The people at Outloud Productions

Outloud began 6 years ago, and since then we've built up a team of professional actors, including Rocky and Sally, with experience in broadcasting, film, education and theatre plus a group of fantastic 'backroom boys' (and girls) who keep the whole organisation running smoothly.

Interview with Sally Lawrence

Sally, what inspired you to take up drama?

>> Outloud Productions provide weekly drama classes and one-off workshops. To find out details call us now on 07946 357521

Act Now! For information on the courses we are running phone 07946 357521 and realise your potential or email us

 
"The Business Education Partnership in South East Essex (BEPSEE) sponsored Sally Lawrence from Outloud Productions to work with pupils on interview techniques - the response from the girls, has been very encouraging and many feel much more confident about Work Experience next year."
Dawn Nicholls
Head of Careers
Southend High School For Girls

I enjoyed acting because you could be anything you wanted to be and do anything you wanted to do. Everything was possible. I love having fun and drama is the most fun thing. It's a lot more fun than cooking cakes.

What did you do before starting Outloud Productions?

At school I had a fantastic drama teacher - Judy Burns, she was absolutely inspiring. Then I went on to drama school at East 15 with Phil Cornwall and George Rossi. After that I went on to do work for BBC Radio 3 with David Johnson. I have also worked as a continuity announcer for Channel 4 and the BBC. I have done voice-overs, I worked for a while with BBC Radio Bedfordshire, and as a DJ with Essex Radio where I also reported from the sky in the jam buster; I have worked with BBC Sussex, AA road watch and done voice overs for Air force Radio. I have been involved with BBC training films and run role-play sessions for BBC training courses. I have also worked with the BBC Learning Zone as an announcer.

What do you think about the role of drama in education?

I think drama is an essential part of the curriculum. Drama can provide an inspiring insight into all areas of the curriculum. It also provides a channel through which children can safely and effectively develop their social skills, ant their citizenship skills. Basically I think drama widens children's horizons and allows them to stretch their imaginations. Children see so much on TV, often they don't know how to use their imagination. They are bombarded with images.

There is so much more to drama than just English or Shakespeare though these are very important areas. It can provide a whole new dimension to History. You can find out what it was really like to live as a Greek, Roman or Victorian. How did Henry VIII wives feel about him? Drama allows you to experience life in a safe nurturing environment. There needs to be more drama in schools because imagination needs to be kept alive.

The influences on children in today's world are so negative. I think it is important for children to be able to believe in themselves. Confidence and the ability to communicate effectively are the key to achieving in the world today. Outloud drama aims to tap into the natural ability in every child. To enable children to reach their full potential and communicate with people confidently and effectively wherever they are and whoever they are talking to.

So how does drama and voice training help in a corporate environment?

Oh it can be immensely beneficial for people in every type of organisation. Communication and presentation skills are essential for everyone. Our most popular training courses tend to focus on helping people who are presenting ideas to others. Especially public speaking and presentation skills. But drama is also very valuable for client facing staff who will be able to provide a higher level of customer service after appropriate role play sessions and voice training. Speaking and listening skills are so fundamental and often neglected areas.

Our courses are excellent for improving social interaction, learning how to deal with difficult situations and helping people to break down social barriers. We aim to improve our clients self confidence and we are especially skilled at helping people who are nervous of public speaking. Public speaking isn't brain surgery. No body dies. We teach people how to prepare properly, speaking techniques and help them to believe in themselves.

To learn more about Outloud Productions courses and workshops please get in touch with Sally Lawrence now by phoning 07946 357521 or by email