Character. Shadow. Motive.

Every character is doing something. Underneath what they are doing is why they are doing it. Underneath the why is something they may not even understand.

Join NIDA-trained actor Ryan Hayward for Under the Surface, a workshop for actors exploring the motivations, impulses and unseen forces that sit beneath a character’s actions.

With screen credits including Christopher Nolan’s Inception and iconic Australian television series Winners & Losers, Ryan brings his professional acting experience into the workshop room, encouraging participants to look beyond what a character is doing and dig deeper into why.

Through an exploration of character, shadow and motive, Under the Surface invites actors to move beyond what is immediately visible and consider what might really be driving a character beneath the surface.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your approach to character or explore new ways of thinking about motivation in performance, this workshop offers an opportunity to develop your craft alongside an experienced professional actor.

Saturday 10 October 2026
Rebus Theatre, Gorman Arts Centre, Braddon

Scholarship Places Available

We want financial circumstances to be as little of a barrier to participation as possible. Scholarship places are available for this workshop, and anyone who may otherwise be unable to attend due to cost is encouraged to apply.

Apply for a scholarship →

Registrations are essential. Places are limited.

Contact the host of Under the Surface: Character. Shadow. Motive.