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John Markland
John Markland, a highly respected figure in the entertainment industry, is a renowned director, screenwriter, producer, and teacher. He has made significant contributions to the creative realm and created the Moth Theatre, leading more than 15 remarkable productions. His visionary directorial skills were recognized when his play "Proof" earned an Ovation Nomination for Best Production in Los Angeles.
John's influence extends beyond directing. At The Markland Studio, he has become one of the industry's most successful coaches, shaping the talents of award-winning actors like Rami Malek. Not only has he coached Rami Malek to deliver an astounding performance as Freddy Mercury in "Bohemian Rhapsody," but he has also worked with esteemed names like Scoot McNairy, Dakota Johnson, Mackenzie Davis, Eiza Gonzalez, Lee Pace, Jeremy Allen White, Jonathan Tucker, and other sought-after Hollywood actors. John's immersive and collaborative approach benefits these actors greatly, fostering a harmonious alignment of vision with writers, directors, and actors, resulting in extraordinary performances and unforgettable cinematic experiences.
As John's career thrives, he has recently diversified into production. Leveraging his skills and experiences, he seamlessly transitioned into this new role, ensuring his creative vision is fulfilled from conception to final execution. He is a true trailblazer in the entertainment industry. With artistic talents and relentless dedication, he has left an indelible mark. From captivating audiences at the Moth Theatre to molding exceptional performances at The Markland Studio, John's journey is filled with extraordinary achievements.
Managing Partner/Auditions Coach
Max Barsness has been immersed in the world of acting for over 20 years. His journey began as a child in the vibrant city of NYC, where he honed his craft before embarking on a quest for knowledge and growth in various programs and workshops across the country. Along this incredible path, Max also emerged as a multifaceted talent, taking on the roles of writer, producer, and star in several captivating films.
At a pivotal moment in his career, Max decided to take a break from acting and ventured into the realm of Casting. Collaborating with esteemed industry professionals Junie Lowry Johnson & Libby Goldstein, he discovered a profound understanding of the intricate symbiosis between casting and the actor. This enlightening experience served as a solid foundation for his future endeavors.
In 2007, destiny brought Max and John together, forging a remarkable partnership. Serendipitously united through their shared tutelage under Sandra Seacat, they recognized a mutual artistic connection that would shape their lives. Max's dedication extended beyond their initial meeting, as he actively contributed to the establishment of The Markland Studio, lending his artistic prowess and invaluable guidance.
Throughout his time at The Markland Studio, Max has proven himself to be not only an exceptional student but also an esteemed teacher and indispensable partner. His unwavering commitment to the craft and his deep pool of knowledge have become invaluable assets, enriching the studio environment and empowering all those who are fortunate enough to cross paths with him.
“STATE OF PLAY”
John approaches the work, and artists, with a sincere belief; there is no separation between life and art. Our personal evolution, as a human being, is intrinsically connected to the development of our art. This symbiotic relationship allows experiences from life to enrich our art and discoveries through our art to further our self-awareness.
Children explore and discover themselves and their world through play. It is a form of translation between the conscious and unconscious - the Ying and Yang. Perhaps, undivided, in the earliest stages, our consciousness separates and continues to grow apart as we age. So, as wounded healers, as storytellers, imagining metaphorical, symbolic worlds and birthing them into reality, we must some how encourage that state of communion our conscious and unconscious mind once had. The two minds must dance, and dance in balance, for then magic happens, paths clear, faith rises and our art transcends, allowing our humanity to connect to others.
Another way of looking at it, we are fragmented selves and our goal is to become whole. This suggests the process of reunification itself is fragmented or interdisciplinary. Body, breath, psychology, emotions and dreams are all strands of a web we must weave. The pains, shames, self-sabotaging, addictions, deceits and many of the darker wounds we carry could be said to be the side effects of this fragmentation. Allowing, forgiving, exposing, acknowledging, accepting and expressing therefore would be part of the healing necessary to re-integrate.
This approach to living and acting is not just restorative; it’s redemptive.
We rediscover a State of Play.