Maya Seetharaman– Feedback on Level 1 Workshop (2025/2)
Email address: maya.seetharaman@gmail.com
I had the good fortune of taking the ‘Begin To Believe’ Level 1 acting workshop in the last batch of 2025. To be honest, I almost backed out because I wasn’t sure if it would be worth the investment, and I had a lot of other things going on. But then I went for the interview and connected with Vishal, who trained under Mr. Ratan Thakore Grant and continues that tradition with sincerity.
Something about the way he spoke, his approach to life and to learning, just felt right. It wasn’t only about acting, it was about growth as a human being. That’s what drew me in, and I paid immediately after the interview.
Of course, doubts came up afterwards, questions like whether I was cut out for this, but those faded quickly once the workshop began. The environment is quite a rare one. At Misfit, you don’t just learn the craft, you enter a culture built on community, accountability and respect. From day one, past mentors were present to guide us, and it never felt awkward.
Everyone nurtures and benefits from the culture at the same time, which makes you feel safe, supported and encouraged. That safety is what allows people to really open up and express themselves, not only as actors but as people.
The way the workshop is structured is something special too. Each element of the craft—voice, body, expression, gesture, pantomime, is introduced step by step, explained clearly, and then immediately put into practice. It is a true experiential learning process, and you come away with a deep respect for how much work and dedication acting requires.
Personally, I became aware of things I had never considered before, like how much our bodies can communicate, or how differently each of us is naturally gifted in certain aspects of performance.
Another thing I deeply appreciated was the presence and patience of Vishal throughout. He was attuned not just to our progress as actors, but also to our moods, concerns and well-being as a group. The mentors were open and generous, always willing to share their experiences and struggles. There is a culture of honesty where failures and challenges are discussed as openly as successes, and that is rare and valuable.
At the same time, this isn’t a space that coddles you. It pushes you to take responsibility, to manage your own time and energy, and to show up fully. I was also inspired by the people who managed to balance full-time jobs and still commit to this process. It speaks volumes about the kind of environment that has been created here, one that is both demanding and joyful.
Now that Level 1 is over, I find myself missing the people and the rhythm of the workshop. But I am also excited about continuing, returning as a mentor, and deepening the craft. One of the most generous aspects of Misfit is that we are always welcome to come back, sit in on classes, and revisit anything we might have missed or want to relearn.
That openness makes you feel hopeful, not just about acting but about yourself. It reminds you that this journey is never about perfection but about persistence, sincerity and growth.
In the end, all of this flows inspiringly from Vishal as our mentor. The other mentors reflect this culture he has nurtured, and he carries forward what was passed to him by Mr. Ratan Thakore Grant in a way that feels inspiring and sincere.
I am very grateful to have been part of this community, and I look forward to continuing the journey.
Warm regards,
Maya Seetharaman