| Real Name: | Simon Montagu McBurney |
| Birthday: | August 25, 1957 |
| Net Worth | $5 Million |
| Height: | 169 cm |
| Occupation: | English Actor, Playwright, Theatrical Director |
Simon McBurney is a well-known actor, playwright, and theatrical director. He is the founder and artistic director of the Théâtre de Complicité in London. McBurney has experienced a successful career, both on stage and on screen, earning recognition and various accolades. He was also appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (O.B.E) for his contributions to the arts.
Coming from a family deeply rooted in the world of academics, McBurney’s parents were notable scholars in their respective fields. Despite this background, he forged his own path in the arts, attending the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Over the years, McBurney has showcased his acting skills in various films and TV shows, including “The Casual Vacancy” and Amazon’s series “Carnival Row.” Standing at a height of about 5 feet 6½ inches, the actor has made a significant mark in the industry.
In his personal life, Simon McBurney is married to Cassie Yukawa, with whom he shares three children. Balancing both his family life and a thriving career, McBurney has proven his dedication and passion for his craft in the world of entertainment.
Content Compass
Early Life and Education
Simon McBurney was born in Cambridge, England, on 25 August 1957. His father, Charles McBurney, was an American archaeologist and academic of Scottish descent. Charles McBurney’s father, Archdeacon Robert McBurney, was a respected religious figure in their family’s heritage.
Charles McBurney’s Influence: Simon McBurney’s father, Charles, was known for his significant contributions to the field of archaeology. His paternal great-grandfather, also named Charles McBurney, was an American surgeon who gained recognition for his discovery of the medical sign known as McBurney’s point. Growing up in an intellectual environment, Simon was exposed to various disciplines and developed an appreciation for academic pursuits.
Education: From a young age, Simon was encouraged to explore his interests and expand his knowledge. He attended school in Cambridge, where he was influenced by his family’s passion for academia. Simultaneously, his passion for theater and the arts took shape as he participated in school plays and extracurricular activities related to performing arts.
The Casual Vacancy Connection: Later in his career, Simon McBurney made appearances in various movies and TV shows, one of which was “The Casual Vacancy,” a British television series based on the novel by J.K. Rowling. McBurney’s early life in Cambridge and his family’s prestigious background significantly contributed to his ability to portray complex characters in such productions.
In this section, we have explored Simon McBurney’s early life, the influence of his father Charles McBurney, and his early immersion in academia and the arts, which contributed to his eventual success as an actor and writer.
Career in Theatre
Simon McBurney, a renowned British actor and director, has had an impressive career in theatre. As a founder and artistic director of the UK-based theatre company Complicite, he has made a significant impact on the international theatre scene. Complicite’s productions have been performed all around the world, featuring innovative approaches to dance, movement, and storytelling techniques.
In London, McBurney has collaborated with the National Theatre on numerous occasions. One noteworthy production is the highly acclaimed play Mnemonic. This thought-provoking piece uniquely combined science and memory, receiving critical acclaim both in London and during its later run in New York.
Another notable Complicite production, The Master and Margarita, showcased McBurney’s skilled direction. The play, based on the novel by Mikhail Bulgakov, was performed at the Barbican Centre in London and had successful runs in various European cities, including Paris, Moscow, and Amsterdam.
Though McBurney is primarily known for his work in theatre, he has also dabbled in the world of film and television. Most notably, he directed and co-wrote the play-turned-film, The Kid Stays in the Picture, which premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in London before making its way to the West End.
McBurney’s work has not been limited to the stages of London but has also reached Broadway, the heart of the American theatre scene. With productions such as A Disappearing Number, McBurney showcased his ability to transport audiences with compelling narratives and engaging performances.
Recognizing his contributions to the arts, the British government appointed Simon McBurney as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2005. Furthermore, he has been awarded for his excellence in directing, taking home the Best Director accolade at the prestigious Laurence Olivier Awards.
Throughout his illustrious career, Simon McBurney has continually demonstrated a confident and clear approach to theatre. His work, spanning various stages from London’s National Theatre to New York’s Broadway, and his status as an artistic visionary make him a standout name in the world of theatre.
Film and Television Works
Simon McBurney is a versatile British actor who has worked in numerous films and television shows. He is known for his exceptional performances in both drama and comedy genres. Some of his prominent film works include “The Last King of Scotland” (2006), “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” (2011), and “The Manchurian Candidate” (2004).
In addition to these critically acclaimed films, McBurney has appeared in a variety of other notable movies. He played a key role in the romantic drama “Allied” (2016), starring alongside Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard. McBurney also made memorable appearances in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1” (2010) as the voice of Kreacher, the house-elf, and in the comedy-drama “Friends with Money” (2006).
His other significant film credits include portraying a character in the historical drama “The Duchess” (2008), playing the role of Attlee in the action-packed “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation” (2015), and lending his voice to the critically acclaimed animated feature “Wolfwalkers” (2020).
McBurney’s achievements in the film industry extend beyond just acting roles. He has also directed various productions, such as the live comedy shows “Lenny Henry’s So Much Things To Say” and “French and Saunders’ Live in 2000”.
In the realm of television, McBurney has made a number of guest appearances on popular TV series, including the British comedy “Absolutely Fabulous”. His extensive body of work also includes videos and collaborations with acclaimed cinematographer Michael Levine.
Throughout his career, Simon McBurney has demonstrated a consistent ability to captivate audiences with his performances in a wide range of roles. His dedication to his craft and his multifaceted talents have earned him a well-deserved place in the film and television industries.
Simon’s Directorial Contributions
Simon McBurney is a renowned actor, writer, and director who has made major contributions to the world of theatre and film. As a founder and artistic director of the UK-based theatre company Complicite, he has been responsible for many successful productions that have garnered critical acclaim.
Under his direction, Complicite has become known for its innovative approach to creating compelling theatrical experiences. The company frequently engages with international theatre, dance, music, literature, and developing technologies to create their productions. McBurney’s artistic vision is characterized by his training in movement and his dedication to exploring the complexities of human connection.
One of McBurney’s notable directorial works is “The Elephant Vanishes,” a stage adaptation of Haruki Murakami’s short stories. The show garnered praise for its distinctive blend of movement, text, video, and sound, incorporating elements from various artistic disciplines to create a mesmerizing theatrical experience.
In addition to his stage work, McBurney has also directed successful films, such as the 2014 biographical drama “The Theory of Everything.” The film tells the story of theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking and his first wife, Jane, as they navigate the challenges of Hawking’s diagnosis with ALS and his groundbreaking scientific achievements. McBurney’s clear and confident directorial style served to bring the story to life on the big screen.
During his tenure as artistic director of Complicite, the company achieved several major accolades, including the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Play. This recognition highlights McBurney’s unique talent for crafting powerful theatrical experiences that resonate with audiences across the globe.
In summary, Simon McBurney’s directorial contributions have significantly impacted both the world of theatre and film. His unwavering commitment to innovation and exploration has led to numerous successful productions that have captivated audiences and garnered critical acclaim.
Adventures in Sound and Technology
Simon McBurney’s one-man show, The Encounter, pushes the boundaries of sound technology and storytelling in the world of theater. The production creates a fully immersive experience for its viewers, transporting them to the depths of the Amazon jungle.
The Encounter follows the story of photographer Loren McIntyre as he journeys through the Javari valley in the remote Amazon rainforest. To create an immersive soundscape for the audience, McBurney employs the use of binaural technology – a method of sound transmission that mimics the way humans naturally perceive sound in three dimensions.
As McBurney narrates the journey, he interacts with various objects on stage like water bottles and plastic bags to create a lifelike audio environment. These intricately crafted sound effects are picked up by a binaural microphone and transmitted directly to the audience through their individual headphones.
In a merging of theatrical performance and sound design, The Encounter beautifully illustrates how technology can breathe new life into the storytelling process. The post-production process brings the recorded sounds into sharp focus, with meticulous audio editing ensuring a seamless and captivating experience for the audience.
By exploring the innovative use of sound and technology in The Encounter, Simon McBurney demonstrates that theater has the power to take people on incredible journeys, all from the comfort of their seats. His unique approach to storytelling leaves audiences captivated and eager to explore the limits of their own perception of reality.
Personal Life
Simon McBurney, a well-known British actor, was born on August 25, 1957, in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England. He is known for his roles in various films and maintains a confident, knowledgeable, and neutral demeanor. In his personal life, McBurney is married to Cassie Yukawa, with whom he shares three children. The couple prefers to keep their personal life private and stay out of the public eye as much as possible.
Having had an illustrious career, Simon McBurney has had the opportunity to work alongside prominent actors, including Emma Thompson, with whom he has shared screen time. As an individual, McBurney is deeply committed to using his influence to bring awareness to critical issues. An example of this dedication can be seen in his involvement in the Javari Valley project, which aims to protect the Amazon rainforest and its indigenous peoples.
Family remains an essential aspect of McBurney’s life, and he has relatives who have also been a part of the entertainment industry. Maurice Grosse, a paranormal investigator and McBurney’s relative played a significant role in his career choice. McBurney has always been keen on utilizing the past experiences and lessons from his family to enhance his work in the industry.
While maintaining a clear and neutral tone when discussing his personal life, it is evident that Simon McBurney appreciates the importance of love, time, and family in his life. His dedication to both his career and his private life illustrates the multi-faceted nature of his success and experiences.
Significant Collaborations and Influences
Simon McBurney is a talented and innovative theater director, actor, and writer who has been influenced by a variety of notable figures and organizations throughout his career. One of the most prominent influences on his work is the French physical theater, mime, and movement teacher, Jacques Lecoq. McBurney, along with other founding members of Complicité, studied at the L’École Jacques Lecoq in Paris, which shaped their groundbreaking approach to theater and storytelling.
McBurney has also been highly influenced by music and composers, especially his brother, Gerard McBurney, who is a famed musicologist, composer, and broadcaster. Their collaboration has undoubtedly contributed to the deeply profound, intricate, and experimental nature of Simon’s productions.
A significant collaboration in McBurney’s career was with writer and philosopher, John Berger. The two worked together on the stage adaptation of Berger’s book, “Into Their Labours.” Berger’s distinctive writing style and reflections on human experiences have left a lasting impact on McBurney’s work.
Another notable collaboration is the recent partnership with associate choreographer Crystal Pite, which resulted in a four-year collaboration between Nederlands Dans Theater and McBurney’s company Complicité. This alliance further demonstrates McBurney’s openness to exploring different disciplines and expanding the boundaries of traditional theater.
McBurney’s fascination with Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan and Ramanujan’s innovative ideas has also been a source of inspiration. In Complicité’s production of “A Disappearing Number,” McBurney reimagined the mathematician’s life and contributions to math, which reflected his deep admiration for Ramanujan’s genius.
In summary, the diverse range of collaborations and influences on Simon McBurney’s career attests to his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of theater and storytelling. Through his work with Complicité, he continues to explore new territories and create collaborative projects, leaving a lasting impact on the world of theater.
Critical Reception and Accolades
Simon McBurney has received significant recognition throughout his illustrious career in theater. As a playwright, actor, and the founder and artistic director of the Théâtre de Complicité in London, he has consistently produced innovative and thought-provoking works that have resonated with audiences and critics alike.
One example of McBurney’s critical success is his play A Disappearing Number, which centers around the Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. The play received rave reviews from publications like The Guardian for the gripping and relevant exploration of the world of mathematics. The play’s powerful representation of the relationship between Ramanujan and the British mathematician G.H. Hardy has also been praised by prominent outlets such as NPR.
Throughout his career, McBurney has accumulated numerous awards and accolades. In addition to his accomplishments as a playwright, McBurney’s directorial abilities have garnered him significant praise, with various outlets such as the New York Times describing his unique approach to storytelling and the use of technology in his productions. McBurney’s work has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including the Perrier Award.
In 2005, McBurney earned an Olivier Award nomination for Best Director for his play Measure for Measure, demonstrating his continued success in receiving commendations from the highest levels of the theater world. Other plays directed by McBurney have also been honored, with A Disappearing Number winning the Olivier Award for Best New Play in 2008, further cementing McBurney’s reputation as a creative force within the theater industry.
Simon McBurney’s impact on the world of theater is evident in the numerous accolades and consistent critical acclaim his work has received. His innovative approach to storytelling, dedication to exploring contemporary and historical themes, and ability to capture the essence of complex characters make him a significant figure in theater and a creator whose work is deserving of celebration.
Legacy and Influence
Simon McBurney has carved a niche for himself in the world of theatre, acting, and directing. As the founder and artistic director of Théâtre de Complicité in London, his innovations in storytelling and use of physical theatre techniques have left a lasting impact on the industry.
McBurney’s fascination with memory and storytelling is evident in his work, which often explores the human mind. One example of his unique approach to storytelling is his adaptation of John Berger’s novel, “The Three Lives of Lucie Cabrol.” The play employs a non-linear narrative structure, challenging the audience’s perception of time and memory.
In addition to theatre, McBurney has also dabbled in literature and film. His role in “The Casual Vacancy,” a miniseries based on J.K. Rowling’s book, showcased his versatility as an actor. Additionally, he brought the story of real-life paranormal investigator Maurice Grosse to life in the film “The Conjuring 2,” further solidifying his status as a multifaceted talent.
When it comes to directing, McBurney has explored various themes and styles. His production of “Beware of Pity” based on Stefan Zweig’s 1930s writings, demonstrates his ability to adapt literature for the stage, creating a new resonance that appeals to contemporary audiences.
Throughout his career, Simon McBurney has been a driving force in the world of theatre, acting, and directing. His unique approach to storytelling, love for literature, and dedication to exploring the depths of memory and the human experience have left a significant impact on his industry and audiences alike. Although it’s difficult to quantify the extent of his influence in a few paragraphs, it’s clear that McBurney’s work will continue to inspire generations of artists and theatre enthusiasts for years to come.