A LITTLE BIT ABOUT DAVE KEELING

Dave ‘Billy Elliot’ Keeling grew up in a pit village in Nottinghamshire and was tap dancing three times a week by the age of ten. Never one to shy away from challenge and risk, he then moved into the world of acting and trained at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.

Dave’s not-so-horrible history

As well as appearing in programmes such as Downton, Eastenders and Corrie, Dave is also a stand-up comedian and has been a Laughologist since 2008.

Dave is one of our most sought-after facilitators as his dynamic, fast-paced, quick-witted delivery is something to behold!

As a facilitator, presenter and trainer, Dave has worked with students of all ages, parents, newly qualified and early career teachers, as well as more experienced teachers, who’ve been round the block a couple of times (their words, not his). He’s also supported SLTs, deputies and heads.

From the corner of a local pub to the West End stage, Dave uses his experience of performing to deliver exciting and engaging content on topics as wide-ranging as risk-taking, curiosity, managing change, leadership, thinking skills, memory and the amazing brain. Dave has also worked on Laughology’s Happy-Centred Schools programme.

Dave has worked with many different schools, as well as colleges and universities, including:

Dukes Education - Presentation skills and creative facilitation
Berkhamstead School - Metacognition for staff, as well as a keynote/ stand-up/ communication sessions for yr 10 students
WELLS Cumbria - Finding your oomph for staff and admin
Colman Primary School - Flip it thinking for all staff
London University - Creative and innovative thinking skills

And finally…

Dave has delivered stand-up shows and Laughology sessions all around the country, as well as internationally. He loves a trip and enjoys sharing laughs, cuddles, salty snacks and even an occasional tap dance with anyone who cares to join him.

Favourite children’s book?

Mrs Frisby and the Rats of Nimh.

Funniest school-related moment?

Let off a party popper in a German Mock GCSE.

Favourite teacher?

Mr Orford - he took a chance on putting me in a school play, even though I wasn’t old enough.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Actor/drummer/stuntman – or all 3, at the same time.

What’s your go-to power pose and mantra?

My go-to mantra is - ‘Got away with that!’

More School Laughologists

Jim Rastall

Jim studied English and Classical Civilisation at Nottingham University and then Acting at the renowned Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, a school he chose almost entirely because Pete Postlethwaite had trained there. Sounds like unusually flimsy grounds on which to base such a big decision- until you realise that he only chose Nottingham University because he likes Robin Hoodaaa. and Classical Civilisation because he likes Gladiator and The Usborne Greek Myths series of books.

Sarah Creegan

Unlike many of the other Laughologists, Sarah doesn't have a background on stage or telly, so she hasn't rubbed shoulders with that many celebs. The best Sarah has to offer is that the Red Arrows flew over Lincoln hospital on the day she was born. And she once overhugged the gymnast Beth Tweddle at a railway station. There is now an injunction in place!

Stephanie Davies

Stephanie Davies grew up on the Isle of Man where she developed a belief in fairies which exists to this day. She has the smallest little fingers of any human being, ever, and can often be seen walking a cat on a lead in the Surrey village where she lives.

Laura Drury

Laura began her professional career as a performer, having trained at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts. Her passion lay in theatre; particularly Shakespeare. Unsurprisingly, as she’s now a Laughologist, Laura also excelled in comedy and farce. She always felt she had great comic… wait for it… timing!

Kerry Leigh

Kerry Leigh has been a professional comedian and compere for over 20 years and was the child star of the Operation board game TV ads. She has a deep appreciation of stationery and is particularly happy when she has a good quality notebook in her hand.

Dave Keeling

Victoria Maitland

Victoria grew up in the west country, but headed to the big lights and big city just after turning 18. After training professionally in acting and musical theatre she became somewhat of an expert in historical dance and can be seen being lifted, twirled and thrown around in the background of many a period drama.

Selina Brown

Selina used to work with Great Ormond Street Hospital, which ignited her passion for working with children. She was also a children’s entertainer, dressing up as princesses and clowns for loads of excitably bouncy, sugar-fuelled kids. She says it sounds scarier than it was. Yeah, we believe you, Selina!

Danielle Downey

Danielle has a degree in animation and a passion for comedy. She enjoys performing, illustrating, writing and leading workshops. After winning a scholarship to study at Sylvia Young theatre school, Danielle appeared in many West End shows as a child/teenager. She’s too modest to mention which ones though…

Alison Carter

Alison has been working with young people since graduating from drama school 12 years ago. Her performing arts background means she’s no stranger to acting like a clown to get the giggles going!

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