Diana Coates
Resident Teaching Artist
Diana René Coates is a New York–based actor and teaching artist passionate about empowering young people through storytelling and performance. A seasoned classical actor who’s appeared in over 20 productions of Shakespeare, she brings deep, text-based experience into every workshop. She’s led sessions in classrooms, rehearsal spaces, summer camps, and on Zoom, adapting her approach for students of all ages. Diana recently completed a 23-city national tour with The Acting Company of New York, going into classrooms all over the country, and has partnered with the educational arms of theatres like Asolo Repertory, Pegasus Theatre in Chicago, and the Virginia Stage Company. She’s especially committed to working with underserved communities, emphasizing critical thinking and public speaking to help students gain confidence that extends far beyond the stage.