The Art of Speaking

The Goals of The Speech Studio Inc.

We Aim To:

• Provide opportunities for students to reach provincial, national and international standing in Speech Arts, Drama, and Effective Communication through the extensive examination and diploma granting systems of the Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto) and Trinity Guildhall (London, England).
• Strengthen, develop, and free the voice.
• Assist student’s discovery of their vocal capabilities and potential.
• Foster students’ development of self-confidence, poise, and presence in communication and performance situations.
• Increase awareness of vocal health and hygiene in order to develop and maintain a healthy vocal instrument.
• Inspire students to develop an appreciation of literary works, by encouraging active involvement in language through memorization, speaking and performance.
• Encourage students’ participation in performance opportunities such as recitals, festival and studio shows.

Owner/Director:

Shirley Konrad
BFA, LMRC, ARTC, ATCL

Shirley Konrad is a graduate of the Bachelor of Fine Arts program (Drama) from the University of Calgary. She holds Associate Teacher’s Speech Arts Diplomas from Mount Royal College (Calgary), the Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto), and Trinity Guildhall (London, England). She also holds a Licentiate Diploma as a performer from Mount Royal College.

As Owner and Director of The Speech Studio Inc., Shirley has been instrumental in developing the voices of thousands of students. She has taught at colleges and schools throughout Alberta, instilling confidence, poise, expressive vocal skills, and dynamic presentational ability in all of the individuals with whom she works. In addition to being an actress and theatre director, Shirley conducts effective communication workshops throughout Western Canada.

Her innovative and energetic approach to her vocal work has made Shirley a well-respected festival adjudicator across Canada. She is a Royal Conservatory of Music Certified Teacher (Advanced Specialist in Speech and Drama) and currently holds a distinguished position on the College Board of Examiners for the Royal Conservatory of Music (Speech Arts).

Shirley released her book, A Vocal Invitation to Readers Theatre, in 2001. This book focuses on developing the child’s voice and is a valuable resource for both teachers and parents. Copies of this book are available through The Speech Studio Inc.

As a result of her hard work, passion, and commitment to the spoken arts, Shirley has established a reputation for producing nationally recognized performers and first-class artists in this field. Shirley believes in nothing less than setting a high standard with all the work that is produced at the Studio.

Studio Information

The Speech Studio Inc. is conveniently located on Parsons Road (99th Street) in Edmonton, AB close to many amenities. Our large facility includes three teaching studios, a private library, and comfortable waiting areas. We aim to make all of our students feel at home in the friendly and welcoming atmosphere we provide.

Students of all ages come from northern and central Alberta to work with highly qualified and nationally recognized teachers. Our 20 year-legacy has seen countless students improve their public speaking, acting, and other communication skills. We strongly believe that our experienced speech instructors can improve a student’s career prospects and overall quality of life.

Our hours of operation are subject to appointment bookings. Contact us to learn more about the public speaking and other courses we offer privately, semi-privately, and in group sessions. We would be happy to tell you more about our speech instructors and the quality educational services they provide.