The Actors Forge

22/12/2025

🎄 12 Days of Christmas at The Forge — Day 11: November 🎄

November saw Forge members begin their final term of 2025, putting everything they’ve learned over the year to the test. From building new scenes and writing original monologues to pairing up and performing, this term has been about application, growth, and confidence. 🎭

We have been incredibly proud of our members — their hard work, determination, and dedication have truly shone. Many stepped well outside their comfort zones, supported by the safety and trust of our studio environment… and wow, can you see the difference! ✨

November was also a month of planning and expansion. Behind the scenes, we prepared for the launch of our first ever Tuesday evening class, starting in January 2026 — which is already completely sold out. Alongside that, our Mentor team grew to add James McLoughlin () and Laura Lee Daly () to our wonderful staff. A huge milestone for The Forge and a powerful way to head into the new year.

Day 12 coming tomorrow…

⚒️ The Actors Forge ⚒️

CreativeGrowth ActingJourney NewWriting SceneStudy ActingCommunity NorthEastActors PerformingArts LevelUp

20/08/2025

🚨 Calling Sunderland Parents! 🚨

📚🎭 New School Year, New Confidence –
📆 New Term Starts Sept 12th
📍 Sunderland Theatre Space CIC, Sunniside, SR1 1EP

Meet Our Coaches and Discover the Power of Performance at The Actors Forge Academy!

All our classes are led by experienced, passionate industry coaches dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and skill in young performers.

✨ Meet Your Coaches:

🎬 Lynn Huntley – Head Coach
With a dazzling career spanning London’s West End, Lynn has graced stages like the Royal Albert Hall and worked alongside icons such as Victoria Wood. A specialist in theatre, choreography, and the joy of acting, Lynn brings energy, heart, and decades of insight to every session.

🌟 Dan Lemon – Creative Director
A Sunderland native, Dan founded the academy 8 years ago. Now an Entrepreneur in Residence at Durham Business School, he’s passionate about empowering young creatives and growing the North East’s vibrant arts scene.

🎟️ Ready to Shine?

Book your free taster session today and join The Award Winning Drama School!

⚒️ The Actors Forge Academy ⚒️

19/08/2025

🎭 New Durham Branch Launch – FREE Drama Taster Sessions!
📅 Monday 1st & Monday 8th September | 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Ritson Hall, Alington House, 4 N Bailey, Durham DH1 3ET

Come meet the coaches behind the magic – and experience the power of performance at The Actors Forge Academy, now launching in Durham!

We don’t just teach drama — we help young people grow in confidence, creativity, and real life skills. Our award-winning classes are led by passionate, professional coaches who know how to unlock every teen’s potential.

👋 Meet Your Durham Coaching Team:
🎬 Lynn Huntley – Head Coach
From the West End to the Royal Albert Hall, Lynn brings decades of top-tier performance experience. She’s worked with legends like Victoria Wood and has a gift for helping every young person shine — whether they’re shy or stage-ready.

🌟 Dan Lemon – Creative Director
Founder of The Actors Forge and Entrepreneur in Residence at Durham Business School, Dan has over a decade of experience running transformational youth drama programmes. He creates spaces where teens feel safe, seen, and inspired to express themselves.

🎟️ What’s On Offer?
2 Free Drama Taster Sessions – perfect for ages 11–17:
📅 Mon 1st Sept – Acting Technique
📅 Mon 8th Sept – Screen Acting
🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Ritson Hall, Alington House, Durham

✅ Open to beginners and aspiring actors alike
✅ Relaxed, inclusive environment
✅ Spaces are limited – booking is essential

👉 Book your free place today and be part of the Durham launch of our award-winning drama school!
✨ Let’s raise confident, creative young people — one class at a time.

24/06/2025

20/12/2024

Imagine looking into a mirror and seeing someone else completely... 🪞

Tess and Francesca NAILED this scene, acting as each others reflections. 🎭

18/12/2024

'The Runaway Bride' performed by Zak and Mia 🙌

This scene sees a runaway bride checking into a hotel, Zak and Mia really lean into the mystery and charm in their portrayal!

16/12/2024

Check out this cracking performance of 'How Sweet The Sound' 🙌🎶

Jack and Ben nailed the comedy in this scene, showing the versatility in the skills they've developed with The Actors Forge! 🎭🎬

How would you rate Jacks singing?! 🎤

18/11/2024

Check out Betsy Dowse's take on the iconic character of Veruca Salt!

Veruca is a character that has been portrayed many times, on stage and in film. We love the direction Betsy takes with her monologue!

Find out more about our bespoke acting classes on our website! www.theactorsforge.com/theactorsforgeacademy

12/11/2024

"🎬 The Raisin Council is in Session! 🎬

Catch Daniel Hogarth and Caleb Hird in a hilariously original scene about... raisins! 🍇✨ These talented young actors bring comedy to life, and we’re thrilled to be part of their journey as they sharpen their on-camera skills. 📹🎭

🌟 Next Term Alert! 🌟 Our in-house director and cinematographer will be back to shoot an exciting lineup of scenes crafted and performed by students throughout the course. Don’t miss this chance to learn, grow, and star in your very own filmed scenes!

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes action and laughs!"

08/11/2024

🎭 It’s Tomorrow! Don’t Miss Out! 🎭

The final term of 2024 starts tomorrow, and it’s your last chance to join us for 6 weeks of dynamic drama training! If you’ve been thinking about it, now’s the time to take action—this is your moment.

It’s not too late to grab a spot, but hurry—we start at 10:30am sharp tomorrow!

🗓️ Dates: Saturday, Nov 9th - Saturday, Dec 14th
⏰ Time: 10:30am - 1:00pm
📍 Newcastle Arts Centre

Be part of something exciting—book today! 🎭✨