Department Staff

Nic Saunders / Programme Leader and Acting Tutor

Nic studied at RADA, as well as at the Universities of Leicester and Reading. Nic combines his teaching at Henley with a professional career as a director and runs his own professional companies, Theatre 14167 and 14167 Films. Nic’s first film screened at The Cannes Film Festival and won awards at film festivals around the World. He has completed his second film and is now working on his third.

Caroline McDonnell / Voice Tutor

Caroline studied at The University of Surrey. Caroline has worked with numerous arts organisations before coming to Henley. Caroline’s professional credits include the title roles of both Hedda Gabler (Steinberg Theatre, London) and Miss Julie (UK Tour). Currently, she is no longer active as a professional actress, instead preferring to concentrate on her teaching career, specialising in Voice work.

Neil McCurley / Performance Tutor

Neil studied at The University of Reading. Neil combines his teaching at the College with running his own theatre company, Kangaroo Court Theatre with whom he has directed work at Edinburgh, London and in local theatres. Neil’s current project is an adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray” which he has adapted himself and which will be performed as part of The Henley Fringe Festival in July.

Alison Golby - Singing Tutor

Alison trained at The Royal Northern College of Music, as well as at the universities of Manchester and Cambridge. Besides teaching Singing and Musical Theatre, Alison is a clarinettist, saxophonist and pianist. Besides her work at Henley, she is currently Musical Director of Rivarate, Reading and Principal Clarinet in the Oxford Chamber Orchestra.

Daniel Taylor / Technician

Daniel trained on the job and before coming to Henley was senior technician at The Hexagon Theatre, Reading for six years. Daniel continues to work freelance for theatre companies alongside his work at Henley. Daniel is also an accomplished musician and is currently a member of La Mort Subite, a gypsy jazz band.

Tara Bloomfield / Dance Tutor

Tara trained at The Northern School of Contemporary Dance and Middlesex University. Besides teaching, Tara has previously worked extensively with youth dance companies and has performed professionally at The Dominion Theatre, London.