S02 E20: On Teaching & Acting with René Millán

Author: Daniel Lamb & Anna Rosa Parker / René Millán
Published: Mon 01 Nov 2021
Episode Link: None

“I had to break down this art form to its most elemental form.”

— René Millán

A professional actor by passion and a school teacher by necessity, René Millán is an artist whose journey has directly influenced a new generation of creatives.

After attending his dream graduate school in Seattle at the University of Washington, René moved to New York to begin his acting career, finding roles in independent film, strolling the streets of NYC with Eartha Kitt, and doing regional theatre.

In 2005, he found work through the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and wound up spending seven years exploring the rich world of Latino theatre.

He’s also snared roles on TV shows such as 24, CSI: Miami, Arrested Development, and Days of Our Lives.

Now, through his acting studio, he helps new and professional actors hone their craft.

“To be able to help actors, including myself… it’s ‘how can I help or guide someone to let go?’” René asks. “How can you let go of thought? Especially using these physical movements that I see as movement meditations. In meditation, it’s letting go of thought and allowing for inspiration.”

Check out this conversation for a fascinating exploration of power, pedagogy, and parenting — and learn why René encourages his students to dip into the subconscious realm in order to access a character.

In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌

The stereotyping and resistance that René dealt with while seeking roles in theatre as a Latino actor
How teaching young children about acting helped deepen René’s understanding of the art (and of teaching itself)
Why representation is so important not only on the stage and in front of the camera, but behind the scenes

About René Millán: René Millán has been acting professionally for over 20 years and has appeared in 24, Days of Our Lives, and In America. He teaches acting through his own acting studio which he founded in 2000. While his undergrad training was in history and education, he always knew that he wanted to act.

‌

Highlights:‌

00:17 Intro

02:56 Meet René Millán

04:42 School years

06:21 Starting his acting career

08:07 Oregon Shakespeare Festival

09:56 Race & casting

13:49 Power & representation

16:25 René’s teaching career

21:36 Working while parenting

25:54 Teaching grades K-4