Martin Tempest

Martin is an acclaimed actor and producer who studied at the Italia Conti drama school before being thrust into the public eye when he played The Artful Dodger alongside George C. Scott’s Fagin and Tim Curry’s Bill Sykes in Claridge Productions’ Emmy-nominated film adaptation of Oliver Twist.

After numerous Royal Gala performances, Martin ventured into European cinema by taking the lead role in the cult German film mini-series Die Wächter, an adaptation of “The Tripods” author John Christopher’s celebrated science-fiction novel “The Guardians” (a role for which he still has a worldwide legion of fans). Martin then opted for a career behind the lens. Directing his own films.

So impressed was Martin by the script for Christine Piper, that he took a rare break from Directing to reappear in front of the camera to play Richard Taylor, the object of Christine’s affections. His performance demonstrates that Martin has lost none of his charisma or ability.

Paola Wigmore

Paola Wigmore studied drama at the prestigious Manchester Metropolitan School of Drama, alongside such luminaries as Steve Coogan, and has since dedicated herself to the theatre, performing in major roles from Shakespeare right through to contemporary classics. The subtlety and power of projection she has accumulated from this work can be demonstrated by her awesome performance in Christine Piper, which demonstrates her almost unique ability to carry an entire film on her shoulders.

We were particularly impressed with the professional skill of her performance. Her ability to communicate both depth and nuance with the subtlest use of tone and expression puts her in an elite category of actors. It is no exaggeration to compare her to the likes of Helen Mirren in the way she has honed her raw talent with a steely purpose in order to mesmerise the audience with her hypnotic interpretation of the character. It is an acting masterclass.