The ensemble share many roles as the familiar story unfolds, passing characters from one to another, transforming vocally and physically in an instant, to the point that it feels like a much larger cast … Integral to the ensemble’s ability to create multiple roles is their pitch-perfect use of dialect, fine-tuned by voice coach Benjamin Purser.
Harriet Cunningham reviewing Picnic at Hanging Rock, The Sydney Morning Herald
It’s the ensemble cast of five, though, that truly makes this show unmissable. Dropping passionate monologues as easily as perfectly timed comedic lines, Megan Bennetts, Alice Birbara, Alana Birtles, Audrey Blyde, and Sarah Jane Kelly all give flawless performances, ricocheting the roles of the school girls between them as well as taking on other key characters. Accent Coach Benjamin Purser had his work cut out for him … with all executed perfectly.
Kate Maraschino reviewing Picnic at Hanging Rock, State of the Art
Benjamin is a fantastic coach, he made learning a very unique accent feel achievable and fun! He is professional, personable, and made himself very available for any questions we had. Would definitely recommend. 10/10!
Benjamin was absolutely fantastic. He broke down the dialect in a really simple yet thorough way, and was able to explain exactly how it differs from my natural accent, so that I could apply it as easily as possible. I not only learnt a lot quickly, but had a great time doing it! I would recommend Benjamin to anyone looking to learn a dialect.
Students, Příbor, Third Year Theatre/Media Production, Charles Sturt University
I asked Benjamin to come on board to teach my cast a Czech accent. Pretty specific. Benjamin patiently and painstakingly taught the group over a month, and the difference at the end of the process was like night and day. He’s a fantastic accent coach, and I would recommend him to anyone.
Tim Hansen, Director, Příbor, Third Year Theatre/Media Production, Charles Sturt University
Benjamin, you were absolutely great to work with. You explained things clearly and with detail. You provided me with a strong foundation to keep building on for each accent. Your kindness and attention to every student was wonderful. It was a pleasure working with you.
Benjamin is approachable, clear, and delivers his lessons in an interesting and effective manner. I thoroughly enjoyed the classes and would not only do more, but also recommend him to anyone seeking a dialect coach.
Benjamin not only made the course fun, but his detailed explanations made everything easy to understand
Students, British Accents Masterclass, Genesian Theatre Company
Personally, I have loved doing accent work in theatre for many years but I never really felt that it came naturally to me. With Benjamin’s help, I now feel more confident and less restricted when putting my accent to use in both acting and singing. I love how he really personalised the experience by distributing individual feedback for our own personal journeys. I will certainly be recommending Benjamin as a dialect coach in the future!
Benjamin was very knowledgeable about not only the American accent but also how to break down any accent you may be given. He was very kind and was always equipped to answer questions. He provides multiple resources and is adaptable to all learning styles. I had a great time and I know I can ask for help in the future whenever I may need it.
After working with Benjamin, I feel more confident and capable of applying a variety of his helpful tips and strategies. Benjamin is not only highly knowledgeable, but personable, understanding, and supportive in finding multiple ways to effectively help the individual. With this said, I strongly recommend his professional, highly educational, and just plain fun courses and coaching!
Students, U.S. Accent Masterclass, August – September 2021
I would highly recommend Benjamin for any dialect or voice coaching – working with Hungarian, Serbian, Russian, and Hungarian-Australian accents, Benjamin was invaluable in helping us create an authentic world far from the streets of suburban Australia. His knowledge of the nuances between accents and his commitment to the production was outstanding – not to mention he was an absolute delight to have in the rehearsal room. Thank you Benjamin!
Trudy Ritchie, Director, Neighbourhood Watch, New Theatre (2020)
Benjamin is a knowledgeable, engaging, and flexible voice coach. He taught specific to the needs of my work and my learning style and really helped me to grow as an actor. I would highly recommend him to actors of all skill levels.
Kaiya Jones, Director/Actor/Mentor (Young Actors Mentoring)