Reviews and Contacts
Praise from Residencies
What a wonder Steve Barker was in leading our "Discover Your Powers" online life skills program for SHIP of Frederick County this past summer (2020)!
Steve not only planned the curriculum for our high school students experiencing homelessness but was the primary instructor as well. His skills and experience in designing and teaching the arts-infused program, coupled with his enthusiasm and passion for our young people, made our seven-week, 11-session-long program an immense success. Most importantly, the program made a significant and positive impact on our young people.
~Ed Hinde, former Executive Director, SHIP of Frederick
Steven Barker is a talented artist and passionate teacher, whose professionalism and knowledge are only matched by his willingness to help. I first met Steven at a professional development training through the Maryland Theatre Education Association, of which I was a board member. I was instantly struck by his sense of humor, his ease in connecting with others, and his depth of knowledge within our professional development. As I got to know Steven better, I recognized that not only was he a kind and honest person, but also a skilled technician, veteran director, and enthusiastic teacher.
-Joanna Fellows, Theatre Teacher, Seneca Valley High School, MCPS
A note from a student
Another note from a student
Student Whiteboard Artwork
A nomination for teacher of the year.
A little thanks from some of my favorites.
Recent Feedback from Spring 2021 Classes
"Professor Barker was most helpful at all times, and his feedback on assignments was sincere and valuable. I would recommend this course to anyone who is interested in studying acting, whether for the camera or for the stage." - A.L.
"This class has been one of my favorite classes for my first year of college. I enjoyed working on the assignments, participating in class discussions, the warm-up exercises, as well as the office hours, and the atmosphere of the class and Professor Barker's methods of teaching and humor." - D.F.
"Out of all the valuable things I have learned in Professor Barker's acting for the camera class, the most important would be making the time to do the work. I really enjoyed Prof. Barker's way of teaching, a true artist. One of my favorite teachers I've had I'd say. The communication was always great within the whole class considering it's virtual; I'd give Professor Barker a 10/10 for keeping it real yet being enthusiastic about it. " - C.O.
"The feedback I got from both Professor Barker and my classmates really helped me change my aspect in performing and how to really feel what the character I was playing was feeling. Professor Barker's energy is just absolutely phenomenal and always finds a way to brighten your Friday and get you energized and awake. " - M.S.
Review from Spring 2023 - Stagecraft
Prior to taking Stagecraft 221, the only knowledge I had, in reference to theater, would be the 4 years of dance I took during high school. Students in dance were expected to learn the way(s) of theater involving: the stage, how showcase(s) operate, and terminology. However, this course has touched far beyond just the fundamentals of things and has rather brought me into another world of entertainment behind the scenes. Stagecraft has felt intimidating at first but once I got to know it (like most things in life), I adjusted. Stagecraft has been one of the most hands-on and informative courses I’ve ever taken thanks to Professor Barker. Whether I use the information I’ve learned now or later, I’m sure in any scenario where these skills are necessary, I’ll be glad to say I’m capable of finding the solution to a problem. - T.D.
Review from Spring 2023 - Acting for the Camera
Would you recommend this instructor to another student? Explain.
I would. Professor Barker seems to be a reasonable person. Sometimes he goes too far in his expectations, but he knows what he should be doing for his students and helps them out when necessary. - A.K.
