“Richard immediately takes on board what schools want to achieve, but is also able to challenge them as well.  He delivers excellent quality participatory arts for children and young people, and adapts delivery to suit needs.  He effectively managed coordination of the project, and is excellent not only in delivery, but also administratively.”

Jane Gray – Creative Agent, Beverley and Priory Woods Move-Motion project

With over 20 years experience as a freelance drama and music facilitator Richard has worked for various theatre-in-education companies, youth and adult theatre groups and directly with nurseries, primary, secondary, special schools and local authorities. He has also developed vocal and communication skills within the corporate sector.

“What a great session delivered by Richard. Richard was energetic, fun and enthusiastic. I had fun doing all the activities and was never made to feel  had to contribute to an activity if I didn’t want to. Richard’s delivery was so good that I wanted to join in with everything”

Tockwith Players member

Richard has written and directed plays and pantomimes, designed bespoke projects for schools and nurseries through Creative Partnerships and also project planned and delivered a national series of theatre workshops for a charity. As well as delivering workshops Richard has also conducted CPD sessions to help enable others to deliver similar work.

Particular areas of interest include storytelling, pantomime, choral and voice work and generally developing communication skills and confidence through play. For more details on specific jobs and projects in education please click here

“All children within the group have progressed (within a variety of ways) and this is due to the careful planning of Richard. Richard built up a brilliant working relationship with all children and staff involved within the project. Quickly he assessed the children’s needs and planned appropriately to move them forward.”

Emma Beech – Teacher, St. Mary’s, Selby

Richard also works as a music practitioner, focusing on song as well as rhythm work and continues his work as Musical Director of Harrogate Male Voice Choir and Deputy Musical Director of the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir.

“Thank you Richard……. for being so engaging with the kids- you have a lovely, positive but purposeful way of communicating with them- much appreciated. “

Jean Gwilliam, teacher at Western Primary, Harrogate

Other performance skills utilised in workshops include African drumming (djembe), mask work, juggling and simple card/magic tricks.

“I have learnt all about team work and that it is really good to join in”

“I like acting now – I was shy before”

“Richard always talks to us and asks us what we think”

“I am always the first in from play now”

Pupils from St. Mary’s Primary, Selby

Richard is able to build an immediate rapport, whatever the age of the group, and prides himself in his ability to learn everybody’s name within a short space of time. With a focus on supportive play he aims to stress the element of fun so that groups can develop and learn without realising it! A strong emphasis on the process, rather than putting pressure on the final end product, makes for a less prescriptive and more creative way of working that is led by, and responsive to, the group. Skills developed through these workshops include trust, self confidence, observation and teamwork as well as improving communication and focus skills and nurturing imaginations. Reflection and evaluation are also very important aspects of Richard’s work.

“Nathan has come out of his shell so much, his confidence is growing and says what he feels….Richard puts so much into his storytelling that it feels like he’s on stage and you’re his audience.”

Andy – Parent, McMillan Children’s Centre, Hull

“Richard left a confident group of thespians, a relaxed staff, and a funny, bright and sparkly performance….please come again next year”

John Neilsen, Headteacher, Barmby Moor Primary

For more information or to discuss availability please contact me at richard@richardkay.net