Bio
Stephen Atkins is an internationally recognised acting coach, director, and educator with over 35 years of experience. His career spans stage, film, and immersive performance. Having trained extensively in diverse methodologies, including Stanislavsky, Grotowski, and Viewpoints, he blends traditional techniques with modern innovation to empower actors in their craft.
His career has taken him across Europe, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and China, where he has worked, taught, and collaborated with artists from a variety of cultural traditions. This extensive international background has shaped Atkins' holistic approach to performance, emphasising diversity and inclusion.
Background
Education
I work hard and have studied almost harder. I have a Master’s degree in Fine Arts, in Interdisciplinary Performance from Simon Fraser University in Canada and a Doctorate in Acting Methods and Training Systems from the University of Kent in the United Kingdom. My formal education, grounded in practical training and professional practice, bridges film, stage and new media. These experiences provided the foundation for my work, shaping my insights into dynamic, relevant training.
Independent
I work extensively with several methodologies, and as close to their originators as possible. I have trained in the Suzuki Actor Training Method and Viewpoints with the SITI Company, Meisner Technique at the Meisner Center, Practical Aesthetics at the Atlantic Acting School, and the Michael Chekhov Technique through the National Michael Chekhov Association. Rooted in the foundations Stanislavsky's training, my practice incorporates somatic work like Butoh, Body Weather, and Meyerhold. These anchor, contrast and inform my approach
