I come at directing and movement directing from my background as a devisor and performer and my training at Lecoq. I have also trained on the Young Vic Genesis Directors scheme.
I am passionate about physical ensemble storytelling and working with choruses and ensembles, particularly female choruses. I love finding ways to communally tell the story of that group.
For Angel Exit Theatre I have directed: The Black Curtain, Moonfleet, The Secret Garden, The Ballad of Martha Brown, Otto and the Robin and I co-directed The Fairy Tale Forest, Book Club for Super-Spies, The Drive, toooB and SALT. For Christmas 2024 I am Co-Directing Winterwood, a collaboration between Theatre Alibi, Angel Exit and Above Bounds Theatre. (See our website for further information on these shows.)
“This highly inventive production is beautifully staged by director Tamsin Fessey” – The Secret Garden, British Theatre Guide
In 2023 we directed SALT, a community play for Poole with over 100 participants on stage and another 100 offstage. It was an epic production, written by Stephanie Dale after years of research which we carried out on the Poole- Newfoundland connection.
“This was a first for Poole and the Lighthouse team. Working with such experienced and talented professionals as Lynne Forbes and Tamsin Fessey of Angel Exit, the huge company created a work that will remain long in the memory of all those who saw it, and perhaps even more so in the hearts of all those who took part” – Fanny Charles, The FTR
I work regularly at AUB (Arts University Bournemouth) as a director for their third year acting productions. Shows include Second Person Narrative, Ctrl C (devised), Girls Like That, Mermaid and in 2023 The Wolves of Willoughby Chase.
“By turns hilarious, moving, searing and witty, this is a tremendous example of the coming together of a fine script, assured and accomplished direction, and committed, utterly convincing playing. Director Tamsin Fessey deserves huge congratulations for weaving a tapestry of words, movement and emotions that makes the most of and undoubtedly will have challenged the abilities of her cast. Setting aside any distinction between amateur, student or professional productions, this is one of the very best and the most enjoyable performances that I have had the pleasure of attending in recent years” – Phil Vivian, Scene One, Girls Like That
My work as a movement director/ choreographer includes three collaborations with director Lisa Cagnacci, Anansi (Southwark Playhouse), Billy Chickens (Theatre 503, Latitude Festival) and Emma (rehearsed reading, Southwark Playhouse).
I choreographed Swallows and Amazons for the remount at Bristol Old Vic Theatre which had some swing-inspired choreography. I love swing dancing as well as yoga and pilates and these as well as Lecoq training form the basis of my practice.
Tamsin Fessey 