Caroline Strong

Hello,

I am an actress with over forty years experience in Television, Theatre and Radio working for companies including BBC, ITV, Channel 4, BBC Radio 3/4, the World Service, the BBC Radio Drama Company and the National Theatre. I also have a BA Joint Hons in English Literature and Drama from the University of London, so as well as developing your practical skills as an actor, I will also be able to do a deep dive into text with you. I also run a small independent documentary film company, so I have experience on the other side of the lens as director, as well as writing and producing.

In our sessions I will deal with how to approach character: physicality, psychology, social influences, historical and political context, ethics, morality, relationships and so on. We will work on voice, core strength, stamina, movement and physical and mental discipline. I will also want to work on emotional recall, imagination and memory, recognising truth and the importance of building trust with other actors to create that 'sympathetic magic'.

I will build my sessions around your needs to reflect the stage you are at in your development. So, our first session will be finding out all about you, your achievements and milestones so far and your goals for the future, and how we can work together to prepare you for the road ahead.

I am also happy to just mentor and give advice on the industry if you are already starting to apply for work; preparing for auditions, organising your CV, looking for representation and so on. Actors are creatives and not always the most practical when it comes to career building, so learning how to stay focused and motivated, between jobs, keeping your skills honed and your energy high is essential. It is also important to remember that having a 'day job' is not a negative. It will help you to afford those new publicity shots, that masterclass or the rail fare to the next audition. It is part of a healthy disciplined mindset and shows commitment and reliability (plus you will need to eat from time to time!). Remember, you can observe far more interesting characters waiting at table, than you ever could pacing at home, waiting for the phone to ring.

I would like to help you be prepared for this industry on every front, from your aesthetic growth as an artist to the practicalities and pitfalls of everyday life as a jobbing actor. Let me know how I can help.