Shirley Konrad is a graduate of the Bachelor of Fine Arts program (Drama) from the University of Calgary. She holds Associate Teacher’s Speech Arts Diplomas from Mount Royal College (Calgary), the Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto), and Trinity Guildhall (London, England). She also holds a Licentiate Diploma as a performer from Mount Royal College. As Owner and Director of The Speech Studio, Shirley has been instrumental in developing the voices of thousands of students. She has taught at colleges and schools throughout Alberta, instilling confidence, poise, expressive vocal skills, and dynamic presentational ability in all of the individuals with whom she works. In addition to being an actress and theatre director, Shirley conducts effective communication workshops throughout Western Canada. Her innovative and energetic approach to her vocal work has made Shirley a well-respected festival adjudicator across Canada, and has earned her a distinguished position on the College Board of Examiners for the Royal Conservatory of Music (Speech Arts).

Shirley released her book, A Vocal Invitation to Readers Theatre, in 2001. This book focuses on developing the child’s voice, and is a valuable resource for both teachers and parents. Copies of this book are available through The Speech Studio. As a result of her hard work, passion, and commitment to the spoken arts, Shirley has established a reputation for producing nationally recognized performers and first-class artists in this field. Shirley believes in nothing less than setting a high standard with all the work that is produced at the Studio.