Ann Pennistan

Ann Frances Pennistan began her teaching experience as an Alexander Technique teacher in 1986 with a background in theatre. She taught privately as well as at the Ryerson Theatre School and the Northern Lights Dance Company in Toronto, Canada from 1986 to 1993.

In 1987 Ann became the assistant Alexander coach to Kelly McEvenue at the Shaw Festival, and stayed with the Shaw Festival for 10 seasons. From 1989-1994 she was also coaching at the Stratford Shakespearean Festival in Stratford, Canada.

In 1992-1993 she studied voice at the Central School of Speech and Drama for the Advanced Diploma in Voice Studies

Ann works privately with many of Canada's leading actors for specific projects as well as on-going coaching. Some of this has included working privately with Brent Carver throughout his role as Molina in Kiss of the Spider Woman, directed by Hal Prince. And with Colm Feore for his role as Glen Gould in 32 Short Films about Glen Gould, directed by Francois Girard.

From 1993-1997 she was the assistant director to David Gorman at the Centre for Training, an Alexander Technique Teacher Training program in London England. This position gave Ann the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the process of learning and teaching. A new work developed during the years of this training program is now called LearningMethods™.

This new way of working continues to grow, enhancing many artists understanding in their approach to music, text, rehearsals, practice and performance.

Ann conducts workshops for Theatre Companies, Universities, Performers, Alexander Teachers, and recently, Equestrians, in Canada, England, Sweden, Switzerland and Germany.

Workshops for 2005