Mary Franke

Mary is an acting teacher who specializes in working with younger talent.  She is also a working actor, model, and spokesperson based in Chicago.

As a children's performing arts teacher, Mary has taught dance (Glencastle Academy, etc.), worked as a Theatre Camp Leader for many summers at Dominican Theatre (WI), and has taught children's acting workshops throughout Chicago (GEMS Academy, etc).  As a volunteer, Mary assists F.A.M.E. Chicago acting classes (Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment).

Mary studied acting at Loyola University and to further her education spent time studying the classics in London at the British American Dramatic Academy.

Immediately after graduation, Mary began working professionally both on-stage and on-camera in Chicago.  Favorite stage roles include Mrs. Stanley, in the children's show, Flat Stanley, as well as Duckling in Our Country's Good (Shattered Globe Theatre).  Her roster of commercial work continues to expand, and some of her favorite projects include Subway, Hershey's, WeatherTech, O'Charley's Restaurants, & Groupon.  Mary's notable indie film credits are, THERE, Dorkumentary, and One Day.

A lover of travel, her work continues to take her throughout the United States. 

Classes

Grades 1-3: SUMMER ACTING ADVENTURES FOR KIDS

An age-appropriate exploration of acting for 1st -3rd graders, this 1 week camp is a great introduction to the ways in which students can apply themselves to storytelling and on-camera work. Week Of July 22nd

See Upcoming Class Times and Dates

GRADES 4-7: SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS

Exciting 1 week summer camp for students grade 4-7 who want to explore many of the elements of what it takes to be an actor: relationship, text work, improv, monologue, and on-camera skills. Week Of June 24th Or July 15th

See Upcoming Class Times and Dates

Testimonials

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Mary Franke is a very encouraging and helpful teacher. She made me feel engaged during class and also allows us to email her with any questions we have about acting. I definitely recommended taking a class with her!

— Grace Hu

Mary Franke (Grades 3-5- On-Camera Technique: Online) is a talented actor and acting coach. She’s taught me so much and is a lot of fun to work with. Mary cheers me on, gives great advice, and is kind. I highly recommend taking a class with her!

— Skylar Gerlach

"River's favorite part of class was having an amazing teacher and being a ninja dog...(not to be confused with a dog ninja)!" - River completed our Kids Acting Class with the faboulous Mr. Danny Taylor and Ms. Mary Franke!

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I really enjoyed Mary's (Mary Franke — On Camera Technique: Grades 3-5) class. She was very helpful with direction and critiquing. I felt comfortable and the class was very fun and engaging.

— Amara Kaeding

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