about naomi

Naomi Cortes is a working actor and a drama practitioner. She has a degree in Drama (BA Hons) from the University of Bristol and over three decades of life experience. She has been involved in projects working with young people since 1999, in London and the U.K and more recently on an international scale.

"I enjoy working with children and young people from diverse backgrounds," she says. "It’s very rewarding being able to adapt creative and imaginative methods within drama, to encourage growth and awareness of social issues. It's also great fun learning alongside them and being able to laugh together and feel really proud of the work we have created." Naomi has specialist knowledge of Early Years drama and story-making techniques and extensive experience of Youth Theatre practice, including working with young people with disabilities. She first became involved in community work while at university –  at that time working for a community arts project in the St Paul’s area of Bristol.

Having experienced bullying first hand, during her own school career, Naomi will identify ‘outsiders’ in a classroom setting and proactively work towards their acceptance and integration within the group. She understands how drama can help build confidence and will often see a marked improvement in a child’s self-esteem during a workshop session.