Natalie Gavin is a Bradford-born and bred actor and acting coach with over 19 years of experience across television, film, and theatre. She began her training at Leeds Intake Performing Arts College before earning a BA (Hons) in Drama and Theatre Studies at Huddersfield University, where she received the Outstanding Achievement Award.
Natalie’s career launched with a powerful performance as Young Andrea in Clio Barnard’s The Arbor, and she later reunited with Barnard in the acclaimed film Ali & Ava. Her film credits also include a leading role in Jake Gavin’s Hector alongside Peter Mullen.
Her television work features some of the UK’s most celebrated dramas, including:
- Shameless (Channel 4)
- Ackley Bridge (Channel 4)
- The Syndicate (ITV)
- Prisoners’ Wives (BBC One)
- Jericho as Alma Capstick (ITV)
- Line of Duty by Jed Mercurio (BBC)
- Gentleman Jack by Sally Wainwright (BBC)
- The English Game by Julian Fellowes (Netflix)
On stage, Natalie has worked with prestigious companies including Shared Experience, Headlong, The Old Vic, and Leeds Playhouse. Highlights include The Crucible (Old Vic), Pygmalion (Headlong), There Are No Beginnings (Leeds Playhouse), and Andrea Dunbar’s Shirley (Hope Mill/Square Chapel). She has portrayed characters ranging from Mary Warren to a northern Eliza Doolittle, always bringing raw authenticity and energy to every role.
Natalie is proud to serve as the youngest Patron of Square Chapel Theatre and a Patron of Harrogate Theatre, actively championing new voices in northern theatre and screen.
Natalie Gavin
Nathan Graham brings warmth, authenticity, and professional insight to our Tuesday night classes in Leeds. Best known for his impactful portrayal of James Bailey on Coronation Street—part of the soap’s first-ever Black family—Nathan tackled powerful storylines around identity and homophobia in football with real care and emotional depth.
Before Corrie, Nathan built a rich career in musical theatre, performing in shows like Dreamgirls, Miss Saigon, 20th Century Boy, Loserville, Hairspray, and West Side Story, following professional training at Bird College. This strong stage background gives him a grounded and dynamic approach to character and performance—where discipline, creativity, and connection all play a part.
Nathan’s teaching style is nurturing yet professional. He creates a warm, supportive environment while challenging actors to explore character journeys truthfully and dig deep into emotional arcs. Inspired by his own journey from musical theatre to television, he brings a unique blend of physical storytelling and honest performance technique to every session.
Whether working on scenes, movement, or script, Nathan brings empathy, industry experience, and genuine enthusiasm for helping actors unlock their best work. His Tuesday night class in Leeds is the perfect space for working actors seeking steady growth, thoughtful feedback, and a compassionate guide who’s truly walked the path.
“Class is a safe environment where we grow and learn together. The aim is to push and challenge each other week on week. There isn’t a set structure to the sessions as it’s good to keep it fresh. From mock auditions to an on set experience and everything in between. All I ask is that you come prepared so we have more time to do the work” – Nathan
Nathan Graham
John has been an actor for over 30 years and has an extensive career in TV, Theatre and major advertising campaigns all of which have taken him around the world.
He has been a tutor since 2016 and is immensely proud of the achievements of his hardworking students.
Long may it continue!
‘ My classes place a real emphasis on Character, Motivation and Subtext. There’s no point in just ‘saying’ the words – nobody will believe you. I work on the concept that all the ‘clues’ are in the script and it’s our job to detect them and build a totally believable, focused and energised performance.
You ready?? ‘
John Gully
Elliot is an experienced actor from Leeds, West Yorkshire, with a deep passion for film and a wealth of experience. He has worked with some of the UK’s most respected directors, including Paul Andrew Williams, Phil Barantini, and Lewis Arnold. His extensive work on screen has given him invaluable insight into the actor’s process and the unique challenges of working on set.
Elliot’s credits include roles in feature films such as The Railway Children Return and Dragonfly, as well performances in popular TV series like Malpractice and The Long Shadow. His work across a variety of genres has showcased his versatility and depth as an actor, giving him a unique perspective that he now brings to his teaching.
Elliot’s approach to teaching focuses on the practical side of acting, with an emphasis on understanding the technical aspects of performance, particularly the camera and lens. He believes that having a solid grasp of how the camera works is essential to becoming a more effective actor. Whether you’re standing in front of a lens for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, Elliot’s guidance will help you build the knowledge and confidence to perform at your best.
In his acting lessons, Elliot focuses primarily on preparing actors for the real-world demands of being on set. Topics covered include:
- Hitting Marks & Continuity
- Teamwork On Set
- Navigating Set Etiquette & Working With Crew
- Understanding the Mock Set Environment
The space used for Elliot’s lessons will be set up as a mock film set, simulating the conditions you will encounter while on a professional shoot. This hands-on experience allows students to feel the rhythm of working on a job, from interacting with the crew to managing the practicalities of filming, such as adjusting to the camera and staying in character through multiple takes.
Whether you’re preparing for an audition, wanting to sharpen your set skills, or looking to grow in your craft, Elliot offers a dynamic, practical, and engaging approach to acting. By focusing on real-world scenarios and personalised attention, he’s here to help you step into the world of film with the skills and mindset needed to succeed.