I'm deciding between JoAnna Beckson's 9-month Meisner Foundation class and the 18th month Esper class. I've heard great things about Beckson's coaching, but not much about her Meisner class. I've heard great things about Esper too. Just wondering if there are big differences in the quality and feel of their programs. Opinions? Specifically about Beckson.

I don't know anything about JoAnna, but I do know Esper taught alongside Meisner at The Neighborhood Playhouse for years and is regarded as a Master teacher, along with William Alderson (Who I studied with) in LA who also taught alongside Meisner. These two teachers are highly regarded with being Master Meisner teachers. Both are in their 70's now.

With Esper, you are getting the technique info first generation and not passed down from teacher to teacher. Just my two cents. And Esper is always voted best teacher in NYC by Backstage almost every year.

I'd rather study with a first generation teacher, personally. No offense to JoAnna.

Beckson also studied with Meisner and Esper at the neighborhood playhouse...though I'm not sure for how long.

And Thank you for your 2 cents!

That's great she studied with Meisner. But since she studied WITH Esper, why wouldn't you want to learn from the horse's mouth?

Just my two cents. Esper is well known and well respected.