Confident and Grounded: Speaking with Presence

Wed Apr 22 2026 at 10:00 am to 04:00 pm UTC+01:00

South Street Arts Centre | Reading

Marcus Bazley
Publisher/HostMarcus Bazley
Confident and Grounded: Speaking with Presence
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A one-day intensive to build confidence, clarity and presence when speaking, using embodied voice and theatre-based techniques.
About this Event

About this workshop

Do you speak regularly — in meetings, presentations, lectures, rehearsals or classrooms — yet still feel tense, self-conscious, or disconnected from your voice when it really matters?

This one-day intensive is for people who want to speak with greater confidence, clarity and presence, without forcing or performing.

Drawing on theatre practice, voice work and embodied techniques, the day focuses on helping you feel grounded in your body, connected to your breath and voice, and more at ease being seen and heard.

This is not about “presentation tricks”.

It’s about building a reliable, sustainable way of speaking that feels like you.


Who this is for

This workshop is particularly suited to:

  • Professionals who speak publicly or in groups
  • Leaders, facilitators, educators and creatives
  • People who feel confident in their thinking but less so in their delivery
  • Anyone who wants to feel calmer, clearer and more present when they speak

No performance experience required.



What you’ll gain

By the end of the day, you can expect to:

  • Feel more grounded and steady when speaking
  • Understand how your body and breath support your voice
  • Speak with greater clarity and ease under pressure
  • Reduce habitual tension that affects confidence
  • Connect more authentically with an audience or group
  • Develop practical tools you can use immediately



How the day works

The workshop is highly practical and experiential, with a balance of:

  • Guided physical and vocal exercises
  • Individual and group speaking practice
  • Reflection and integration

You’ll work in a small, supportive group, with space to move, rest, and explore at your own pace.


Timings:

10:00–16:00 (with breaks)


Food:

Tea, coffee and pastries on arrival, plus a light, healthy lunch.



Location:

South Street Arts Centre, Reading.
Walking distance to/from Reading Station.



Your facilitator

Marcus Bazley is a professional theatre director with over a decade of experience working with actors, creatives, academics and professionals.

Alongside directing, he works with individuals and groups to develop confidence, presence and clarity when speaking, using techniques drawn from theatre, voice training and embodied practice.

He has previously run workshops for organisations including:

  • King’s College London
  • Henley Business School
  • Institute for Agri-Food Technology
  • Axicom
  • PSB Insights



Price:

£275

Includes all workshop materials, refreshments and lunch.

Places are limited to ensure individual attention.


Accessibility & comfort

This workshop involves gentle movement and floor-based exercises. You are always welcome to adapt or opt out of anything as needed. Please get in touch if you have specific access requirements.

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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

South Street Arts Centre, 21 South Street, Reading, United Kingdom

Tickets

GBP 275.00

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