PQA Manningtree.

Darnell Thompson

Lou Turner

Lou honed her craft through rigorous training at the prestigious Mountview Academy and the renowned Arts Educational School. With a wealth of experience in both acting and teaching, she brings a deep passion for the performing arts to her work. As an agent, she possesses a nuanced understanding of the industry, navigating its complexities with skill and insight. A dedicated educator at heart, Lou is committed to empowering her students, nurturing their confidence in finding their unique voices, and helping them break free from limiting beliefs that may hold them back.

Natalie Cleverley

Natalie trained at Laine Theatre Arts, where she gained her teaching qualifications with Distinction in I.S.T.D Modern Dance. Natalie has performed for over 30 years both in the UK and abroad. With over 30 pantomimes and 25 Summer seasons, Tours, Cabaret, TV appearances and musical tours under her belt, she then went on to present on various shopping channels which enabled her to use her other skills- shopping and talking! Natalie has choreographed professional shows including Pantomimes, Summer seasons, TV shows, Tours and Cabaret productions. Her work has taken her all over the world including cruise ships and entertaining the troops in Northern Island, Germany, Belize and The Falkland Islands. She appeared in the London Palladium show in Toronto, Canada with Petula Clark and Dickie Henderson. Upon returning to the UK she took over the lead role in The London Palladium Pantomime Natalie has always taught alongside her performing career, and for the last 15 years since retiring from performing she has concentrated solely on her teaching work. Natalie has also taught many Drama led Classes including Lamda and has also taught in numerous care homes for Adults with dementia.

Philippa Revell

Pippa is our warm and enthusiastic Vice Principal, as well as the dedicated teacher for our Poppets program, which caters to children aged 4 to 6. She is committed to creating a vibrant and joyful introduction to the performing arts for our youngest students, fostering their creativity and confidence from an early age. With a wealth of experience in theatre, Pippa is an accomplished director who regularly takes the helm of musicals for the local theatre group, BATS, where she brings her vision and passion for storytelling to life. Her expertise in performance is further highlighted by her professional role as Hero in "Much Ado About Nothing," where she showcased her talent during the New Route Theatre Company’s celebrated Shakespeare in the Park tour. Pippa’s dedication to the arts and her ability to inspire young learners make her an invaluable part of our community.