The British pantomime dame is a cherished holiday tradition, blending comedy, charm, and outrageous costumes to delight audiences of all ages. In this blog, we explore the history and enduring appeal of the pantomime dame, celebrating the joy it brings to theatres across the UK. Plus, we shine a spotlight on our very own Billy Mack, whose performances capture the heart and humour of this beloved role.

Curious about Scotland’s most prestigious theatre awards? Our latest post takes you behind the scenes of the Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland (CATS). Discover their history, notable winners, and tips for aspiring actors looking to shine on stage—and maybe even take home a CATS award themselves.

Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight (2008) is often cited as a prime example of “method acting”—a label sensationalized by the media in the wake of his tragic passing. Yet, there is little evidence that Ledger’s immersive process strictly aligned with Lee Strasberg’s Method or that it drove him to personal ruin. Friends and co-stars described Ledger as being able to switch between his eerie Joker persona and his off-camera self with relative ease, challenging the myth of an actor “lost” in his role. By looking at Ledger’s statements and firsthand accounts from the film set, it becomes clear that sensationalism around “method acting” can overshadow the reality: a dedicated performer using his own blend of research, creativity, and craft, rather than succumbing to character-driven turmoil.

Method Acting, as adapted by Lee Strasberg, revolutionized modern performance by demanding deep emotional exploration from actors. Its roots lie in Konstantin Stanislavski’s system, which emphasized affective memory and personal experience to achieve authentic portrayals (Stanislavski, 1936). Strasberg’s technique, particularly “emotional recall,” often asked performers to draw upon intense personal memories. While this process led to strikingly genuine performances, it could also pose psychological risks, including re-traumatization and identity confusion (Strasberg, 1987; Adler, 1990).

Marilyn Monroe’s experience under Strasberg at the Actors Studio in the mid-1950s sheds light on both the artistic possibilities and emotional toll of the Method. Despite demonstrating greater nuance in films like Bus Stop, Monroe struggled with anxiety, insecurity, and an increasing reliance on medication. Today, many acting coaches advocate emotional safety measures—including mindfulness, structured cool-downs, and professional therapy—to help performers balance artistic intensity with mental well-being.

Discover Practical Aesthetics, the revolutionary acting technique developed by David Mamet and William H. Macy. Learn how this action-based method simplifies your craft, keeps you grounded, and helps you tell authentic stories. Find out more and explore its principles today!

Mike Leigh’s works are renowned for their deeply human stories, often rooted in the complexities of class and identity. From suburban cocktail parties to family reunions, Leigh captures the nuances of British life with an unflinching eye, blending humour, pathos, and raw emotional truth. His exploration of class dynamics and personal identity resonates with audiences across generations, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of ordinary people.

Discover the timeless charm of Noël Coward’s plays, where wit meets elegance and human relationships take centre stage. From the sparkling dialogue of Private Lives to the supernatural hilarity of Blithe Spirit, explore why 'The Master' continues to captivate audiences and performers alike

Transform your auditions with Practical Aesthetics, the acting technique that brings clarity, authenticity, and confidence to your performances. Learn how to break down scripts, connect emotionally with the 'As-If' tool, and impress casting directors with grounded, actionable choices.

Explore the humanity and humour of Alan Bennett’s plays in our latest blog. From the heartfelt struggles of The History Boys to the poignant revelations of Talking Heads, discover how Bennett’s compassionate storytelling captures the beauty and complexity of everyday life.

Discover the powerful social critique of John Osborne’s plays. From the frustrations of the working class in Look Back in Anger to the decline of Britain’s upper class in The Entertainer, explore how Osborne’s fearless exploration of social class reshaped modern theatre.

Explore the innovative training at ADL Acting Studio, led by Armando Di Lillo, a pioneer of Practical Aesthetics in Europe. Discover their unique programs, international collaborations, and Armando's contributions to Acting Coach Scotland, including the Acting for Camera and Screen Acting Intensive Course.

Discover how Practical Aesthetics, the revolutionary acting technique from A Practical Handbook for the Actor, simplifies your craft with actionable steps and builds your confidence. Learn why Acting Coach Scotland is the UK’s leading school for this transformative method

Delve into the philosophical brilliance of Tom Stoppard’s plays with our guide. From existential musings in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead to the chaos and beauty of Arcadia, discover how Stoppard weaves profound ideas into unforgettable theatre

Unlock the secrets of Harold Pinter’s plays with our guide to navigating subtext. Discover how to bring depth and tension to your performance by mastering pauses, decoding hidden agendas, and embracing the unspoken dynamics that define Pinter’s world.

Discover top audition tips from renowned casting director Kahleen Crawford. From perfecting your self-tapes to nailing first impressions, learn how preparation, professionalism, and authenticity can set you apart in the audition room.

"Discover the legacy of the Atlantic Theater Company, from its Tony Award-winning productions to its transformative Practical Aesthetics technique. Learn about its notable alumni, groundbreaking approach to acting, and the global impact of its training programs."

Discover the emotional depth of Simon Stephens’s plays in our latest blog. From the raw grief of Sea Wall to the fragile connections in Punk Rock, explore how his storytelling captures the beauty, complexity, and vulnerability of human relationships

Master the art of Caryl Churchill’s non-linear narratives with our essential guide. Discover how to navigate fragmented timelines, overlapping dialogue, and bold character shifts while staying true to the emotional depth of her groundbreaking plays.

Discover the power of Harold Pinter’s iconic pauses in this guide for actors. Learn how to use silence to reveal subtext, build tension, and bring depth to your performance. Mastering the pause is key to unlocking the brilliance of Pinter’s plays!

"Learn how to stand out in auditions with expert tips from casting director Amy Hubbard, known for The Hobbit. From building confidence to making bold choices, discover how to leave a lasting impression and nail your next audition."