“Over the past 8 months, The Playground has been the only place where I feel I can really face the challenges I have as an actor. What Javier and Sayra have built with The Playground, is a space where an actor not only learns how to go deeper with a character, but a space free of judgment where the individual artist can truly tap into different parts of themselves they’ve been afraid to shine a light on. ”

— Joshua Ster

“Javier guides the actor (safely!) through the process of discovering and rediscovering. He plays the facilitator versus director which makes his humility + experience a rare formula. Combined with the experience of the Playground’s breathwork series by @⁨Sayra⁩, and the possibilities for my instrument are endless.”

— Katherineking.nyc

what people are saying about the playground

“Sayra is a connector who brings people, practices, ideas and healing communities together with a true generosity of spirit.”

— Jamie Berthe

“The Playground has made me better at what I do, not just through practice and expert guidance, but in removing my fear of failure and embracing curiosity and growth. My mantra has always been the Beckett quote “fail better” and that’s why I’ve found a groove here. It’s a wonderful group led by wonderful teachers. ”

— Timothy Nolan

“The Playground has truly been an invaluable sanctuary for my artistic and personal growth.

Under the guidance and mentorship of the incredibly talented Sayra and Javier, I have embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery. This nurturing environment has allowed me to delve deep into understanding not only my craft but also my authentic self.

The Playground has not only shaped my artistic path but has also taught me the importance of being fully present in every moment and embracing the power of my creative expression.
I am forever grateful for this profound community, The Playground has had on me.”

— Wonhee Kim

“Sayra has a rare gift as a breath practitioner for creating safe space through deep wisdom and joyful presence. She is nurturing, encouraging, motivating and always inspiring. I leave her breath sessions on a cloud, wondering how I ever did without them.”

— Brandi Nicole Wilson

“It’s a return to the unknowing, the true self. All we have to do is believe it.”

— Jay Johnston

“I have become more open as an actor at The Playground than I have managed to be in my entire career; it’s a truly magical space to blossom.”

— Kaitlyn

“Coming from a conservatory where I felt too afraid to play and honestly didn’t even know what that meant, Javier’s emphasis on play and even the need to fail has really made me unafraid to try new things. He really embodies the idea of “there is no getting it right” and I’m so so thankful to have fell into this group”

— Tina Gulati