Michael Mariano is a director, teacher and actor. For over 5 years, he served as acting teacher and showcase director for Acting Equals Theatre Workshop in Manhattan. He directed and coached dozens of actors in over 20 shows Off-Off-Broadway, a number of whom went on to sign with respected agents and managers. He has taught classes in scene study, monologue preparation/performance, and improvisation. His audition technique classes recreate the audition experience and have prepared students for the rigors of being judged. Many of his students have since gone on to performing careers on both coasts as well as internationally. He worked for many years with Ed Kovens, first as a student, and then as his assistant teacher, filling in for him when he was unavailable. As an actor, Mr. Mariano performs in feature and independent films, on television, Off-Broadway, and in commercials and voiceovers. He is a member of SAG, AFTRA, and AEA.