About Art Nefsky
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Art Nefsky: A Tapestry of Performance and Comedy
From the tender age of two, Art Nefsky’s life has been a tapestry of unexpected adventures and artistic expression. As a toddler, he was found dancing atop a cafeteria table, a moment of pure joy that foreshadowed his future in the spotlight.
Art’s first official performance came in third grade, reciting the metamorphosis of a tadpole into a frog at the school assembly. Despite the fear of forgotten lines and the absence of his promised off-stage prompter, Art’s resolve shone through. The adrenaline fueled his memory, and he delivered each word with precision.
His interest in drama truly took hold in ninth grade at Willowdale Jr. High School. Encouraged by his English teacher to join the drama club, Art found solace and expression in the arts amidst a challenging childhood. His portrayal of the Ghost of Christmas Past in “A Christmas Carol” was visceral and raw, complete with a tattered t-shirt, soaked with ketchup-blood, and a memorable scent, (reported in that year’s yearbook), that lingered in the air.
As Art stepped into high school, his passion for drama only intensified. He swiftly became an integral part of the Northview Heights Secondary School drama club, eventually leading as its President for two consecutive years until 1972.
In his final year of high school, Art Nefsky ventured into the captivating world of magic as a magician’s assistant, where he embraced the magician’s oath and performed at the Metro Theatre on Bloor St. W. in Toronto.
Art Nefsky’s artistic journey continued in 1973 at the Ryerson Theatre Program in Toronto, where he honed his skills in theatre, acting, voice, and mime. His creative talent manifested in the creation of “Igor,” a character that captivated audiences and won “best costume” at Ryerson’s Halloween event. This character’s debut at Gene Taylor’s night at the Improv at the Friars Club marked the start of Art’s journey in comedy. Sharing the stage with notable performers like Larry Horowitz, Peter Gross, Marla Lukofsky, Rick Moranis, Dan Hill, Gino Vanelli, and Steve Shuster, Art became a feature act in the vibrant Toronto comedy scene.
Within six weeks, Art co-hosted “Monsters We Know and Love“ on City TV with Gene Taylor, further establishing his comedic presence. From there, Art became one of the first comedians to appear on a Yuk Yuks stage, and again, shared the stage with up-and-coming comedians like Howie Mandel, Mike MacDonald and Bob Saget, contributing to the burgeoning comedy landscape. His experiences with Gene Taylor and the early days at Yuk Yuks were instrumental in shaping his path as an entertainer.
Art’s comedic talent also led him to tour as the opening act for legendary Elvis tribute artists Douglas Roy and Bobby Fisher, where he delighted audiences with his unique blend of humor and performance. This tour was a significant highlight of his early career, showcasing his ability to entertain and connect with diverse crowds.
Inspired by his transformative experiences in numerous Mastery Weekend Workshops and the profound teachings of their New York leaders, Art founded Showoffs Studio for Performers in 1987. The studio was born from a recognition of the need for a space where performers could conquer their fears and hone their craft. As Director of Showoffs, Art has been instrumental in guiding performers through their unique challenges, utilizing his expertise to help them overcome performance anxiety, shyness, and self-consciousness.
As Director of Showoffs, Art provides private or group performance classes, intensive weekend workshops, as well as vocal technique instruction to kids 8+, as well as adults. From beginner to experienced singers, to public and corporate speakers, to theatrical professionals, and even non-performers preparing for a speech or business presentation, Art addresses each student’s unique difficulties, helping them improve their vocal technique while breaking through insecurity, nervousness, stage fright, perfectionism, and a myriad of other obstacles.
As a professional actor and member of ACTRA for 18 yrs., he played a guest role as an alien janitor in the tv series, “War Of The Worlds” and has appeared in a number of TV commercials, including “Shake N Bake”, “Coffee Crisp”, and “Skippy Peanut Butter. He also performed throughout the 1980s and 1990s as an actor, comedian, singer and mime with some of Toronto’s top improv artists in dinner theatre murder mysteries, cabaret and corporate events across Canada and the United States.
Art’s journey into the intriguing world of live-action mystery comedy/improv began when he walked into Zaidlin’s Restaurant, a venue known for its murder mystery dinners run by Larry Zaidlin.
Art’s curiosity was piqued by the pictures of entertainers adorning the walls. After a conversation with Larry, Art found himself cast in a murder mystery two days later, playing the role of the first victim. This unexpected turn of events brought “Art Nefsky’s Showoffs” to Zaidlin’s restaurant on Tuesday nights. Here, Art showcased the talents of his students and introduced notable artists like country singer/recording artist David McLaghlan, and comedian actors Rob Trick, and Tim Progosh.
This collaboration with Larry Zaidlin flourished, leading to the creation of the first murder mystery dinner-train in Gowanda, New York, run by Bob Dingman performing the show in five cars simultaneously and often staging his death five times in one evening.
Art has also appeared on numerous television and variety talk shows, including CTV’s “The Shirley Show”, CFTO’s “Eye On Toronto”, City Tv’s “Lunch Television“, TV Ontario’s “More To Life” as well as MTV’s “The After Show” preparing Jessi Cruikshank for her live singing debut challenge.
His contributions extend beyond the stage to the world of film festivals. He was invited by Frank Caruso to be one of the four jury members at the 2023 Ekran Toronto Polish Film Festival, deliberating on the top 7 feature films. Additionally, Art played a significant role as a juror at the 2022 Toronto “Films for Peace” International Film Festival, where he viewed and rated over 500 entries from around the world, offering his insights and expertise. His appreciation for the art of filmmaking and his insights as a juror have added another dimension to his multifaceted career.
Currently, Art is listed as #1 in THE BEST TORONTO’s 6 Best Voice Lessons in Toronto 2024. He is also a member of the Dr. Ramani Network, studying the terminology and effects of narcissistic and emotional abuse, as well as a contributing donor to The Planetary Society and serves on the New Millennium Committee at the level of “visionary”, supporting space exploration and advocacy.