The Actors Forge

Our Story

The Forge

The Actors Forge was founded in 2018 in a small studio on Pilgrim Street in central Newcastle.

From humble beginnings the Forge quickly grew from a few actors practicing monologues and duologues to one of the region’s most respected centres for Actor training and development.

The Forge is now host to more than 100 active students over 5 classes and operates an international online Masterclass program based out of New York City.

The Actors Forge was voted the North East’s Best Drama School, in 2023 and has been featured in The Stage, Living North, and Spotlight’s official list of education providers.

In 2024 The Actors Forge began collaborating with Creative UK, Arts Council England and Durham University Business School as Entrepreneurs in Residence to spearhead the development of regional opportunities for Actors in the North East!

  • Dan Lemon

    Creative Director

    The Creative Director and Founder of the Actors Forge

    Dan started the Actors Forge in 2018 after returning home from London where he trained and worked as a professional actor.

    Passionate about the North East, Dan sought to create a regional centre for training, collaboration and creative career development.

  • Lynn Huntley

    Acting Coach

    Lynn is an experienced actor and coach at the Actors Forge.

    She has worked across Television and Film and is best known for her work in London’s West End Theatre.

    Lynn works professionally as a stand up comedian and singer throughout the region.

  • Robert Carr

    Director, Cinematographer

    Rob is skilled writer, director and cinematographer and manages all things Screen Acting at the Forge.

    Rob runs a successful production company, RGR films that produces both creative and commercial film and media content.

  • Isa Wnek

    Masterclass Facilitator

    Isa is an actor, stage combat enthusiast and former student of The Actors Forge.

    Isa manages the Forge’s online Master Class program bringing in top UK and US industry professionals from her base in New York City.

  • Craig Pearson

    Mentor

    As one of the founding members of the Forge Craig has a wealth of professional acting experience across T.V, Film and Theatre.

    Starting out in 2018 Craig has attended the Forge since its inception and now supports actors in their development from budding artist to seasoned professional.