DR. LINNDA DURRE'S BIO
When Dr. Linnda Durre' sold a TV series to Aaron Spelling, she was admitted to the Writers Guild of America West (WGAW). She wrote and hosted five segments for Disney Channel's "Great Ideas," and for two years was a judge for two "Best Writing" categories for cable TV's Ace Awards, until they were absorbed into the Emmy Awards. She studied screenwriting at the American Film Institute and the Robert McKee Screenwriting Seminar, and has written five feature length scripts. She was admitted to AFTRA. As a lyricist, she was admitted to ASCAP and she collaborates with different song-writing partners.

She is currently in pre-production on her film, "Such A Deal," which she wrote, will direct, star in, and produce. She is the associate producer and creative consultant for Gretchen Van Aken's one-woman show, "Called Girl." She is the script consultant and producer of Arnali Films, "The Creed," written, directed and produced by Adam Arnali. She was a producer and presenter at the 15th Annual Crystal Reel Awards associated with the FMPTA.

She studied acting with renown acting coaches, Laura Rose and Larry Rice of LR Studios in North Hollywood, CA; with actor and director, Mark Feder of San Diego; and she attended the famous Lembeck Improvisational Comedy Workshop in Beverly Hills, where students have included Robin Williams, John Ritter, and Penny Marshall. She appeared in three student films at USC and one for the California Institute for the Arts in Valencia, California; in several plays and as an assistant director in New York, as well as a play at the Harman Theater in Los Angeles, which called for her doing five different character parts in accents. She had a principle role in the short film, "Roommate Unwanted," written and directed by Kristina Bakardjiev and she has a principal role in writer/director Richard Melendez's indie film, "Smack." She has written jokes for comedians, performed at The Comedy Store and The Improv in Los Angeles, and creative stages in Winter Park, Fl. Linnda appeared on "Comedy Night School" on Channel 6, WKMG, the CBS affiliate in Orlando.

Linnda has performed with the improv comedy group, "Laugh Out Loud" at the Speakeasy Comedy Club in Sanford, FL.

Besides her creative work, she is a nationally recognized psychotherapist who has been in private practice for 25 years. A member of Mensa, Dr. Durre' has been an adjunct professor of psychology at Rollins College and is an internship supervisor at UCF. Her interviews and appearances include: 60 Minutes, Oprah, The Today Show, The O'Reilly Factor, NY Times, LA Times, Orlando Sentinel and its Florida Magazine, San Francisco Chronicle and Examiner, USA Today, San Diego Union and Tribune, Orlando Business Journal, Parade Magazine, Variety, Screen Actor, Backstage, Focus In, and Hollywood Reporter.
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STUDENTS COMMENTS:
"Your advice has been so accurate. Since I began studying with you, I'm working more that ever. …It is a real pleasure knowing and working with you. Your class was one of the wisest investments in my career." Jim McDonald

"What a difference your acting class has made for me! …you immediately put me at ease to build my confidence. Your valuable feedback helped me grow, and…dramatically improved my success with auditions, and now I have the tools and confidence to take on anything! Your encouragement and support have meant so much. Thank you for being a wonderful instructor and mentor." Melissa Gruver

"…I realized that your expertise was unlike any other acting coach I have ever encountered. … When you add that amazing talent to all of the real world experience that you have, it makes for one great learning experience." Joe Parker

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Testimonials

Dear Linnda, I just had to write you a quick note to thank you for all the help you have given me recently. Your acting class and our individual acting lessons were very helpful to me in evaluating what will work best at auditions and teaching me how to most effectively execute it. Your advice has been so accurate. Since I began studying with you, I'm working more that ever. It is a real pleasure knowing and working with you. Your class was one of the wisest investments in my career. I look forward to many more years of your advice. Sincerely, Jim McDonald

Linnda, The appreciation belongs to us. WE thank each of YOU: Linnda, Tomas, and Melissa for your quality time and professionalism. You all sacrificed your valuable time which could have been applied to your own professions.... Thank you all again for a wonderful and memorable 2nd annual Orlando Auditions Live!!!!! Each year getting bigger and better!!!!! Respectfully, Brian Armstrong FMPTA

Dear Linnda, I had a great introduction to the fundamentals of acting through your workshop. Your expertise and guidance was wonderful and very constructive. I have much to work on and am anxious to get started. You are great! Sincerely, Crystal Bentley

Dear Linnda, Thank you for the positive experience working on "The Viewing." The production went as smooth as oil and everyone was a delight to collaborate with. I'm glad your Dreams are Coming True, Can't wait to see the finish product with bells and whistles. Hope to work with you in the future. Look forward to seeing you in March at the acting workshop & wrap party, just let me know when exactly the date and time will be. Fonte' Chapman

Hey Linnda, Thank you for being on the panel. Your comments to the actors were very insightful not only to the performers, but also to the audience. We have gotten nothing but great feedback from members who attended the program and as you know it was standing room only! Best regards, Scott Dupont President, Orlando Chapter FMPTA

I echo all the happy sentiments! You were superb! John Goring President, Playwrights Round Table

I have benefitted greatly from Linnda Durre's acting workshop because Dr. Durre' has:- 1) The industry knowledge to know what casting directors are thinking, and what they are looking for. 2) The work experience to help us identify and fix the areas where we have trouble (like auditioning!) 3) The artistic insight to know what would make our work the best it can be. 4) And the personal integrity to tell us the things we need to hear respectfully, constructively, with compassion and, well, love. In short, Linnda Durre' gets it. She gets all of it." Chris Rose Gregory - actress, model, voiceover talent.

MELISSA GRUVER Actor * Voiceover * Model 5110 Pine Top Place Orlando , FL 32819 407-222-0482 January 13, 2004 Dear Linnda, What a difference your acting class has made for me! When we began, you immediately put me at ease to build my confidence. Your valuable feedback helped me grow, and the skills you shared from your experience prepared me as a professional to go out and get great jobs. Plus, your training on improv, scene study and cold reading dramatically improved my success with auditions, and now I have the tools and confidence to take on anything! Your encouragement and support have meant so much. This is a challenging profession, and it's good to know that you've been there for me. Thank you for being a wonderful instructor and mentor. I have enjoyed working with you and look forward to many more adventures together! Warm wishes, Melissa Gruver

My name is James Hargraves...I'm a 9 yr. old actor. I played Edward (an abused child) in the film "Smack". Dr. Linnda played my alcoholic mother. Although it was hard work....Linnda made it fun and a great learning experience...she taught me so much ! Linnda has always been there for me and my mom. When we need advice as to which direction to take my acting career, her advice has always been right on. She is a true inspiration to me in many ways. Linnda, we LOVE you ! Thanks for all you guidance and help ! I would be honored to work on set with you anytime ! Your Star, James Hargaves & mom

June 20, 2005 To Whom It May Concern: I'm writing on behalf of my friend, Dr. Linnda Durre'. We first met in a rather unusual way, at a train station in Great Neck, Long Island . As we waited for the train, we both opened up and learned a lot about each other. I shared that I was and am a composer, pianist, conductor, and teacher. I found out that Linnda was - so many things! I was struck by Linnda's strong intuition, her obvious intelligence, her articulate and exuberant personality, and especially by her ability to very quickly grasp some of the essential qualities about me - in an extraordinarily quick span of time. I also came to the conclusion that she was a very caring person, who genuinely wants to teach, enlighten, and help serve others. When the train came, we were still deep in our conversation and of course sat together. Midway through the trip, we were interrupted by a man, who was apparently traveling with his young daughter. He said that he recognized Linnda from hosting "Ask The Family Therapist," on America 's Health Network, which was broadcast from Universal Studios in Orlando . He wanted to thank her in person, saying that he had called in for help, and that the advice she gave had helped him change his life. Even though that had happened more than two years before, he recognized her and wanted to express his sincere appreciation. This was very touching, to both Linnda and me as well. It further reinforced what I already was feeling - that Linnda Durre' was quite special, very creative and gifted, willing and always able to go the extra mile. Ellen Hoffman Composer/Pianist/Music Director www.EllenHoffmanMusic.com

I can only be more invigorated and inspired to continue to work with such a gracious lady and true professional. It is people like you dear lady that makes our industry proud. Your creating a great team. I look forward to working with this group. Thank you for the opportunity. Millie Ihnat

My dear Linnda: Superb......nothing less; you're at the top of your game, please keep 'playing'! All my congratulations for your hard work which has paid and will continue to pay dividends. Warmly, Joseph Peer approval, nothing like it: after the intermezzo, and at the end of the evening, Jack McGrath (see your programs) fellow writer AND a community college instructor actually told me that we nailed it: we captured the quintessence of reversionary, almost childlike release and antics of the proverbial faculty lounge! JB Pravda Playwright, "Anti-Matter" Orlando 's Summerfest - One Act Plays Festival

Hi Linnda, Once again I want to tell you how much I appreciate you casting me in The Viewing. It was a wonderful experience. Such a talented and friendly group of people ! When we left Sunday night, I felt like I was leaving family. I am anxious to hear about the LA reaction to the film. You were great to work for and with. Keep in touch. Love and prayers, Mimi Lipka

I took Dr. Linnda Durre's class and I feel more confident than ever about my acting ability. Her encouragement and straight forward approach to scene work, monologue work, and improv was just what I needed to step my performances up to the next level. During one of our improv scenes, I did something I have not been able to do in a very long time. I actually dropped a tear! (As I recall it was a boo hoo fest!) Because of Dr. Durre's class, I feel empowered as an actor and I am now ready to conquer the world! I highly recommend this class to any level of actor who wants honest feedback about their performance and encouragement to bring that performance to the next level. Thank you, Dr. Linnda! Rita Manyette / Actor

July 5, 2004 Dr. Linnda Durre' Dreams Come True Enterprises 127 West Fairbanks Avenue, #501 Winter Park , FL 32789 Dear Linnda, I would like to thank you for all the time and energy you put into working with Courteney. You are simply the greatest!! Your ability to help her conceptualize the Shakespeare pieces, which she had chosen for the state competition, was truly inspired. Until she worked with you, she had not given a great deal of thought to identifying the characters' motivations and the infinite variations she could give to each piece. More than the technical expertise you were able to impart, your ability to provide positive encouragement to a young actor is superlative. Courteney emerged from the sessions with you with much more confidence in her ability to portray emotions and move an audience. She has no longer hesitant to reach deeply into her psyche and bring out her passion. As a parent, it has been the best experience ever watching you work with my child. You are filled with understanding and compassion. Your wisdom and experience have certainly facilitated the process of discovery for her. I would recommend your techniques to anyone who is truly interested in developing their capacity as a performer. You have such an excellent knowledge of the acting process and can impart relevant information each step along the way. Again, thanks for all your help. It has been a great pleasure knowing you. Sincerely, Raven McElman

Linnda, I just wanted to say thank you for the opportunity to work with you on "The Viewing". This was one of the most enjoyable experiences I have had on a film set and I look forward to working with you on as many of your projects as possible. By the way, I'm glad you liked the drapes. They did add a certain "something" to the set didn't they. Mike Ihnat

Dear Linnda, I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for all of the help and motivation that you have given me lately. From the first time I sat down and had a talk with you, I realized that your expertise was unlike any other acting coach I have ever encountered. The way you can pick out all the little pieces of character that we think are so hidden way down deep truly amazed me. When we think no one knows about those little quirks or flaws, we tend to be self-conscious and hide them. Once we have those parts of us discovered by someone else in such a safe environment, it is so much easier to then tap into those parts of us for developing and presenting newer, more interesting characters to the world. When you add that amazing talent to all of the real world experience that you have, it makes for one great learning experience. I would be happy to recommend your workshop to any aspiring actors out there in need of a new perspective or just great advice. Thanks again for all of your help and for believing in me. Yours Truly, Joe Parker

Dear Linnda, I admire your energy, your enthusiasm, your perfectionism (without micro-managing; you're good at delegating and trusting people to do the best they can do.) Thanks for being so positive; it's very inspiring and it drives others to provide EXCELLENT results. Eliza Pineau

Dear Linnda: Kudos on tonight's energy...obviously, your mastery is in full flower...All the best, as, you are a superb talent. JB Pravda Playwright, "Anti-Matter" Orlando 's Summerfest - One Act Plays Festiva

Hi Linnda, Thanks for a wonderful workshop this past Saturday. I especially liked the improvisations that Crystal and I did. As it turns out, those improvs were great preparation for a call back I got this past week. Crystal was just splendid to work with because, as you keenly pointed out, she has the gift of telling a good story with lots of specific choices. I learned so much from working with her. Doing the improvs really showed me how relaxed and honest I could be in what is sometimes a nervous situation. I also thought that having us bring in scenes we wanted to work on was a terrific idea. I really put a lot of thought into my choices and when it came time to work on the scene, I got excellent direction from you. Now I feel a lot clearer about the choices I want to make for the character. One other thing has been ringing in my ears. You said that when we audition, the role is ours if we are meant to get that role. We can "blow" it if we trip ourselves up, but we should approach an audition with confidence, do our best, and let it go. I really thought that was extremely helpful for the auditions I have just done this week. We did a lot of good work on Saturday. How lucky I was to get a day-long workshop with you and Crystal! Best Janet

Linnda , I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed meeting and working with you on your movie. Your talent as a director and motivator is outstanding. Your relationship with cast and crew, again the only word I can think of is, OUTSTANDING. ....It was great and I know your hard work will be returned to you with sucess. As ever, Frank Taylor

UCF is very lucky to have you!. Take care. Best regards, -Jana Stillwell UCF Film Department-

Dear Linnda, I wanted to thank you so much for your help. Your suggestions helped me to focus and find my voice. We finished shooting "Family Crisis" yesterday. I think it went really well. I can't wait to see it, I hope it will be submitted to some film festivals. I plan to attend your film screening on Friday! Thank you again, Stephanie Mason-Teague

Great show last night. Everybody I spoke with had a blast and the films were all great! Scott

Patty, I saw Rick Walsh at the Downtown Media Arts Center last Friday night. I am elated that Darden supported this venue. Linnda Durre is a fine personal friend and she is also on The Golden Rule Foundation's Advisory Council where she serves as a professional resource to us in the area of child psychology and parent-child-community issues. In addition, she serves on the committee that is staging some research to quantify and validate the results of character education and our impact on the community. It is a small and wonderful world. Dr. Linnda Durre is an insatiable human being when it comes to helping others. I am proud that Darden also supports her film group. Supporting Dr. Durre is also supporting us. I am grateful for all your extensions to these film professionals. They are an incredibly talented bunch. Sincerely, Henry Henry F. Vales, MBA Executive Director The Golden Rule Foundation Rule F foundation 225 S. Swoope Ave. Suite 107 Maitland, Florida 32751 www.DoUntoOthers.net

Dear Dr. Durre': Thank you so much for the fabulous lesson you gave Amanda on Sunday. You were so helpful, not only in regards to acting techniques, but also in answering our questions about the "business" end of the Business. Amanda and I both walked out of there feeling so encouraged, and I know Amanda felt so much better about herself after talking with you. In an industry that can be so cutthroat and disheartening, that in itself is worth a fortune! Thanks again for everything. Sincerely, Nancy Hootman

Dr. Durré - Hello! It's Amanda Hootman! Thank you so much for the session with you. It was very fun and encouraging! I appreciated all that you did and I absorbed every ounce of information that you gave me - regarding both the critiques you had on my pieces and your answers to our questions. I left your office feeling very confident and more aware of my craft. Thank you again! Amanda Hootman.

August 30, 2005 To Whom It May Concern: Working with Dr. Linnda Durre' has been both a privilege and pleasure. She exudes confidence and grace and makes everyone around her feel as if they are as wonderful as she believes they are. Working with her in acting class and in private lessons has given me a new sense of self-confidence, which is essential in any actor. She believed in me so much that I believed in myself and I found a renewed desire to act again and be creative. She brings such a joy to the class and to life as well. Because of her training as a psychotherapist, her depth and knowledge of the human mind and behavior bring a deeper level of understanding to the roles and characters. Her clear communication helped me to grasp characters and roles with more clarity, making the interpretation more realistic. I have learned more then I could ever express in words from Dr. Linnda Durre' . I would highly recommend her to anyone who is interested in an in-depth acting experience. She is an amazing teacher and friend. Sincerely, Ja-Kee Alltop

FROM SHANE BACKLER, WDBO PRODUCER OF "AROUND THE HOUSE" YOU are awesome! It was so great to see you again, and even be able to work with again. You were such a terrific asset to the show. Out of all the Katrina coverage, and all the angles in the news, there were no (or at least very little) mental health experts, shining light on what these kinds of events do to the human mind - for both victims and bystanders. Plus your tie-ins with spirituality and the human need for community, friends, family and even prayer, brought everything Trevor and I worked on into full circle. YOU ROCK. Now that everybody is back from the long weekend, I'm starting to get feedback from people around here that were listening to the show. So far it has been great. Shane Backler Producer, WDBO AM Radio, Orlando, FL