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Big moves, bold partnerships, and milestone moments in the Act With Purpose Community
John Stevens’ childhood was anything but ordinary. Born into a legacy of performers, he spent his early years captivating audiences as a young clown at Circus World, inspired by his grandfather, a celebrated artist with the legendary Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.

But behind the greasepaint and laughter lay a tragedy that shook John’s world. When his grandfather tragically took his own life, the emotional impact was profound. The once lively and creative John became withdrawn, even non-verbal at times, leaving his family, friends, and school deeply concerned. Desperate to help him rediscover his spark, they tried everything—therapy, sports, and a range of activities—but nothing seemed to work.

Then came a pivotal moment. “It wasn’t until John was introduced to acting that he truly began to flourish again,” recalls his mother, Marilynn. What began as a therapeutic outlet quickly became a transformative passion, reigniting his vibrant personality and setting him on a remarkable path of self-expression and success.

Today, John Stevens channels that same passion into helping others find their voice through his work at Act With Purpose, a world-renowned acting school that inspires students across the globe. His story is a powerful testament to the healing power of the arts and the resilience of the human spirit.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many children, teens and young adults faced significant disruptions in their social development due to prolonged isolation and virtual learning. Celebrity acting coach John Stevens, owner of Act With Purpose International and The Act On Ability Foundation, is championing the idea that acting classes are an ideal way for children to regain those lost social skills and grow into empathetic, confident individuals.

"By teaching kids how to audition for television and film, we are teaching them public speaking, interview skills, and confidence," says John Stevens, whose online classes and in-person workshops have become a popular choice for parents eager to help their children develop vital life skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Stevens emphasizes that acting helps children "put themselves in others' shoes" by encouraging them to understand the motivations behind speech and behavior, fostering empathy and emotional insight. These are crucial skills, especially in a post-pandemic world where many children have had limited in-person interaction. Through the unique lens of acting, kids learn to communicate effectively, engage with others, and build self-confidence.

John’s programs are available both online and in-person, with classes running across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. These programs provide children with the opportunity to explore acting while developing skills that extend far beyond the screen or stage. From auditioning techniques to character study, each class is designed to nurture creativity while helping kids build confidence in their own voice.

Stevens is also a proud member of the Association of Acting Coaches and Educators (AACE), an organization dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of professional instruction in the field of acting. The AACE serves as a resource for acting coaches and educators worldwide, promoting continued learning and professional development for those helping the next generation of actors.

With an impressive resume, John Stevens has worked alongside some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry and performed with Broadway stars such as Julia Roberts, Ashanti, Wycleff Jean, Eugene Levy, Megan Hilty and Cheyenne Jackson. His passion for coaching actors stems from years of experience, and his dedication to each of his students is evident in their success stories, from securing top talent agents to landing prominent roles in film and television.

For more information on John Stevens’ classes or to enroll in an upcoming session, please visit Act With Purpose International’s website or contact the team at John@actwithpurpose.world to apply for the next session.

About John Stevens
John Stevens is an internationally recognized acting coach and owner of Act With Purpose International. His programs have helped thousands of actors worldwide improve their craft, secure talent representation, and land roles in film and television. A lifelong advocate for the transformative power of the arts, John also leads The Act On Ability Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing inclusive opportunities for actors of all abilities.

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