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Acting Coach Richard Delaney wearing a dark green shirt, with messy dark hair and short dark beard looking directly to camera against a grey backdrop

About Richard Delaney

Acting Coach, Educator and Theatre-Maker
Acting Coach Richard Delaney wearing a dark overcoat with an up-turned collar and striped t-shirt, with messy dark brown hair and short beard, smiling, and looking directly to camera against a grey background

Coaching Philosophy

My 'Find Your Playful' philosophy didn't emerge overnight. It's the result of years of experience both on stage and in the classroom.

 

While my training began with traditional methods, I found myself constantly questioning and exploring. I saw how fear of failure often held actors back from their full potential. This realization led me to develop an approach that balances rigorous technique with the freedom to explore and even fail - because that's where the magic often happens.

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My method integrates elements from Stanislavsky, Michael Chekhov, and The Nine Viewpoints, but it's more than just a combination of techniques. It's a holistic approach that views the actor as a complete artist, capable of deep transformation.

 

This belief in transformation is at the core of my Method of Directional Transformation, a unique technique I've developed to help actors fully embody their characters' journeys.

Acting Coach Richard Delaney working in a studio with an actor. There is a blurred background. Richardwears a striped p and ark blue jeans. The actor in the background is out of focus, wearing a light grey top and black trousers.

Academic Experience

Beyond my coaching practice, my work spans academia, theatre production, and ongoing research, all of which deeply inform my approach.

 

I've had the privilege of guest lecturing and directing at several of the UK's top drama schools and conservatoires, including The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, LAMDA, and East 15, where I've focused on innovative approaches to actor training.

 

My theatre-making experience includes co-founding The Faction Theatre Company, known for its fresh takes on classic texts, and serving as an associate artist at New Diorama Theatre. I've directed and movement-directed productions that have toured nationally and internationally, from London's West End to Off-Broadway in New York.

 

My research interests lie in embodied play within contemporary actor training, and both queer and radical pedagogies, continuously pushing the boundaries of how we approach performance and education in the 21st century.

 

This blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and cutting-edge research allows me to bring a uniquely holistic and forward-thinking approach to my coaching.

Secret Life of Humans

German Premiere: English Theatre Frankfurt

Co-Directed with David Byrne

Industry Impact

I've had the privilege of working with clients who've gone on to success in West End and Broadway productions, major films, independent films, streaming platforms and TV series. I have supported clients through dialogue and role preparation for shoots, character development, and those crossing over from neighbouring industries such as dance, modelling and singing, and run workshops for theatre companies looking to enhance their ensemble work.

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My influence in the industry extends beyond individual coaching. I've been a creative associate to David Byrne, the Artistic Director of The Royal Court Theatre, collaborating on innovative projects that push the boundaries of contemporary theatre. This connection to the pulse of London's vibrant theatre scene allows me to offer my clients insights into current industry trends and expectations. Additionally, my work as a movement director has toured nationally and internationally, giving me a unique perspective on physical storytelling across cultural boundaries. I've also been involved in developing new works, from script development to full production, which informs my ability to guide actors through the nuances of bringing fresh material to life.

 

This breadth of experience across different facets of the industry - from fringe theatre to major productions, from developmental workshops to final performances - enables me to provide comprehensive, relevant guidance to actors at every stage of their careers, helping them navigate the complex and ever-evolving landscape of professional acting.

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