CLEO.
Struggling with writer's block and an impossible deadline, an author turns to an AI assistant to help him finish his novel.
A dark comedy written and directed by Matthew Swan.
Starring Kerry Shale, with the voice of Ryn Smith.
About
I am a theatre director and filmmaker with a particular interest in Shakespeare, contemporary writing and work created for unconventional spaces. My productions combine a strong visual identity with close attention to text, performance and the experience of the audience.
I approach directing through structure, action and collaboration. In rehearsal, I work with actors to develop detailed relationships, clear intentions and a shared understanding of the world of the piece. Design and technical elements are integral to that world, but always serve the performers and the story.
My work ranges from large-scale outdoor Shakespeare and site-specific performance to intimate contemporary scenes, devised physical theatre and short film. Across these forms, I am interested in how familiar stories can be reconsidered for contemporary audiences without losing their complexity.
I am based in the UK and currently completing an MA in Theatre Directing at East 15 Acting School
Photo by Emma Duder
Photo by Adam John Photography
Contact
I’m open to collaborations, assistant-directing opportunities, and new writing conversations.
Photo by Adam John Photography
Photo by Sasha Tzu Ying Hsu
Productions
| Production | Playwright | Venue | Company | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weyward Sisters | Devised Physical Theatre | East 15 Acting School | East 15 Acting School | 2026 |
| Seal Team Six | Devised Site-Specific | Clapham Laundry | East 15 Acting School | 2026 |
| Living Scarecrows | Improvisation | East 15 Acting School | East 15 Acting School | 2025 |
| Monster | Duncan Macmillan | East 15 Acting School | East 15 Acting School | 2025 |
| Birdland | Simon Stephens | East 15 Acting School | East 15 Acting School | 2025 |
| Romeo and Juliet | William Shakespeare | Markeaton Park, Derby | Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company | 2024 |
| A Midsummer Night’s Dream | William Shakespeare | RSC Dell Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon | Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company | 2023 |
| A Midsummer Night’s Dream | William Shakespeare | Markeaton Park, Derby | Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company | 2023 |
| Richard II | William Shakespeare | Shakespeare House, Derby | Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company | 2019 |
Directing
Photo by Yuxin (Nyroc) Ma
Photo by Anna Lewis
| Qualification | Institution | Year |
|---|---|---|
| MA Theatre Directing | East 15 Acting School | 2026 |
| MEd Educational Leadership | University of Birmingham | 2023 |
Training
Photo by Doodah Photography
Shakespeare and heightened text
New writing
Improvisation and devising
Site-specific direction
Physical Theatre (Song of the Goat)
Outdoor performance
Workshop facilitation
Collaborative rehearsal processes
Skills
Photo by Lilian Cheung
Reviews
“A director with a strong vision and the ability to steer the cast to achieve his desired outcomes” - East Midlands Theatre.
“Modernising Romeo and Juliet proved to be a winning choice, resonating with current issues” - Elemental Theatre.
“A must-see production full of magic and mischief in a stunning setting” - Theatre Whippet.
“Impressive directorial debut” - Theatre Whippet.
Photo by Sasha Tzu Ying Hsu