Craig Nigh
Founder & Teacher
Award-winning actor and director Craig Nigh brings over 30 years of diverse experience in the film industry to his work. With a strong foundation in both film and television, as well as stage performance, Craig has dedicated the past 12 years to shaping the next generation of actors as a coach and teacher.
As the founder and head teacher of the Austin Acting Studio, Craig has created a nurturing environment for aspiring performers. His journey began with over a decade spent in Los Angeles, where he honed his craft by studying acting as well as working at one of the top talent agencies, and alongside a legendary producer.
Upon returning to Texas and settling in Austin, Craig quickly became an integral part of the local film community, collaborating with major casting directors across the state. Frustrated by the disconnect between traditional acting classes and the realities of working on a film set, Craig developed the Nigh Technique—a unique five-step process that bridges this gap. This method draws upon his extensive knowledge of various acting techniques and real-world experiences, equipping actors to better understand a writer's intentions and the purpose of their characters within a story.
The Nigh Technique has proven to be transformative, helping hundreds of actors secure roles in top-tier television shows and films. This approach is not just a teaching method; it’s the cornerstone of Craig’s commitment to empowering actors to bring their authentic selves to every role
Jessica Culaciati is a classically trained actor, casting assistant, and coach with over 20 years of industry experience.
​
Holding an MFA in Acting from the University of Tennessee, Jessica has also trained at The Actor's Center in New York and various studios in Los Angeles, including UCB and The Groundlings. She has been teaching at the college and private levels for over 15 years, specializing in self-tape technique, audition preparation, and scene study.
Having worked as Beverly Holloway's casting assistant, Jessica has gained extensive experience on the other side of the casting table, observing actors audition for over two decades.
​
Jessica's experience as a teacher, actor, and casting associate equips her to give students a unique perspective on the craft. ​
Jessica Culaciati
Teacher & Executive Assistant
Hannah Dannelly is a professional actress and model with years of training and experience in the industry. She is also an acting coach with credits in film, television, and commercial work. She brings real-world audition and on-set experience into the classroom, helping students develop strong, authentic on-camera skills.Hannah teaches that success in acting requires more than talent alone, it requires belief, commitment, and the courage to show up fully. She encourages students to release fear, trust themselves, and approach their work with bravery, understanding that confidence is a skill that can be built. In a supportive, encouraging environment, students learn to stay grounded, present, and self-trusting on camera. Through age-appropriate confidence-building and mindfulness-based tools, they develop the ability to manage nerves, listen deeply, and perform with clarity and authenticity.
Hannah Dannelly
Teens and Kids Teacher