ABOUT US
a letter from our founder…
“There is something extraordinary that happens when a young person realises they can tell a story. Not simply perform or re-tell one, but imagine something original and bring it to life.
This is where the magic begins..!
They start to trust their imagination, take creative risks, and realise that their ideas can become something real and meaningful in the world. That moment of discovery is what inspired the creation of Imaginarium.
I wanted to build a place where imagination is taken seriously and creativity bursts with energy, curiosity and joy. A space where young actors and storytellers can explore ideas freely, play with possibilities, and learn the craft of storytelling for screen.
There is often a great deal of laughter in the process. Filmmaking and acting require focus and discipline, but they also thrive on curiosity, playfulness and shared imagination.
At Imaginarium, students work with scripts, characters and cameras. They rehearse, experiment, collaborate and create original work together.
Along the way they develop; confidence, creative courage and a deep understanding of story.
When young artists realise that their ideas have value, they begin to imagine new possibilities and new stories that shape the world around them.
That is where the journey of an artist truly begins.”
MARINA MAGDALENA
Founder Imaginarium Film Academy
KEY PEOPLE
MARINA MAGDALENA Founder & CEO
Marina Magdalena is the Co-Founder and Director of Imaginarium Academy, and a storyteller whose work spans theatre, television, and literature. She has held multiple roles across stage, screen, and production, and also founded Imaginarium Talent to support actors in building thoughtful, sustainable careers. This breadth of experience gives her a rare, holistic understanding of the creative industries—from early development through to professional practice.
Marina is the published author of the popular YA series Antigone Kingsley, inspired by her work with the young people of Imaginarium. Her approach to developing actors and creatives is grounded in craft, imagination, emotional intelligence, and community, with a belief that creativity flourishes when it is met with warmth, play, and high expectations.
You’ll find Marina leading the Venice Residency, coaching actors one-to-one, supporting castings and role preparation, and guiding the coaches across the Academy.
DOMINIC MAGDALENA Co-Founder & COO
Dominic Magdalena is Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer at Imaginarium Academy, overseeing the strategic and operational foundations of the organisation. He has worked as a Director, Producer, and Executive Producer across film, television, and live events, alongside building a strong portfolio of experience as a leader and consultant.
Alongside his work in the industry, Dominic is a passionate adventure photographer, bringing a strong visual sensibility and respect for process to everything he does. His role ensures that Imaginarium is both creatively ambitious and professionally run, offering a stable and thoughtful environment in which young people can thrive.
You’ll find Dominic overseeing operations, supporting projects, and ensuring the Academy runs with clarity and care.
RYAN O’GRADY Accents and Dialect Coach
Ryan O’Grady is an acclaimed accent and dialect coach with extensive experience working internationally on major film productions. He regularly coaches professional actors on set, bringing a deep understanding of voice, language, and character to his work.
You’ll find Ryan coaching actors one-to-one for specialist roles and leading group workshops in our online sessions.
TALIA NEAT Facilitator
Talia is an actor with experience across stage and screen. Alongside her performance work, she has worked behind the scenes in production and devised original work through workshops, giving her a well-rounded understanding of the creative process.
She currently coaches screen acting at Imaginarium Film Academy and is awaiting the release of her most recent role in the short film Stasis Society.
You’ll find Talia coaching group sessions online and at Imaginarium Camps.
JAMES PAISLEY CHAPMAN Facilitator
James is a photographer and filmmaker with over 15 years’ experience exploring how stories are told—visually, emotionally, and through human connection. His work spans documentary, campaign film, and visual storytelling, always grounded in careful listening and authenticity.
At Imaginarium, James supports young creatives in finding clarity and confidence in how they express themselves, helping them communicate with honesty, intention, and imagination.
You’ll find James in Venice.
LILIA MAGDALENA Facilitator
Lilia is a filmmaker and actor with a passion for both acting and animation. Her experience spans on-screen performance, creative development, and behind-the-scenes production, giving her a thoughtful understanding of how stories are shaped from idea to screen.
At Imaginarium Academy, Lilia supports young people in exploring their creativity and building confidence through storytelling. She also works as a scene partner in one-to-one coaching sessions, helping students develop presence, responsiveness, and trust in their work.
You’ll find Lilia coaching online sessions and working as part of our Studio Team.
HARRY BELL Facilitator
Harry is a creative workshop facilitator with many years of experience working with children. He holds a degree in Childhood and Youth Studies and brings a strong passion for story creation to his work.
At Imaginarium, Harry leads a wide range of workshops—from improvisation to creative writing and beyond—creating thoughtful, engaging spaces where young people are encouraged to explore ideas, imagination, and collaboration.
DAN THORBURN Filmmaking Coach
Dan Thorburn is a writer and director with a background in fine art, having studied at Central Saint Martins before moving into film.
His short films, including Salt Water Town and Trucker’s Atlas, have screened at leading festivals such as BFI London Film Festival, Raindance Film Festival, and Leeds International Film Festival, gaining international recognition.
Dan was selected for Screen Yorkshire FLEX, is a member of BAFTA Connect, and won the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards in 2023. He has also been part of NETWORK@LFF.
He is currently developing his debut feature slate. Barfly, supported by the BFI, won Best Project at the Galway Film Market 2023. Lit is in development at Stowe Narrative Lab (2025), and Shattered is being developed in partnership with Sixteen Films.
Alongside his creative work, Dan is a Sony ambassador, educator, and development executive at View Shift Productions.
TWYLA COLTMAN Facilitator
Twyla Coltman is a filmmaker and actor with experience across theatre, on-screen performance, independent short films, and behind-the-scenes production. Her work as a director and creative collaborator gives her a well-rounded understanding of the storytelling process.
At Imaginarium Academy, Twyla supports young people in exploring their creativity and developing a genuine love for storytelling, encouraging curiosity, confidence, and imaginative expression.
You’ll find Twyla coaching online sessions and working as part of our Studio Team.
JULIE SMITH Facilitator for Awards & Diplomas
Julie Smith is a teacher and facilitator with many years experience in leading young people and producing community based arts projects.
KARLA WEHRLE Designated Safeguarding Lead
Karla Wehrle has worked with Children and Young People in creative community based projects for over 15 years and is a consultant in Early Years and Child Safe Guarding.
Imaginarium Film Academy shapes the next generation of screen actors, filmmakers and storytellers.
Our mission is simple:
Train brilliantly - create boldly - build a community where every young creative feels seen, supported and able to grow with confidence.
Founded in 2019 by Marina Magdalena, Imaginarium has grown into a global creative hub connecting young talent from around the world. Our live online collaborative training makes professional learning accessible wherever you are, bringing together diverse voices, cultures and perspectives in one shared creative space.
For students ready to take the next step, our talent pathway offers clear guidance, industry insight and real opportunities to move forward with confidence.
Beyond online training, we run in person studio programmes and residential film camps in London, Ibiza, Venice and select international locations. These immersive experiences give students the chance to work hands on with professional equipment, collaborate intensively, and create meaningful screen work while forming lasting friendships.