The refinery
Where Talent Becomes Craft
Training, discipline and performance at a professional standard.
Here, talent is not simply welcomed
it is refined.
At The Refinery, we build
skill
discipline
creative intelligence
the confidence that comes from doing something well
This is not about fitting in.
It’s about standing out.
Through high-level training, creative exploration and performance, young people are challenged to go beyond what feels comfortable, to deepen their skill and discover what they are truly capable of.
We work with those who are ready to commit, to stretch, and to take their work seriously — whether they are just beginning or already on their path.
Because raw ability is only the starting point. What matters is what you do with it.
“make visible what,without you, might perhaps never have been seen.”
~R. Bresson
At The Refinery we develop artists
who bring something real-
not just technique,
but presence.
The Refinery offers more than classes. We give you the opportunity to be part of a Company.
It is a space to refine talent within an intentional group, working together towards a high standard of performance.
We are interested in more than surface-level confidence.
We develop performers who are alive, responsive and creatively engaged.
Our work supports young people to move beyond imitation and expectation, and to become a clear vehicle for what is emerging — grounded in both instinct and craft.
This is about shaping the performers of tomorrow:
those who understand the responsibility of their role — to communicate, to connect, and at times to challenge.
While the work may at times look like play, it is built on discipline, focus and commitment.
And we know it has landed when what happens on stage is not only seen —
but felt.
Skills that extend far beyond the stage…
Our Company members learn how to:
hold attention
take risks
stay present under pressure
speak with clarity
work as part of a team
develop discipline and self-awareness
When young people are given the space to take themselves seriously, something shifts.
They become more grounded.
More confident.
More willing to step forward in their lives.
We are not interested in surface-level confidence.
We are interested in real growth
— the kind that stays.
Our foundation
The Refinery is rooted in a concept developed over several years in Dubai, working with over 160 students — many of whom have gone on to build successful careers within the industry.
Now based in Devon, The Refinery brings together two professionally trained practitioners with extensive industry experience to offer a refined and contemporary training environment.
This is not a new endeavour.
It’s a refined one.
Tom trained at the Royal Central School of Speech And Drama.
He spent years navigating the reality of the acting world across theatre, independent film and voice work.
This firsthand experience of the industry’s challenges eventually led him to his true passion : drama education.
By combining the technical foundations of a Central training with years of lived experience in the “actor’s life,” Tom has developed a reputation for exceptional teaching.
He brings a focus on textual precision and technical craft to the studio, ensuring students understand the mechanics behind the magic.
Funny and refreshingly honest, Tom provides a grounded perspective that helps students master the craft while understanding the real-world dedication required to succeed.
about us
WillowNess was professionally trained at London Contemporary Dance School, and has spent over three decades working across theatre, voice and embodied creative practice as a performer, director and facilitator.
She previously founded and ran the highly successful Talent Station in Dubai — the umbrella company for VOX Theatre Company, AgentC and Riddum Dance Company — creating professional training environments for young performers across the region. Her career has also included choreography, directing, live events, corporate role play, radio presenting and international voice-over work.
Combining professional industry experience with a deep respect for discipline and creative craft, WillowNess has developed a reputation for passionate and transformative teaching. Supportive yet demanding, she challenges students to move beyond what feels comfortable whilst developing the confidence, precision and authenticity needed for powerful performance.
Alumni
Just a few of our performers, makers and creatives who have trained with us over the years. this is an evolving archive…
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Louie Chapman
Actor/ Producer, Hollywood.
Trained at American Academy of Dramatic Arts
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Lucie Turner -
Actor, West End.
Trained at LAMDA
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Matthew Malone
Actor.
Trained at Guildford School of Acting.
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Sophie Giovanna Mc Adam Clark.
Singer
Studied Interdisciplinary Theatre at University of Portsmouth
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Malik
Journalist/ singer song writer/ music producer/ manager
Testimonials
“step in.
step up”
The Refinery is a space for those ready to commit, to be challenged, and to take their work seriously.
auditions & programme
THE REFINERY TEENS | Ages 13–19
Our first auditions took place in September 2027, but we still have places available and welcome new talent.
If you're interested in joining us, we invite you to come along to a session, meet the company and experience The Refinery for yourself.
It's an opportunity for us to get to know each other, explore your potential and discover whether we're the right fit.
THE REFINERY JUNIORS | Ages 9–12i
BIG IMAGINATION. BOLD IDEAS. YOUR STAGE.
We're delighted to introduce The Refinery Juniors, or “TRJs”- our brand-new theatre group for young performers aged 9–12.
Informal workshop auditions will take place in January 2027
Through playful exploration, improvisation, storytelling and ensemble work, TRJs will develop their confidence, imagination, and performance skills in a supportive and creative environment.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR...
We look for:
Commitment
Curiosity
Resilience
Openness
The willingness to work
A strong performer is not just someone who shines individually, but someone who contributes to the strength of the whole Company. You don’t need to have it all figured out, but you do need to be ready to step in & give your best.