James Michael Reilly-Actor/Writer/Producer
“I watched him develop the subtlety [in his performance] over time. Michael does everything at 110%, and it is an absolute pleasure to work with him. He is fully committed and has huge amounts of energy, talent, and vitality to pull it off.”
Anthony Rafaniello-Head of CHS Arts Department
“There are always tensions between athletes and performers, and it takes courage to do what Michael did in a typical suburban high school with all its stereotypes. But he was comfortable forging his own path, and I am really proud to see who he has become because of it. I believe it is a valuable experience for singers not only to be soloists, but also to be part of an ensemble – to engage with other voices around them and come together in a uniform way that is great and beautiful. He always presented as a high tenor. His voice has a unique quality to it that sets him apart. He has a really quick vibrato, and he can produce some extremely high notes with ease and power for someone of his age. I had never taught anyone with as distinctive a voice as Michael’s before then. And he has stamina and consistency, and his preparation is very meticulous. “
Beth Baur-Founder of NJ School of Dramatic Arts
“When he started coaching with me for auditions, I realized he had so much talent and natural ability, but hadn’t had much formal training. Together, we were able to develop a technique base and from there he started talking my master class. [While in the master class] Michael created this beautiful relationship where he almost took care of [an eighty-one-year-old actress] throughout the process. He has an unbelievably beautiful singing instrument and a work ethic that is awesome. As an actor he listens, is incredibly present and alive on stage. It is a joy to work with him because he takes everything you say and applies it to his work at all levels. I think it is enlightened and involved of Michael to want to develop himself as a full person. He sees all these [disciplines] as aspects of an artist.”