. She is honest, personable and passionate about her students and their growth. Studying with Melissa were one of the most memorable years of my adult life. read more

Melissa is an attentive, precise, nurturing, strong, and supportive teacher. When she is teaching you, you will receive her full undivided attention. She cares. She truly cares. She is extremely present. She is an Actor, but acting and teaching are two different things. She knows how to teach; how to be firm and supportive. As a student I felt like I could trust Melissa. This is key, especially for acting, if you don't feel like you can trust your teacher -i.e., like they are honest, know what they're talking about, care, are present- then you won't feel free to fully develop and take risks. Learning acting is tough, you need a balance between, being pushed and challenged-getting broken down, and, being fostered warmly-being built up. I don't think it can ever be perfectly achieved, but Melissa really really understands this and does a very good job at doing both. ALL of Melissa's students say, "I really like working with Melissa, she makes it safe to take risks and not be safe." None of this can come through from a review on-line, you will need to speak with her in-person to feel what I'm talking about. I recommend you do. read more

Melissa is an incredible teacher! She cares immensely for her students and teaches with passion and kindness. As her student you will be challenged to improve your work ethic and supported in every move you make towards authentic work. She's a trustworthy teacher who instructs with precision and accuracy. Melissa has shown her care for me, not just as a student in her class, but also as a human being. She is patient and sensitive, which makes her both a great teacher and amazing actor! read more

Having studied under Melissa for two and a half years gave me the courage to explore parts of myself I had long hidden and protected behind walls. Her laser eye to calling out inauthentic moments helped me identify areas that needed attention for my personal growth as a human being which is necessary to an actors craft. She cares deeply about the craft of acting, and is dedicated to her students. I will always forever be greatly indebted to her for my growth during my time at the studio, my growth as a human and the pure authentic magic she helped cultivate in class. She is a powerhouse force of inspiration! read more

Through the years of honing your craft as an actor/ artist you meet many different teachers and mentors along the way. Ones whose lessons or methods inspire you, ones you befriend, or ones that deeply impact you. Melissa was all three of those for me. My time as Melissa's student was around three years and in that time we became close not only personally but artistically. What I noticed over time was, this was not a one time thing, nor special just to me. She tended to have that impact on every student that came through our studio. She's special like that. Over the years I've seen her grow more and more into the sayings "do, don't say" or "practice what you preach." It is rare to come across an acting teacher that teaches you more than just acting. She taught me the gift of liberation from myself and others, the gift of speaking up for what you believe in, and the gift of following your gut. If only she was in LA so I could keep her all too myself;) But to those of you that are in the vicinity to work with her, I would not pass up the chance for anything. Melissa, is magic. read more

This teacher is both not helpful and not nice. from very early on I can tell she doesn't like me. Not sure why but I've never cared I'm a successful person not in acting but in my current space. ive never done acting so I'm doing my best to work hard and improve. At the beginning she said that her expectations are be on time be a good teammate and do 3 practices a week. I did at least 5 per week consistently. I did the other two as well. My last practice before today i was starting to get it and began to feel like I'm really progressing. Then she tells the class the online class is full even though I'm the first one who asked to take it. Melissa I don't know what your problem is with me but I don't know why you didn't just say you don't want me to take your class. This is really Immature. If you are considering taking melIssas class know that she is a very talented teacher however If you are new and still learning she has no compassion for you. She doesn't care to help you and will just abandon you for no reason. Also she treats the women significantly better then the men so just know if you are a male you will have to work twice as hard to earn her approval. read more

I studied with Melissa for 2.5 years and it's thanks to her guidance that I can call myself an actor today. You won't find a more kind, genuine, sincere, dedicated, humble teacher anywhere. She once said that she feels that she was put onto this earth to teach actors. Do yourself a favor and study with her and you'll see that she was right. read more

I had the pleasure of studying with Melissa for 2 1/2 years in San Francisco. During that time I became the healthiest version of myself mentally, physically and emotionally. I had the freedom to open and up and truly be myself. Melissa offered a safe space to be vulnerable and real. The way she teaches allows you to grow in your craft and become stronger than you thought possible. She is the perfect combination of tough, compassionate, wise, playful, hard-working, creative, driven and talented. Studying with her will change you in ways you never imagined. read more

I learned so much through Melissa's superb teaching of the renowned Meisner approach. What a gift! This is very different than any other acting class or program. Even if you've studied Meisner before, it's nothing like this! I'm so grateful for the experience and learning. read more

I studied with Melissa several years ago, and she was definitely one of the most dedicated, caring, and helpful teachers I've had. If you don't already care about being an authentic actor and human being, you soon will while studying with her. She cares about your success, but just be prepared to do what's required of you. No shortcuts. Work hard, be patient, trust what she is offering you, and you'll most likely have a very transformative experience as an actor. Enough said. read more

I've studied under Melissa in a group setting and also privately and I can say without a doubt that she is one of the best you will find. One of the great advantages to working with her is that she truly cares about your development as an artist, and while she will push you and challenge you, she will do it in a way that feeds your soul and encourages you to push yourself, but in a healthy way. I am a better human being and person in addition to being a stronger actor working with her. I am an actor because of her, I feel comfortable saying that, and I now have the confidence to go out on all the auditions I am getting (major network television and SAG feature films). I booked a supporting role in a feature film produced by a major producer in Hollywood and the notes the director gave me after rehearsal on day 1 of the shoot would have scared most actors, but I was able to take them in stride because I studied under her and had the confidence to be able to use certain techniques to navigate the scene! I am now SAG eligible, and have representation with stellar agencies in the Bay Area and Southwest markets, as well as having several management companies reach out to me from Los Angeles, this is all thanks to the confidence that Melissa gave me in my ability to bring truth to my acting, but also how to market myself on the business side! read more

My beginning actor felt at ease immediately with Melissa. She was able to draw her out of her shell and enjoyed the experience and introduction to this craft immensely. I sat in a few times and could feel the instructors energy and passion.! read more

The founder of Empowerhouse Acting Studio, Melissa Thompson Esaia, has been one of the most significant and inspirational teachers in my life. To say that she taught me how to 'act' doesn't come close to what I learned. Melissa taught me to open up and allow truthful, authentic, emotions and feelings to emerge as a human being rather than trying hard to make something happen as an actor. I learned to be present, open and vulnerable. Not surprisingly, this is the type of person Melissa is herself as well as a passionate and talented actor, director, and writer going after her own dreams. My career as an attorney and voice actor has blossomed because of the strong foundation that Melissa instilled in me. Thank you for the significant impact you have had on my life Melissa! I highly recommend Empowerhouse Acting Studio to anyone who wants to study the craft of acting with an amazing and inspirational teacher! read more

Melissa is a very dedicated teacher and I would recommend anyone to jump at the opportunity to be taught by her. Her work ethic is amazing she doesn't make the class about her like some teachers do. She is only interested in making YOU grow deeper into the craft. read more

Studying with Melissa is a holistic experience. I studied the Meisner Technique with her for two years. In addition to this incredible training, I learned techniques for handling the business of acting. Choosing Melissa as my teacher and mentor was the best foundational decision I have made as an actress and multi-dimensional artist. You can only win, win, win, grow, grow, grow, and become, become, become a freer, fuller and more expanded version of yourself by studying at Empowerhouse Acting Studio! Don't sleep on it. Stop Wasting time and get after your dream! Add Melissa to your team. You will reap incredible life giving cumulative benefits that will be support your entire LIFE! read more

I've had many acting teachers over the last 10 years and I still think she is by far one of the most humble and subtly influential teachers I've ever had the privilege of studying with. She is a force that you don't see coming, she is a powerhouse all in her own, and most importantly she holds space for you while you find your own power. Anyone would be beyond lucky to study with Melissa. read more

I initially studied under Melissa during my first year at the Meisner Technique Studio. When COVID hit, she was transitioning from a 13-year run teaching along side Jim Jarrett at the Meisner Technique Studio to launching Empowerhouse Acting Studio. With our studio in SF shut down, without missing a beat, Melissa pivoted right into creating opportunities for our community to stay connected, creative and to continue growing as artists. She was our lighthouse during a very dark time. Soon thereafter, Empowerhouse Acting Studio began offering classes online. The growth my studio classmates and I experienced in her classes was remarkable. Melissa so seamlessly adapted in-person material for a zoom platform while maintaining rigor, integrity, personal connection and quality. When the SF studio reopened, a small group of us, unable/unwilling to return to in-person classes, chose to have Melissa take us thru the second year of our formal Meisner training. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made. We got the same teachings without any of the worry or anxiety of being live in a studio with a large group during a pandemic. Because of Melissa I have superior training and feel completely prepared to start my journey as a working actor. Moreover, my dream has not been delayed because of COVID! Anyone that gets an opportunity to work with Melissa will have the exceptionally good fortune of working with a true powerhouse and master in teaching the Meisner Technique. read more