Alexanda James Ried was born in Galway, Ireland, 1981. Named after his grandfather, who was also a playwright and actor, he was brought up in the theatre spending much of his time on stage, both in Ireland and throughout the UK. An only child, Xanda currently lives in the West Midlands and now works independently as a screenwriter and is managed by his good friend - Darren Lockwood, who he has been with since 2007. Trained at Central School of Speech and Drama and attended courses at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, London; he also performed with the Royal Shakespeare Theatre Company in Stratford upon Avon before obtaining a teaching qualification and briefly studying at City of Wolverhampton University. Published his first stage play at the age of 16 and has since written over 20 produced theatre works including five pantomimes. His first feature film 'Little Red' was optioned in the March of 2011, and was based on his award winning stage play of the same name. Xanda continues to work as an actor, presenter and stand up comedian, most recently playing Jekyll and Hyde in Frank Wildhorn's musical adaptation, and is currently preparing for his debut comedy tour.
