Actors and Auditions - Aesop's Touring Theatre Company

Since graduating from East 15, Paul has appeared as a professional actor in many varied short films and theatre productions.

Based in Surrey, he also worked with several TIE companies before joining Aesop’s Touring Theatre.

"I have been lucky enough to perform many different roles, and have enjoyed them all, particularly when working with children. It is so rewarding seeing the positive effects of drama in action, and the happiness and sheer joy a story can bring to young people.
Recognising the value of Theatre in Education was vividly brought back to me when I started on the Aesop Theatre scripts.
As soon as I began performing them I realised just how much the children engage with the work. To have the pupils come up individually after a show to thank you and say how much they enjoyed it is especially gratifying."

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Tabitha is a graduate of Masters Performing Arts where she received her diploma in professional dance and musical theatre.

She is trained across the boards in singing, dancing and acting.

Amongst her many achievements since graduating, Tabitha has taken part in Southend's "Improvathon" a 24 hour play totally improvised on the spot. Her movie debut was playing the part of Elle in the short film "Elle and Louis". In what little spare time she has, Tabitha enjoys improving her skills in playing several musical instruments.

"Joining Aesop’s Touring Theatre has given me the opportunity to perform to children. I find the interaction and participation with the audience most rewarding, as it is often their first experience of live theatre."

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Karen trained at both The Academy Drama School and The Drama Studio in London. She was awarded Honours in her LAMDA Acting Diploma on leaving Drama School and landed her first professional job at Chessington World of Adventures, where she discovered she had a talent for improvisation and comedy. Karen would create and perform a variety of different comedy characters around the park interacting with the public, and there was plenty of audience participation which she began to enjoy immensely.

Karen has since worked for various Theatre and T.I.E. Companies (Theatre-in-Education) touring Schools, Theatres and Art Centres including: The MOMI Actors' Company at The Museum of The Moving Image, Arundale Productions, Act One Theatre Company, Theatre Proteus and The Barking Dog Theatre Company. In music, too, she studied the piano from an early age and completed her Grades before embarking on a part-time career in teaching. She has worked in Film, Radio and TV and appeared often in "The Bill" and "Family Affairs".

"Aesop's Fables have always been among my favourite books as a child hence the name of the Company" Karen said, "And I have been quite surprised and saddened to find that many adults and children have not heard of them. I feel it is my duty to bring these brilliant Fables to the attention of young children through the magic of theatre. I believe the morals in these old Fables are still as important today as they were all those years ago."

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Katherine graduated from Italia Conti Arts Centre with a diploma in musical theatre, making her a triple threat performer. As well as dance, acting and singing, she also plays several instruments and is an accomplished singer/ songwriter who, since graduating, has produced her own music with Downtown Artists in Soho, London.

Katherine has been lucky enough to act with the comedian Omid Djalili and dance alongside singer/rapper Tinie Tempah. She has also taken her talents to sea performing in cruise ship shows, and has now chosen to continue her career with Aesop’s Touring Theatre Company.

"I have always wanted to work for a TIE company. When I was at school they made a positive impact on my education. Aesop’s Theatre does just that with the fantastic selection of plays on offer to schools."

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Lana studied Drama and Performance at the University of Portsmouth, and gained a BA (Hons). During the course she was fortunate in having opportunities to work with children, and was part of a student led theatre company "Re:Create Theatre", with a performance piece based on The Tudors. This was an immersive experience in which the children could ask questions of the actors.

She studied MA Acting at Arts Educational School, London and, during the course portrayed many characters including Jo in "The One", Pepper Mint in "Ornamental Breakdown" with the theatre company Backstage Forward, Luciana in "Comedy of Errors", and Alia in the world premiere of "FLIP".

"I love how Aesop’s brings theatre to the children. Live theatre is often beyond the reach of those living far from major cities. By taking it into the schools, Aesop’s is making it more accessible."

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Laurie is a Hampshire born actor and writer who has always had a passion for acting. After receiving a scholarship she trained for five years at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts receiving a diploma in the performing arts. Whilst at college she appeared as 'Viola' in 'Twelfth Night' for the 'Complete Works Theatre Company'. She also appeared in pantomime directed by Bonnie Lythgoe for three years running at The Camberley Theatre. Since leaving college Laurie has worked continually in the performing arts industry. A few of her credits include 'Keep Running' with 'The Complete Works Theatre Company', The National Tour of 'Destination Earth' with 'Quantum Theatre for science, 'Lady Denham' at 'Fright Nights' with Thorpe Park, 'Puppeteer, Presenter and Entertainer' for Chessington World of Adventures. Laurie has also taught jazz, musical theatre and acting to 5 to 18 year olds at the Italia Conti Associate School in Wokingham.

"I can think of no better way to learn than by acting and having fun. Aesop's Touring Theatre Company has this method of education down to a T!"

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Caroline trained with Stagecoach at a very early age, gaining her L.A.M.D.A. Diploma at 18. She followed up with a degree in Film & Theatre from Reading University, engaging in writing and devising pieces for children.

Her career embraces Radio, TV presentation with the BBC, Channel 4 and Sky, and hosting afternoons of children's TV.

Included in her film work was the role of Nicole in "Breathe" which was a winner at the 2010 London Independent Film Festival.

Caroline has experience in Theatre in Education having toured schools extensively with plays and workshops.

"Children make a great audience. They can be your biggest fans, but also your harshest critics. They will always let you know where you stand. Working with "Aesop's" offers me the challenge I relish"

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A British Asian Actor who hails from the North of England. Having trained as an actor in London for three years, he began working professionally in 1986.

Since then, he has toured nationally with many plays for various Theatre Companies. The Quicksilver Theatre Company, Breakout, Soapbox and The Oily Cart Company being just a few. His Television Credits include: "Eastenders", "The Bill" and "How We Used To Live" (Schools and Colleges Programme). He also makes an appearance in Hanif Kureshi's latest film, "My Son The Fanatic".

Arif has spent much of the last three years in young people's touring theatre. In 1997 he toured a play promoting "OPEX" and Post 16 Options for school children with The Impact Theatre Company, and for most of 1998 he worked for The Figment Theatre Company based in Huddersfield, performing and work-shopping a play on Drugs awareness called "I Wannabe". Arif is also a member of The Magic Circle.

"I'm delighted to have been asked by A.T.T.C. to take part in their projects," said a very pleased Arif, "It will give me the chance to work with young people again, something I value very highly - and I'm sure they'll gain much from the shows."

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Jemma graduated with an Honours Degree in Drama and Education from The Central School of Speech and Drama and is very experienced in Theatre in Education.

Her performances include touring schools with an interactive mask workshop for juniors, and as "Ida" in Hans Christian Anderson's "Little Ida's Flowers" for nurseries and young infants. Jemma also enjoyed three summers appearing in large ensemble productions at the Minnack Theatre, Cornwall entertaining over 1000 children each day.

Before joining A.T.T.C. Jemma contributed to educational work and events at the National Film Theatre and British Film Institute IMAX Cinema in London.

"I am very proud to be working with a company that focuses so strongly on combining education and entertainment to enrich the lives of children"

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On completion of his drama studies Richard made an early impact on TV and Radio and is probably best known as a South of England local radio presenter and for his voice-overs in many commercials. He has also produced numerous corporate videos.

His acting and singing skills have long been recognised and his most recent performances include the Lord High Executioner in a production of The Mikado at the Bloomsbury Theatre and The Captain in H.M.S. Pinafore at The Secombe Centre.

Theatre-in-Education has figured largely throughout his career as have children's shows and nursery stories.

"The opportunity to join a young company dedicated to educational theatre is one not to be missed"

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Tim hails from Sussex but was raised and educated in Surrey, where he trained at St. Catherine's Drama Studio in Guildford. Tim is a versatile actor able to portray character parts as well as roles in musicals and drama. Recent productions include the eponymous 'Tom Jones' and 'An Inspector Calls', Gary in 'Noises Off' and Clifford in 'Deathtrap'. He will shortly be appearing at the Edinburgh Festival in Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible'.

Aside from acting Tim has written two short plays, one of which, 'Playing for Time' won a Drama Festival "Best New Play" award and he is currently writing a full length script for Film and Television.

His writing and lyrical skills have already contributed to the success of Aesop's Touring Theatre.

"Hopefully the productions will not only entertain but also inform and stimulate. I do believe that theatre has a vital contributory role in the educational process."

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Suzanna comes from Surrey and boasts both acting and singing backgrounds. As a professional actress she has appeared at The Secombe and Wimbledon Theatres and The Greenwich Playhouse. Recent productions include "Time To Say Goodbye" and "Milgram's Shroud" for Golden Apple Productions. Her experience in Children's Theatre spans 10 years, not only acting, but also writing and directing.

As an accomplished singer/songwriter she has enjoyed success overseas and notably with hit songs in Japan, where she has also appeared on TV in short films and a musical series.

During what little time is left Suzanna runs her own rock band and performs at numerous venues throughout London and the South East.

"I particularly enjoy working and performing for children as it is so rewarding", says Suzanna. "I am delighted to be working with Aesop's Touring Theatre Company and I especially enjoy bringing life to the characters I portray"

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Arabella's career path was determined at the tender age of 8 through weekly improvisational classes. Fifteen years later she graduated from university with a drama and classics degree and set out to pursue a career in the world of acting.

As her undoubted talent was quickly recognised, she rapidly gained experience on the stage, using both her acting and singing skills to portray a myriad of characters.

Recent productions include Sally Bowles in "Cabaret", Isabelle in "New Anatomies", and the Dame in a Christmas tour of "Jack and the Beanstalk". Devised theatre works have also been fitted into a tight schedule, and Arabella has appeared in her first short film "What are you looking at?" She can soon be seen singing at the London Coliseum in a community choral piece.

Commenting on her work with Aesop's, Arabella says:- "Inspiring children to explore their imaginations whilst simultaneously learning is a valuable tool, and I relish the energy and zest this creates."

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Rose studied Musical Theatre and graduated at the Arts Educational School in London.

Apart from numerous theatre appearances, Rose has also been seen on BBC and Sky TV, and her film work includes portraying Doreen in Eden Films production of "Making Waves" shown at the National Film Theatre.

She enjoys the challenge of Children’s Theatre and, although based in Surrey, has spent much of her time touring the U.K. with Theatre in Education Companies. She brings a wealth of experience in this field.

Rose can invariably be seen heading the cast in popular pantomime.

"My happiest moments on stage are seeing the young ones enjoying themselves" says Rose, delighted at joining Aesop’s Touring Theatre Company."

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Jenny trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama and following graduation has become involved in a wide range of performance projects. These include devised shows, cabaret and comedy gigs, where she performs many of her own songs.

She is experienced in working with children and is currently a play worker for the organisation Disability Challengers. Using this quality together with skills in devising and directing has enabled her to create her own new theatre company Funsense, which specialises in inclusive, multi-sensory theatre for children.

"From my experiences I have come to learn the value of children’s imaginations. I really enjoy the children’s company, the things they have to say, and the hugely creative ways they are able to express themselves."

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Claire launched her acting career by performing as a life size puppet for KinderTots in their musical story time shows. This was followed by a national tour with Working Space Theatre playing Olaf in "The Adventures of Olaf", a comical children's play about Vikings. More recently she has performed for Rainbow Theatre in interactive shows for children, portraying characters as diverse as Queen Elizabeth, a wartime headmistress, and a Greek goddess - to name but a few.

Claire has a great deal of experience of working with children, having led many drama workshops for The People's Theatre Company, West End Classroom, Elmbridge, A.T.E, and The Theatre Studio. In fact, having completed her training in Performing Arts, she went on to inspire others by working as a secondary school drama teacher for three and half years.

She is very pleased to be continuing her performing career by working with Aesop's Touring Theatre Company

"Children can be the best audience to perform to as when they love something they cannot help but show it"

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Joanna studied Theatre and French at The University of Wales, Aberystwyth and The Sorbonne, Paris.

Since graduating she has worked extensively in childrens' theatre and has enjoyed playing various pantomime roles, including Goldilocks in Goldilocks & the Three Bears, Alice Fitzwarren in Dick Whittington, Princess Jasmin in Aladdin and The Countess in George and the Dragon. She also appeared in a national tour of Little Red Riding Hood, which played at theatres up and down the country, including The Liverpool Empire, The Birmingham Alexandra and The Oxford Opollo, before leaving the UK for Germany to tour educational plays to primary and secondary schoolchildren with White Horse Theatre. She is delighted to be bringing her wealth of experience to Aesop's Touring Theatre.

'How important it is to teach our young people about their history and culture and what better way to achieve this than by capturing their attention and imagination through theatre, our most direct art form, which brings stories to life before their very eyes and ears."

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Kate graduated from Guildford School of Acting Conservatoire where she portrayed "Millie" in 'Confusions' by Alan Ayckbourn, "Brenda" and "Claire" in 'Road' by Jim Cartwright and "Narrator" in a national tour of 'The Threepenny Opera'.

Her professional career has included a feature film for Paramount, "The Four Feathers" directed by Shakah Kapur, an "E4 Advert" for Channel Four and "Alice Fitzwarren" and "Tommy the Cat” in 'Dick Whittington' at The Cresset Theatre, Peterborough and Regents Park. Kate has also performed the role of "Clo Clo" in 'The Merry Widow' for Opera UK, exercising her undoubted singing and dancing talents.

Kate enjoys working for Aesop's Touring Theatre Company and especially the challenges involved in performing for young audiences. To quote her words:-

“Working for ATTC is great. Sometimes children can be a tough audience to handle, but once you have won them over, it is most satisfying to know that they are hanging on your every word and action, and that they will remember this moment for many years to come.”

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Mike is a Nottingham-born actor, writer and director who completed his B.A.(Hons) Performing and Media Arts Degree at the University of Derby. He toured with the Derby T.I.E. Graduate Company (Stepping Stones) in "What's the Real Deal" and with Troika Productions in "Macbeth" and "Toad of Toad Hall".

As the co-founder and creative director of Trade Secrets Theatre Company, which offers unique opportunities for community actors to develop and hone their skills, Mike has written, directed and/or acted in productions and musicals including "Bittersweet", "Life in the Farce Lane", "MacSaul" and "Black Letter Day".

Since his early teens he has worked with children of all ages starting out as a helper at summer holiday camps. He was a Drama Workshop leader for the Out of Hours Programme and toured with Chaplin’s Pantomimes, playing Billy Bones, the Squire and Ben Gunn in "Treasure Island".

"There's a good reason why Aesop's continues to attract bookings. The smooth blend of education and entertainment keeps children laughing as they learn. How can something this much fun be good for you? But it is!"

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Since graduating from The American Musical Theatre Academy of London, where she trained in both London and New York, Jade has worked professionally as an actress, singer, dancer and teacher. Jade has also gained a great deal of experience in children's theatre, having performed shows at Wimbledon's Colourhouse Children's Theatre and toured with several pantomimes including Aladdin (appearing as Widow Twanky) and Dick Whittington (as Alice Fitzwarren). Whilst Jade loves playing comedic and character roles, she has also starred in several serious plays and drama productions. Having tasted the West End with a debut appearance in GODSPEL at The Lyric in Shaftesbury Avenue, Jade now looks to realise her life-long ambition of performing in major musical productions.

"I envisage a tour with Aesop's Theatre will be both challenging and rewarding as children make such wonderful audiences!"

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Emily graduated from a one year course in acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, where she received extensive training in written and devised theatre, and worked with some of the best known professional directors in the industry. She is experienced in performing, writing and directing children in both drama productions and musicals, and has been heavily involved in local youth theatre in her home town of Guildford. As well as acting, Emily has a background in dance and music, and is classically trained in ballet. She is also known for her singing and piano and trumpet skills. As an accomplished musician, her spare time is often spent songwriting, and gigging in the Surrey area.

"I am very much looking forward to working with Aesop's Theatre, as I find children a very rewarding and inspiring audience, and I look forward to the challenge of portraying the many different characters in the plays."

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Ellis graduated from the University of Chichester with a degree in Performing Arts.

Having been instrumental with her colleagues in creating their own Theatre Group, Ellis performed at the Edinburgh Fringe and was awarded a four star review from “The Stage”.

Her career quickly blossomed, and she toured with a number of well known theatre companies, including “Bootworks” where she helped devise, write and perform in “La Boite Noir”, and “Hurricane Productions” in their production of “Puss in Boots”, both as the eponymous hero and the loveable (and challenging) “Mizz Doughnut”.

Ellis is an accomplished Workshop Leader with Oxford World Theatre where her roles involve script writing as well as performing internationally.

"I am extremely excited to be a part of Aesop’s Theatre. I love the mix of plays and different characters, and adore travelling."

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Alia trained at Rose Bruford College in Sidcup, achieving a BA (Hons.) in European Theatre Arts. The focus was on the History of Theatre and Theatre Practice across Europe, both past and present. That knowledge and experience enabled her to create current, dynamic work that crossed boundaries and spoke directly to audiences.

Over several years she has worked in numerous theatre projects, particularly performances for children, playing a multitude of roles as varied as the Villain in “The Snow Queen” and the Panto Dame, Queen Annie Gobstopper in “The Magic Castle”. She has also toured Theatre-In-Education productions to schools both in the UK and abroad. These have included Quantum Theatre, and a nine month tour of Germany with White Horse Theatre, performing plays in English to German schoolchildren.

Alia was also employed as a Drama Practitioner in Italy on one week courses, teaching secondary school students acting and performance techniques, culminating in directing them in performances for their friends and families.

"After working abroad for eighteen months, I am looking forward to touring the UK again with Aesop Touring Theatre Company."

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Fergus trained as an actor at two leading drama schools, completing a foundation level course at East 15 and a BA (hons.) at Italia Conti.

His many productions include a 5 month Theatre in Education tour for Smile Theatre in Italy and a London and South East pantomime tour with Hurricane Productions.

He is a founding member of two theatre companies, Penguin Pie Productions and Second Sons Theatre Company. Second Sons run “Playtime New Writing Festival” and has taken part in both the Greater Manchester Fringe and the Edinburgh Fringe. When not performing, Fergus is often heavily involved on the other side of the stage, as a stage manager, lighting and sound operator.

His major strengths lie in educational projects: he has been a workshop leader in his native Yorkshire at several different youth theatres including The York Theatre Royal Youth Theatre. He has also led summer camps across Italy for several years, teaching English through drama, plays and games.

"When I was younger, 'Theatre in Education' gave me the ability and the confidence to engage more directly with both my peers and the wider artistic world. Drama in schools is of the utmost importance for building relationships and confidence and I am thrilled to be a part of Aesop’s Touring Theatre Company"

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