A summer of growth has brought fresh energy and new faces to the Stagecoach Performing Arts network, with two much-loved schools passing into the hands of passionate new Principals and a brand-new greenfield launching in Southport. After completing their initial training at head office, three new Principals are already bringing experience, enthusiasm and creativity to students in their local communities.
At Stagecoach Pudsey, Dr Claire Hookham steps in with more than 35 years in musical theatre and over two decades in education. Claire is passionate about inspiring young performers and is already making her mark with a wealth of knowledge and a love for nurturing confident, well-rounded students.
Over in Bromsgrove & Droitwich, Keely Till is fulfilling a long-held dream of leading her own school. Keely’s love of performing arts began at the age of seven and she went on to study Dance, Drama & Theatre and English Literature through school and college. With a BA (Hons) in Dance and 15 years of teaching experience across all Stagecoach disciplines, alongside her role as a mum of three, Keely is excited to combine professional expertise with strong family values as she takes the reins.
And in Southport, a new greenfield school has launched under the leadership of Laura Feenan. Laura has spent 15 years working as a musical theatre coach, having trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama where she earned an MA in Music Theatre. Alongside acting, she produced cabarets in London and Manchester and, since moving back to the North just before the pandemic, became an accredited Vocal Balance coach. This led to exciting opportunities – from working with Disney Theatrical Productions on the UK tour of The Lion King to teaching at Mountview and Pendleton, as well as coaching professional performers one to one.
Laura’s Stagecoach journey started years ago as a child at Stagecoach Bury. That early experience shaped her love for the performing arts. More recently, she worked as a manager and coach at Stagecoach Wilmslow – which she says felt like the natural next step on her career path.
“Stagecoach’s triple-threat training is what makes it special,” said Laura. “Every week, the students get to throw themselves into singing, dancing and acting, and see how those disciplines come together. On top of that, the extra opportunities – like performing with Disney, going to regional events or appearing in big theatres – give young people memories and skills that stay with them forever.”
Launching Stagecoach Southport has been a huge milestone. “It’s something I’ve wanted for a long time,” Laura explained. “I wanted to create something of my own, and Southport felt right from the very beginning. Being from the North, with family nearby, gave it that extra sense of home. The training at head office was brilliant – it gave me all the practical tools I needed and introduced me to the wonderful team of people who are always there if I need advice. That support has made all the difference.”
Her Discovery Days attracted nearly 100 students, with 55 signing up for a two-week trial. “I was blown away by the response,” added Laura. “It showed me there’s a real appetite for performing arts in the area. I’d love to grow further in the next couple of years, whether that’s opening another school or adding more classes here in Southport. Most of all, I want to create a place where children feel confident, creative and part of something really special.”
Lisa Stead, CEO (Interim) of Stagecoach Performing Arts, said: “This has been such a brilliant summer for our network. We’re over the moon to welcome Claire, Keely and Laura. They each bring so much experience, passion and energy, and you can already feel the excitement in their schools. Our role is to make sure they feel supported from day one, and we can’t wait to see their Stagecoach communities flourish.”
