Welcome to
Houde Summit 2026!
August 20-23, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio
What is Houde Summit 2026?
The Houde School of Acting Summit is a 4-day, in-person, interactive weekend of acting workshops, seminars and networking! Our guest teachers for Houde Summit 2026 will be Rodney Rowland, John Frank Levey, Wendy Alane Wright, Kurt Yue, Alex Collins, Tony Robinette, and host Jessica Houde-Morris.
See what past attendees have to say
What to expect at Houde Summit 2026
Opportunities to learn from industry pros who know how to navigate the business.
Small group interactive classes with each of the guest teachers. Each actor will work and receive constructive critiques from the teachers.
Guest panel discussion with a Q&A. Prepare your best industry questions!
Networking Picnic with food, games, and friends.
4 days of absolute FUN!
More About Your 2026 Instructors
Jessica Houde-Morris
Jessica is the founder of the Houde School of Acting, has been shaping the careers of actors since 2004. Her students have landed roles in major TV shows like Will Trent, Atlanta, The Haunting of Hill House, General Hospital, Criminal Minds, and The Vampire Diaries, as well as in films such as Black Widow, The Holdovers, Bad Moms, The Family Plan, and Richard Jewell. They’ve also been featured in commercials for brands like Nike, Honda, Subway, Intel, and McDonald’s.
Before founding her school in 2005, Jessica studied at the renowned Playhouse West in Los Angeles, where she later taught alongside Robert Carnegie, a direct protégé of Sanford Meisner. This makes her one of the few second-generation Meisner Technique instructors with over 20 years of teaching experience. Jessica has also collaborated with industry icons like Jeff Goldblum, James, Franco, Shawnee Smith, and Scott Caan, bringing a wealth of real-world expertise to her students.
Meisner Technique: Really Connecting with Jessica Houde-Morris
Stop acting. Start responding.
Houde Summit 2026
What does it actually mean to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances?
In this powerful, hands-on workshop, second-generation Meisner teacher Jessica Houde-Morris takes you beyond theory and into the work—where instinct replaces overthinking and real human behavior becomes your foundation.
This isn’t about performing. It’s about responding. Listening. Being affected.
You’ll observe or step into core Meisner exercises like repetition and partner work, designed to strip away habits and reconnect you to your natural impulses. Jessica’s approach blends over 20 years of teaching with a deep focus on emotional intelligence—helping you access more truthful, grounded, and compelling performances both on stage and on camera. Everyone will work at what level they are currently at - if you’re new to Meisner you will work at stage one but be able to observe the more advanced stages.
This workshop will challenge you, sharpen your instincts, and remind you what it feels like to truly be present in your work.
Come ready to work. To connect. And to surprise yourself.
John Levey
John Frank Levey is a four-time Emmy Award-winning casting director known for shaping some of television’s most iconic series, including ER, The West Wing, Shameless, Animal Kingdom, and Southland. Renowned for his keen eye for talent and long-standing collaboration with producer John Wells, Levey played a pivotal role in launching the careers of stars such as George Clooney, Noah Wyle, and Jeremy Allen White.
In 2022, he was honored with the Casting Society of America's prestigious Artios Award for Career Achievement, recognizing his enduring impact on the industry. Beyond his work in television and film, Levey is also a published author, a dedicated teacher, and a passionate advocate for inclusion and diversity in casting. Levey currently has two projects in the works and just recently cast a short film.
Audition: Choices with John Frank Levey
What casting sees—and what makes them remember you.
Houde Summit 2026
What makes an audition actually stand out?
In this dynamic, hands-on workshop, you’ll experience the audition process through the eyes of one of the industry’s most respected casting directors, John Frank Levey.
Each actor will prepare a 1–2 page script and perform it live during the session, working with a reader just like in a real audition. From there, John will provide direct, personalized feedback, helping you refine your choices, strengthen your instincts, and elevate your work in the moment.
Inside this workshop, you will:
Step into a real audition-style environment
Learn how to make grounded, specific choices that capture attention
Receive honest, actionable feedback from a top casting director
Build confidence, clarity, and professionalism in your performances
This is a chance to understand what an Emmy-winning Casting Director like John would look for in an audition and how to meet the moment with authenticity and precision.
Come prepared. Come ready to work. And leave with tools you’ll use in every audition moving forward.
Rod Rowland
Rod Rowland is a versatile American actor known for intense, emotionally charged performances across film and television. He has had roles in popular shows like The X-Files, Veronica Mars, Grey’s Anatomy, Criminal Minds, American Horror Story: Asylum, and The Walking Dead.
His film credits include The 6th Day opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger and several indie features. Before acting, Rodney modeled internationally for brands like Versace and Gucci, an experience that shaped his strong screen presence. Known for portraying complex characters with depth and grit, Rodney continues to captivate audiences with his authentic and powerful performances.
He has made his career on mastering the villain role and crafted a technique to help any actor learn to embody those types of characters. His current projects include an upcoming action thriller film called Serpentine and a drama called South Beacon Hill.
The Art of Slaying the Villain: Making Dynamic Choices with Rod Rowland
Bold choices. Complex characters. Unforgettable performances.
Houde Summit 2026
What makes a villain unforgettable?
In this high-impact, hands-on workshop with working actor Rod Rowland, you’ll dive into the technical craft of building characters that don’t just exist in a scene—but take it over.
Known for portraying complex, layered villains across film and television, Rod will guide you through the fine art of making bold, dynamic choices that elevate your work and leave a lasting impression. This isn’t about playing “evil”—it’s about creating behavior, intention, and specificity that make your character compelling, human, and impossible to ignore.
Inside this workshop, you’ll explore:
How to build a villain with depth, purpose, and point of view
The technical tools that turn a character into a true scene stealer
How to make strong, dynamic choices without overpushing
Ways to bring authenticity and unpredictability into your work
Whether you’re cast as the hero, the antagonist, or somewhere in between, these tools will expand your range and sharpen your ability to create performances that stand out.
Because the most memorable characters aren’t the “good guys”—they’re the ones you can’t stop watching.
Kurt Yue
Kurt Yue is an accomplished actor and acting coach born in Beijing, China and currently residing in Atlanta, Georgia. He spent his formative years in various states, including Iowa, Arizona, and Ohio. Kurt initially pursued a career in computer science and engineering after graduating from The University of Michigan. His journey into acting began unexpectedly at the age of 26 when he stumbled upon the Houde School of Acting in Cleveland, Ohio. Since then, he has gained recognition for his roles in popular TV series such as Will Trent, Cobra Kai, The Haunting of Hill House, and films like Black Widow and Venom. Kurt has also founded The Acting Career Center YouTube channel, sharing insights from his diverse experiences in the industry. The channel provides resources like audition techniques and industry advice to help actors at all stages of their careers. Through his work both on-screen and online, Kurt aims to inspire and educate others in the performing arts.
On Camera: Developing a Scene with Kurt Yue
From preparation to playback—what actually reads on screen.
Houde Summit 2025
What actually translates on camera—and what just feels like it should?
In this dynamic, hands-on workshop with working actor Kurt Yue, you’ll take a scene from preparation to performance and discover how to bring it fully to life on camera.
You’ll be paired with a partner and assigned a scene in advance, giving you time to do the real work actors are expected to do: break down the text, uncover the emotional layers, and make clear, personal choices. Then in class, you’ll step in front of the camera and put it all into action—refining your performance in real time with Kurt’s guidance.
Inside this workshop, you’ll:
Learn how to approach a scene with clarity, specificity, and intention
Translate your preparation into authentic, camera-ready behavior
Understand how subtle adjustments (like eyelines, stillness, and thought) impact what reads on screen
Discover how to do less—and get more on camera
And as a bonus—you won’t leave empty-handed. Your work will be filmed, and you’ll receive footage you can use for your acting reel, giving you high-quality material that showcases your growth and performance.
Kurt’s approach bridges the gap between solid technique and real-world application, helping you create performances that feel grounded, alive, and effortless on screen.
Because on camera—it’s not about doing more. It’s about letting the camera see everything.
Alex Collins
Alex Collins is a versatile actor and industry pro with over 21 years in SAG-AFTRA. Best known for his role as Dr. Charles McNider/Dr. MidNite on DC’s Stargirl, his credits span hit shows like Lovecraft Country, Cobra Kai, and True Detective, and films like Richard Jewell. Having worked alongside stars like Tom Cruise and Mahershala Ali and under directors like Clint Eastwood, Alex brings a wealth of on-set experience.
Beyond acting – he is the founder of The Approach, through which he is an experienced acting teacher, audition coach, and industry consultant. Known for his no-nonsense yet motivating style, Alex combines industry-savvy with practical insight, making him a sought-after coach from newbies to series regulars. With over a decade of teaching, he offers classes and one-on-one coaching both in person and virtually, helping actors navigate today’s entertainment landscape.
The Reel Deal: From Breakdown to Footage with Alex Collins
What's important, what's not, and everything in between.
Houde Summit 2026
What actually happens between the audition… and the final footage you put on your reel?
In this behind-the-curtain workshop with working actor and coach Alex Collins, you’ll follow the full life cycle of a booking—from the initial audition breakdown all the way to the finished product that airs.
Using real materials from booked projects, you’ll watch and analyze the audition script, the original self-tape, and the final edited scene—then break down what changed, why it changed, and what actually matters at each stage of the process.
Inside this workshop, you’ll:
Understand how to make strong, intentional choices from the audition stage
Learn what really happens on set (and how to adapt when everything shifts)
Navigate real-world obstacles like script changes, time gaps, and last-minute adjustments
Discover how to turn your footage into powerful, usable reel material
Most importantly, you’ll learn how to see your work through the lens of casting, agents, and buyers—so you can present yourself in a way that gets attention and moves your career forward.
Because it’s not just about booking the job—it’s about what you do with it after.
Wendy Alane Wright
Wendy Alane Wright is a former Hollywood talent manager, founder of the Hollywood Winners Circle Academy, and a leading expert in helping actors break into show business. With over 20 years of experience, Wendy has coached tens of thousands of actors worldwide, guiding them to book roles on major TV shows like Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, Law and Order, and FBI. Through her Facebook group, Talent Managers For Actors, Wendy has built a thriving global community of performers.
Wendy’s career began working her way up as an assistant to top Hollywood managers, agents, and publicists, Her extensive background also includes working at Fox TV, Sony Studios, and APA, as well as being a music producer and recording artist. With this unique 360-degree perspective of the entertainment industry, Wendy now extends her expertise to teaching the business of acting at top institutions across the country, sharing her proven strategies that have turned aspiring actors into series regulars and film stars.
The ABC’s: Breaking Into Show Business with Wendy Alane Wright
The steps. The strategy. The path forward.
Houde Summit 2026
What does it actually take to go from wanting it… to working?
In this inspiring, no-nonsense workshop, industry expert Wendy Alane Wright pulls back the curtain on how actors get signed, get seen, and start booking—giving you a clear, actionable path forward in your career.
This isn’t theory. This is strategy.
Inside this workshop, you’ll learn how to:
Train smart and invest in the right classes and coaches
Increase your marketability with simple, effective shifts
Build a career you can afford—and sustain
Create headshots and profiles that actually get attention
Self-submit with confidence and book more auditions
Avoid the #1 mistake that stops actors in the audition room
Use social media as a tool (not a distraction)
Approach agents and managers in a way that gets results
Book your first co-star, guest star, and beyond
And beyond the logistics, Wendy dives into the real battle—mindset. You’ll learn how to navigate fear, rejection, and self-doubt so you can stay consistent, confident, and in the game.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start moving forward, this is your roadmap.
Tony Robinette
Tony is a seasoned actor and you've probably seen him in shows like NCIS, Dahmer, Night Court, Tacoma FD, and This Is Us. You might even recognize him from the Dunkin’ Donuts Super Bowl ad, where he appeared as one of the Dunk Kings alongside Ben Affleck!
Starting his career with improv at Walt Disney World under an Actors' Equity contract, Tony sharpened his comedic chops at SAK Comedy Lab (Orlando), with Gary Izzo (NYC), and The Groundlings (Los Angeles). He believes that improv isn’t just for the stage—it’s a powerful tool on and off screen. As the founder of The Working Actors Coach, Tony offers practical audition coaching, career guidance, and mentorship from the unique perspective of a working actor, helping others navigate the industry with creativity and confidence.
Think Less. Play More: Improv for the Actor with Tony Robinette
Get out of your head and into the moment.
Houde Summit 2026
What if your best work came from not trying to get it “right”?
In this freeing, high-energy workshop with improv expert Tony Robinette, you’ll learn how to quiet the noise, trust your instincts, and fully live in the moment—where real, compelling performances actually happen.
Actors often get stuck in their heads—self-editing, second-guessing, and trying to deliver what they think people want. This class flips that completely. Through improv-based exercises, you’ll break out of overthinking and reconnect to your natural impulses, spontaneity, and creativity.
Inside this workshop, you’ll:
Let go of perfection and trust your instincts
Stay grounded and present—even when things go off script
Build confidence in auditions, on set, and in the room
Strengthen real connection with scene partners and collaborators
Because improv isn’t just comedy—it’s a survival skill for actors. From auditions to on-set pivots to real human connection, the ability to stay present and adaptable is what sets you apart.
You don’t need to be clever. You don’t need to be funny. You just need to show up—and play.
The Agenda
Thursday, August 20, 2026 - ‘Meet & Greet’
Take an opportunity to meet your teachers and fellow actors at the venue. We will have time to tour the venue and run through some warmup exercises, followed by improv games.
Friday, August 21, 2026 – Day 1 Workshops
All actors will be placed into small groups and each group will work with a different guest teacher, swapping every two hours.
Saturday, August 22, 2026 – Day 2 Workshops
All actors will be placed into small groups and each group will work with a different guest teacher than the day before, swapping every two hours.
By the end of the workshops, all actors will have had the opportunity to work with each guest teacher.
Cont. Saturday, August 22, 2026 - Panel Discussion/Q&A with Industry Professionals
Let our industry guests help you in your acting career. Come prepared with industry questions!
Sunday, August 23, 2026 - Networking Picnic Join us at one of Cleveland’s beautiful MetroParks for some great food and fun games. (Food, drinks and games provided)
Who is the Summit for?
Houde Summit is designed for new actors and experienced working actors. Wherever you are in your acting journey and if you are interested in taking your career to the next level, join us for a jam-packed weekend of learning essential skills and tools while having fun and creating memories.
