“Vulnerability is our greatest strength,” says Renée O’Connor, actor, producer, director, and resident of San Pedro. “In this time in our lives when the risks of being open and accessible are scarier than when I was a kid, being strong enough to speak what is truthful, being compassionate with everyone, and being authentic in every moment is vital to being a great actor.” Keeping these principals in mind, O’Connor (famously known for her role as Gabrielle in Xena: Warrior Princess) is using her expertise to help young and aspiring actors learn more about their craft, as well as themselves.

O’Connor, along with husband, Jed Sura, and their children, are all heavily involved in the San Pedro arts and theater community, including work with Encore South Bay, Little Fish Theatre, and her own production company, ROC Productions. “There have been many opportunities where we work with [kids] to develop their scenes, both on and off the stage,” says O’Connor. “Eventually, I had enough parents asking, ‘When are you going to start a class in our area?’ And so, I did it.”

Her Fundamentals of Acting classes are geared for ages 13 and up, with O’Connor teaching a variety of skills and methods, most notably, the Sanford Meisner Technique. “The technique teaches how to live truthfully in a moment,” says O’Connor. “Its still in the foundation of everything I do, on stage and in film.” In addition, she also offers classes that assist in audition techniques, as well as an introduction to performing Shakespeare. “I teach a way to deconstruct the text, so there is no fear,” she explains.

In today’s evolving entertainment world, young actors face new challenges. “Young actors today have a delicate balance to play with social media,” O’Connor describes. “On one hand, producers will take an interest in actors who are ‘influencers’ or who have a large following on social media. It also offers these young actors a platform to develop their own material and have instant feedback. The problem, which in my opinion, is larger than the benefit of having a large social media following, is that these actors very quickly think their greatness is in response to how many ‘likes’ they have acquired. Therefore, the amount of time spent trying to please an audience who is a click away from bullying you is time wasted. Instead, I am persuasive about guiding students to develop a craft which will be useful as a great actor.”

In addition to producing the film Watch the Sky, directed by San Pedro-raised, Alex Murillo, as well as recently finishing her second production with Little Fish Theatre, On Clover Road, O’Connor herself is constantly learning from her performances, saying, “I am always looking for new challenges.”

Looking to the future, O’Connor hopes to see young actors thrive in their careers, become involved within the local arts community, and continue to teach her a thing or two. “The students I have now have a desire to learn and that is infectious,” she proudly shares. “They are trusting me by being in my class and being open to what I have to say.” She adds, “I am honored, really.”

Fundamentals of Acting classes are held at the Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.). For more information, visit ROCpictures.com.

What is Budo? Traditionally in Japanese, “bu” means war, and “do” means way or path to enlightenment. However, its meaning is much greater in concept. Marcus Bossett, Renshi and owner of the recently opened Budo Pavilion explains, “It’s a life choice.”

Bossett’s martial arts knowledge took shape while he was a pre-teen attending military school. In a teacher’s attempt to avoid Bossett’s failing of a class, he was encouraged to participate in a karate lesson. “In that class, I gained pride, honor, respect, and self-worth,” Bossett recalls. “[That teacher] changed the course of my life.”

Martial arts quickly became a passion for Bossett, who later participated in UFC fighting as well as a variety of work within film and television. As a certified instructor and fifth-degree black belt, he has dedicated his life to teaching those same values and inspiring others through his craft. “I am someone who loves the martial arts and wants to keep tradition, but share it in a new way,” he explains.

One particular program that is gaining attention is Budo Pavilion’s women’s self-defense class, which is offered weekly on Friday nights and is free of charge. “As a black man with a black belt, I feel it is my responsibility to offer these free classes and help protect my community,” says Bossett. Bossett’s personal connection to the horrific crimes of assault inspired him to help others learn how to properly defend themselves. After the tragic passing of his sister, Bossett decided to help empower women and provide them with important, life-saving techniques. “I wish that no woman would ever go through this kind of trauma,” says Bossett. “I provide defenses that are easy, fast, and effective.”

The main focus of all programs offered is to enhance the lives of members of the San Pedro community, “We want to help kids and young adults learn more about themselves, and build strong bodies, as well as character,” says Bossett. “As for adults, we also offer fun and exciting training opportunities.”

Budo Pavilion is a unique dojo, featuring a knowledgeable and expert sensei staff, and offering a wide variety of programs for all levels, including karate, kobudo, kyudo, aikido, kendo, jiujitsu, and kung-fu. They also offer training in European swords, Western archery, and for you Star Wars fans, even light sabers!

“I want to help San Pedro become a stronger destination city. I want to bring the best martial arts teachers here from all over the world, and through the practice of martial arts and self-defense, help people grow from unsure to beyond confident,” says Bossett.

Budo Pavilion is located at 1117 S. Pacific Ave. Free Woman’s Self Defense Classes (Ages 15+) are held every Friday, 7:30 – 8:30p. For more info, call (424) 287-BUDO (2836) or visit budopavilion.net.