Whanganui Performing Arts - Tutors
Hayley Sellars
|
Joining Whanganui Performing Arts in 2015, Hayley committed to offering quality performance opportunities for the next generation. Hayley has juggled many hats over the years with Whanganui Performing Arts, including President, Creative Director, Musical Director and Treasurer.
Hayley Sellars returned to New Zealand in 2019 after spending time working as a private musical theatre tutor and performing in the United Kingdom and Ireland. With over 20 years of on-stage experience and a mixture of both classical and musical theatre training. Having studied at both Victoria University of Wellington and The University of Waikato, Hayley has studied under the tutelage of New Zealand’s top performers, including Dame Malvina Major. While being based in New Zealand, the UK and Ireland, Hayley enjoyed performing in a wide range of performances in both lead and supporting rolls, such as Heathers - Teen Editions, The Sound of Music, Chicago, Bugsy Malone, Les Misérables, Grease, Phantom of the Opera, Sweeny Todd, Pirates of Penzance, Jesus Christ Superstar. Hayley has also had the opportunity to perform in more classical works, such as Die Zauberflote (The Magic Flute) - Mozart, The Telephone - Menotti, Betly – Donizetti, The White Lady - David Griffiths (NZ Composer) and The Auction - Janet Jennings (NZ Composer). A highlight of Hayley’s carer was performing Nation Anthems for the 2011 Rugby World Cup, held in New Zealand. One of Hayley’s passions is to perform New Zealand works, and encourages her students to seek New Zealand composers to work with, and when possible, perform their works. Adjudicating for Musical Theatre competitions locally and nationally for children, youth and adults. As a mentor and advocate for youth in the arts, Hayley combines her expertise with a commitment to cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment. Join Hayley on a journey where creativity knows no bounds, and every young artist is encouraged to discover and showcase their unique talents. Finally, Hayley is extremely proud to also have two students qualified for National Nominees in 2023 for NZ Musical Theatre Young Performer of the Year. A special congratulations to both Alyssa Hartley & Lucy Hartley. |
Lauren Ashton
|
Lauren is the current President of Whanganui Performing Arts and has held many roles over her 10+ years with WPA.
Overseeing the running of the Whanganui Performing Arts Committee, along with being our lead Choreographer mention, Lauren is truly an asset to our team. Lauren Ashton is a freelance professional dancer, dance teacher and certified personal trainer based in Palmerston North. From the age of 2, Lauren has had rhythm in her bones. Beginning ballet lessons at McQueen School of Dance in Taihape as soon as she was allowed. Through the years Lauren has completed exams to a high level in Ballet, Character & Tap (B.A.L) and Jazz & American Jazz (NZAMD) concluding with Solo Performance Diploma in Jazz. Lauren started travelling to competitions all over the mid-lower North Island performing ballet and jazz from around the age of 4. Lauren also spent many years taking singing and music lessons and treading the boards in several musical theatre productions throughout high school, attending vocal competitions and completing her First Concert Certificate from Trinity College London. At age 17 Lauren flew the coop to Sydney, Australia to study full time performing arts at Brent Street. Following 6 years spent living and working in Australia and Ireland, Lauren returned home to settle down. Around 2012 she joined the committee for the Wanganui Competitions Society and began volunteering at the very competitions she came up in. As a performer, Lauren has spent the past 9 years performing and competing across New Zealand, Australia, USA, Canada and Germany. Her favourite highlights are dancing in an RNZB production of The Nutcracker in 1995, playing the part of Maisie in The Boyfriend with Taihape Drama Group in 2004 and regular feature performances at events like Aethercon! Steampunk Festival in Wellington, The Art Deco Festival & Winter Deco in Napier and Whanganui Vintage Weekend |
Megan Hartley
|
Meet the visionary behind the curtain, Megan Hartley. As a dynamic and dedicated director, she has seamlessly blended passion and leadership, crafting unforgettable experiences for young talents. With a background in local theatre, Megan guides aspiring performers through a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. From fostering creativity to nurturing teamwork, she is committed to creating a positive and inspiring environment that empowers youth to shine both on and off the stage.
Megan Hartley is the current Vice President of Whanganui Performing Arts, and has also held many roles within the society. Megan has been involved in theatre since a very young age. Growing up in Wellington her family was part of Khandallah Arts Theatre and she has performed in a range of genres from Shakespeare to Musicals. When her children showed an interest in performing she encouraged them to pursue singing and acting. Megan has always had a love of all thing theatre and is very excited to be Creative Director of Whanganui Performing Arts. Her Directorial debut was Heathers, Teen Edition in 2023 and she lived every minute of it. Megan has also been involved backstage in many productions. She has done props, costuming, set design, hair & make up so has a well-rounded view of theatre. Megan is looking forward to Directing more shows in the years to come. Join Megan in bringing stories to life, one performance at a time. |
Alyssa Hartley
|
With a passion for storytelling through song and dance, Alyssa Hartley orchestrates captivating productions that transport audiences into magical worlds. Trained in both Classical and Musical Theatre performance, Alyssa has an ability to bring music and theatre together in harmonious brilliance. Join her on a journey where the stage comes alive with the magic of musical storytelling.
Alyssa has been a keen member of the theatre world from a very young age, beginning dance lessons at age 4 in Wellington. When her family moved to Whanganui, Alyssa continued to dance but fell in love with singing. Over the years, Alyssa has studied classical voice and musical theatre with Lynn Whiteside, Jamie Henare and Hayley Sellars, while also being a founding member of the Whanganui Performing Arts Academy. In 2020, she was awarded the Silver Medal from Trinity College London for having the highest mark in a Grade 6-8 Musical Theatre examination in the Lower North Island. In 2022 Alyssa completed her Diploma of Musical Theatre. Alyssa’s most cherished past roles include Ariel in ‘The Little Mermaid Jr’ (MYTH, 2020), Genie in ‘Aladdin Jr’ (MYTH, 2021), Lucy in ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’ (MTS, 2022), Rizzo in ‘Grease!’ (WHS, 2023), Veronica Sawyer ‘Heathers, Teen Edition’ (WPA, 2023). In 2023 Alyssa attended the National Youth Drama School for Musical Theatre, playing Fantine in their performance showcase of ‘Les Miserables’. Alyssa is excited about becoming part of the Whanganui Performing Arts teaching team and is very keen to share her knowledge and skills. |
Dave Griffiths
|
Dave Griffiths is somewhat of a local Whanganui music legend. Highly skilled, and always down to make music, Dave is a vibrant part of Whanganui Performing Arts.
Dave joined the Whanganui Performing Arts team in 2022, after working with us for a number of years as our sound and light technician across multiple iconic Whanganui venues. Dave has an extensive performance background, having graced the stages of New Zealand and collaborated with renowned musicians in the industry. This practical experience enriches his teaching, offering students valuable insights into the real-world application of musical concepts. Dave's philosophy centers on instilling a lifelong love for music in his students, fostering not only technical proficiency but also a deep appreciation for the art form. Dave is excited to embark on a journey of musical discovery with each student, guiding them towards realizing their full potential as musicians. Music Tutor - Guitar, Bass, Keys, Drums, Beatmaking, Voice - Live sound, technology & recording - Instrument setup and repair - Performance skills, music theory and more! |
Tobias Fitzgerald
|
Tobias is a dynamic and inspiring dance choreographer who breathes life into movements and ignites a passion for dance in the hearts of young performers.
Dipping his toes into Musical Theatre, he starred as Danny in Grease. His most recent performance was in the Whanganui Performing Arts production of Heathers, as Kurt Kelley. As a "triple threat", Tobias also had a segment on Seven Sharp about his interesting life. Tobias has been a passionate dancer since the age of 11. With many styles, including Salsa, Contemporary and more under his belt, he is nothing short of a professional. Tobias is known for his smooth moves, teaching Latin and Modern, for beginner adults and in schools. His passion for performing also lead him to DanceNZmade. Tobias has a keen eye for detail, focusing not only on mastering dance techniques but also on fostering self-expression and creativity. He believes in creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where students feel inspired to explore their unique dance journey. From beginners to advanced dancers, Tobias tailors' classes to suit individual needs, promoting both technical proficiency and a deep appreciation for the art form. Join him in the theatre for a transformative dance experience where every step is a celebration of movement, rhythm, and artistic expression. |
Whanganui Performing Arts - Youth Production Team
Lucy Hartley
|
Meet the passionate and dedicated youth director, Lucy Hartley, a visionary leader committed to fostering creativity and empowerment among young talents. With a background in Musical Theatre, we welcome Lucy in her debut with Whanganui Performing Arts as a Youth Director.
Lucy has been performing for over seven years, singing with Lynn Whiteside for over five years. Last year, with the guidance of Lynn, Lucy has accomplished her Grade 7 Musical Theatre Examination with flying colours. Lucy has performed in numerous productions around Whanganui and Manawatu. She appeared as Lago in Aladdin (Manawatu Youth Theatre), and Heather Chandler in Heathers (Whanganui Performing Arts). Lucy loves playing challenging roles, especially stepping out of her comfort zone with domineering characters. Lucy can't wait to dip her toes into directing productions and experience life behind the curtain. |
Julliette Little
|
Introducing the imaginative and talented youth choreographer, Julliette Little, as she makes a dazzling debut with Whanganui Performing Arts. Stepping into the world of dance with boundless enthusiasm, Julliette has poured her passion for movement into our vibrant productions.
Julliette is 15 years old, born and raised in Whanganui and is currently in Year 11 at Nga Tawa Diocesan School. From a very young age Julliette loved to dance, beginning ballet lessons with the Whanganui Ballet and Dance Academy at the age of three and dancing with them for over ten years. Through the years Julliette became no stranger to performing and completed exams to a high level in both Classical Ballet and Contemporary Ballet. In addition to attending the Whanganui Ballet and Dance Academy she has also danced with, and completed multiple training courses with the New Zealand School of Dance. recently Julliette has also joined the Whanganui Performing Arts Society. Julliette has spent several years taking music and signing lessons and has enjoyed being a part of many theatre productions. These performances span across a wide range of roles, including choreographing the dances for Nga Tawas Mamma Mia whilst also holding a main role as Donna, playing Tinkerbell in Peter Pan with the Whanganui Ballet and Dance Academy and Stefani (cheerleader) in Heathers the Teen Musical with The Whanganui Performing Arts Society to name a few. Julliette is excited to be given the opportunity to be Youth Choreographer for 2024. Julliette loves passing her passion for dance and musical theatre onto others and looks forward to what lays ahead. |
Oliver Rei
|
Meet Oliver Rei, a visionary stage designer known for transforming spaces into immersive works of art. With an eye for detail and a passion for storytelling through visuals, he has captivated audiences with his innovative designs. Oliver's seamlessly blends creativity and functionality, creating unforgettable atmospheres that enhance the overall theatrical experience. Join him on a journey where each stage becomes a canvas for imagination and artistic expression.
Oliver Rei has loved to draw and design since before he could talk. He has studied design in school for multiple years and will continue to do so as he strives for his bachelor's with Honors in Design at the New Zealand College of Creative Arts. In 2023 Oliver expressed a keen interest and applied to Whanganui Performing Arts to be a part of the Youth Leadership Team, in Production Design. In 2023 Oliver also joined the cast of Heathers, playing Ram Sweeney. He feels that he has found his home with this Performing Arts Academy and its people and decided to give back to his community through his work as a designer. Oliver is very excited about joining the Whanganui Performing Arts team and looks forward to the experiences and challenges that will come with the role. |