“If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants…”
This sampling of mentors’ recommendations is shared with immense gratitude
Tommye ‘Miss T’ Myrick
Academy-honored Founder, Voices in the Dark Rep & Big Easy Lifetime Achievement winner
“As an active theatre practitioner of 50 years, I have trained and studied with the best and am passing the baton to a younger generation. In my lifetime I have been asked by hundreds of students for recommendations. I have written only six. Daniel is the seventh. I find him to be studious, diligent, and deliberate in his commitment to acting and becoming a serious contender on stage and in film.”
Jeanne Slater
Artistic Director, Circle in the Square Theatre School & Movement/Vocal Faculty, The Juilliard School
“I’ve had the absolute pleasure of working with Daniel as a teacher, director, and artistic director, and can say that he is, without a doubt, one of the most personable, professional, dependable, kindest, creative actors I have ever worked with.”
Christopher Bentivegna
Big Easy Award winning Director & Founder, See Em On Stage Prod. Co.
“Daniel has moved to the top of my list of actors that I would want to work with again. Many are extremely talented, charismatic, hardworking, and display positive attitudes, but few are all of those qualities. Daniel is--ensuring success in this field. I knew there was something special and unique about him.”
Nemuna Ceesay
Assoc. Director, Tony-winning A Strange Loop & Founder, The Blueprint Artist
“My favorite kind of actor is an actor who knows how to play--Daniel is one of the best in the game! There is a sense of play and wonder that Daniel brings to everything he does--he is able to 1. Identify work that speaks to him, 2. Come in with brave, bold choices, and 3. Brilliantly play within the direction that he's given. This leads to deeply connected, nuanced, and spontaneous performance. It is always clear that Daniel loves this work. He brings passion and fun to the space and is a joy to work with and be around. Every. Single. Time.”
Benita de Wit (they/them)
Res. Director, Tony-winning SIX & Assoc. Director, Bat Out of Hell
“Daniel approaches his work with vigor and curiosity. He is a terrific collaborator and scene partner and every room is a little kinder, more fearless, and more focused thanks to his presence.”
Aimée Steele
Production Vocal Coach, Tony-winning Girl From the North Country & Former Faculty, NYU Tisch
“Working with Daniel to help him realize the true potential of his voice has enriched both of us. Each time he steps into the studio to work, he brings an incredible magnetic energy that fuels his entire process. Not only has Daniel evolved into a thoughtful, nuanced vocal technician, he has the passion and soul that shines through in the richness of his natural talent. It has been my pleasure helping him discover and uncover the beauty of his singing voice. He confidently inhabits each character he steps into, with truthful vocal emotional color that captures and captivates.”
Benny Sato Ambush
American Conservatory Theater; Oregon Shakespeare Festival; Old Globe Theatre; PEW/TCG
“Daniel was the most emotionally mature and fearless member of my Circle in the Square Theatre School acting class. When faced with a mental block or moment of confusion, he moved TOWARD the challenge determined to overcome the obstacle. There is no quit in him. His persistence deepened his range and technical skills. As importantly, he dramatically expanded his internal vulnerability and began to get comfortable with taking risks. He is ready to launch his career. He sings. He's a musician. He is a painter. He has an amiable personality. He is a legit multi-talent. Two thumbs up on Daniel Oakley.”