Testimonials

Jean Louis Rodrigue

University of California, Los Angeles

“She immediately created a sense of calmness in the students, and helped them to enter a new state of profound learning…She was extremely effective in teaching the Alexander Technique for performers; she is uncommonly sensitive and empathetic to the needs of actors. She has a profound understanding and feeling of the relationship between the ideals of the Alexander Technique and its potential impact on the way a performer communicates his or her artform.”

Read the reference: UCLA

Margot Fenley

Victorian College of the Arts

“Penny’s expertise and continued passion for the Alexander Technique have helped establish respect and a strong valuing of the practice among our music theatre students and those from other performance disciplines. Her sensitivity, caring and thoughtful nature and attention to detail in working wit students has seen her develop meaningful relationships within our Faculty.”

Read the reference: VCA

Timothy Young

Australian National Academy of Music

“Penny brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that permits her to apply the Alexander principles with ease and great effectiveness. Not only has this instruction been of immense benefit to our talented students bu I have personally benefitted from her guidance and continue to take lessons where possible.”

Read the reference: ANAM

Lucy Wharington

Woodleigh School

“My students have always been transformed by this work. Penny has a lovely relaxed, but professional manner that consistently wins them over. I was initially nervous about how the teenagers might respond to the Alexander Technique, but Penny’s knowledge of students’ psychological, emotional and developmental needs, coupled with the strength of the practice was remarkable and transformative”

Read the reference: Woodleigh School

More References:

16th Street Actors Studio

Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia

The National Theatre

Brave Studios

Testimonials

I have worked with Penny for years and have found her to be one of the most intuitive, generous, and life changing practitioners in the field. Her experience is enormous and her gifts undeniable. I am thrilled that all at 16th Street Actors Studio will experience the benefits of Penny teaching as much as I have over the past decade and a half.
— Hugh Jackman

Penny McDonald introduced me to the Alexander Technique as a student at the Australian National Academy of Music. I have continued to take lessons amidst a busy performance schedule, with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and have found her teaching to be an incredibly valuable resource. The technique has helped me to understand the way I use my body in playing my instrument. This understanding has led to a relaxed and energetic way of playing which aids gradual improvements and helps to avoid repetitive or straining injuries, which are common in classical musicians. Most importantly this all leads to a more enjoyable and rewarding performance experience. I could not recommend Penny more to someone who is looking to explore the Alexander Technique.
— Jack Schiller, Principal Bassoon Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

Penny Mc Donald is gentle and extraordinary; her work is transformative, you won’t walk away the same. The Alexander Technique speaks straight to the nervous system so constantly improves your mental health as well as your physical health. Penny’s work is non-intrusive, has very quick excellent results and removes anxieties and habits that interfere with our performance, work and day to day existence. When it comes to the Alexander Technique, there is simply no one better than Penny in Australia!
— Sarah Hallam, Actor, Director, Casting Director, Teacher

I have never met anyone quite like Penny, her intuition and sense of energy is second to none. It is this coupled with her undying positivity that makes her such an inspiring teacher and practitioner. I could not recommend her highly enough
— Ross Dwyer, Actor

Penny’s understanding of animal work as a means to access a character’s core and further understand their relationship with those around them is amazing. She helps us to develop a deeper understanding of our place within the ensemble and a more connected existence as characters. It adds complexity and a sense of reality that we might not otherwise find.
— Jennifer Piper, Wit Incorporated Theatre Company

Performing for me is about connecting, with myself as well as the world around. In every lesson with Penny I am reminded that favourable posture is achieved effortlessly, as our bodies have the wisdom. However at times we need the guidance of a skilled teacher to be reminded how simple it can be. At first I easily suffered the loss of the optimal posture achieved during the lessons. Now I return to it with a thought. Every performer will benefit with Penny in their lives.
— Kiment Poposki

Penny is the most nurturing, fun and honest teacher. She holds a space free of judgement for artists to explore new possibilities. Penny encourages her students to own their own voices and stand strong in their sphere. Training with Penny has changed the way I live my life and carry myself in the world. After working with Penny, I promise you won’t come out the same.
— Alexandra Galloway