About Jack Milner

Jack Milner is one of the most versatile and prolific creators on the London comedy scene. For many years, Jack has pursued simultaneous careers as a director, writer, comedy actor, facilitator and producer in theatre, television, film and radio. He has participated in over one hundred productions, both on stage and behind the scenes, with notable success in all fields.

A man of many talents, Jack is as eclectic as he is productive. As a comedy director, he frequently spotlights new works and new talent (discovered Olivier Award nominated writer, Peter Quilter, directing his first professional show, "Respecting Your Piers”) while staging memorable versions of well-known classics. 

He has directed for the West End (Soho Theatre “Roti With Ham” and the Arts Theatre “The One Off”), film and radio, although it is directing comedy for the stage that is Jack’s first love. 

In addition he is renown as Britain’s top comedy facilitator and has worked with Channel 4, BBC TV and ITV as well as the National Theatre. For more information about Jack's workshops visit www.jackmilner.com. As a writer he has scores of TV and radio credits. He is the founder of the celebrated and award winning London Comedy Writer's Group which has spawned many of Britain’s top new comedy writers.

"Lichfield Mysteries 2006"

From 2005 - 2006, Jack was artistic director of the Lichfield Mysteries, the world’s largest cast theatre show.

Melanie Hill and Mark Wingett in Jack Milner’s production of the political comedy “Maggie’s End.” Shaw Theatre April 2009.

History

Jack Milner started his career as comedy performer and writer. He trained under Italy’s leading Commedia Dell’ Arte teacher, Carlo Boso, and one of Hollywood’s top script doctor’s, Bart Gavighan, who have provided the inspiration for much of his work. In the early 90’s he co-founded Gut Reaction Theatre Company with Debby Holden and together with the support of the Arts Council, they successfully toured new comedies throughout the UK for a number of years.

Kara Tointon and Joe Swash star in Jack’s production of 
“Snow White” 
at the Bristol Hippodrome. 
The show also starred the wonderful Andy Ford (Britain’s top panto comic).

His working method as director and knowledge of comedy is unique. based on the premise that performance media should be performer lead. While his technical knowledge is unsurpassed, he also understands the basic principal that most great comedy is cruel - and can only come from truthful and confident artists. The result is dynamic, dangerous and innovative comedy, which empowers the performer and gives them ownership of the show. 

"Lichfield Mysteries 2006"

From Lichfield Mysteries
“… our greatest coup was hiring Jack Milner… his vision for the cycle was ground breaking – his infectious enthusiasm and his organisational abilities are superb!” Chris Arnold, Chairman for Lichfield Mysteries 2006.

From Ambassadors Theatre Group
"some of the most well received sessions we have ever done!"

From recent stand up course 
“Quite simply one of the best things I've ever done and, crucially, one of the most fun. They say you can tell an expert because they make what they do look effortless. Jack is one of those experts and also the kind of person who cannot help but make your world better by simply being Jack."

From Channel 4 
"He really helped our staff understand the mechanics of not only creating comedy but most importantly of making it funny! … He knows more about comedy than just about anyone I know. Perhaps his greatest gift though is that his sessions are fun!"

From leading drama school 
“Thanks for the excellent ‘Oliver Twist.’ I cannot think of another director who could have started with nothing and ended with such a sophisticated production that was still free and dynamic… cast loved every minute.”
Caroline Eves, Head of acting at East 15 Drama School.

Contact:
Jack Milner
01494 772 908
07906 284708

jack@jackmilner.co.uk

For comedy workshops visit: www.jackmilner.com