Testimonials

Since I started working as a theatre director in 2007 I have worked with some extraordinary actors and creatives. Here are some of their comments offering a more specific insight into my practice:

“It’s very rare to work with a director who refills your creative well. Sam is a director who not only does just that, but also expands your horizons and possibilities as an artist. I would work with her over and over and over again. One of the very best.” Andy Sheridan (Actor)

“Sam found a real theatricality and human intelligence […] in a really short amount of time with the barest minimum of resources. It was remarkable.” Simon Stephens (Playwright)

“Working with Sam was a creative and exciting experience. Her curiosity and attention to detail is inspiring and her ability to make the actor feel understood makes for a very fulfilling time in the rehearsal room.” Jill Halfpenny (Actor)

“Working with Sam was a fantastic experience. She has a remarkable ability to open up a script from angles I hadn’t even considered, helping me and the rest of the team discover fresh perspectives in the text. Beyond that, she creates such a calm and open rehearsal space, where every voice is heard and valued. Her collaborative approach makes you feel truly involved in the creative process, and she has a great knack for balancing structure with freedom, allowing ideas to flow while keeping the work focused. A brilliant director and a generous presence in the room”. Harvey Weed (Actor)

“Sam created such a freeing creative space, and allowed such room for play, whilst giving support and clear direction. Working with her was inspiring, empowering and made me feel like my creative voice was heard.” Millie Shephard (Actor)

“Sam creates a safe and nurturing environment in which to ‘play’ and explore, leading to greater depth in the work and a deeply satisfying experience for an artist.  Her unique insight into the human condition provokes an actor to ask difficult questions and push boundaries.  She is ever curious and that is why the spark of creativity thrives when she is in the room.’’ Gemma Ryan (Actor)

“Sam conducts research with incredible exuberance, is creative and thorough in her preparation, works brilliantly with a creative team and holds space for everyone. Sam is a director who works democratically, tactfully and bravely to bring together the ideas of the room to create work that really empowers the participants and uses their authentic voice.” Emily Oldroyd (Producer) 

“Sam was an absolute joy to work with at RADA. She challenged and pushed us as actors, but made sure we always felt supported and encouraged. She was our greatest cheerleader and champion. It really felt like Sam cared about not just the show, but about the experiences of everyone working on it.” Patrick Fleming (Actor)

“Sam’s presence and invitation for exploration and collaboration made me feel so at ease and open as an actor to be able to feel comfortable enough to let go and feel free enough to make discoveries as well as mistakes; never once did I feel judged as an actor in that space of creation and I’ll always be grateful for Sam’s guidance, support and direction.” Tiffany Gray (Actor)

Sam has been an exceptional teacher to work with. I have learned so much from her, she creates a safe space to play and create whilst still challenging you and pushing you to explore further as a performer. She is highly skilled in her craft and I couldn’t recommend her highly enough.” Lois Mackie (Actor)

Sam is a patient, generous and thoughtful teacher who guides students to see things in different ways, helping them to achieve their goals. Through her light hearted and organised way of working she has the ability to build a strong, trusting rapport with people quickly. I would recommend Sam to anyone, her work is outstanding and being in a room with her is always fruitful with opportunities of discovery and play.” Iona Johnson (Actor)