Ryan James is an accomplished sound engineer and production sound engineer whose passion for the performing arts began at an early age. His journey in theatre took flight as a follow spot operator at his local theatre during weekends when he was 14 years of age. This early exposure to the arts ignited his love for sound, leading him to a successful career in live sound as a front of house engineer for some of South Africa's biggest bands and artists.

 

Four years ago, Ryan immigrated to the UK, and after the challenges posed by the pandemic, he has revitalized his dedication to theatre. He has held the position of head of sound for notable productions such as Peaky Blinders: The Rise, Ride - A New Musical and the UK and International Tour of Madagascar the Musical. Ryan has served as a production sound engineer on The Bodyguard - Ljubljana Festival, Wonder Boy - UK Tour, Macbeth - Harold Pinter Theatre, Burlesque the Musical, Mozart Her Story - Theatre Royal Drury Lane and currently, he serves as a production sound engineer for the UK and Ireland Tour of 101 Dalmatians the Musical.

 

In addition to his professional work, Ryan is passionate about giving back to the community through sound design for youth theatre productions. His credits include various projects where he collaborates with budding talent, ensuring that even shows with limited budgets receive quality sound design. Notably, Ryan served as the sound designer for the British Youth Music Theatre's production of Matthew Harvey's Unbound, where he and Matthew quickly developed a creative synergy regarding the show's sound and atmosphere. Ryan returned as the sound designer for the concert version of Unbound recently held at Hoxton Hall in London which received fantastic reviews all round.