Russell Actors: Focus on the 'family' vibe...

My brother and I have always shared a sense of humour but pretty much nothing else; I've always been the creative arty one and he's the sporty businessman. However, as James has progressed in his career he's started presenting to groups of people- these days to sometimes as many as 300 at a time. He's developed a real passion for presenting, and has studied various theories on the skills that are needed. The main one being... storytelling. If you can engage the audience on an emotional level then you've got their attention. And here lies another major crossover in our lives.
 
James was thrilled to be asked to come and lead a workshop for our seniors! We found the parallels between presenting and storytelling, and then used those skills in a mock audition - James being the big bad producer, me being the director (with a variety of personas - just to keep everyone on their toes!) and the rest of the group being the writers and runners with some brilliant improv. It was funny, touching, challenging...and a proud moment for me.  James was so impressed by our actors and by how quickly everyone could adapt and take advice and direction.  I was also thrilled to be working alongside my big bro.