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THIS IS WHAT YOU'VE SAID...

LYNDSAY NAUGHTON

At first I didn't like intro to acting. I thought it was weird and irrelevant, but Eric made it feel so natural and I slowly but surely began to love it. I loved being on stage in front of my peers. Eric made everything fun and relate to us in every way. He made us really connect with the class as well. I not only had a new love for the stage but I came out of that class with 15 new friends too. 
My advice it to take his class your freshman semester. You'll make a ton of new friends and you'll walk out with great skills that can take you far in any career. 
Lyndsaynaughton10@gmail.com

MATT RABORN

As an Engineering major, I have never taken an acting class before and was very skeptical entering the semester. It took Eric no time at all to break me out of my shell and push my limits. Within a few weeks I looked forward to each and every class. The exercises that we had to do weren't always easy, but Eric was there to motivate us and provide extremely helpful advice.

Unfortunately I probably won't take another acting class (at least in the near future), but the lessons I learned under Eric will guide me in my career wherever I end up. Reflecting on the semester, and my career at Lehigh, Intro to Acting was the most entertaining and rewarding class I have ever taken.
raborn99matt@gmail.com

RYAN HERBERT

Eric was my professor for Intro to Acting at Lehigh University. I've always had an interest in theatre, but I never thought that I would want to take classes in the subject area. Now, after choosing to take what I'd thought would be a little stint in acting education, I've declared a Theatre minor after enjoying Eric's class so much. It was unlike any other in that it encouraged personal learning at a very deep level. Eric excellently held our attention, taught us to think critically, and provided an open space for improvement. I can't believe how much I saw everyone in the class grow - each student was clearly learning a great deal and felt driven to apply it. No matter what level each of us were at, he taught us individually how to work towards our goals. Beyond that, Eric facilitated a friendly environment; I've never become so close to all of my classmates. Simply put, Eric is a wonderful teacher. 
rph216@lehigh.edu

NATE CANNON

I'm gonna keep it short Eric was the best teacher I have ever had, he made class so exciting and made it a great place to communicate.There was not a single person in my class that I didn't consider a friend by the middle of the semester a couple of them I still talk to. My advice to you is if you have the opportunity to take his class, take it or you will be making the bigest mistake of your life.
natecannon93@gmail.com

JESSICA GOLDADE

Eric is great when working with a team. Whether as a director or an actor he is always willing to do what is needed and to speak his mind, but you never feel you are being talk down too. He is easy to talk to as well and is always helpful whether it is helping with the set or giving advice.
goldadeja@gmail.com

SHY IVERSON

As a director, Eric demonstrated and strove for true collaboration. As a designer, I always felt comfortable--and encouraged--to approach Eric with my ideas and concerns. Our work was a dual relationship--working with each other to reach a common goal--and our final production reflected this partnership. Eric is a leader and a team player. I enjoyed working with him so much--because I trusted our collaboration--that he inspired me to go above and beyond what was necessary or required for our production--making it all the better.
iversonshy@yahoo.com

ALEX MEDINA

4 years ago I met Eric Hersh in the classroom as a freshman theatre major in his Intro to Theatre class. His class was the high point of my day that year. His knowledge in the theatrical arts, in both performing and technical aspects, astonished me and inspired me to learn even more in hopes of one day being able to equal or surpass him (though the latter is improbable). He connected with his students in his class, creating a relaxed environment for us to learn in. While some of his teaching ways were unconventional to say the least you always learned something, whether it be a lesson on how to survive in theatre or a lesson on how to survive in life. I wish I could've had the opportunity to learn more from Mr. Hersh, and that maybe one day I'll have the opportunity to work with him on the stage.
zoiopsis@yahoo.com

COLTON HOCHHALTER

Eric has been my teacher and friend for the past three years at University of Montana. Shows we have done together include some of my favorites and lessons I have learned from him are invaluable to my future. He is a remarkable person who I feel privileged to have worked with. Anyone, anywhere, should count themselves lucky to work with him in most any capacity. colton.hochhalter@gmail.com

CHANCE CARTER

I spent my first semester of my freshmen year with Eric as my Acting 1 TA. What impressed me about Eric was not only his knowledge of acting, but also his willingness to help in class and out of class. I was always able to get AMAZING feedback from our work in class with him. But, He also was willing to help us work on our auditions outside of class, and give us feedback on our auditions. Another great thing about Eric was his ability to connect with his students in fantastic ways. He was able to get me to act at levels I never thought I could. His passion and love for theatre is endless and it shows. I had a great semester with Eric as my TA and truly look forward to working with him again.
chance.carter.w@gmail.com

KYNDRA GILVARRY

Despite the fact that Eric is one of the most driven and intellectual people I have ever met, he never forgets that theatre is supposed to be fun. While he dives into everything he is involved with and refuses to cut corners or settle for something that is merely passable, he also never brings down the mood by insisting that the only way to achieve success is to act as though everything is completely serious. Instead of putting enjoyment ahead of hard work or hard work ahead of enjoyment, he manages to bring both things to the table. I have had him as a teacher (his lectures were a bright spot in our theatre history classes), as a cast mate, and as a class mate and he has been an asset and a joy in all of these areas.
kyndragilvarry@gmail.com

MARK MCGREGOR

Eric took the lead role of Francis Xavier in a short play performed on December 3, 2010 in Missoula, MT. The play was dramatic and comedic in parts, and was put on to celebrate the Feast of Francis Xavier at St. Francis Xavier Church on First Friday, The full house gave the actors a standing ovation. He led and brought a group of young adults and youth to a better place because of his acting skill, enthusiasm and personal interaction with the cast. As the writer & director of the play, I could not have been more pleased with Eric. He's a great actor who brings others along with him to good places.
mmcgregorsj@yahoo.com

KRISTIN CICHOWSKI

I had the honor of having Eric Hersh as a teacher for three years and would be pleased to write on behalf of his educational credentials. Aside from acquiring a wide breadth of theatrical knowledge in his classroom, he most importantly imparted to his students and myself how the arts should be be respected as an academic subject. It was in Eric Hersh's classroom where I was challenged as a student; becoming exposed to discipline in the artistic world. Being involved in theatre for a large portion of my life, I easily have encountered many who view and treat theatre and the arts in general as breeding grounds for the chaotic, uncontrollable souls of this earth. And although freedom and a kind of surrendering to nature can be a positive thing; many times disrespect will also follow. Along with his unceasing work ethic, Eric Hersh's biggest asset is his ability to live and preach how an artist mush respect his/her art. This respect is shown in his pedagogy as well as his concrete manifestations of his labor. His true artistry is something that as a student I miss, but I know will be an excellent addition to any institution. 
krcichowski@ursinus.edu

ALISHA MEYER

Eric is extremely reliable and completely on top of things. He is great at multi-tasking and clarifying when things are confusing, especially with technology. Eric is well-spoken and offers great insight to discussions. I thoroughly enjoy his presence and great sense of humor.  
lishameyer@gmail.com

ELLEN MCKENZIE

I've been lucky enough to work with Eric Hersh during two summers of a Masters program called "Creative Pulse." This program is for teachers in visual and performing arts, and Eric has been our full-time TA. Eric is such an excellent resource in so many ways. I especially enjoyed his expertise when I took an acting class. As a person with limited acting experience, I appreciated his ability to inspire and give advice. I felt a lot of positive support from him throughout the program. He always provided thought-provoking comments in discussions - and not just in theatre classes, but also in music, art and dance classes. Eric is an extremely smart person, a fabulous actor, and such a natural teacher. He is so dedicated to the arts and his profession, and I enjoyed our side discussions about theatre as well! I can't wait to see the amazing things he does in the future!
mckenzieellen@yahoo.com

LARS HOFF

Eric is a very hardworker. He brought a level of professionalism, caring, and energy to his work that made him invaluable. He is highly intelligent and perceptive to the needs of his peers, and I would eagerly work with him again given the opportunity.
larsahoff@gmail.com

SAMANTHA LANGE

I have had the pleasure of working with Eric both as his student and his peer for the past two years. Eric's knowledge and passion for theatre was evident while he was my TA for theatre history - he was able to keep me engaged (in a subject that some may consider "dry!") and was constantly urging all of us to ask questions. Since theatre revolves around collaboration, I find that particular teaching style to be very effective and refreshing. I also took a dramaturgy class with Eric and was in awe of his thoughtful contributions to our class discussion. He has taught me a great deal and I hope to keep learning from him while I still can. Anyone would be lucky to have such a hard-working, astute, and humorous person as Eric in their midst, and I can't wait to see what his future holds!
samantha.lange023@gmail.com

CLAYTON IMPROTA

Eric Hersh is a theatre nerd in the kindest sense of the word. I feel that few people have the same knack for this profession as Eric and I am happy to work with him on any project. He is hardworking, knowledgeable and keeps a great sense of humor on any project. I have had the pleasure of working with Eric for the past two years and marvel at his ability to contribute in every aspect of the theatre. I have yet to see what Eric cannot do, and I hope to continue working with him next year and hopefully the future.
clayton1.improta@umontana.edu

CHRISTIAN MIKKELSEN

oh my, where to start.....

Eric Hersh is 97% of the reason that I do what I do today. He taught me both inside and outside the classroom for 4 years of my life and his influence upon me has been huge and invaluable. I cannot begin to describe what an amazing teacher and person Eric is, his care and dedication to my education was critical in my admittance to one of the premier universities for technical direction. as a mentor Eric helped me through some of the hardest parts of my life and always managed to have something that, while often a little out there, helped me more than I thought possible.

I cannot express my gratitude for the role Eric has played in my life and would recommend him for ANY teaching position, of any kind.
chrismikk@gmail.com

SARINA HART

I consider myself fortunate to have worked with Eric in the classroom setting at the University of Montana in Missoula. He was the TA for 2 of my semesters in Theatre History. He incredible knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject, and I always looked forward to his lectures. They were lively, informative and entertaining. Although I never worked with him personally as a director or actor, I have heard nothing but great feedback from other colleagues and fellow students that have worked with him. He is a giving, insightful and fair leader and would be an asset to any educational institution or theatre.

I look forward to working with Eric again someday and hearing about his future projects.
sarinahart@yahoo.com

CHASE YENSER

I have had the great fortune of collaborating with Eric D Hersh on a number of projects. What is most compelling about Eric's work ethic is his ability to apply further comprehension and learning to the job at hand; whether it be directing, stage managing, designing, or acting. One of his greatest attributes is his ability to truly inspire those around him. His level of enthusiasm and love for theatre is, without a doubt, contagious! With a passion as strong as his, one can only expect a degree of work incomparable to others and he does not fail to deliver. All of his work is done with a great level of craftsmanship that adds depth and layers to every production he partakes in.
As a former student of Eric's and someone who has worked with him for a number of years, I must say that I have yet to come across someone who enriches the production process as much as he does. I would highly recommend Eric D Hersh as a teacher and production collaborator of all types. His determination, willingness to continue learning, and drive to teach and inspire those around him, are only the surface of his outstanding character. Any institution Would be lucky to have him!
Chasey@gdproductions.org

KAITLYN DISSINGER

My experience with Eric Hersh as a teacher was fantastic. His lessons were enthralling, and his teaching styles were extremely effective. Throughout my years with Eric, not only did he teach me about theatre, but also about life in general. He inspired me to work toward my goals, whatever they may be, and to never give up. Eric disposed of frustration through wit and a positive attitude.

Eric was not only a great teacher, but an excellent influence. He sought out students who showed signs of needing extra help and went above and beyond to assist them. His lessons were inspiring inside the classroom, and even after leaving, his motivational teachings stayed with me.

Eric would be an outstanding asset to any institution looking for an inspiring mentor with much to offer. His passion and general love of theatre will be transposed to any student who will have the pleasure of being taught by him.
kedissinger@gmail.com

LINDSAY BROWN

Theatre is a hard thing to teach, and in order to succeed you have to be truly passionate about your craft. Thankfully Eric Hersh is beyond passionate about theatre. As an instructor, Eric renewed my love of theatre and opened my eyes to different aspects I had never thought of. I appreciate how Eric enters a room with an openness to teach, and to learn himself. Eric is an extremely intelligent man, and helps his students discover and grow in a way that is irrevocable.  

Watching Eric on stage is an inspirational event. I have had the opportunity to see Eric in many different roles: a King, a reporter and as a student auditioning. Just sitting behind a table and watching Eric audition for his fellow students and faculty is a lesson on it's own. To work with Eric Hersh again would be yet another learning opportunity for myself, and a treat for my creative mind.
lindbrownsay@gmail.com

ASPEN MARINO

90% of the time I see Eric he is working. He seems to be a part of everything, and is always willing to add something more to his plate. I had the privilege of working with Eric on a project that became very important to me. I learned how creative he is and how no matter where we were in the process he was full of ideas, input, and feedback. The most wonderful part about this was not only did Eric inspire, he allowed himself to be inspired. He allows for a two way street in his direction that is so important in the creative process. He will create a dialogue with you about the material, and ideas. He’s not afraid to discuss and argue the material with you. He doesn’t place his ideas on you, he instead discovers them with you; he listens. 

Another wonderful thing about Eric is that he never stops discovering, his work is never static. Even when our rehearsal process was at its end he still was allowing new ideas to surface, inspiring a fresh playful quality to our work that was essential. I always felt that Eric gave his full attention, and that he was able to see the details while remaining aware of the big picture. He was always very thorough. 

One last comment I would like to make is on his ability to remain calm. It seems no matter how insane the chaos is around him he is able to maintain a calm that allows everything to slow down and come together. He’s one of the few that you can tell truly loves and cares about what he does in this field. 
aspen.marino@gmail.com