I first trained as a professional actor in the late 1970s and spent the next ten years 'treading the boards'.  It was during this period that I discovered that I had a talent and an enthusiasm for teaching and found that coaching and developing others gave me a great deal of fulfilment and seemed to produce very good results!  I am still a member of equity, but nowadays concentrate on teaching and personal coaching.

For twelve years I was Head of Drama at a girl's independent school.  This was indeed a character building experience!  During this time I worked with pupils on all aspects of performance, including improvisation, understanding text, character building and presentation.  I directed countless performances during this time, and some since for amateur and semi-professional organisations - encouraging co-operation and development, coaching people, young and old, to get the most out of themselves that they could.

I have always found that drama is not only for those who seek the stage, but an excellent means of developing self-awareness, confidence and self-expression.  I bring these skills now to working with people with a wide range of needs.

It was during my period of school teaching that I discovered the Alexander Technique, a life-changing experience which led me to the three-year intensive training to become an Alexander Teacher.  I qualified in 1997 and have since run a successful teaching practice in Fleet,Hampshire as well as assisting teacher training in London. 

I incorporate the Alexander Technique in everything I do.  In terms of voice and performance work specifically, it makes us consciously aware of the fundamental role that use of the body plays in 'performance' (in its widest sense).  This automatically leads to an improvement in breathing, vocal support, resonance, articulation and vocal strength.  More information about the Alexander Technique can be found here.