About us

Truth over performance: Who we are – and why we do what we do.

Our Mission

At the Meisner Institute Switzerland, we believe in real acting. In moments where you're not “performing” – you're simply being. Our mission is to help people connect with their authenticity – in acting and in life. Because great actors don’t act. They respond. They listen. They feel. Truthfully. Directly. Now.

Fabrizio Daniele – Founder & designated Meisner Coach

I’m an actor, director, and coach. But above all, I’m someone who spent too much time trying to “perform” something—until I realized: acting begins where performing ends.

My journey took me from Chur to Zurich and eventually to Los Angeles, where I learned the Meisner Technique from the ground up. There, I experienced the power of truly connecting with a partner, allowing the moment to unfold, and facing my own vulnerability.

That experience changed me—both as an artist and as a human being. I want to anchor this way of working in Switzerland. Not as a method to “perform better,” but as a path to more honest communication—on stage, in front of the camera, and in life.

FABRIZO DANIELE

Masters Institute Los Angeles

The collaboration between the Meisner Institute Los Angeles and Scott Trost is rooted in a deep commitment to the values and methodology of Sanford Meisner. I, Fabrizio Daniele, had the great privilege of completing the Designated Meisner Coach training with Scott Trost. From this intensive and inspiring collaboration, not only did a professional partnership emerge, but also a true friendship. Our shared work is built on trust, respect, and an unwavering belief in the power of authentic acting – in the spirit of Meisner.

MEISNER INSTITUTE LOS ANGELES

Sanford Meisner

Sanford Meisner (1905–1997) was an actor, director, and above all, a teacher who fundamentally transformed the craft of acting. For him, acting began where “pretending” ended.

At the heart of his approach is truthful, moment-to-moment reacting. It’s not about delivering a perfect performance—it’s about truly listening, allowing impulses to arise, and responding authentically.

Through exercises like Repetition, Emotional Preparation, and Independent Activities, you sharpen your awareness and learn to truly see your scene partner—without filters, without pretense.

Whether on stage or in front of the camera, the audience can feel when you’re being real. Meisner’s technique helps you let go of overthinking and fully commit to the present moment.

Real. Honest. Alive.

"Acting is the ability
to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances"

History –
Facts & Figures

1905 – Born in Brooklyn, New York
Sanford Meisner was born to Jewish immigrant parents. His love for acting developed early—as an escape from the difficult realities of his childhood.

1931 – Founding Member of the Group Theatre
Together with like-minded artists such as Lee Strasberg and Stella Adler, Meisner co-founded the Group Theatre—a collective dedicated to realistic and socially relevant acting. This period deeply shaped his philosophy: moving away from artificial theatre and toward genuine emotional experience.

1935 – Begins Teaching
Meisner becomes a teacher at the prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse in New York. It’s here that he lays the foundation for what would become his signature technique. He realizes: acting begins with listening.

1939–1990 – Head of Acting Program at the Neighborhood Playhouse
For over 50 years, Meisner shaped generations of actors as the artistic director of the Neighborhood Playhouse. During this time, he continuously refined his technique—always with a focus on truthfulness in performance.

Over 60 Years of Teaching Experience
Meisner’s direct and honest approach made him a sought-after coach. He didn’t just teach technique—he challenged his students emotionally. His greatest strength: he saw the person behind the role.

Over 10,000 Students Worldwide
Meisner’s direct and honest approach made him a sought-after coach across the globe. He didn’t just teach technique—he challenged his students emotionally. His greatest strength: he saw the person behind the role.

One Clear Philosophy: Truth in the Moment
Meisner taught that great acting has nothing to do with “pretending.”
His famous quote:
“Acting is the ability to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances.”

1997 – Sanford Meisner Passes Away at Age 91
Yet his work lives on: as a cornerstone of modern actor training and as the heart of the Meisner Institute Switzerland.