TESTIMONIALS

"I've had the pleasure of working with Dana on several occasions. She truly is a master of multitude aspects of filmmaking. As a scene partner, I love playing with her, and it is true play, witty back and forth, amazing comic timing; often with the incredible dialogue she has written for us, but then just a freedom to be spontaneous and play within the sandbox she creates. When she trusts you as an actor, there is nothing better. She knows how to create an ensemble piece and somehow give every actor/character a moment to shine. She knows exactly what she wants when she's running a set, but she always leaves space for magic to happen. And in the editing room, she knows how to sift through a great deal of material and find the golden moments. 

She'd be an asset to any set, in front of or behind the camera, in any writing or editing room, and just in your company. She loves creating and it shows in everything she does and in the relationships she cultivates."  - Jeanine Bartel 

I had the pleasure of working alongside Dana from pre-production through post production of an entire season of a television series. She is a visionary storyteller, from the page as a writer to her limitless talent as a director and her beautiful performance in front of the camera. It was an honor to produce with her and also serve as a performer while she directed. She works tirelessly and her aim for perfection is an asset to everyone who works on her projects. She works harder than anyone and does it with grace and joy. There’s nothing she can’t do but most impressively she does it all with a keen eye, an open mind, and a passion for her many crafts. I would jump on any chance to work with her again and again. – Jolie Curtsinger Schwartz

"Dana is an incredible writer, director, producer and editor. Working with her on EAST was a top-notch experience from start to finish. Dana is professional beyond words and runs a production like a pro. I would work with her again and again.  – Jen Rudolph

Dana is a wonderful collaborator.  As an actor, throughout the many times I have directed her, she has always been willing to take risks, both comedically and dramatically, to emotionally expose herself in ways that few actors dare to do.  Dana does this with humor and grace, and constantly applies her craft, not only to enhance her performances, but also the work of all those with whom she shares the stage.  As a writer, Dana has a unique ear for dialogue, and her stories always impart to us, a slice of the human condition.  She is also willing to receive critique, and apply that critique to her work.  As a director, Dana is adept at bringing out the best in her actors, in a simple, down to earth way, that gives each of her actors their own space to create.  She brings to her directorial work a calm presence, a keen intelligence, and joy.  She creates an environment of mutual trust and respect, and with a gentle hand, is able to mold each performance into a singular, cohesive vision.  As an editor, I have witnessed Dana work nothing short of miracles.  She is tireless in working toward the perfect moment and is relentless in finding the right choice in order to achieve that moment.   I have seen her work till the wee hours of the morning, with Dana powering through, only to meet the rising sun.  In every sense of the word, Dana is a true artist, and to be able to be a part of her work, is truly a gift.  - Bruce Ornstein

As a producer Dana has the rare ability to seamlessly find solutions for every challenge that inevitably comes up.  Her positive, collaborative attitude creates an environment in which actors and crew members thrive. As a director Dana has the ability to both give direction and offer freedom, allowing each actor's unique qualities and talent to emerge.  As an actor she is the same -- generous with her co-stars, allowing them to shine as much as she does. Dana's knowledge, talent and genuine giving spirit are evident on every project in which she is involved. I consider her a mentor, an inspiration and a multi-faceted creative genius and I look forward to working with her on more projects in the future. 

 - Julie Zelman.

Co Creator/ Co-Producer with Dana on the award-winning pilot, Divorce School

I first saw some of Dana‘s work at several screenings and film festivals and I was so thoroughly impressed that I reached out to her to have her collaborate with me and both direct and produce a short film I had been working on for several years. The process of working with Dana on this film was not only incredibly enjoyable, but her professionalism organization and very thoughtful directing truly made the project exceptional and our experience on set working with her was incredibly powerful. Later Dana and I continued to work together on several other projects, and I have to say that each and every experience was incredibly inspiring, creative and handled with true care and professionalism. I truly felt she was able to draw things from my performance as an actor that brought my performances to another level. I always felt in completely safe hands under Dana‘s talented eye. – Natalie Roy

I have acted in 5 films and 2 plays that Dana wrote, directed and acted in. I LOVE working with Dana and would work with her literally anytime, anywhere. As a director, she has a way of bringing out the best in her actors. She loves to see where your creative imagination wants to take you and helps you get in touch with it like no one I’ve ever seen. Yes, Dana gives you the freedom to try different things, but it’s beyond that.  It's like she senses what will work for you and then gives you specific direction to help unleash it. She sees your potential, your instincts, your impulses, almost before you do.  She sees the spark as well as the flame that they can become, and she helps you ignite the flame. It’s fantastic. Magic. Dana is the consummate actor’s director, and that’s a fact. – Stephanie Weppler

'Dana was a dream to work with as a director on her comedy pilot "Divorce School." I felt like a spoiled diva that had free reign to play and explore my character. It was such a fun and relaxed shoot and that so flows from Dana and her open heart! I loved the script and was thrilled to be a part of her world. Plus, I love donning a judge’s robe and grabbing a gavel.'  – Jane Dashow

My first time working with Dana Marisa Schoenfeld was when she was hired to write and direct the award-winning romantic comedy Swiped Right.

Before accepting the role she called to get to know me and tailor the role to my essence.  That’s the kind of director and writer she is. She listens to her actors and gets inspired.  She is meticulous with every move and decision as a director. Her attention to detail is unparalleled. 

Her understanding as editor and writer make her one of the best directors I’ve had the pleasure to work with. She’s open and she also loves to improv on a scene with actors. Since Swiped Right we worked again on two other projects, The Handy Man and East the series.  I can not wait to work with her again.  – Anthony Robert Grasso 

'Highly skilled, dedicated, good humored, and a master multi-tasker' – Kaye Tuckerman

Dana Schoenfeld is a true actor’s director.  She is patient, thoughtful and is able to create a safe, creative, productive space for her cast and crew. She is open minded and a true collaborator.  – Sally Brooke

“Dana is an authentic multi-hyphenate who has mastered the art of making it look easy. As an actor, she is electric onscreen — you can’t take your eyes off her. And she is a generous scene partner, compelling and collaborative. Her screenplays crack with lightening wit and grounded characters, so easy to sink into as an actor and so fun to watch unfold onscreen. Her sophisticated humor and love of human vulnerabilities leap off the page and onto the set. And finally, Dana’s compassion and clarity as a Director make you say yes to anything she’s building. Her sets are team oriented and story-focused. I’d leap at the chance to work with Dana again in any or all of these categories in which she excels. Dana is a gift to any set and any story she tells will delight.” – Ramona Floyd