The Markland Studio

Alex Killian _{on Google}

Jun 30th, 2023

Ive been taking class at The Markland Studio for 2 years now and in that time, John & Max have completely transformed my life & my craft. Its the only studio Ive ever felt truly seen and the only studio where I feel no pressure to perform. As John says, Dont ask if its good or bad, ask if its honest. Thats the vibe of every class. I could go on and on about breakthroughs and life-changing moments in Johns classes, but instead Ill just say this: if youre looking for a creative tribe, if you feel the call to be brave & vulnerable, if you want to approach acting as the entire-life-encompassing art that it is; this is the place for you.

Matthew Ciazza _{on Google}

May 2nd, 2023

Incredible instruction. Ive been acting most of my life and training with the studio for almost 3 years now. I attribute so much of my personal and professional growth to these classes and the coaching. The work empowers me as an artist and provides me with priceless self-reflection.

Lauren Fiala _{on Google}

Apr 30th, 2023

The Markland Studio is where I have learned to cultivate my creative spark. John's coaching blends the discipline of technique with the courage of integrity. There is no other studio like this.
This work goes deep. John will meet you at your limit, and with all the compassion in the world, he will ask more of you. If you stick with it, this work will transform your artistry and how you show up for yourself.
Each instructor I have worked with has brought the same amount of heart, innovation, and brilliant perspective. The studio leads by example. It's a fantastic place for actors looking to master their craft, but it also has something to offer any artistic soul that is hoping to integrate and broaden their self-expression.

Adam Riva _{on Google}

Apr 19th, 2023

John Markland, somehow, has this ability to show you you dont have to pretend. You can drop the shitthe masks, the complexes, the distractions and excuses you have because youre afraid. Storytelling, for John, is no different from living. Rather, it seems to be an honest product of being human. Growth through empathy, Empathy through growth. Understanding through feeling, and excitedly exploring who you are. And having fun doing it.
John offers everyone a gift: the opportunity to be themselves.
To accept what that means, and to explore the infinite emotions and characters that lay within.

Christopher Dietrick _{on Google}

Apr 19th, 2023

John has fundamentally changed the way I approach characters, and in so doing has made me a more empathetic, curious, and authentic man. He meets you where the work is, and then guides you through the stutter step between your head and your heart. What are my unexpressed-selves that can be illuminated through this character? Where is my integrity in my own life? What does this character believe about himself? What can I share with him, what would I like to borrow from him? The process then moves from a carefully curated performance, to a more real, personal experience. It isnt about saying lines, its about building a full, lived-in self. The community at the studio is a safe haven for brave, vulnerable work - and watching John hone in on each artists journey is inspiring. There are no excuses given, and he challenges me to show up fully, striving for truthful moments over getting it right. Class here is transformational, and has given me a deeper understand of myself and how I move in the world. Forever grateful.