Stella Stefanova

Pharmaceutical Industry

Mark used a consultative approach and tried first to understand the real story and big picture before going into more narrow specifics. His experience in theatre helped me with my public speaking speech outlining precisely each paragraph for the storytelling that required a very short time to present in front of professional evaluators. Mark reviewed and tailored each section and provided the main points that give the teaching aspect of each paragraph. Also, his theater skills followed the pace and flow of the speech and emotional part so this could bring authenticity to my personal story in front of the audience.

I recommend working with Mark personally, never mind whether you need to give a speech presentation to your team, as a leader on different occasions, or grow your skills in speaking, his approach and experience in directing theater performances can get the best from you.

Amanda Anderson

Licensed Therapist

I had the experience of being in Mr. Modzelewki’s theater class as a teen; painting sets and doing cast make up. Modz was a safe place for all of us to be ourselves, express, and move outside of our comfort zone.

While I didn’t end up in theater as a career, now being 31yo and a licensed trauma therapist, I use a lot of what I learned. I have been able to continue to create safe spaces for teens in intensive mental health groups as well as help adult clients identify safe and inspiring adults they too had in adolescent years. 

I still paint, express myself, and push myself out of my comfort zone. And every client I have who is or was a “theater kid” I am reminded of some of the happiest memories as a teen. 

Working with Modz you’ll learn skills for sure, but you also gain positive memories that you’ll carry for a life time.

Jared Archibald

Medical Supplies

Mark’s teaching and example helped me manage an entire warehouse for 3 years and the versatility helped me transfer to the medical field with ease.

Tomas Cordero

Software Engineer

I would say the best thing I learned in [Modz’s] class that I apply today was how stage props and scenery are constructed. How to balance between looking good, being light weight, durable and how to save expenses by reusing things when possible. I still use that mindset today just applied towards software.

Danielle Malleo

Research Scientist

Mark brought passion to each lesson in theatre, ensuring that students got to intimately live and truly understand the art. He was also adamant that we found our voice, both in the metaphorical and literal sense! This is extremely important for someone like myself who is entering the world of scientific research. It is because of the training and direction I’ve had under Mark that has allowed me to be more confident when presenting and speaking with my peers and mentors. What you learn through Mark can be carried into all aspects of life; let him be your guide, your muse, your maestro and he will take care of the rest.

Rayne Bow Willow

Customer Service

 I use so many things that [Modz] taught me in my day-to-day life, I’m in customer service with one of the largest credit unions in New York state now. I use so many of the teachings from you in my day-to-day life, that I can’t name just one. Many of the items you taught were more than just acting, you gave a safe space for each of your students to blossom. I remember learning how to play Pink Panther and not knowing how to “Yes, and” but you took the time to make sure that we all understood. And learning how to improv and move through conversations in scenes has helped me with the conversations that I handle every single day.

Kayla Caekaert

Manager

Mr. Modzelewski was my greatest influence in school. He was one of those teachers who saves kids’ lives. My home life was very rough. I hardly slept, I was a parent to my parents, and I was kicked out more than I was allowed home. Mr Modzelewski’s theater program provided me with purpose. He showed me I mattered. I can not imagine my life without his guidance and understanding. I was the stage manager most of my time in his program and with those leadership skills, I have been able to be a high paid salary manager for multiple corporations. He taught me to be kind and to use my voice, to be patient yet know when to put my foot down. In life you really only leave behind one thing and that is wisdom. You can leave behind money- it will be spent , a home can be sold, and love can be forgotten. Wisdom however can be shared with many and passed from generation to generation. That to me is what truly matters and the wisdom I received from Mark Modzelewski will be something I pass on to as many people as possible. He is not only a great teacher but an amazing human.