Meet the EMTA Theatre Academy Team

Tom is a professional actor, writer and teacher who trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Since then, he has built a diverse career across stage and screen on both sides of the Atlantic. His credits include playing Young Bryan in CBS's Limitless and various other roles in theatre and film throughout the UK. As a writer, he is currently developing Far From Home, a Second World War musical set during the Blitz.

With over ten years' experience teaching, Tom is passionate about helping aspiring performers unlock their full potential. He believes that making every aspect of performing fun is key to building confidence and solid technique. By blending his own methods with established acting techniques, he aims to inspire students to find their voice and to support those who want to pursue a career in the industry. As Principal, Tom has grown EMTA from a single weekly class into the full training school it is today.

Jake is a professional actor, singer and dancer with a wealth of experience in both stage and screen performance. In addition to his work on prestigious cruise ships and stages around the world, he regularly performs closer to home at Brick Lane Music Hall in London's East End. Jake trained in musical theatre and acting at The Arts Educational Schools, London, and with the National Youth Music Theatre of Great Britain. He aims to inspire students to carve their own careers in the industry, build their skills and confidence and, above all, enjoy themselves.

Keira graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama with a BA (Hons) in Acting and Musical Theatre. Her theatre credits include West Side Story, Grease, Sweeney Todd and Romeo and Juliet. As a professional vocalist with the West End Gospel Choir, she has performed at high-profile events such as West End Live in Trafalgar Square, worked alongside renowned artists including Michael Bublé, and even performed for HM King Charles III at Buckingham Palace in 2022. After graduating, Keira discovered her passion for teaching, and she loves helping students explore their voices in a safe, supportive and enjoyable environment.

Emily has been dancing from a young age and attended the Sue Nieto Theatre School with the rest of our EMTA team. She later trained at NLPAC, where she graduated with full ISTD DDI and DDE teaching qualifications in Imperial Classical Ballet, Modern Theatre and Tap Dance.

With several years of experience working with children in various settings, Emily has contributed to primary education, focusing particularly on SEND and SEMH. She obtained her initial child counselling qualifications with Place2Be, in addition to other relevant training courses. Emily has also enjoyed choreographing and preparing students for the Barnet Schools Dance Festival, an event she fondly remembers attending as a student herself. Her experience and enthusiasm make her an invaluable part of our team.

Dominique is an accomplished performing arts professional with extensive experience both on stage and in the studio. She trained from a young age, completed a BA (Hons) in Theatre Dance at London Studio Centre, and holds Advanced 1 ISTD qualifications in Ballet, Tap and Modern. Her professional career includes dancing for global artists such as Kylie Minogue, JLS and Tinchy Stryder on shows like The X Factor. Dominique brings that high-level performance experience and industry discipline directly into her teaching. Now teaching Singing, Musical Theatre and Dance, she is passionate about developing each student's potential, equipping them with the discipline, confidence and artistry essential for success in the performing arts and beyond.

EMTA grew out of Sue Nieto's original Wednesday musical theatre class. A performer with a rich history on the stage, Sue has appeared in numerous West End productions and now runs her own production company, featuring EMTA students in her pantomimes. She returns to EMTA as a visiting coach, teaching Jazz, Tap and Musical Theatre.

Marianne brings over 25 years of experience in costume sourcing, design and costuming for pantomime, musical theatre and stage productions, including her work with BBC Elstree and her role as Wardrobe Mistress for Jools Holland on BBC television. She also runs her own costume hire business, Marianne's Costume Hire, where she has designed and tailor-made many costumes for EMTA. Marianne relishes working closely with students to create costumes that make each production truly memorable.