New York based actor shares industry insight with Fife College students

Performing Arts students at Fife College (@fifecollege) were given a unique insight into the theatre industry thanks to New York based actor Mick Mellamphy.

Mick, who recently became Artistic Director of Origin Theatre Company in New York, took part in an online Q&A session with students from the Creative Industries faculty.  

Born and raised in Ireland, Mick worked on stage and trained in Dublin before moving to New York. A member of the Irish Repertory Theatre, and a founding member of The Pigeon Theatre Company, Mick is known for his part of Sean MacGuire in Rockstar’s hugely popular Red Dead Redemption 2 video game.

The online Q&A, organised by Performing Arts lecturer Tina West, gave students an opportunity to ask Mick questions about the industry, find out more about how motion capture works, and learn about some of the ways it differs to traditional theatre. 

Mick, who has appeared in TV series such as Law & Order and HBO’s I Know This Much Is True, also shared the importance of harnessing an entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging students to do their own writing, and getting other actors to perform it, which can help increase visibility as an artist.

Mick Mellamphy said:

“I am always motivated by the passion of others in our industry, so it was great to get the chance to talk to Tina’s group and witness some of their inspirational work.

“Thanks to Tina and her group for the opportunity to share my own journey with them too, hopefully everyone involved was able to take as much energy and drive from the discussion as I did.”

Acting and Theatre Performance student Nicola Anderson, from Cowdenbeath, said:

“The conversation with Mick gave us some valuable insight into the world of performing arts. I got a lot of inspiration and motivation, and I look forward to using the advice to my advantage in the future”

Tina West, Lecturing in Performing Arts at Fife College, said:

“Mick’s talk was full of brilliant creative and practical advice for our learners, they all were all absolutely buzzing afterwards.

“Thanks again to Mick for taking time out of his busy schedule to share his unique insight into the industry, which I’m sure will be very beneficial for our students going forward.”