Diploma Course.

"Studying for the Speech and Drama Diploma with Ann was probably one of the most enjoyable and educational study experiences I have had.  Ann's dedication and commitment is inspirational.  She instills a wonderful passion for the Theatre." Sine Lynch, ARIAM, LRIAM.

As a past student of the Russell Academy, the information and skills acquired during training have proved invaluable to me in the business environment. It has enabled me to develop and coach employees with confidence and clarity. A must do course for anyone serious about their career development. Audrey Mulhall, Training Officer, LRIAM.

Ann Russell' s drama classes gave me the confidence to write my own musical...an amazing teacher who has a passion for her craft and knows how to pass it on!!! Marie-Renee Lochou, LRIAM.

"I am a past pupil of Ann's and she was an inspirational teacher who has a gift of imparting her knowledge in a hands-on fashion. Ann is a mine of resources and uses her skills to keep her students centre stage. Thanks to Ann I am now qualified to teach Drama and every year it just gets better and better!" Jared Madden, ARIAM, LRIAM.

“I loved studying for the Speech and Drama Diploma under Ann's excellent tutelage! She developed what I know will be a life-long passion for the theatre in me and a hunger to learn more. You can't ask for more than that in a teacher! Her classes are always extremely well-prepared and thought out and attending was always a pleasurable learning experience for me”.
Stephanie Mc Dermott Senior Account Manager, ARIAM.

"I found this course to be a fantastic experience which fostered and renewed my love of theatre. It gave me the confidence, competence and skills to establish my own drama school. There was a fun and positive atmosphere in the class and I treasure the friends I made there. It was fantastic to meet fellow students with the same passion for drama and theatre. Ann, with her humour, sense of fun and inspiring theatre and teaching background, changed this course from mundane to magical and changed drama from being a hobby to a passion." Mary O'Connor, ARIAM, LRIAM.

"I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in studying or teaching speech and drama. It was a fantastic 2 years of invaluable insight into the world of theatre and drama. From this course I took a career change into speech and drama teaching and have never looked back. Through the intimate classes that were held I made some fantastic friends who are a huge support to me in my career." Marguerite McConnell, ARIAM, LRIAM.

"Studying with Russell Academy was an emotional, confidence building experience. The material covered gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a wide range of Irish and International poetry and drama, and opens your imagination to the world of mime and improvisation. I was offered constant support and assistance on my journey and highly recommend this course to anyone thinking of becoming a Drama teacher." Nicola Bashford, ARIAM.

Public Speaking.

‘I found the course to be absolutely excellent and the best thing that I have ever done! It has provided me with valuable tools and techniques when making presentations. Ann was amazing with the group providing great support and encouragement for each individual and the atmosphere was very positive and non-threatening.  Having completed the course, speaking in public is not as daunting and I feel much more confident and self assured when speaking to an audience now. I highly recommend this course for anyone who feels nervous or under-confident at the prospect of speaking publicly’. Celine Kelly.

“I found the course a very holistic approach to public speaking. The various techniques used allowed everyone to reach a high level of competence in an enjoyable and friendly manner. What started out as a chore to me ended up quite the opposite, never knew it could have been that interesting. The disarming Maeve McGowan, delivered the course in a professional and friendly way. While encouraging the group to bring out their best from day one, Maeve was also good at tailoring different aspects to individuals' specific needs.” Brian Sheehy.

“I found the course worthwhile because of the emphasis on speaking in front of the group each week” Muiris Loughnane.

“As an entrepreneur I felt that my lack of confidence in speaking before a group would hold me back in my career. The Russell Academy course not only helped me to feel more comfortable with speaking in public but taught me how to control my voice and body language in a way that would engage an audience and allow me to communicate my message in a powerful and effective way.”
Ben Johnston.

“The open and relaxed atmosphere of the classes give a wonderful opportunity to explore and develop public speaking skills you never thought you had.” Michael McCarthy.