I opened StageWorks Performing Arts School in 2000 to give children the same opportunity I had as a young performer. Performing gave me hope during my childhood, and I will always be grateful for the doors it opened and the confidence it built. Since then, StageWorks has taught thousands of children across the Thames Valley, and despite the challenges of the Covid years, we have seen a significant rise in young people wanting to be part of our community.
I am proud to share our recent affiliation with local theatre group HAODS, cementing our 25‑year relationship and creating even more opportunities for our young performers at The Kenton Theatre in Henley.
I am highly trained in performing arts, fitness and wellbeing. I have been choreographing shows and dancing since the age of three, with tap as my speciality. My early training was with JG Dance, where I completed ISTD qualifications in tap, jazz and modern. Throughout my performing career I have enjoyed working on many prestigious stages, venues and events. In 2026, I will also be teaching at Pineapple Dance Studios. As a performance coach, choreographer and mentor, I have supported many celebrities and professionals, including clients mentored by Robbie Williams who went on to perform on The X Factor.
I use my skills, alongside strong management and business processes, to ensure StageWorks continues to develop safely and responsibly for young people, while maintaining the high standards we are known for. My experience in the entertainment industry, combined with extensive research into child brain development, has shaped the ethos of StageWorks. As a former child performer myself, I understand how impactful the performing arts can be. It offers a creative, positive environment that builds confidence, self‑belief and determination. In the early formative years (ages 3/4 to 8), it also supports essential developmental skills that benefit children far beyond the studio.
Ultimately, performing arts is a wonderful activity for young people. Whether or not they continue into the industry as adults, the skills they gain, independence, resilience, teamwork, communication and confidence, stay with them for life.
Our Successes
Over the past 25 years, we have trained many students who have gone on to perform professionally in the West End, on Broadway, in film, on stage and on television. Credits include:
- Tea & Cake (London Film Festival)
- Waffle the Wonderdog (BBC)
- St Trinian’s
- Commercials for ITV
- The King and I (Royal Albert Hall)
- Matilda (West End and Broadway)
- Oliver! (West End)
- Disney (Sky)
- Mission Impossible III (Tom Cruise)
- All Is True (Dame Judi Dench and Sir Ian McKellen)
We are especially proud of alumni such as Francesca Moody (Fleabag, Baby Reindeer), Harry Stott (West End - Oliver! / Mary Poppins, I’d Do Anything with Andrew Lloyd Webber), Ted Wilson (Eric in Matilda - West End and Broadway), Sophie Lloyd (global rock guitarist with over 3 million followers), and Toby Marlow (writer of Six the Musical), all of whom began their journeys at StageWorks.
In 2026, we will be performing at Sadler’s Wells, London.
Thank you for stopping by. Please get in touch with any questions, we are a warm, friendly community and always happy to help.
Emma Jane x
