Q&A with Actor as Writer Tutor Kristian Phillips
Actor as Writer is a practical, in-person, weekend course that explores how actors can use the tools they already possess: intention, action, imagination, and sensory awareness to delve into writing.
Are you an actor who wants to explore the craft of writing? This Q&A will answer all the questions you may have about this new course and whether it is for you. Next course beginning May 23, learn more and sign up to the course here.
This course is designed for actors who are curious about writing their own material and interested in devising or solo work. No previous writing experience is necessary, and this course can aid actors who feel 'blocked' by traditional writing approaches.
This course allows actors to use the skills they already have, to create and write their own pieces, using methods they already know. It treats it as an extension of acting practice.
Core Principles
- Writing is embodied, not abstract
- Actors already know how story works - they just need a practical access point
- Sensory detail can create ‘truth’ for written characters
- Not everything written is useful - learning what to keep is part of the craft
Still unsure? Read the blog with tutor Kristian Phillips below to find out more.
Q: What will people learn on the course?
A: This course is about opening up writing as something accessible and practical, rather than something intimidating. Drawing on acting techniques, participants will explore structure, sensory writing (taste, sight, sound, touch), and learn to how to generate material from instinct. By the end of the course, they'll have created original work and developed the tools to continue writing with confidence.
Q: What kind of people participate in the course?
A: Actors, writers, and anyone curious about taking a defining step towards writing as an art form or potential career. It’s especially suited to people who want to create their own work, but aren’t sure where to begin.
Q: What experience do people need?
A: No formal writing experience is required. Acting experience can be helpful, but it’s not essential. What matters most is a willingness to explore, take risks, and learn.
Q: How does your work as an actor inform your writing?
A: In every way. My writing is rooted in the tools I’ve developed as an actor e.g. working with intention, action, and character. I approach writing as an extension of performance, using those same instincts to shape story and voice.
Q: What would you tell someone who was wondering if this course was for them but wasn’t sure or nervous about joining
A: Come along. The course is designed to be a supportive, friendly space where learning is the priority. Writing can feel daunting, but this is about exploring it in a way that feels natural and encouraging.
Q: What tools do actors possess that will help them do this course?
A: Actors already understand story, character, and drama. They have strong instincts, imagination, and the ability to respond truthfully to material, all of which transfer directly into writing. This course helps unlock those existing skills in a new way.
By the end of the weekend, participants will:
- Understand how acting tools translate into the craft of writing
- Generate original material
- Learn to recognise what is theatrically alive in their own writing, using status and intention
- Develop a short original play or performance text
- Gain confidence in writing from instinct rather than judgment!
- Be given the tools to help when they’re ‘blocked’
About the Tutor
This course is led by Kristian Phillips, a writer/actor whose work sits at the intersection of myth, grief and working‑class humour. A graduate of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, he came to writing after a decade as a professional actor, bringing with him a performer’s instinct for rhythm, character, and emotional truth. Using these skills, Kristian has tailored a course open to those who would love to try writing using their personal skills as a creator.
Learn more and sign up to the course here.