A significant part of my work involves coordinating physical action with actors and supporting artists of all ages and experience levels as production Fight Director. I take pride in creating a safe, collaborative environment where performers can deliver believable, repeatable action that serves the story. My approach is always shaped by the director’s vision, the needs of the production, and the physical capabilities of the cast. Whether working with seasoned professionals or first-time performers, I tailor each sequence to support character, performance, and overall narrative impact.

As Action Coordinator I choreograph large-scale action sequences for film and television, and even for theatre with several large scale outdoor live events under my belt. This role often involves managing personnel and ensuring smooth communication  for reasons of safety across departments. I specialise in action and fight scenes that intersect with VFX, practical effects, stunts and armoury. Typical examples include police raids, running gun battles, large scale sword fights and other complex, multi-department action sequences.

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Although I prefer the title Fight or Action Director, I’ve worked as the Stunt Coordinator on many productions since 2006 and continue to do so. A recent example of my work was an Apple commercial filmed at Aberdeen Train Station you can watch it by clicking the image above. That particular commercial was shot using entirely Scottish based stunt professionals. I also collaborate with other, more specialised stunt coordinators and will always recommend someone else if I believe they’re a better fit for the job. 

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I regularly sit in on auditions to assess actors for action roles and can often suggest reliable local talent based on their skills, experience and reputation. It’s not uncommon for performers to overstate their abilities, so I also offer skills verification by contacting referees and checking training backgrounds, especially when fight or action work is involved.

I spent over ten years working in theatre, regularly fight directing at the Citizens Theatre, The Brunton Theatre, Theatre Rapture, Scottish Youth Theatre, The Tron, The Traverse, Dundee Rep and Pitlochry Festival Theatre.

These days I mostly work in film and television but I’m eager to return to my first love, theatre, and I’m available for work throughout Scotland. I trained in swords and other weapons for 7 years with Professor Bert Bracewell BAF, British Olympic fencing team coach, founding member of the Society of British Fight Directors and protégé of Bob Anderson (Star Wars, The Princess Bride).

My films have won over 70 awards worldwide including several Best Director and Best Film awards and in 2011, BAFTA Scotland awarded me the Cineworld Audience Award for my first feature. My main aim in this role is to serve the director’s vision and keeping the style consistent with the main shoot.

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