Cordie Nelson is a playwright and director based in Chicago with a deep-rooted passion for Meisner Technique and over a decade of teaching experience. She received her BA from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2012, where she assistant taught both graduate and undergraduate Meisner classes under Professor Sean Boyd, who trained under Steve Rapella and Bill Esper at UTA. After graduation, she led independent Meisner training in Chicago, preparing students to move beyond intro levels in many local storefront studios.

In 2014, Cordie began her training as both a student and instructor at Green Shirt Studio, studying under Sommer Austin and Andrew Gallant, whose lineage traces back to Larry Silverberg. She has since taught every course level at Green Shirt—from intro to advanced scene study—and continues to bring her sharp eye and empathetic approach to each class. Her additional role as a Quality and Assurance Market Trainer for La Colombe in Chicago and Texas speaks to her strength in developing others, and her belief in the “see one, do one, teach one” method fuels her work. Cordie now serves as the Director of Teacher Development at Green Shirt Studio, a role that not only allows her to shape the next generation of teachers, but also deepens her own practice. She cares deeply about her students and knows that, with dedication, this technique can transform them into powerful, truthful artists.

Anwar Khuri (they/them) rekindled their passion for acting right here at Green Shirt Studio after a long hiatus from the theater. In 2024 they completed the Meisner Acting Program levels 1-5 as well as the Teacher Training Program in 2025.

In the mid-80s Anwar began their training in highschool studying under Byrne and Joyce Piven at the prestigious Piven Theater Workshop (notable alumni include Shira Piven and her brother Jeremy, Joan and John Cusack, Lilli Taylor, Aiden Quinn and Kate Walsh). Anwar continued their theater training at Bard College before pivoting to filmmaking and eventually advertising. For the past 35+ years Anwar has worked in film production and advertising as a director, producer, creative director and mentor working on major motion pictures, music videos and tons and tons of commercials. Their extensive background in both advertising and filmmaking brings a unique perspective to the Green Shirt community. You can see their recent advertising work here.

Anwar believes that the Meisner Technique with its emphasis on living truthfully under imaginary circumstances coupled with the Green Shirt Studio values provides students with creative and emotional freedom in a safe, welcoming and open environment and that the benefits extend well beyond the stage. Sharing that insight and passion for acting thrills Anwar to no end.