ABOUT US

We are Lonesome Workshops. The only space in London like it.We get up and we move. We don’t sit around and chat. We get up, we trip, we fall and we fail. Then we build, we grow, we push and the whole room makes progress.

We are bold, we are brave and we are here for artist to grow in their craft.

Every single week, our workshops guide like-minded creatives through a range of physical, vocal, and text based exercises. These exercises are designed to enhance your ability to work professionally in the industry by developing a heightened use of skills within a constructive environment.

Our aim is to enhance a broad range of industry-specific skills by ensuring active participation from every attendee. By working physically and directly, you will become so at ease that you can transfer these skills into auditions, which has often led to representation and professional bookings.

Our workshops are led by professionals, attended by professionals, and designed for professionals.

NO EGO // NO JUDGEMENT.

We back and support artists. ALWAYS.

WHO RUNS THE WORKSHOPS

Niall Phillips, Director

Niall is a classically trained actor, award winning theatre director and a qualified theatre practitioner. Niall has worked in New York City, Europe, Turkey, Africa and all over the U.K. at some of the best accredited drama schools, including East 15, Arts Ed, RADA, Italia Conti, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and IDSA. 

Niall is also Head Coach at online drama school IAMPRO.

In 2025, Niall has worked with BBC, National Theatre, YAT, East 15 and I AM PRO.

His work in theatre includes: BAAL, (East 15), Women of Troy (RBC / Crescent Theatre), Irn Pru (Arcola Theatre), MEDEA (Midlands Arts Centre), TOMORROW MAY BE MY LAST (Various venues), I KNOW MY HUSBAND LOVES ME, (The Union Theatre), FAUX, (Brighton Fringe Festival – WINNER of the Bobby Award for Best Production), HIDDEN, (Wandsworth Arts Festival), MINITARISTS, (Vaults Festival), TURKEY (Off West End nominated for Best Director 2018), IN/OUT (A FEELING), (Off West End nominated for Best New Production),ROMEO & JULIET (Sardinia Arts Festival), WAITING FOR CHARLIE, (The Hope Theatre), OLYMPILADS, HE(ART), Theatre N16, I’MTHINKING OF LEAVING FACEBOOK, THE UNMARRIED,(Edinburgh Fringe Festival), FACE TO FACE, LETTERS FROM EVERYONE, (Offi West End Nominated for Best New play in 2017), TOM &JERRY, (Drayton Arms Theatre), LOVE vs HATE, ON A SPREE, (Tristan Bates Theatre), FUGEE (Omnibus Arts Centre).

Niall has worked on several films productions. His debut film, HOME, 2012, dealt with mental health in young males and featured Perry Benson and Mike Parr. 

This was followed up by his second short film WORK, 2013. Looking at male anxiety issues and depression. This starred Natalie Jacobs. 

Niall has worked extensively in the beautiful and creative world of youththeatre; Including, Halfmoon Theatre, Actors Alive, Young Actors Theatre, Brighter Day Theatre.

NEXT.

More BERTOLT BRECHT at EAST 15, SUMMER, 2025.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US

  • ‘It was one of the most extraordinary three hours I have ever had. We don’t talk about or celebrate enough the craft of acting. Watching people unapologetically practice their craft was an inspiration. Thanks to all for letting me be a part of it.’

    Michelle Terry
    Artistic Director - Globe Theatre

  • ‘An energising morning with a wonderfully committed group of actors up for exploring themselves and my play.’

    Beth Steel
    Playwright

  • ‘What an inspirational way to spend an afternoon. I was buzzing from the energy, the rigour and the skill. Everyone fully committed - to discover and to play. Thanks so much for welcoming me into such a special environment.’

    Eva Sampson
    Theatre Director

  • ‘This was a rich, dynamic and rewarding experience for everyone in the room. Every actor was challenged, supported and developed accordingly.’

    Adrian Noble
    Artistic Director & Theatre Director 

  • ‘Lonesome Workshops are an extraordinary space for actors of real talent to explore and refine and develop their craft. A place of real energy and grace. Niall is a force of nature.’

    Simon Stephens
    Playwright 

  • ‘I was really knocked out by the energy of Lonesome Workshops. People cried!! Including Niall!! Including Me!! It means something. People rocking up on a Friday afternoon to WORK. People laying it all out and not being careful or coy in order to DISCOVER. That they would work on my scripts and reveal so much about the writing to me was a privilege and a thrill.’

    Matthew Dunster
    Director and Playwright

  • ‘I will be recommending these workshops to every actor I know who wants to work and develop their skills in a welcoming and creative space. The energy and confidence that Niall brings out in everyone is inspiring to watch.’

    Declan Walker
    Casting Director

WHO WE WORK WITH

ARE YOU READY?

Are you ready to take your career to the next level?

Are you prepared to push yourself to get the best out of yourself?

Are you up for working with some of the most exciting professionals in the country?

Are you ready to take the next step…

CONTACT US

Any questions do not hesitate to ask.

Email - info@lonesomeworkshops.com

Instagram - @lonesome_workshops

Twitter - @lonesomeworks

We run every Thursday (7pm - 10pm), Friday (12-3) and Saturday (11am - 2pm) near Liverpool Street & Dalston Kingsland

FAQs

What does Lonesome teach?

We provide exceptional part-time training for actors of all abilities, ranging from recent graduates to working professionals.

We always start with fun warm up exercises. Then we focus on that sessions set text. We get the scene up on its feet and bring it to life. These sessions are active and physical. The best way to learn is to do it. We support each other. We tell stories. And when we fail, we pick each other back up. If you Get it wrong - NOBODY CARES.

Is it full-time or part-time?

Currently the course is part time.

The sessions run on

Monday, 12pm, mental health check in.

Tuesday 9am, Play reading workshop.

Thursday, 7-10, normally the special guest advanced session.

Friday 12-3, Advanced session.

Friday 3-6pm, Screen workshop.

Saturday 11-2. Standard session.

But, students regularly attend to keep their skill set on point.

Do LONESOME offer screen workshops??

Yes. Yes we do. Every FRIDAY, 3PM-6PM.

Which part do I learn??

You decide. Whichever feels best in YOUR body. Ignore, gender, age, YOU choose. For special guest workshops - Please LEARN BOTH PARTS.

Does the Lonesome offer different course levels?

YES. Yes it does, Our ‘special guest’ sessions will now be ADVANCED CLASSES.  To book on to these classes you will need one of the following:  To be a Drama School graduate Two professional credits  Attended Lonesome Workshops standard classes and be invited by Niall to the advanced classes  These changes are to ensure we can support artists at every stage of their training.  

Do I need previous acting experience to attend?

Applicants do require previous acting experience to attend. We want to nurture the talent and skill set you already have, giving you the edge on other actors when it comes to performing in the industry. There is no audition process. Just turn up and be willing.

Is there a minimum/ maximum age limit?

The minimum entry age for Lonesome workshops is 16. There is no upper age limit. No judgment here.

Do I have to prepare anything beforehand?

Scripts for each workshop are available via the Google Drive link which are sent with the confirmation email after purchasing a ticket. Which MUST be learnt.

What should I wear?

Loose comfortable clothing which enables free movements . Wear what you feel best in.

What are the class sizes?

Class sizes vary from 6-16 students depending on the academic year. We want you to feel valued. you must get up and act. If we have too many we can’t see you all. 16 max. But we make sure every single actor gets up on their feet and works.

What are the terms of bookings?

1. Once paid, via website only. We do not offer refunds.
2. If you do need to cancel it must be 48 hours before the session.
3. If you give us the required notice in writing, we will be able to move your session to another date. But after this, we won't be able to change the date. 
4. Waiting lists - if the class is fully booked, we have a waiting list. You will be informed asap if a space has become available. 

5. SPECIAL GUEST WORKSHOP - If you cannot make that session we can only move to a standard session / advanced session. NOT another special guest session.