Mr Paul Griffiths

Paul Griffith’s professional career started as an actor in Musical Theatre Productions for varied arts companies around South Africa in the early 90’s.  His performance credits include: Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Peter Pan, Camelot, Mame and Fiddler on the Roof. After working in South Africa, Paul moved to London where he spent the next 8 years. Whilst in London, he completed an MA with Distinction in Theatre Directing from Middlesex University – a course that included modules at The GITIS Conservatory in Moscow, RESAD Drama School in Spain and master classes from The Berliner Ensemble. It was as a director that he continued to develop his career in the UK, first as Trainee Director and subsequently as Education Associate for The Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond. He was then appointed as Associate Director of The Bridewell Theatre just off London’s West End and he was Acting Artistic Director for a time. In 2006 Paul returned to South Africa and was appointed head of Drama and Musical Theatre at WTS.  His independent company, “Big Leaf Productions”, was set up to produce numerous plays and musicals. He became a partner in 2011.  As trustee of the Imbewu Trust, Paul was awarded the 2017 Fleur du Cap Award for Innovation in Theatre, specifically for development in new writing.  He is the Director of the Helen O’ Grady: Development Through Drama Academy-the largest single academy for young people in South Africa.