Introducing Vicki, a highly successful franchisee who has built a thriving Footlights stage school across dual territories in Bury and Middleton. Since opening her franchise in 2019, Vicki has turned her passion for performing arts into a flourishing business, achieving impressive six-figure turnovers. Her diverse background includes ten years as a self-employed personal fitness trainer and gym owner, where she ran dance, fitness, and gymnastics classes for both children and adults. She also led fitness sessions for prestigious clubs like Salford Harriers and Stockport F.C., as well as delivering health and wellbeing programs in schools and colleges across Greater Manchester.

In addition to her fitness career, Vicki holds a PGDE and an MA in English, having taught English Language, Literature, and Drama both overseas and in the UK. She also worked as a Special Educational Needs officer for the local authority. Her varied expertise has equipped her with a unique understanding of the needs of both children and adults, allowing her to provide tailored, supportive, and effective training in the arts.

Vicki’s passion for the performing arts is evident in her commitment to helping children and young people achieve their aspirations. She firmly believes that engaging in acting, singing, and dance builds confidence, social skills, and overall wellbeing. Vicki is excited to continue shaping the future of young actors and performers in Bury and Middleton, creating an environment where children of all abilities can thrive and fulfil their creative potential.

Gabrielle graduated from the University of York with a BA Music degree (Hons). In addition to being a first study trombonist of fourteen years, she gained insight into teaching and currently has her own private studio in which she teaches private instrumental lessons to all age groups.

Music, and all it entails, has always been Gabrielle’s passion and she finds great enjoyment in helping others to flourish in the world of music and performing arts. She is very excited to work with the children at Footlights and to focus on bringing out the best in each child.

Charlotte graduated from the Arden School of theatre’s ‘Acting for live and recorded media’ course in 2023 and since then has been working in professional theatre in Manchester, Leeds and her home county, Lincolnshire! She trained in dance prior to this for 15 years gaining high distinction grades in RAD ballet, ISTD Tap, modern, Jazz and UDO street dance. She is represented by The Dazey Hills Co. and continues along-side teaching, auditioning for roles herself and constantly working on her craft, attending top industry workshops and classes in Manchester.

She began her teaching career at the age of 14 as a dance teaching assistant and now 10 years later still finds nothing more rewarding than passing on her knowledge of theatre to children and being able to see them shine bright doing what they love. She says, “It’s important we create a safe space for young people to express themselves whilst having fun and it’s an honour that I have the ability and skills to do so with such talented children like the ones here at footlights.