Professional Actor, Fight Choreographer and Singer

Mr. Cole is an actor / combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, and has worked with students of all ages and backgrounds teaching stage combat, acting, Shakespeare, acting for the camera, stage movement, and other courses. He creates a positive energy and fun spirit while working with students.  

Ben  was the Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre at Grand Valley State University in Michigan. While working there he taught over 200 students each semester in all theatre related courses from entry level non-majors, to full-time theatre majors in specialty courses. He also directed live productions, fight choreographed shows, worked on assessment, planned course materials, and participated in some advising while frequently acting in the local and professional markets.  

He has acted, and directed with the Orlando Shakespeare Theater where he worked mostly with High School and Middle School students of different backgrounds. 

Ben maintains a strong desire to promote learning, growth, and positive freedom of expression in students.

Grand Rapids Area Theatre Awards: Grand Awards – October 2009
Sue Merrell. The Grand Rapids Press. “‘Noises Off’ Rules at Grand Awards”

 “Ben Cole, who received a supporting actor award for “Noises Off,” was applauded when he somersaulted down the steps onto the stage area and proceeded to give an acceptance speech that was mostly incomplete sentences, broad gestures and “You know.”

Guys and Dolls at The Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival – July 2008
Carroll Staton. Durant Daily Democrat. “Guys and Dolls is Moving”

“Cole is tall, slim, good looking and with just the right charisma to be convincing as a successful professional gambler. It also doesn’t hurt that the voice measures up to the acting ability. His Luck Be a Lady is another one of the show stoppers.”