Catherine Councell

In my classrooms you will find me:

singing and playing my ukulele for the little ones and their caregivers.

adapting stories with elementary ensembles.

playing improv games with middle schoolers.

actor partnering with neurospicy and disabled students.

encouraging adult actors to connect playfully with their nervous systems.

As a teaching artist I lead from my joyful artistic heart with pedagogy woven in to reduce harm.

I try (to the best of my ability) to craft a space where there is inclusivity, accessibility, and consent-based practices in the ensemble. I incorporate games, nervous system tools, movement, inherited stories & songs, and sensory elements into the classes I create so that we connect in play.

as a teaching artist i plan and prepare – but then I am flexible in the moment balancing my passion with playfulness.

when I get tired i focus back on the fact that teaching, creating, and making theater is one of the things I LOVE to do most: even when it is hard, crunchy, or messy. i remember that being in space with other humans – expressing, connecting, and creating – might scare the poop out of me, but it is essential for growth and for making meaning of life.

Master of Fine Arts: Performing Arts, Acting | University of Iowa

Bachelor of Fine Arts: Performing Arts, Acting | Brenau University

Certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid | Alison Wood, The National Council for Mental Health

Certified in Trauma-Conscious Nervous System & The Artist (levels 1 & 2) | Fox method- Muscle Music


Catherine created a warm and encouraging environment in which ALL students could be vulnerable while feeling safe and learning the craft of acting. She was always enthusiastic and there for us physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Jack (Basic Acting 2)

Catherine made my first semester of college easier due to the time she took to get to know me and the rest of her students. It was nice to be able to go to a class where everyone is very comfortable and willing to come out of their shell, unlike most college classes. Gives good feedback, inspirational, caring.

Colleen (Basic Acting 1)

Teaching Artist Resume

Curriculum vitae available on request.

continued growth (Professional development, workshops, intensives)