Testimonials
Now, thanks to AIPA, I am highly confident in my skills, craft and myself. They inspired me to chase that dream, to work for what I want and do what I love. AIPA, believed in me when I didn’t.
Let’s flash back. 18 months ago I was a very insecure, unsure, non-confident performer. I knew I had a passion and love (obsession) with writing and making music, but didn’t believe I could turn that passion into a career. 16 months ago I was selected and contacted by AIPA and informed about the Singer/Song Writer TDP and went to the week intensive boot camp in July in Sydney and then to write and record and original album in Los Angeles. 12 months ago today I was experiencing the industry in LA, for me LA was make or break. Now, thanks to AIPA, I am highly confident in my skills, craft and myself. They inspired me to chase that dream, to work for what I want and do what I love. AIPA, believed in me when I didn’t, now I want to be able to inspire and support other young performers as AIPA did for me. I would recommend these projects to any young performer with a dream and ambition to succeed.”
-Nicholas Summerfield (Adult Student) Written October 2012
We were also impressed with the quality of the industry professionals AIPA provided throughout the course.
In January 2010 our 11-year-old son Harry travelled to Los Angles with AIPA to attend the Actors Intensive course. As parents we were hesitant and nervous that our son was travelling overseas for the first time without his family. However we knew in our hearts that this was the right decision for our budding young actor. Even though the course was intensive and the workload challenging. Harry loved every minute of his 3 weeks away. He returned home more confident and mature and even more dedicated about his acting. Marg Haynes and all the other AIPA staff were patient, kind, caring, and professional. We were also impressed with the quality of the industry professionals AIPA provided throughout the course. Harry is desperate to return to LA to further his acting career so that he can follow his dream of one day being a Professional Actor. We will send him again confident in the knowledge that he will always be cared for by the wonderful AIPA team.”
-Libby and Mark Gray (Parents) Written October 2012
We are truly blessed to have the expertise of Marg and Jen.
Three years ago the true meaning of professionalism became reality to my family and I. My name is Lea Smith and I would like to share with you our wonderful involvement with The Australian Institute for Performing Arts. Our daughter Tahlia was selected to be part of Glee Club Australia who toured America in 2010. From day one it was evident that Tahlia was clearly involved with a professional, well respected organization consisting of highly motivated staff who share endless amounts of time and devotion educating talented young Australian Performers that have a desire/love to be involved in the Performing Arts Industry. We are truly blessed to have the expertise of Marg and Jen. A delightful combination of honesty and care is continually given from these two inspiring ladies. May I also address the outstanding staff from AIPA who are always willing to assist with any given situation. I feel it is also important that I mention how re-assuring it is from a parent’s point of view that our young performers are learning in a safe environment surrounded with happiness. The Australian Institute for Performing Arts reside in such an accessible well established location allowing young performers to attend from all over Australia. My family and I consider ourselves very fortunate to have had the opportunity of becoming involved with AIPA and look forward to watching the Institute thrive as the amazing staff assist many talented young people in our ever growing Performing Arts Industry”.
-Lea Smith (Parent) Written September 2012
The teachers were fantastic and nurturing!
Having undertaken both Drama Company and GLEEClub at KPG, as well as various AIPA Talent Development Program mes in the United States (GLEEClub, Advanced Acting), I have learnt so many skills, gained memorable performance experiences, learnt self-discipline and have made life-long friends. The teachers were fantastic and nurturing, encouraging us to pursue our dreams and giving us a valuable insight into the industry. The training programme provided by AIPA is not only unique, but also provides a truly solid foundation. Thanks must be given to Marg Haynes for her encouragement, kindness and honesty and teaching us what it means to be a true professional.
-Sami Tauber (Student – 16 yrs) Written September 2012
The environment is safe, fun, open, and honest and I really felt like I had a supportive atmosphere to work in and above all, everyone there was so passionate about their craft.
I will never forget my time at KICK Performance Group. I studied the performance stream every Saturday for three years and then was invited to study in the US (LA & NYC) and to perform. During my time at KPG, I also experienced performing in very professional musical productions and had the privilege of working with some extremely gifted students and staff. Since finishing high school, I auditioned for WAAPA and got in and have just graduated from the three year acting course in 2011. Honestly, I would never have had the courage, confidence, determination, or skill to pursue this if it wasn’t for Marg and the KPG staff and all the classes I did there. It was my foundation training as a performer. The environment is safe, fun, open, and honest and I really felt like I had a supportive atmosphere to work in and above all, everyone there was so passionate about their craft. I am so grateful for the opportunity to go to the US at such a young age and attend acting and dance workshops in LA and New York as it really opened my eyes to the industry – I learnt things that drama school never taught me about the industry! I believe that KICK taught me early on what is required to begin my career and I am so grateful to have studied there.
-Emma Barnes (Ex KPG student) Written September 2012.
AIPA and KPG haven’t only helped me increase my skills dramatically, but also taught me the ins and outs of the industry in Australia and the US.
In the past three years that I have been training, performing and growing with AIPA, I haven’t only learnt from the greatest in the industry about skills in performing and what you need to know, but I have also learnt how to push myself to reach new heights and dig deeper in what I love doing. AIPA and KPG haven’t only helped me increase my skills dramatically, but also taught me the ins and outs of the industry in Australia and the US. I have had performing experience and classes with the industry’s best, resulting in numerous auditions and top quality productions. Being involved with AIPA has also allowed me to meet other people my age who are in the same boat as me, and people I can create life-long friendships with. Without AIPA, I wouldn’t be where I am today. They care and have pushed me more than I can imagine. I am so grateful for every way that it has helped me to exceed my expectations on what I thought I could do.
-Dean Moutopoulos. (Current KPG student & GLEEClub Australia member) Written September 2012
I can honestly say that to see the high caliber of people in such a short space of time, was worth every penny.
“I was a participant in the Professional Actors’ Masterclass (PAM) in April/May2012. I can honestly say that to see the high caliber of people in such a short space of time, was worth every penny. I was in front of the decision makers every day, and getting industry specific feedback, which is priceless. It was a whirlwind experience, I learnt so much and my career is in such a different place now than it was before I got on the plane. I met people who are now lifelong friends and comrades, and I came back to Australia a more refined and specific actor. For anyone who is willing to work their craft like never before, PAM is a must”. Lauren was signed to a great management firm in LA as a direct result of taking PAM.
-Lauren Hamilton Neill (Adult Actress) Written June 2012
Thank you guys from the bottom of my heart for organizing such a course!
I just wanted to thank you guys from the bottom of my heart for organizing such a course and having me on the Actors’ intensive. I really appreciate all the hard work you both put into creating such a course and inviting such amazing people to be there. I learned so much and met so many great people. You guys are amazing 
-Joe Chan (Adult Student) Written July 2012
I had an absolute blast!
I just wanted to say a big Thank You for inviting me to participate in the acting intensive. I had an absolute blast, met so many great people and I feel I came out of the course really understanding the craft and where I want to go with it. I am very interested in looking into an O1 visa as I am planning to move overseas next year. Once again, thank you for all your effort in putting it together and giving me the opportunity to even be in front of a huge casting director! I can’t thank you enough”.
-Kathy Nguyen (Adult Student) Written July 2012
He also came away with so much more confidence.
I just want to thank you for the wonderful experience you gave Michael last week at camp. He came back a totally different young man to the one at the start. He thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with Matthew and Steve. He not only learned tips and skills from them but he also came away with so much more confidence, self-esteem, self-belief and above all it reignited his enthusiasm. Michael also appreciated the opportunity to spend time with a good photographer. On top of the fabulous teaching he also made a whole lot of new and likeminded friends whom he has been catching up with all week. Andrew and I are very grateful to you for remembering Michael and inviting him to participate in the program.
-Geraldine Coulson (Parent) Written July 2012
Harry said that he has learnt so much and he thinks Steve is the best teacher has ever worked with.
Just a quick note to thank you for organising this week’s Actor’s Intensive. Harry rang last night and he said that he is having the best time. Apparently Steve Hytner was absolutely brilliant. Harry said that he has learnt so much and he thinks Steve is the best teacher has ever worked with. Considering how long Harry has been acting and how many teachers he has had (and he has liked them all) that is a massive compliment for Steve. Harry sounded excited to be working with Matthew Barry again. Apparently Matthew told Harry that he is hilarious but he doesn’t know it !! That is promising as Harry has decided that he wants to be a comic actor !! It sounds like Harry is even more determined to make a career out of his acting. We are determined to support him every step of the way. Thanks again!
-Libby Gray (Parent) Written July 2012
I feel that I am leaps and bounds ahead of where I was!
I just wanted to thank you again for absolutely everything – I do not use this phrase lightly as a blanket to cover the myriad of things you have done for me but more importantly because there is nothing I can think of with the Professional Actors Masterclass becoming a reality that is not thanks to your tireless commitment, encouragement and support! It is only now, after a whirlwind 6 weeks, that I can reflect properly on this incredible experience and what I have gained! Besides the contacts, the amazing talent and opportunities – it is hard to find the words to express how these weeks have brought me closer to knowing what I am meant to do with my life, the tough decisions and sacrifices I have to make and the chances I have to take! I feel that I am leaps and bounds ahead of where I was for the PAM course and I now feel completely ready and remarkably steadfast in the belief that moving to LA and making it happen is what I need to do!
-Ingeborg Riedmaier (Adult Student) Written June 2012
Thank you for training Callum so well in Drama Company and giving him the LA experience.
Callum and I wanted to say thank you and to share with you both a wonderful experience Callum had yesterday; he worked on a VW TV ad with the director of the movie Snowtown, Justin Kurzel. Callum had a minor solo scene role but still exciting and Justin highly praised him for his acting and his ability to take direction. He said to Callum ‘Great work Callum, it is a honour to work with actors like you who make my job easy’. The agency received a note from Peta Einberg casting commending Callum on his ability to take direction. Thank you for training Callum so well in Drama Company and giving him the LA experience. Also we’re very grateful and acknowledge all your extra care and professional advice you continue to provide us.
-Priscilla McManis (Parent) Written February 2012
THANK YOU for giving my daughter the most amazing experience of her life!
Just want to send you and your wonderful team at AIPA a huge THANK YOU for giving my daughter Shaelea Harrison the most amazing experience of her life. Being a part of GLEEClub 2011 has made such a difference in Shaelea’s outlook on life and has made her want to achieve everything to a very high standard. Thanks again
-Kerry Harrison (Parent). Written January 2012
Just reading the beautiful messages cast members wrote to her in her book is something to treasure forever.
Imogen is very keen to be part of the AIPA family and take up whatever opportunities are offered to her… The experiences and opportunities given to Imogen through the AIPA GLEE Club program have certainly been outstanding and memorable. Just reading the beautiful messages cast members wrote to her in her book is something to treasure forever. I believe quite a few of the cast are coming to Melbourne the end of February and they are all meeting up. Imogen would dearly love to be part of the AIPA Cast again this year. We would be interested in talking with you about this process and if there is a chance she will be invited to join. Thank you again”
-Melissa Quinn (Parent). Written January 2012
The opportunities and experiences we had were amazing and priceless.
I just wanted to say thank you for letting me be a part of the 2012 GLEEClub project. The opportunities and experiences we had were amazing and priceless I can’t believe I had them. Being among so many talented and loving people has inspired me so much. So thank you again for giving me this opportunity I was truly the best three weeks of my life so far.
-Rhiannon Walker (Student) Written January 2012
I feel like I have grown so much and learnt more then I could of possibly thought.
I would just like to thank you for all your help and support on this year’s GLEEClub. I feel like I have grown so much and learnt more then I could of possibly thought and I can’t wait to keep learning and growing! I hope to see you sometime soon thank you once again.
-Maddi Ballard (Student) Written January 2012
I was there with amazing people whom I miss so much now performing, training, growing and helping others and developing as people.
After coming back from GLEEClub I feel SO inspired and driven to take 2012 head on… Come January I start working really hard so that I can raise enough money; so that If I’m successful through these next march auditions for GCA 2012 I can take myself back there because I have never been happier than when I was there with amazing people whom I miss so much now performing, training, growing and helping others and developing as people. I have learnt so many valuable life lessons while being involved with GCA and being away on tour. I really have learnt a lot as talent and as a person since having been involved with AIPA and the Glee Club so thank you for opening these opportunities to me.
I’ll never be able to thank you enough. However for now all I can say is Thanks!
Isaac xx”
-Isaac Bradley (Adult Student) Written January 2012
We appreciate the tremendous opportunity you have given her and your support of her.
Thank you for having Jordan on the GLEEClub Australia project again. We appreciate the tremendous opportunity you have given her and your support of her. Look forward to catching up in the new year”.
-Raechel and Stephen Auld (Parents) Written December 2011
Our Jess had the most fabulous experience and has been quite inspired by all of the people involved.
I just wanted to thank you for the care and attention you gave to these gorgeous young Singer/Songwriters. Our Jess had the most fabulous experience and has been quite inspired by all of the people involved”.
-Fiona Porfiri (Parent) Written October 2011
It has been a life changing experience for our whole family.
Once again thank you and the crew from AIPA for your help and care of Nathan, it has been a life changing experience for our whole family.
-Janelle Peachey (Parent) Written October 2011
I wanted to thank you and the team for giving Christian such a fantastic experience!
I wanted to thank you and the team for giving Christian such a fantastic experience! Special mention to Adam who took Christian under his wing and showed him around LA. The meeting with Marcia went well and she gave us a tour of the Studio City complex she works and lives in. Thanks Marg once again”
-James Mark Anthony (Parent) Written October 2011
Just wanted to say a huge thank you for including me as a part of the auditions.
“Just wanted to say a huge thank you for including me as a part of the auditions and giving me the chance to meet Rich. You are so kind to me and to think of me after all these years. I hope I did the job to the level you had envisioned and wish you and the cast all the best of luck in future endeavours. Charles xx”
-Charles Bartley (GLEEClub Choreographer 2010). Written August 2011
Everyone was really great to work with and it was great to be in such a professional environment.
“Just a note to say thanks for the whole short film. It was amazing! Everyone was really great to work with and it was great to be in such a professional environment. You’re a hoot”.
-Leigh Scott (Adult Student) Written April 2011
We really enjoyed this journey with you and the gang, and we hope to do it again! This trip was a lot more than what we expected.
“A big thank you for a wonderful 2 weeks! We really enjoyed this journey with you and the gang, and we hope to do it again! This trip was a lot more than what we expected. For one, we were not expecting to meet people as high up in the business world as we did; for example… “Jane Jenkins” and “Lisa Beach” not to mention all the other very important Casting Agencies! Wow! You have great relationships with some very influential people Marg, many of them mentioned how much your opinion meant to them! Yes, it is all about relationship building and you’ve definitely nailed that one Marg! Two thumbs way up!…All the great speakers you brought forward, he definitely experienced their professionalism and learned some valuable tips to take home. Most of all, a big thank you for making Dylan’s dream come true! I was “so skeptical” at first about coming…..and you and Jen allowed me “space” to build trust….that was the first positive step I felt. As a mom with a child who is passionate you feel caught in the middle and you don’t want your child hurt. I was always so worried about the scam artists out there in Hollywood….so it was a huge leap of faith on my part, as I’m not the kind of person who can just “jump out there”……I’m very grounded, but I knew Dylan was ready for this big leap; and now after having experienced your course…..well….it was simply an incredible and rewarding journey! And….to boot, Dylan got signed up with one of the top Children’s Casting Agencies…….no words can describe how Dylan felt this day when Bonnie, Jody, and Philip told him they wanted to sign him up……he was just beside himself….he still is. For me, well, I’m still numb and in shock over it. I thought this was only going to be an acting class with kids that were as passionate as Dylan. Dylan and I feel very lucky to have met you Marg, and no words can express our gratitude! After all this Marg, the money I paid for this course for Dylan should have been double! It was such a good deal!”
-Sherri Schmid (Parent) Written April 2011
I highly recommend these courses!
“Marg is a wonderful lady. She recognizes talent, she knows talent and understands the LA and Australian markets and what casting directors are looking for. She trains young actors to achieve, I highly recommend these courses. I can’t wait to return to Australia!”
-Lisa Beach (Casting Director LA ) Written November 2010
I would recommend AIPA to anyone who wants great training.
“As casting director in LA, I’m always looking to find the next great talent. I’ve worked with AIPA in Australia; they create programs for young actors which challenge and excite. I would recommend AIPA to anyone who wants great training”
-Joseph Middleton (Casting Director LA) Written November 2010
Marg is extremely passionate about providing the highest quality training, the best opportunities for all and has the highest reputation and contacts in the business internationally.
As a parent I want my children to be guided and be the best they can in a very competitive industry. My family and others travel from afar, as with many their instinct is that Marg and the training at AIPA is something extra special and to be valued. Marg is extremely passionate about providing the highest quality training, the best opportunities for all and has the highest reputation and contacts in the business internationally. Marg is highly professional, trustworthy, reliable, motivated, hardworking and passionate, but more importantly when working with children is the most caring, supportive mentor who shows loyalty that is second to none above and beyond her call of duty. My three children have all been guided by Marg and as a result working towards their careers in an industry that they could only have dreamed of. I couldn’t recommend a better place or person for children to go to get the best training there is, to be challenged and to have fun. Marg is in her own right a truly amazing inspirational person, whom my family, fully admire, trust and respect.
-Michelle Horner (Parent) Mother of Adam (18), Yasmin (16) and Kiera (13) – Written October 2010
They were highly organized and Marg and her staff were dedicated to providing a well-organized fantastic service.
I first met Marg last year when my daughter attended the LA Casting Director Workshops at AIPA (PAWS). They were highly organized and Marg and her staff were dedicated to providing a well-organized fantastic service “with a smile”. Nothing was too much trouble. Recently I dropped in to see Marg on a recent visit to Sydney to enquire about this year’s workshops, and one hour later my little black book was brimming with “priceless information and contacts” which will open up amazing opportunities for Freya when she goes to LA. Marg gave of her time freely and never hurried me out even though she was inundated with work. I find this rare in an Industry which very much doesn’t give you the time of day unless you are a big star. Marg is passionate about what she does, a dedicated hard worker, fostering young Australian talent and helping them make a step onto the Global “Stage”.
-Coppelia Tingley (Mother of Freya) Written September 2010.
They’re the leaders in training teen actors and I recommend Marg and the team to you!
I have taught at AIPA in Australia and for them in LA. They’re the leaders in training teen actors and I recommend Marg and the team to you!
-Paul Weber (Casting Director LA) Written August 2010
The life skills he gained from travelling in a group, meeting people along the way and being in a different country are priceless. An experience of a lifetime.
I apologize for the lengthy delay in sending you our gratitude for the wonderful Canadian performance project you organised. Michael had the time of his life. He returned with a lot more confidence and enthusiasm and didn’t stop talking for days after. He had been so nervous leading up to the trip that we couldn’t even discuss it or get excited for him. The life skills he gained from travelling in a group, meeting people along the way and being in a different country are priceless. An experience of a lifetime. I hope you have fully recovered and ready for your next sojourn overseas. Once again we are very much indebted to you for your passion in working with children”.
-Geraldine Coulson (Parent) Written April 2010
The Canadian Improv project exceeded my expectations in so many ways.
It’s a week after and I’m still on a high from how amazing it all was, and honestly life changing. The Canadian Improv project exceeded my expectations in so many ways. The games and all involved build such an Improv Community, the standard of performance was so high and I leant so much in that one week doing workshops with such talented people. I feel so privileged to have participated in something that supports, encourages and challenges your ability in Improvisation and Drama. During the week I met so many inspiring and friendly people and had experiences that I will truly never forget. In shorter words, it was honestly the greatest 2 weeks of my life. Thank you so much Marg for working so hard to give us such an opportunity! Can’t wait for a reunion
-Elisha Kennedy (Student 16 yrs) Written April 2010
The opportunities you create for the youth are amazing and much appreciated.
I just want to send a big THANK YOU for taking time out to talk to Michael last Saturday and also for believing in him. It made all of the difference face to face. The opportunities you create for the youth are amazing and much appreciated. I admire your enormous energy that is needed to achieve it all. Please thank David and Beck also for giving up their break to see him. It was truly a salve for me. I think the project will equip these kids with incredible life skills. I am indebted to you for giving him this chance.
-Geraldine Coulson (Parent) Written February 2010
Thank you for everything. I can’t wait to work with AIPA again!
Man what an adventure Improvcamp was for me. Firstly I’ve learnt a hell of a lot about myself as a person and a performer. That demonstration night is still replaying through my head. Thank you so much for introducing me to Lisa Beach. I am still getting over it. I was on a high all night after that. I felt like I created an instant bond with her. You never know what opportunities may arise from having been seen by such a high profile casting agent. Having my parents come from Adelaide to watch me perform at the demonstration night was overwhelming. Thank you for everything. I can’t wait to work with AIPA again”
-Beau Paley (Student – 19 yrs) Written July 2009
The incredible buzz she had from performing on stage in Canada, is something she will hold onto to forever.
Thank you so much for organising the trip for Sophie. What a wonderful experience for everyone. She has been so excited since returning, she hasn’t drawn breath as she has so much to tell us. The incredible buzz she had from performing on stage in Canada, is something she will hold onto to forever. Thank you again, it was a wonderful experience for all the students.
-Jenny Fairweather (Parent) Written April 2009
I will never forget all the hours we spent as a team, working harder and harder to make it work and to get those absolutely perfect moments.
The trip to Canada with AIPA was an amazing experience that I would truly remember! I will never forget all the hours we spent as a team, working harder and harder to make it work and to get those absolutely perfect moments. Finally on the performance night all that showed. All the hard work, teamwork, and the trust all showed through. I will take so many things away from this. Confidence and a newfound smile that is to be found on all of us. All the hours of hard work and practice – we didn’t even feel because we were just having fun. Guys I dare you, if you find anything more enjoyable than Improv - trust me do it. Why? Because it was the most fun I’ve ever had. Thank you AIPA.
-Paul Musumeci (Student 15 yrs) Written April 2009
I really feel I have gained so much from this experience.
“I would like to say a very big thank you for this fantastic journey to Canada! It was an amazing experience and I loved every second! I really feel I have gained so much from this experience. I have learnt that teamwork is very important and to try do your best at all times and to not worry about what others think, just play your character with commitment and confidence. I recommend this to anyone who is willing to try something new, who enjoys improvisation, who is willing to share their skills with others and meeting new friends. AIPA helped me definitely with my confidence in performing and I feel it can do the same for others! Thank you again very much and I will never forget this experience!”
-Ellie Hooker (Student 15 yrs) Written April 2009