THE ACADEMY

MEET THE FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL

Kathleen McNamara

Kathleen is thrilled to be launching Illuminate Theatre Academy in Sawbridgeworth. Kathleen trained professionally in musical theatre at The London School of Musical Theatre and has enjoyed almost fifteen years of combining her professional performing career with her passion for teaching young people. Kathleen has taught in all the leading theatre schools throughout London and across the country. She has coached many students into gaining West End roles in shows such as, Matilda, Mary Poppins, The Sound of Music and Shrek. She has also prepared many students ahead of auditions for professional theatre training and scholarships, with a massive success rate. Along with teaching musical theatre, Kathleen has taught LAMDA for many years with a 98% distinction pass rate. Although very much in demand, Kathleen has decided to opt for a quieter life in the countryside. Kathleen has performed across the world either in musical theatre productions or as a solo vocalist. A particular highlight was when she Toured Europe as a lead Vocalist in Musical Starnights, singing the roles of Mary (Mary Poppins) and Christine Daee (The Phantom of the Opera). Before embarking in her performing career, Kathleen studied for a Degree in English at St Mary’s University. Kathleen is most passionate about building confidence and a strong sense of self in young people and is delighted that she is able to do this through her passion for the arts.

TESTIMONIES

My Daughter Has Attended Several Drama Workshops Run By Kathleen. She Has Loved The Mix Of Singing, Dancing And Acting And Has Particularly Enjoyed The Final Performances. We Have Been Very Impressed With How Motivated She Has Been And The Amount She Learns In Such A Short Space Of Time. In The Recent Pandemic Lockdown, Our Daughter Participated In Zoom Dance And Singing Sessions And Was Delighted To See Kathleen And Participate In The Workshops. Kathleen Is So Enthusiastic, Kind And Fun, Bringing The Best Out Of The Shyest And Most Reluctant Performers. We Would T Hesitate To Recommend Her.
Outstanding Show And An Amazing Experience Had By All. My Daughter Loves Her Lessons, It's The Absolute Highlight Of Her Week. Her Class Teacher Has Also Commented On Her Confidence Growing And I'm Thrilled To See Her So Excited And Passionate.

All teachers have a current enhanced DBS check. The safety of the students in our care is at all times our highest priority. The strictest safe guarding policies are in place.