Meet The Team

Deborah Marks – Drama Tutor

Deborah started her musical theatre journey when she was a young teenager and has never looked back . Deborah has over 40 years’ experience in all aspects of musical theatre including performing, directing, choreography and all elements of stage production.

Sharing a stage with well known actors over the years and working with other award winning directors has added to Debbie’s breadth of knowledge. She has performed in various leading roles locally including Cabaret, Annie Get Your Gun and Hello Dolly. As a trained dancer she has a wealth of skill in all disciplines of performing arts. Having set up the academy with Leanne in 2015, Debbie has since passed this business to her daughter.

Debbie holds a child care qualification and ISTD and RSA dance qualifications and has completed relevant fire safety training. As a director Deborah has received multiple NODA awards and nominations. Fred’s being awarded family business of the year was a highlight for both Debbie and her daughter Leanne.

Leanne Barber – Principal and Vocal Coach

Leanne trained at the Redroofs Theatre school before receiving a scholarship to attend the Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama for 3 years.

After her training Leanne performed in a variety of live Theatre shows and touring pantomime’s, including Cinderella (QDOS Entertainment). She also worked as a lead singer and dancer for TED TALENT performing shows in Lanzarote and Cyprus.

Leanne had a break from performing for a couple of years to have a family but is now enjoying performing in various theatre productions. Leanne has since played lead roles in Rockstar the Musical (an original theatre production), Jeykll and Hyde, Hairspray, Oliver and The Little Mermaid.

Leanne has been a vocal coach for many years, teaching choirs, performing arts schools and 1-1 lessons. Her proudest moment as a vocal coach so far was watching her student on opening night absolutely shine as Matilda in the west end, what a moment!

Fred’s is a real passion of Leanne’s and she is very proud to be the Principal of the academy. Leanne has completed vocal courses to expand her knowledge further and First Aid training. She is also in the process of completing sign language training.

Anita Hall – Assistant

Anita has been a close personal friend of Debbie and Leanne for over 30 years and has performed alongside them in numerous stage productions and has worked in multiple positions within production teams. Anita is a proficient dancer and performer and has worked alongside children for many years in schools.

Trevor Marks – Assistant

Debbie’s husband Trevor has performed in various theatres fulfilling a variety of roles, he has also worked back stage as Stage Manager. Having worked with children for a number of years he enjoys working in the drama sessions alongside Debbie.

Debbie Robbins – Cover Assistant

Debbie has a career working with children and spends her spare time performing in shows in various theatres she is an experienced member of the team.

All our staff have DBS. During our summer production we have licensed Chaperones who we know well, they assist backstage with the children and they all have DBS.