Paul Griffiths

Paul Griffiths (19**-) is an actor and director.

Biography

Training

Paul completed an MA with Distinction in Theatre Directing from Middlesex University – a course that included modules at The GITIS Conservatory in Moscow, RESAD Drama School in Spain and master classes from The Berliner Ensemble.

Career

Paul's professional career started as an actor in Musical Theatre Productions for varied arts companies around South Africa in the early 90’s. After working in South Africa, Paul moved to London where he spent the next 8 years. It was as a director that he continued to develop his career in the UK, first as Trainee Director and subsequently as Education Associate for The Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond. He was then appointed as Associate Director of The Bridewell Theatre just off London’s West End and he was Acting Artistic Director for a time.

In 2006, Paul returned to South Africa and was appointed head of Drama and Musical Theatre at the Waterfront Theatre School. His independent company, Big Leaf Productions, was set up to produce numerous plays and musicals. He became a partner in 2011. He is the Director of the Helen O’ Grady: Development Through Drama Academy-the largest single academy for young people in South Africa.

Contribution to SA theatre, film, media and/or performance

At first he worked exclusively in musicals such as Fiddler on the Roof (for both PACOFS and CAPAB), Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Mame, Camelot, Peter Pan and Evita.

He played Curtis in The Taming of the Shrew, (Maynardville 1996).

Directed Educating Rita (Kalk Bay Theatre 2009), My Fair Lady (2009), I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change (2010), The Pirates of Penzance (2015).

Awards, etc

As trustee of the Imbewu Trust, Paul was awarded the 2017 Fleur du Cap Award for Innovation in Theatre, specifically for development in new writing.

Sources

The Taming of the Shrew (1996) programme notes.

Waterfront Theatre School Website https://www.wtschool.co.za/our-staff

Go to ESAT Bibliography

For more information

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