Stephen, a multifaceted Irish actor, entertainer, and creative director, is the mastermind behind the innovative events business, Blackthorn Arts Events.
With a versatile acting career spanning multiple mediums, Stephen has taken on lead and semi-featured roles in theatre, film, television, videos, radio, and commercial projects. His event work is equally impressive, as he has created a wide range of vignette shows and acts for corporate, festival, public, and private clients.
From writing, directing, producing, and performing, Stephen's event assignments have covered an array of genres, including theatre, video, reenactment, street theatre, musical comedy, presenting, and editorial, for both international and domestic clients. Fondly known as the event entertainer, Stephen has also developed and performed numerous fun, interactive shows and educational workshops for children and young people under his stage alias, Mr. Podzo Entertains.
Stephen's journey in the entertainment industry began backstage at the National Abbey Theatre, where he later continued his training at the Centre for the Performing Arts, The Focus Actors Studio, and The College of Music in Ireland. He made his on-screen debut in the UK touring play "Lily," written by Shane Connaughton, and later appeared in the student film "Maurie" at the NFTS, directed by Colin Games.
In 1987, Stephen relocated to London to further his acting career and pursue additional theatre training at The Actors Centre under the guidance of acting coach Nina Finburgh. He remained connected to the Dublin theatre scene and, upon his return, began independently producing plays and events as part of the newly formed Blackthorn Arts Theatre. This marked the beginning of Blackthorn Arts Events, which has since flourished under Stephen's creative direction.
