The Creative Team
Amy Sapwell
Musical Director
During my time as a music teacher in Australia I directed many school productions. My family and I returned to Wadebridge in 2012 and I set up a small business running and directing inTune Choir which I absolutely love! However, I really missed rehearsing a show as I am a huge fan of musical theatre. I was absolutely thrilled when the opportunity arose to be involved with Avalon and it has been a pleasure to work with this talented group of kids.
Gemma Crook
Director/Producer
My love for musical theatre began on my 10th birthday when I was taken to see my first ever musical, Cats. I have loved the T.S Eliot poems and musical songs ever since! I have done nine shows with Avalon, four of them as director. I first began directing for Avalon in 2015 with the production of Fame, which both of my daughters were in at the time. Since then I have loved coming back and feel very lucky to have been given each opportunity to direct again. I have attended a number of directing courses through the National Operatic and Drama Association and continue to enjoy using what I have learned in each production.
I feel very privileged to work with such a fabulous group of children, as they approach new challenges with acting and singing. It always amazes me how the children rise to every challenge set, and learn to apply what we teach them. Having been part of Avalon over time I have loved seeing the confidence of each child grow.
Liv Crook
Choreographer
I have always loved musical theatre, and was thrilled to gain a place at Avalon at the age of nine. Avalon had a great influence on my life, allowing me to gain performing experience and improve my confidence in all areas of my life. Since finishing Avalon in 2015, I have continued to take to the stage, taking part in three productions while at the University of Exeter. Designing the choreography for Avalon is a wonderful challenge, suiting a range of ages and abilities – I love the opportunity to work with such an incredible group of young people, and also alongside my amazing mum Gemma.
Our Committee
Avalon is managed by a volunteer committee, who oversee the running of the group and support the logistics and the creative team, as well as a lot of other stuff, including making the costumes! We also help chaperone the children during rehearsals. Here are a few of the current officers:
Emma Battle, chairman
Jo Pope, costume design
Jaime Hawkey, treasurer
Faye Abbiss, secretary
Sarah Eustice, publicity
If you’d like to chat to anyone, see the contact tab for an email and phone number. We’d love to hear from you!
We’re always looking for extra help with costume and set design, fundraising, and helping provide food to a lot of hungry cast and crew during show week. If you’re interested in theatre or just a nice community person, we welcome you to get in touch and join in this rewarding effort.