Award-winning acting school supported by Mark Rylance launches weekly course in Oxford for all abilities

Award-winning acting school supported by Patron Sir Mark Rylance launches weekly course in Oxford for all abilities.

The Actor's Lounge, supported by Patron Sir Mark Rylance, is looking to help aspiring actors build confidence and develop their craft across a 10-week programme run by an experienced course leader. During this time, participants will be introduced to key acting techniques and explore the distinct differences between stage and screen acting.

A Spotlight accredited acting school s The Actor’s Lounge offers award-winning acting classes for adults of all abilities around the UK. Helping its students to discover their unique talents and reach new heights as performers, the expert-led courses teach essential techniques to captivate audiences and bring characters and stories to life.

The courses provide complete beginners with a toolkit of techniques and a supportive environment within which to build confidence both on and off the stage. For those who just want to be with like-minded people and pursue acting as a hobby, The Actor’s Lounge offers fun yet challenging classes for adults, suitable for all ages and abilities.

The Actor’s Lounge can guide with navigating all aspects of the industry; from choosing photographers for headshots to compiling a showreel, approaching agents and finding where to gain relevant experience.

At the same time, professionals can use the courses as an opportunity to fine tune existing skills and receive advice from experienced actors, directors and industry experts who serve as mentors for the students.

The new course is one of three additions set to launch in January 2025, with two other new courses under way in Reading and Northampton, taking the current total to 10. Across the country, the expert tutors at The Actor’s Lounge impart their deep love for acting and for sharing the craft with others in safe creative spaces, free from judgment.

Fronted by specialist tutors with a breadth of acting experience, Spotlight accredited The Actor’s Lounge will be hosting sessions once a week. The new course, for those over the age of 18, will provide a supportive and creative environment for beginners or those looking to brush up on the basics, with courses for more experienced actors arriving later in 2025.

This 10-week course, culminating in a performance event, introduces participants to key acting techniques and explores the distinct differences between stage and screen acting. Students will learn how to build a character, boost their stage confidence, and analyse scripts for performance.

A highlight of the programme is the renowned repetition exercise developed by its founder, a transformative tool that fosters authentic connection and moments of real emotional depth.

Throughout the training, students gain expertise in classical, contemporary and improvisational acting styles, learning from experienced actors and practitioners along the way. In addition they receive practical career guidance and opportunities and become part of a supportive and inspiring creative community of like-minded people.

Successfully completing just two years part-time at The Actor’s Lounge leads to membership of Spotlight, the industry's leading acting directory. So for those looking to break into the acting industry, The Actor’s Lounge helps to demystify the profession and offers clear guidance about how to get started.

As well as those looking to work professionally, The Actor’s Lounge welcomes individuals who want to learn a new skill, have fun, and build confidence.

Commenting on the new course in Oxford, founder of The Actor’s lounge Abigail Boyd, said: “We are so excited to be in a position to launch our new course in the amazing city of Oxford and, as always, we remain motivated by the opportunity to introduce people of all abilities and ages to the wonders of acting. We are so passionate about sharing our craft and want to support actors to excel both on and off the stage. In a world dominated by technology, where we find ourselves increasingly disconnected, there is simply no substitute for the power of human connection. We look forward to welcoming more people to our growing and friendly creative community.”

Having worked as an actress for more than 20 years, Abigail Boyd trained at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama, learning from the likes of world-renowned teachers such as Patsy Rodenburg, Jeanette Nelsen and Ken Rea. Her vision is to build a large network of creative and supportive actors — with The Actor’s Lounge opening more schools throughout the UK and internationally.

Matt Addis, the experienced course leader who will be responsible for delivering the sessions said: “Our new course in Oxford is an opportunity for actors of all abilities to become part of an exciting new community.

“We firmly believe in encouraging people out of their comfort zones through learning in a fun, supportive and positive environment. Acting has a unique way of unlocking new sides of people and building their confidence. It is just as rewarding to witness this unfolding for our students as it is to see their technical and creative progress over the duration of their time spent with us.”

Matt made his West-End debut in Boeing Boeing in 2007 and has since worked extensively on stage and screen across the globe. His stage work includes WarHorse with the Royal National Theatre, Murder on the Orient Express at Chichester Festival Theatre and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) on tour.

He has taught for many years at renowned drama schools like LAMDA and has also held masterclasses for various schools around the UK. He loves helping his students make new discoveries and realise their potential.

The new courses have limited availability, so for more information and to register, please visit: https://www.theactorslounge.co.uk/