Rae Piper - BSc (1st Class Hons), A.I.D.T.A
School Director and Principal, and Head of Technical Studies (core tutor)
Co-Artistic Director, Chantry Dance Company
School Director and Principal, and Head of Technical Studies (core tutor)
Co-Artistic Director, Chantry Dance Company
PERFORMER
Rae has performed in theatre for over 20 years in many productions. Selected credits include:
CHOREOGRAPHER:
Rae is co-Artistic Director of Chantry Dance Company, and works collaboratively with fellow co-Artistic Director, Paul Chantry, to create ballets as a principal dancer.
Outside of CDC, Rae works in a choreographic partnership with Paul Chantry. Together they have choreographed numerous productions. Selected credits include:
WINNER – “Best Home Produced Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2017
WINNER – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2018
NOMINATED – “Best Touring Play”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Young People’s Theatre Production”, UK THEATRE AWARDS
TEACHER:
Rae holds a BSc (1st Class Hons) from The University of Birmingham in Sport and Exercise Sciences, and was winner of the Chancellor's Award for academic achievement. She is a qualified Personal Trainer, Fitness Instructor & Nutritional Advisor, and Associate teacher of the International Dance Teachers’ Association with enhanced DBS check and full PLI. Rae has taught at many of the top UK vocational schools and international events, including:
Rae has performed in theatre for over 20 years in many productions. Selected credits include:
- ‘Love Never Dies’ - Acrobatics Captain and Swing, original cast (Really Useful Group, Adelphi Theatre, West End)
- 'INXILE - The Trail of Tears '-The Black Virgin (Álvaro Restrepo, LBS, Sadler’s Wells)
- 'Our House' - Mrs Pressman/Ensemble (Pimlico Opera)
- ‘Encore Mr Producer!’ – featured singer/dancer (Cameron Mackintosh & Jean Ann Ryan Productions)
- 'Ballo in Maschera’- Featured dancer and Assistant Choreographer (Royal Opera House)
CHOREOGRAPHER:
Rae is co-Artistic Director of Chantry Dance Company, and works collaboratively with fellow co-Artistic Director, Paul Chantry, to create ballets as a principal dancer.
Outside of CDC, Rae works in a choreographic partnership with Paul Chantry. Together they have choreographed numerous productions. Selected credits include:
- 'Gangsta Granny’ for David Walliams and Birmingham Stage Company (Two UK tours, The Garrick Theatre, West End and The Harold Pinter Theatre, West End)
WINNER – “Best Home Produced Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2017
WINNER – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2018
NOMINATED – “Best Touring Play”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Young People’s Theatre Production”, UK THEATRE AWARDS
- 'Horrible Histories - Terrible Tudors and Vile Victorians' (UK Tour)
- 'Horrible Histories - Horrible Christmas' (The Lowry Salford, Birmingham Old Rep, Derby Theatre & UK Tour)
- 'The Last Days of Mankind' UK Premiere (Bristol Old Vic Theatre Royal)
- 'Sister Act' and 'Our House' starring Suggs from Madness (Pimlico Opera)
- 'The Merry Widow' and 'Die Fledermaus' for the Philharmonia Orchestra and John Wilson (The Royal Festival Hall )
- 'The Queen of Spades' Assistant revival director (Teatro Dell'Opera Di Roma).
- 'Gloria - a pigtale' for Mahogany Opera Group (Royal Opera House Linbury Studio Theatre, Buxton Opera Festival, Bregenz Opera Festival)
- 'Shadowbox' for BESIX and performed for the Prince of Belgium.
TEACHER:
Rae holds a BSc (1st Class Hons) from The University of Birmingham in Sport and Exercise Sciences, and was winner of the Chancellor's Award for academic achievement. She is a qualified Personal Trainer, Fitness Instructor & Nutritional Advisor, and Associate teacher of the International Dance Teachers’ Association with enhanced DBS check and full PLI. Rae has taught at many of the top UK vocational schools and international events, including:
- Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance
- Elmhurst Ballet School
- English National Ballet School
- Central School of Ballet
- Bristol Old Vic Theatre School
- MOVE IT
- Art Studio Danza – Italy
Paul Chantry
Deputy Director of School & Head of Creative Studies (core tutor)
Co-Artistic Director, Chantry Dance Company
Deputy Director of School & Head of Creative Studies (core tutor)
Co-Artistic Director, Chantry Dance Company
PERFORMER:
Paul has worked with many notable choreographers throughout his career including Gillian Lynne, David Bintley, David Fielding and Laurent Cavanna. He was a founder member of Newcastle-based Dora Frankel Dance. Selected credits include:
CHOREOGRAPHER:
Paul is co-Artistic Director of Chantry Dance Company, and was responsible for the creation of their debut performance at Sadler's Wells, which was the creation of 5 pieces commissioned for the Chinese Calligraphy, Music and Dance Concert. This high-profile debut occurred within 3 months of CDC's formation. Following this, Paul has gone on to create full narrative works as well as abstract/thematic pieces for CDC, but finding his passion lies in story-telling.
Outside of CDC, Paul works in a choreographic partnership with Rae Piper. Together they have choreographed numerous productions. Selected credits include:
WINNER – “Best Home Produced Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2017
WINNER – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2018
NOMINATED – “Best Touring Play”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Young People’s Theatre Production”, UK THEATRE AWARDS
TEACHER:
Paul is an experienced teacher with enhanced DBS check and full PLI who has taught at many of the top UK dance studios, vocational schools and international events, including:
Paul has worked with many notable choreographers throughout his career including Gillian Lynne, David Bintley, David Fielding and Laurent Cavanna. He was a founder member of Newcastle-based Dora Frankel Dance. Selected credits include:
- 'Apollon' in ‘Eternal Damnation to Sancho and Sanchez’, Javier De Frutos (Sadler’s Wells and European tour)
- ‘The Most Incredible Thing’ for Javier De Frutos and The Pet Shop Boys, original and revival casts (Sadler’s Wells and European Tour)
- 'Ballo in Maschera’- Featured dancer and Assistant Choreographer (Royal Opera House)
- ‘Tales of Hoffman’ (English National Opera)
- ‘La Traviata’ Featured dancer (Grange Park Opera)
CHOREOGRAPHER:
Paul is co-Artistic Director of Chantry Dance Company, and was responsible for the creation of their debut performance at Sadler's Wells, which was the creation of 5 pieces commissioned for the Chinese Calligraphy, Music and Dance Concert. This high-profile debut occurred within 3 months of CDC's formation. Following this, Paul has gone on to create full narrative works as well as abstract/thematic pieces for CDC, but finding his passion lies in story-telling.
Outside of CDC, Paul works in a choreographic partnership with Rae Piper. Together they have choreographed numerous productions. Selected credits include:
- 'Gangsta Granny’ for David Walliams and Birmingham Stage Company (Two UK tours, The Garrick Theatre, West End and The Harold Pinter Theatre, West End)
WINNER – “Best Home Produced Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2017
WINNER – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards 2018
NOMINATED – “Best Touring Play”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Children’s Show”, What’s On Reader’s Awards
NOMINATED – “Best Young People’s Theatre Production”, UK THEATRE AWARDS
- 'Horrible Histories - Terrible Tudors and Vile Victorians' (UK Tour)
- ‘Tom’s Midnight Garden’ (Birmingham Old Rep & UK Tour)
- 'The Last Days of Mankind' UK Premiere (Bristol Old Vic Theatre Royal)
- ‘Glengarry, Glen Ross’ (Ustinov Studio, Bath Theatre Royal)
- 'The Merry Widow' and 'Die Fledermaus' with the Philharmonia Orchestra and John Wilson (The Royal Festival Hall )
- 'The Queen of Spades' Revival choreo. for Lucy Burge (Teatro Dell'Opera Di Roma).
- Anyone For Tea’ for Les Enfants Terrible (Lyric Hammersmith, Greenwich and Docklands International Festival, Watford Palace Theatre and Latitude Festival)
TEACHER:
Paul is an experienced teacher with enhanced DBS check and full PLI who has taught at many of the top UK dance studios, vocational schools and international events, including:
- Pineapple Dance Studios
- Danceworks
- Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance
- Elmhurst Ballet School
- English National Ballet School
- Central School of Ballet
- Bristol Old Vic Theatre School
- MOVE IT
- Art Studio Danza – Italy
Gail Gordon - M.I.D.T.A
Associate Director and Head of Related and Pedagogical Studies (core tutor)
Dance Director, Chantry Dance Company
Associate Director and Head of Related and Pedagogical Studies (core tutor)
Dance Director, Chantry Dance Company
PERFORMER:
Gail has enjoyed over 50 years in showbusiness, working as an actress, dancer, acrobat, choreographer and teacher.
In her early years she toured the world with her solo contortion act, performing at the most notable national and international cabaret clubs, and as a guest artist at prestigious venues such as The Royal Albert Hall.
Gail completed numerous world tours with her solo act, including tours of Asia & the Middle East.
She also worked on television both in the UK and internationally. Back in UK she worked with notable TV personalities including Ken Dodd, Les Dawson, Lionel Blair and Bruce Forsythe.
CHOREOGRAPHER:
After this multifaceted performance career, Gail turned to choreography. She has choreographed shows for regional theatres throughout the UK including the Bristol Old Vic, Bath Theatre Royal and The Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham.
Gail also choreographed the Olivier-winning production of ‘Judy’ which played at The Strand Theatre in the West End.
Gail was Head of Dance and Movement at The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School for 30 years before joining Chantry Dance Company. She has directed and choreographed numerous productions for BOVTS including:
- Salad Days
- Romeo and Juliet
- The Threepenny Opera
- An American Clock
- Much Ado About Nothing
- Company
- Side by Side by Sondheim
TEACHER:
Gail is a qualified Member of the International Dance Teachers’ Association, with enhanced DBS check and full Public Liability Insurance.
As well as being Head of Dance and Movement at The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, she was also the former principal of the prestigious Bristol dance school, Acrodance 2000 – a school which won multiple awards at the All England Dance National Finals.
Students who have passed through Gail’s hands include:
- Joanna Riding (Witches of Eastwick, Umrellas of Cherbourg)
- Helen Baxendale (Friends)
- Louise Plowright (Mama Mia! Eastenders)
- Raza Jaffrey (Bombay Dreams)
- Olivia Colman (Broadchurch et al. – 3 BAFTAS, 1 Golden Globe)
David Beer
Associate Principal
Assistant Director, Chantry Dance Company
Associate Principal
Assistant Director, Chantry Dance Company
PERFORMER:
David trained in classical ballet from an early age and graduated from the Laban Centre in 2007 with a BA Hons in Dance Theatre.
While studying and after graduating David spent time in America where he performed and choreographed for Burklyn Ballet Theatre.He also performed touring works across the USA and at the famous Joyce Soho Theatre in New York with Denver based modern dance company Kim Robards Dance.
David has also worked with companies including:
- Secret Cinema
- Gleich Dances
- Aegis Live Arts
CHOREOGRAPHER:
David founded Collisions Dance Company in the UK in 2008. The company presented work in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe three times. David’s choreography has also been presented in London at the Actors' Church in Covent Garden, and Resolutions at The Place. Recently he has also collaborated with Lush Cosmetics and Gorilla Perfume, choreographing and dancing in everything from flash mobs and music videos, to fragrance inspired works which were performed in High Streets and venues across the UK as part of a multi art form collaboration.
TEACHER:
Whilst in America with Kim Robards Dance, David had the opportunity to teach for the company's school and educational department. He also taught for the Colarado Ballet School.
In the UK, David has taught for numerous schools and colleges including:
- Cecchetti Society
- London Studio Centre
- Italia Conti
- London Boy’s Ballet
- Highgate Ballet School
- West London Academy of Dance
Resident & Guest Teachers
Shannon Parker
Classical Ballet, Repertoire, Pas de Deux
1986–1994 SAN FRANCISCO BALLET
Shannon rose from Corps de Ballet to Principal artist in 1990, where she danced many of the Companies Classical and Contemporary Repertoire. Some of the leading roles include Princess Aurora and The Bluebird pas de deux in Tomassons Sleeping Beauty, The Ballerina in Jerome Robbins The Concert, leading roles in William Forsythe’s In the middle somewhat elevated and New Sleep, Glen Tetley’s Tagore and Paul Taylor’s Company B. Ms Parker took part in many creations with the likes of David Bintley, Mark Morris and Helgi Tomasson as well as having danced extensively in the Balanchine repertoire.
1994–1999 NORTHERN BALLET THEATRE
Shannon joined Northern Ballet Theatre under the direction of Christopher Gable. Leading roles include, Juliet in Massimo Marricones, Romeo and Juliet, as well as the Niece and Belle in Marricones, A Christmas Carol. Mina from Dracula, Cinderella, Stepsisters and Stepmother from Cinderella, Odette/Odile from Swan Lake, the Title role from Giselle and Kitri from Don Quixote.
1999–2004 BALLET DU RHIN
Shannon ended her performing career with Ballet Du Rhin in France after five years of dancing most of the Companies leading roles, under the directorship of Bertrand D’At. These include Odette and Russian as de deux from D’Ats Swan Lake, the Title role and Peasant Pas de deux from Maina Gielguds Giselle, Steptext and Vile Parody of Address by Forsythe, the lead duet from Tetleys Voluntaries, Lucinda Childs Chamber Symphony, Dance and Mandarin, Gross Fuge by Hans van Manen and lastly, Jiri Kylians Stomping Ground. Davide Bombana created many roles for Ms Parker. Some of those include, Aus de Ferne, Beyond Skin and the role of Marie from his acclaimed Woyzeck where Ms Parker re–created the role. And finally she danced the Pas de deux in Agon as well as both title roles from Concerto Barocco, by Balanchine.
Whilst in the Company Shannon’s husband Peter Parker created two Ballets, Bitter Harvest and Bird in the hand, in which she danced the title roles.
Nine months after retiring Ms Parker was invited back to Ballet du Rhin to re–create the role of Odette for D’Ats Swan Lake. She has since been teaching for Northern Ballet School, Northern Ballet Theatre, York Scholars, The Dance Space, The Arts Garage, Preston College, Horsforth Summer School, and Carrie Wright and for Gillian Hurst’s Associate programme. Shannon and her husband run workshops around the UK and since 2008 Shannon has been invited every summer to teach in America. In 2011 Ms Parker took two of her students to the States to train for four weeks
In December of 2010 Shannon and Peter created their first full length Ballet The Nutcracker for Manchester City Ballet. It was received with generous reviews.
Most recently Shannon and Peter have appeared on 'Got to Dance' as finalists, and also on 'Britain's Got Talent' in 2016 - also as finalists.
Shannon rose from Corps de Ballet to Principal artist in 1990, where she danced many of the Companies Classical and Contemporary Repertoire. Some of the leading roles include Princess Aurora and The Bluebird pas de deux in Tomassons Sleeping Beauty, The Ballerina in Jerome Robbins The Concert, leading roles in William Forsythe’s In the middle somewhat elevated and New Sleep, Glen Tetley’s Tagore and Paul Taylor’s Company B. Ms Parker took part in many creations with the likes of David Bintley, Mark Morris and Helgi Tomasson as well as having danced extensively in the Balanchine repertoire.
1994–1999 NORTHERN BALLET THEATRE
Shannon joined Northern Ballet Theatre under the direction of Christopher Gable. Leading roles include, Juliet in Massimo Marricones, Romeo and Juliet, as well as the Niece and Belle in Marricones, A Christmas Carol. Mina from Dracula, Cinderella, Stepsisters and Stepmother from Cinderella, Odette/Odile from Swan Lake, the Title role from Giselle and Kitri from Don Quixote.
1999–2004 BALLET DU RHIN
Shannon ended her performing career with Ballet Du Rhin in France after five years of dancing most of the Companies leading roles, under the directorship of Bertrand D’At. These include Odette and Russian as de deux from D’Ats Swan Lake, the Title role and Peasant Pas de deux from Maina Gielguds Giselle, Steptext and Vile Parody of Address by Forsythe, the lead duet from Tetleys Voluntaries, Lucinda Childs Chamber Symphony, Dance and Mandarin, Gross Fuge by Hans van Manen and lastly, Jiri Kylians Stomping Ground. Davide Bombana created many roles for Ms Parker. Some of those include, Aus de Ferne, Beyond Skin and the role of Marie from his acclaimed Woyzeck where Ms Parker re–created the role. And finally she danced the Pas de deux in Agon as well as both title roles from Concerto Barocco, by Balanchine.
Whilst in the Company Shannon’s husband Peter Parker created two Ballets, Bitter Harvest and Bird in the hand, in which she danced the title roles.
Nine months after retiring Ms Parker was invited back to Ballet du Rhin to re–create the role of Odette for D’Ats Swan Lake. She has since been teaching for Northern Ballet School, Northern Ballet Theatre, York Scholars, The Dance Space, The Arts Garage, Preston College, Horsforth Summer School, and Carrie Wright and for Gillian Hurst’s Associate programme. Shannon and her husband run workshops around the UK and since 2008 Shannon has been invited every summer to teach in America. In 2011 Ms Parker took two of her students to the States to train for four weeks
In December of 2010 Shannon and Peter created their first full length Ballet The Nutcracker for Manchester City Ballet. It was received with generous reviews.
Most recently Shannon and Peter have appeared on 'Got to Dance' as finalists, and also on 'Britain's Got Talent' in 2016 - also as finalists.
Dominic North
Contemporary Dance
Dominic trained at Nydza School of Dance in Bingley and Central School of Ballet in London where he gained a Diploma in Dance & Related Studies. Awards whilst training included Boy's Award and Best All-rounder & Musicality Award. Scholarships included British Ballet Organization, Yorkshire Ballet Seminars, Northern Ballet Theatre course and International Ballet Masterclass, Prague.
Dominic joined New Adventures in 2004 to perform as an ensemble swan in Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake with seasons at Sadler's Wells Theatre and on tour in the UK, Paris, Japan, South Korea, the USA, Australia and Athens.
In 2007 he performed with New Adventures in The Car Man and Nutcracker! before in 2008 taking on the principal role of Edward in Matthew Bourne's Edward Scissorhands for which he was nominated as Best Male Dancer (Modern) in the National Dance Awards 2009. The Award citation noted that "North is a strong dance-actor and brought depth, dead-pan humour and pathos to his memorable portrayal". He then played the soloist role of Cyril Vane in New Adventures' contemporary take on Dorian Gray in the summer of 2009, returning to Bourne's Swan Lake at the end of 2009 in the principal role of The Prince. He has also created the role of Leo in Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty. Away from New Adventures he created the lead role of Pascal in the Royal Opera House 2's dance version of The Red Balloon choreographed by Aletta Collins in 2009, performed with Douglas Thorpe in 2009 and appeared in the films Streetdance The Movie (3D) (2010), Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire and an advert for Skype.
Dominic joined New Adventures in 2004 to perform as an ensemble swan in Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake with seasons at Sadler's Wells Theatre and on tour in the UK, Paris, Japan, South Korea, the USA, Australia and Athens.
In 2007 he performed with New Adventures in The Car Man and Nutcracker! before in 2008 taking on the principal role of Edward in Matthew Bourne's Edward Scissorhands for which he was nominated as Best Male Dancer (Modern) in the National Dance Awards 2009. The Award citation noted that "North is a strong dance-actor and brought depth, dead-pan humour and pathos to his memorable portrayal". He then played the soloist role of Cyril Vane in New Adventures' contemporary take on Dorian Gray in the summer of 2009, returning to Bourne's Swan Lake at the end of 2009 in the principal role of The Prince. He has also created the role of Leo in Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty. Away from New Adventures he created the lead role of Pascal in the Royal Opera House 2's dance version of The Red Balloon choreographed by Aletta Collins in 2009, performed with Douglas Thorpe in 2009 and appeared in the films Streetdance The Movie (3D) (2010), Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire and an advert for Skype.
Elizabeth Haslam
Classical Ballet, Technical Jazz
Elizabeth Haslam graduated from Central School of Ballet where she toured with British Gas Ballet Central with Jane Regan as ballet mistress. During this time she was selected by Christopher Gable to work with Northern Ballet Theatre on their adaptation of ‘Dracula’ where she performed the duet (Late night tv). She then went on to perform as part of the corps de ballet in ‘Aida’ with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra having been selected by Lynn Seymour. Soloist in ‘Vis av Magi ‘ Norway (ABT Choreographer) Elizabeth then progressed to a more contemporary root working with the Miles Thomas group in Germany. Elizabeth performed for Celebrity Cruises, dance captain and assistant choreographer on the musical Odessy in Soeul, Korea. Elizabeth finished her 10yr career doing film and TV work worldwide.
After performing, Elizabeth moved into the world of teaching and choreography. This has taken her all over the world, teaching master classes in London, Italy, India, Antigua and Guadeloupe along side Patricia Ruanne (ex principle of the Royal Ballet Company) and Fredrick Jahn (ex principle of the Australian Ballet)
Elizabeth has taught in many colleges and judged vocational competitions e.g. Tring Ballet Cup. Elizabeth was also head of ballet at the Midlands School of Dance and Drama.
Elizabeth has been working with Ballet Theatre UK for 9yrs where she was the original ballet mistress to the company staging The Nutcracker, Cinderella, Snow Queen, A Christmas Carol and Alice. Since having her daughter Elizabeth has been teaching at The School of Ballet Theatre Uk as head of 1st Year training.
Elizabeth runs her own school The Haslam Dance Academy. Also she is a part owner of RECballet which holds workshops in the Midlands for children with an interest in entering the dance world.
Elizabeth is really looking forward to being a part of Chantry School of Contemporary & Balletic Arts, which is full of inspirational teachers and choreographers.
After performing, Elizabeth moved into the world of teaching and choreography. This has taken her all over the world, teaching master classes in London, Italy, India, Antigua and Guadeloupe along side Patricia Ruanne (ex principle of the Royal Ballet Company) and Fredrick Jahn (ex principle of the Australian Ballet)
Elizabeth has taught in many colleges and judged vocational competitions e.g. Tring Ballet Cup. Elizabeth was also head of ballet at the Midlands School of Dance and Drama.
Elizabeth has been working with Ballet Theatre UK for 9yrs where she was the original ballet mistress to the company staging The Nutcracker, Cinderella, Snow Queen, A Christmas Carol and Alice. Since having her daughter Elizabeth has been teaching at The School of Ballet Theatre Uk as head of 1st Year training.
Elizabeth runs her own school The Haslam Dance Academy. Also she is a part owner of RECballet which holds workshops in the Midlands for children with an interest in entering the dance world.
Elizabeth is really looking forward to being a part of Chantry School of Contemporary & Balletic Arts, which is full of inspirational teachers and choreographers.
Claire Talbot
Contemporary Dance
Claire AKA ‘Fizzy’, trained at Northern School of Contemporary Dance and the London Contemporary Dance School. She toured with EDge06 touring works by Trisha Brown and Siobhan Davies under the direction of Lauren Potter, touring Denmark, Sweden and Portugal amongst others.
Claire works across the UK and Europe. She has previously worked for Opera North, and has worked on a number of productions for the Royal Opera House Covent Garden. There her roles include dancer, dance captain and assistant choreographer. She has worked with choreographers such as Fin Walker, Thomas Stache, Phillippe Girardeau. Her work at the ROH has taken her to Valencia, Luxembourg, Copenhagen and Geneva amongst others. Most recently Claire restaged the ROH’s AIDA in Valencia at the Palau De Les Arts, which was originally choreographed by Fin Walker.
Claire has also worked for ‘Loop’ site specific company Touring choreography by Joss Arnott, Yael Flexor and Rashpal Singh Basal. She has also worked for Spring’s Dance Company. Claire has worked with James Wilton for a performance at Sadler’s Wells, and has been a dancer and dance captain in 'The Snowman', London's West End for a number of years.
Claire has taught for the RAD Step into Dance programme. Springs Dance Company, Richard Alston Dance Company, Loop dance company, The Centre for advanced training at The Place and the Birmingham DanceXchange and The Place Evening School classes. Claire currently works as an independent dance artist for Birmingham Royal Ballet. Claire was a university lecturer at Kingston university teaching dance technique as well as anatomy and physiology and in recent years has qualified as a Matwork, Reformer, Total Barre and Pre and Postnatal Stott Pilates instructor. Working for Virgin Active, John Lewis and the YMCA London Central. She also owns her own business tinkfit.co.uk
Claire has studied classical ballet, tap, modern, jazz and national dance techniques. At degree level she studied Graham, Cunningham, Release, Feldenkrais and Contact Improvisation.
Claire works across the UK and Europe. She has previously worked for Opera North, and has worked on a number of productions for the Royal Opera House Covent Garden. There her roles include dancer, dance captain and assistant choreographer. She has worked with choreographers such as Fin Walker, Thomas Stache, Phillippe Girardeau. Her work at the ROH has taken her to Valencia, Luxembourg, Copenhagen and Geneva amongst others. Most recently Claire restaged the ROH’s AIDA in Valencia at the Palau De Les Arts, which was originally choreographed by Fin Walker.
Claire has also worked for ‘Loop’ site specific company Touring choreography by Joss Arnott, Yael Flexor and Rashpal Singh Basal. She has also worked for Spring’s Dance Company. Claire has worked with James Wilton for a performance at Sadler’s Wells, and has been a dancer and dance captain in 'The Snowman', London's West End for a number of years.
Claire has taught for the RAD Step into Dance programme. Springs Dance Company, Richard Alston Dance Company, Loop dance company, The Centre for advanced training at The Place and the Birmingham DanceXchange and The Place Evening School classes. Claire currently works as an independent dance artist for Birmingham Royal Ballet. Claire was a university lecturer at Kingston university teaching dance technique as well as anatomy and physiology and in recent years has qualified as a Matwork, Reformer, Total Barre and Pre and Postnatal Stott Pilates instructor. Working for Virgin Active, John Lewis and the YMCA London Central. She also owns her own business tinkfit.co.uk
Claire has studied classical ballet, tap, modern, jazz and national dance techniques. At degree level she studied Graham, Cunningham, Release, Feldenkrais and Contact Improvisation.
Graeme Pickering
Jazz, Musical Theatre
Graeme began his training at LIPA - The Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, Paul McCartney’s Fame School. He furthered his training in Musical Theatre at Liverpool Theatre School where he graduated with a Distinction.
Graeme began working for Celebrity Cruise Lines new production company as Assistant Choreographer for their bi-annual auditions in London and is now the London Casting Coordinator for the company. Graeme works in various distinguished full time dance and theatre schools across the UK, training aspiring students to succeed in show business.
As well as choreographing for various agent showcases across the UK, other choreography credits include Jack and the Beanstalk (Palace Theatre, Newark), Beauty and the Beast (Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl), Loserville (Capstone Theatre, Liverpool).
During his time as a performer, Graeme was fortunate to travel the world on luxury cruise lines performing in first class production shows. He worked for Costa Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and the prestigious, world famous company - Cunard Line. Graeme was also part of the celebrations for the Olympics London 2012.
Other credits include: Prince Charming (Birmingham Barclaycard Arena Panto PR), David Cassidy/Donny Osmond/John Travolta (A Salute to the 1970s), Ensemble (The Wizard of Oz - Easter Tour), Dancer (Disney’s Camp Rock 2: Pass It On UK Tour), White Swan (The Only Way Is Essex/Lakeside PR).
Graeme began working for Celebrity Cruise Lines new production company as Assistant Choreographer for their bi-annual auditions in London and is now the London Casting Coordinator for the company. Graeme works in various distinguished full time dance and theatre schools across the UK, training aspiring students to succeed in show business.
As well as choreographing for various agent showcases across the UK, other choreography credits include Jack and the Beanstalk (Palace Theatre, Newark), Beauty and the Beast (Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl), Loserville (Capstone Theatre, Liverpool).
During his time as a performer, Graeme was fortunate to travel the world on luxury cruise lines performing in first class production shows. He worked for Costa Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and the prestigious, world famous company - Cunard Line. Graeme was also part of the celebrations for the Olympics London 2012.
Other credits include: Prince Charming (Birmingham Barclaycard Arena Panto PR), David Cassidy/Donny Osmond/John Travolta (A Salute to the 1970s), Ensemble (The Wizard of Oz - Easter Tour), Dancer (Disney’s Camp Rock 2: Pass It On UK Tour), White Swan (The Only Way Is Essex/Lakeside PR).
Rachel Stanley
Musical Theatre, Tap
Theatre credits include – Mrs Meers in Thourougly Modern Millie (Kilworth House); Elle’s Mum in Legally Blonde (Leicester Curve); Female Vocalist in Judy Garland SongBook (UK Tour); Betty Haynes in White Christmas (Dominion 2014 & seasons in Edinburgh, Manchester, Plymouth & Southampton); Grace Farell in Annie (New Zealand Tour & UK Tour); Gill in Jackie the Musical (Gardyne Theatre, Dundee); Josie in Steaming (UK Tour); Tess in Crazy for You (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre & Novello Theatre); Mavis in Stepping Out (Salisbury Playhouse); Truly Scrumptious in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (UK Tour); Florabel Leigh in Once in a Lifetime (National Theatre); Velma Kelly & Roxie Hart in Chicago (Adelphi Theatre & World Tour);Edna the Spectacle (Theatre Royal Haymarket); Erma in Anything Goes (National Theatre & Theatre Royal Drury Lane); Love Labour’s Lost (National Theatre); My One & Only (Chichester Festival Theatre & Piccadilly Theatre); Emily Block/Myma Thorne in Ruthless (UK Premiere at Stratford Circus); Miss Dinsmore/Dora Baily in Singin’ In The Rain (National Theatre); Katherine Rogers in Always (Victoria Palace Theatre); Chess (UK Tour); Me and My Girl (UK Tour); My Fair Lady (UK Tour); 42nd Street (Dominion Theatre & UK Tour)
Film credits include Les Miserables directed by Tom Hooper (BaracadeProductions) and De0Lovely directed by Irwin Winkler (MGM)
Film credits include Les Miserables directed by Tom Hooper (BaracadeProductions) and De0Lovely directed by Irwin Winkler (MGM)
David Yow
Classical Ballet
David was born in Liverpool and trained at both The Royal Ballet Lower and Upper Schools. He graduated into the Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet in 1982 and relocated with the company when it became Birmingham Royal Ballet in 1990. He rose to the rank of principal and went on to dance with The Cleveland/San Jose and Hong Kong Ballet companies.
David danced principal roles in Swan Lake, Giselle, Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, Coppélia, Ashton’s ‘The Dream’, The Two Pigeons, Taylor’s ‘Airs’, Jooss’ The Green Table, Balanchine’s Theme and Variations, Symphony in 3 movements and Divertimento No. 15, Van Manen’s ‘5 Tangos’, Bintley’s Flowers of the Forest, Choros and Allegri Diversi, and MacMillan’s Concerto, Elite Syncopations, Quartet and La Fin Du Jour. David created roles in The Winter Play (Burrows), Common Ground (Jackson), Caught in Time and Paramour (Lustig), Bastet (Seymour), Meridian of Youth (Redman), The picture of Dorian Gray (Deane), Dark Horizons (Hindle), Metamorphosis and Brahms Handel Variations (Bintley). Dame Ninette de Valois coached him in the role of the first Red Knight in Checkmate, Michael Sommes coached him as Colas in Ashton’s La Fille Mal Gardée and in Symphonic Variations, and sir Peter Wright cast him as The Blue Bird in his production of The Sleeping Beauty.
David returned to the Royal Ballet School to complete their teaching diploma for professional dancers. He holds a Licentiate qualification from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, and a degree in psychology from the University of London. He started teaching at Elmhurst School for Dance in September 2014 having previously taught at The Royal Ballet School, Central School of Ballet, The Laban Centre, and London Studio Centre.
David has also taught for the Hong Kong Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, and Michael Clark companies. In addition, he regularly teaches at Easter and summer schools around the world, and has been a member of the jury for the Asian Grand Prix, Hong Kong. Earlier in 2015 he was invited to be a member of the assessment panel at The Danish Royal Ballet School, Copenhagen.
David danced principal roles in Swan Lake, Giselle, Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, Coppélia, Ashton’s ‘The Dream’, The Two Pigeons, Taylor’s ‘Airs’, Jooss’ The Green Table, Balanchine’s Theme and Variations, Symphony in 3 movements and Divertimento No. 15, Van Manen’s ‘5 Tangos’, Bintley’s Flowers of the Forest, Choros and Allegri Diversi, and MacMillan’s Concerto, Elite Syncopations, Quartet and La Fin Du Jour. David created roles in The Winter Play (Burrows), Common Ground (Jackson), Caught in Time and Paramour (Lustig), Bastet (Seymour), Meridian of Youth (Redman), The picture of Dorian Gray (Deane), Dark Horizons (Hindle), Metamorphosis and Brahms Handel Variations (Bintley). Dame Ninette de Valois coached him in the role of the first Red Knight in Checkmate, Michael Sommes coached him as Colas in Ashton’s La Fille Mal Gardée and in Symphonic Variations, and sir Peter Wright cast him as The Blue Bird in his production of The Sleeping Beauty.
David returned to the Royal Ballet School to complete their teaching diploma for professional dancers. He holds a Licentiate qualification from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, and a degree in psychology from the University of London. He started teaching at Elmhurst School for Dance in September 2014 having previously taught at The Royal Ballet School, Central School of Ballet, The Laban Centre, and London Studio Centre.
David has also taught for the Hong Kong Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, and Michael Clark companies. In addition, he regularly teaches at Easter and summer schools around the world, and has been a member of the jury for the Asian Grand Prix, Hong Kong. Earlier in 2015 he was invited to be a member of the assessment panel at The Danish Royal Ballet School, Copenhagen.
Sarah Kundi
Classical Ballet
Sarah classically trained at Central School of Ballet and after completing her training there, she joined Northern Ballet up in Leeds, travelling extensively throughout the UK and abroad.
In 2008 she joined Ballet Black, based in London, where she got to create and dance in many works by different choreographers- Will Tuckett, Christopher Hampson, Antonia Franceschi, Martin Lawrence, Javier du Frutos and Christopher Marney, to name a few!
Sarah has been a member of English National Ballet since 2014, dancing in all the major classics the company has to offer and the new, exciting & innovative triple bills.
In 2009 Sarah was nominated for a National Dance Award for 'Ouststanding Female in Classical' and was also featured as 'Dancer of the Month' in the Dancing Times April 2010.
In 2008 she joined Ballet Black, based in London, where she got to create and dance in many works by different choreographers- Will Tuckett, Christopher Hampson, Antonia Franceschi, Martin Lawrence, Javier du Frutos and Christopher Marney, to name a few!
Sarah has been a member of English National Ballet since 2014, dancing in all the major classics the company has to offer and the new, exciting & innovative triple bills.
In 2009 Sarah was nominated for a National Dance Award for 'Ouststanding Female in Classical' and was also featured as 'Dancer of the Month' in the Dancing Times April 2010.
Lisa Welham
Contemporary Dance, Latin Dance
Lisa was born in Hull, East Yorkshire and for many years studied ballroom and Latin American dance. In 1994 she won the IDTA Medallist of the year Ballroom and Latin championship and the Latin championship again in 1995.
At 16 she attended the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, graduating in 2002 with a first class BA hons degree and the Armees prize for achieving the overall highest degree mark. From 2002–2007 Lisa danced extensively with Phoenix Dance Theatre working with choreographers including Javier de Frutos, Darshan Singh Bhuller, Robert Cohan, Rui Horta, Jeremy Nelson and Didy Veldman. In 2007 Lisa performed Jane Dudley's famous solo Harmonica Breakdown in Paris and later that year joined Henri Oguike Dance Company touring for one season.
In 2009 Lisa joined Bonachela Dance Company directed by Rafael Bonachela, where she danced for a year before working with Fin Walker at The Royal Opera House in Aida and later restaging the choreography as revival choreographer at Palau de les Arts in Valencia.
Lisa now works as a freelance artist. Her projects have included: The Pet Shop Boys musical (The Most Incredible Thing) choreographed by Javier de Frutos, dancer in Joe Wright’s movie ‘Anna Karenina’ choreographed by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui; works by Darshan Singh Bhuller (Caravaggio); Cameron McMillan (If Nobody Speaks; And Then They Were Gone); Renaud Wiser Skin Walkers) to name a few.
Lisa also worked as assistant contemporary choreographer for the BBC’s So You Think You Can Dance in 2009 and dances internationally with the Salsology Dance Company. Lisa's commercial contracts include: Orange ‘Swappables’ advert; a live salsa performance on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing (2009); several TV adverts; Strictly Come Dancercise DVD (2007); Camilla Dallerup's Cardiodance workout DVD (2009); salsa performances with Richard Marcel and a Micha Bergese aerial production. Lisa joined James Cousins Company in May 2012 for the creation of There We Have Been. She then collaborated with James again as dancer and assisted him as dance captain on Everything and Nothing.
At 16 she attended the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, graduating in 2002 with a first class BA hons degree and the Armees prize for achieving the overall highest degree mark. From 2002–2007 Lisa danced extensively with Phoenix Dance Theatre working with choreographers including Javier de Frutos, Darshan Singh Bhuller, Robert Cohan, Rui Horta, Jeremy Nelson and Didy Veldman. In 2007 Lisa performed Jane Dudley's famous solo Harmonica Breakdown in Paris and later that year joined Henri Oguike Dance Company touring for one season.
In 2009 Lisa joined Bonachela Dance Company directed by Rafael Bonachela, where she danced for a year before working with Fin Walker at The Royal Opera House in Aida and later restaging the choreography as revival choreographer at Palau de les Arts in Valencia.
Lisa now works as a freelance artist. Her projects have included: The Pet Shop Boys musical (The Most Incredible Thing) choreographed by Javier de Frutos, dancer in Joe Wright’s movie ‘Anna Karenina’ choreographed by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui; works by Darshan Singh Bhuller (Caravaggio); Cameron McMillan (If Nobody Speaks; And Then They Were Gone); Renaud Wiser Skin Walkers) to name a few.
Lisa also worked as assistant contemporary choreographer for the BBC’s So You Think You Can Dance in 2009 and dances internationally with the Salsology Dance Company. Lisa's commercial contracts include: Orange ‘Swappables’ advert; a live salsa performance on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing (2009); several TV adverts; Strictly Come Dancercise DVD (2007); Camilla Dallerup's Cardiodance workout DVD (2009); salsa performances with Richard Marcel and a Micha Bergese aerial production. Lisa joined James Cousins Company in May 2012 for the creation of There We Have Been. She then collaborated with James again as dancer and assisted him as dance captain on Everything and Nothing.
Alessia Lugoboni
Ballet, Repertoire
Born in Verona, Alessia first went to New Zealand to study at the New Zealand School of Dance in 2001. She then went on to further her study with the English National Ballet School (2002 / 2003).
On graduation, Alessia joined the cast of Das Phantom der Oper in Stuttgart. Joining the Royal New Zealand Ballet in 2004, Alessia says she’s had numerous of highlights during her time with the company , including performing in David Dawson's A Million Kisses To My Skin, Milagros and Banderillero of Javier De Frutos, the charming Clara in The Nutcracker, a stepsister in Christopher Hampson's Cinderella, Neopolitan in Swan Lake, the dainty and sparkly Tinkerbell in Peter Pan, Cupid's solo in Paquita and Michaela in Didi Veldman's Carmen.
Since Alessia moved back to London, she's been working on various projects in both theatre and feature film. She's taken part in a Motion Capture performance at Pinewood Studios for "Snow White and the Huntsman" the movie, directed by Ruper Sanders, and she's performed at the Royal Albert Hall for the Andrew Lloyd Webber's 25th Anniversary of "Phantom of the Opera". She recently danced at Sadler's Wells as part of the cast of "The Most Incredible Thing" by Pet Shop Boys and Javier De Frutos.
On graduation, Alessia joined the cast of Das Phantom der Oper in Stuttgart. Joining the Royal New Zealand Ballet in 2004, Alessia says she’s had numerous of highlights during her time with the company , including performing in David Dawson's A Million Kisses To My Skin, Milagros and Banderillero of Javier De Frutos, the charming Clara in The Nutcracker, a stepsister in Christopher Hampson's Cinderella, Neopolitan in Swan Lake, the dainty and sparkly Tinkerbell in Peter Pan, Cupid's solo in Paquita and Michaela in Didi Veldman's Carmen.
Since Alessia moved back to London, she's been working on various projects in both theatre and feature film. She's taken part in a Motion Capture performance at Pinewood Studios for "Snow White and the Huntsman" the movie, directed by Ruper Sanders, and she's performed at the Royal Albert Hall for the Andrew Lloyd Webber's 25th Anniversary of "Phantom of the Opera". She recently danced at Sadler's Wells as part of the cast of "The Most Incredible Thing" by Pet Shop Boys and Javier De Frutos.
James Barton
Classical and Contemporary Ballet
James Barton started dancing at the age of 3, receiving his initial training at the Grantham School of Dancing. He continued his training at Elmhurst Ballet School in Camberley, Surrey and was named runner up at the 2005 'Young British Dancer of the Year’ award.
He joined Birmingham Royal Ballet in 2006 working his way up to the rank of Soloist. Since joining BRB he has danced in the majority of the companies repertoire and has toured extensively across the U.K as well as over seas to America, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Germany and Spain.
Philippa Chloe Lewis - F.I.D.T.A, A.I.S.T.D, L.N.B.S, Fellow & Theatre Examiner I.D.T.A
Teacher Training Module Leader
Teacher Training Module Leader
Philippa is an IDTA Theatre Branch examiner, holding fellowships, licentiates and associates with the IDTA and ISTD.
She has been dancing for nearly 40years and started her vocational training at 16 years studying theatre dance subjects with IDTA, ISTD and RAD and drama and singing. During this time she was a junior associate with the Royal Ballet and won the IDTA Ballet Artist Scholarship in 1992. She then went into a professional career in performing and then teaching - her true love.
She has run her own school for nearly 25years. Her experience is wide ranging and includes working with children and adults, both syllabus and free-work. She freelances in all theatre subjects and drama, especially enjoying the choreography work she does, particularly for shows and cabarets.
Philippa lives in Grantham with her son who is following in her footsteps and currently attends Sylvia Young Theatre School.
She has been dancing for nearly 40years and started her vocational training at 16 years studying theatre dance subjects with IDTA, ISTD and RAD and drama and singing. During this time she was a junior associate with the Royal Ballet and won the IDTA Ballet Artist Scholarship in 1992. She then went into a professional career in performing and then teaching - her true love.
She has run her own school for nearly 25years. Her experience is wide ranging and includes working with children and adults, both syllabus and free-work. She freelances in all theatre subjects and drama, especially enjoying the choreography work she does, particularly for shows and cabarets.
Philippa lives in Grantham with her son who is following in her footsteps and currently attends Sylvia Young Theatre School.
Jonny Dixon
Mask Work
Mask Work
Jonny's time is spent switching between a hectic career as a touring theatre actor/ maker and focused periods of work as an artist and illustrator. He has been working as an actor for over 16 years, having trained in theatre devising at Bretton Hall and in physical theatre at the LeCoq mime school in Paris. He has toured throughout Europe as well as to America, China and Iran. His work has involved performing with masks in Tehran and puppets in Norway, touring Shakespeare with the RSC , working on Opera in Texas and working with the Kevin Spacey Foundation in Hong Kong as part of a 4 month world tour. He has created one man shows and also make masks/ puppets for theatre, TV and film. This work has undoubtedly coloured his approach to illustration, leading to a fascination with storytelling, unusual narratives, strange characters, intense moments of drama and intriguing detail. Jonny is influenced by the early children’s book illustration of Dulac, Robinson, Rackham and Peake as well as the more contemporary visual storytelling found in the graphic novels of Dave McKean and Charles Vess, amongst many others.
Ben Humphrey - BA, F.R.S.A, GoDA, A.L.A.M, P.Cert
Acting
Acting
Ben graduated from the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School (BOVTS). Ben is currently the Associate Director of the Worcester Repertory Company and the Artistic Director of the Swan Youth Theatre. As an actor he has countless professional credits to his name including successful seasons in London, Stratford-upon- Avon and with international tours.
Directing credits include; A Midsummer Night’s Dream, As You Like It, Trojan Women, Happy Birthday, Dick Whittington, Cinderella, The Comedy of Errors (which transferred to the National Theatre of Romania in Craiova for the International Shakespeare Festival in 2016) and most recently the sell-out 800 th Anniversary production of William Shakespeare’s King John produced around the tomb of the King himself.
In 2009 Ben became the youngest member of the Guild of Drama Adjudicators (GoDA) and now serves as a senior member of its national council.
In 2012 Ben was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and is also an Associate Research Fellow and a lecturer in voice, acting and performance with the University of Worcester and an Acting tutor with Chantry School of Contemporary and Balletic Arts.
He is currently reading for a Masters Degree in Theatre Practice with a specialism in Directing.
Directing credits include; A Midsummer Night’s Dream, As You Like It, Trojan Women, Happy Birthday, Dick Whittington, Cinderella, The Comedy of Errors (which transferred to the National Theatre of Romania in Craiova for the International Shakespeare Festival in 2016) and most recently the sell-out 800 th Anniversary production of William Shakespeare’s King John produced around the tomb of the King himself.
In 2009 Ben became the youngest member of the Guild of Drama Adjudicators (GoDA) and now serves as a senior member of its national council.
In 2012 Ben was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and is also an Associate Research Fellow and a lecturer in voice, acting and performance with the University of Worcester and an Acting tutor with Chantry School of Contemporary and Balletic Arts.
He is currently reading for a Masters Degree in Theatre Practice with a specialism in Directing.
Toby Hulse
Improvisation
Improvisation
Toby Hulse is a playwright and director who specializes in making theatre for family audiences and in educational contexts. He has created work for theatres and companies across the UK, touring nationally and internationally. In addition to his work in theatres, Toby is a highly skilled creative practitioner, whose work ranges from one-off workshops to longer term partnerships, projects and residencies, with children and adults at all stages of their creative development. He is a regular Guest Tutor at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, teaching Improvisation, Clowning and Children’s Theatre. Between September 1999 and March 2004, Toby was Associate Director of Education at Bristol Old Vic. He devised and directed professional theatre projects for schools; produced resources and led events supporting Bristol Old Vic productions; and created and ran workshops on theatre practice and history for children, young people and adults.
Vincent Cabot
Pas De Deux
Pas De Deux
Vincent started the dance at Choreographic Center Michèle Darcy, with whom he worked until he joined the National School of Dance of Marseille. He began his career in 2004 with his first contract at the European Ballet where he remained for almost 5 years and become Principal Dancer, performing the major roles of the classical repertoire. Wanting to diversify his experiences he left for a year at the Deutsche Tanzkompanie in Neustrelitz (Germany). Back in England, he joined the Ballet Theater UK for 5 years, creating a major part of their repertoire. Since 2016, Vincent has worked in parallel with his career as an interpreter, and teacher with a specialization for the pas de deux. The last couple of months he came back on stage with Midland Theatre ballet, Paris festival Ballet, and his former school in Limoges.