2006
Ah, where to begin? My HB story starts as a new student, returning to acting after a 10 year absence. A call to the Studio, a first visit, counseling from Caterina, and I was off to my first Technique Class on a Saturday morning in the Fall of 2001. In the years that would follow, I would remain a student but also act as a Key student, member of the HB Ensemble (for 5 seasons), volunteer at the HB Playwrights Foundation and HB Studio, a part-time office assistant, a full-time office assistant and finally the Facilities Manager of HB Studio.
Wow, it’s hard to believe it’s been 70 years for the Studio and I was lucky enough to have been a part of its rich history for the last fifteen. I went seeking an artist home in 2001 and what I found was a permanent home, a place where I could be myself and not be judged by the constraints of the outside world. And for that and so much more I am eternally grateful.
In the past 15 years I’ve had the opportunity to participate in so much at the Studio. I’ve made life-long friends, fell in love a time or two and had my heart broken a few times as well. But through it all I went on to “act” another day. I had the good fortune to perform in over 15 productions at the HB Playwrights Foundation and study with some of the best teachers anyone could ask for. And as a result my world is richer than I could ever have imagined. I will carry my Studio memories with me all the days of my life. In fact I simply don’t know what my life would have been like if I hadn’t walked through the door of 120 Bank Street back in 2001. For me it was never about the appearance or location of this “Gritty” little acting Studio with the rich history and long list of famous alumni. Rather it was about the faces and voices I encountered when I walked through the door.
– Tom Tinelli, HB Studio Alum
