Actor | Drama  and Dialect Coach | Founder of Illuminate Acting Academy

Erich Fleshman is an American actor, director, drama and dialect coach whose career spans over 20 years across the United States and Southeast Asia. With a passion for bridging cultures and storytelling traditions, Erich is known for his versatile performances and his dedication to nurturing the next generation of actors.

 

Early Life & Education

Born in Walnut Creek, California, and raised in Livermore, Erich was raised on basketball courts playing front of thousands.  He pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Economics before earning two Master of Arts degrees—an MA in International Relations from California State University, Sacramento and a second MA in Media Communications (Film) from Webster University, St. Louis, MO.  His acting foundation is rooted in the Sanford Meisner technique, he studied intensively for over two years under Jim Jarrett, one of Meisner’s last direct students.

 

Career Highlights

Erich began his acting career in Southeast Asia, quickly gaining recognition for his role as Mike in the popular 2002 Thai film Heaven’s Seven. His film and television credits include Channel 3 Thai series such as Lady Mahachon, Mai Plag Pa, La-ong Thet and collaborations with renowned director Pen-ek Ratanaruang.  In the United States he worked on numerous national  TV commercials and often collaborated with Rob Nilsson, winner of the Camera d'Or at Cannes and the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance.  Beyond acting, Erich has established himself as a sought-after dialect and drama coach, working with international talents like William Hurt, Shawn Yue, Djimon Hounsou, and Kevin Bacon. His coaching expertise has contributed to major productions such as Ip Man 2, Elephant White, and the acclaimed Netflix series The Night Agent.

​

Illuminate Acting Academy

In 2024, Erich founded Illuminate Acting Academy  in Bangkok to provide world-class actor training in Southeast Asia. The academy offers programs blending Western techniques like Meisner and Stanislavski with an understanding of regional storytelling. Illuminate Acting Academy is a vibrant space where aspiring actors hone their craft and prepare for professional success and create a dedicated acting community.  

​

Philosophy & Legacy

Erich’s work is a unique fusion of East and West, art and craft. At the core of his teaching is the pursuit of truth in performance—helping actors live authentically and emotionally in the moment. He emphasizes the power of deep listening as an active and empathetic skill that brings performances to life. Alongside artistic insight, Erich stresses the importance of professional discipline, fostering the dedication and resilience required for a lasting career.  Through decades of experience, Erich has mentored a new generation of actors who carry forward his teachings, bridging cultural divides and raising performance standards across borders.

​