Exploring how performance and psychology come together to create something truly unique.
I was recently invited by Kilcullen Drama Group to present an acting workshop. What was meant to be a three-hour session ran over by an hour — because no one wanted to stop.
For years, I kept acting and therapy as separate chapters of my life. I gave up the stage while I focused on my degree, then my master’s. But this experience reminded me what integration truly looks like. It’s exactly what we aim for in therapy — helping people bring all parts of themselves together.
What This Workshop Brought Together
- My training and experience as an actor
- My understanding of human behaviour and emotion
What We Explored
The focus was on practical, accessible tools – things actors could walk away and apply immediately:
- Playable objectives
- Tempo and rhythm
- Character motivation
- What lives behind the lines
I drew from Stanislavski, Meisner, Chekhov, and Adler — but kept the theory rooted in what was alive and usable in the room. Whether participants were brand new to acting or had years of experience, everyone found something to connect with.
Some of the Feedback That Stayed With Me
“It reminded me what’s great about theatre and why it’s a privilege to be invited on stage.”
“Even my 16-year-old son and his friend were completely engaged. Not a single phone picked up.”
“A mix of demonstration, participation and insight. The only problem? It left us wanting more.”
“My vision for our drama group just jumped way ahead of where I hoped it would be.”
“There is motivation, relationships, emotions, fears and insecurities… all for you to bring to life.”
Bringing the Therapy Room to the Theatre
For me, workshops like this aren’t about over-complicating things. They’re about clarity, engagement, and creating a space where people can really connect – with a role, with each other, and with themselves.
I wanted to bring the spirit of the therapy room to the theatre – a safe place to experiment, to fail without judgement, and to find something real in the process.
Interested in a Workshop or Speaking Event?
If you’re part of a drama group, school, event, or organisation looking for a workshop facilitator or presenter, I’m always open to a conversation.
Allan Clarke is an award-winning actor, workshop facilitator, and psychotherapist based in Kildare. He blends performance technique with emotional depth to create unique learning experiences across theatre, education, and high-performance environments.
Tags: Acting Workshop, Drama Training, Public Speaking, Theatre Education, Performance Technique, Workshop Facilitator, Creative Workshops, Media Presenter, Allan Clarke