About Theatretrain Oxshott
Building Confidence & Training The Next Generation Of Performers…
Meet the Company & Centre Directors of Theatretrain Oxshott:
Nicholas Barnard:
The Showman Who Soared from the Skies to Stardom
Prepare to be enchanted by the extraordinary journey of Nicholas Barnard, a dynamic force in the world of entertainment and education. Nicholas’s story is one of relentless determination, creative brilliance, and a commitment to shaping young talents into stars.
From an early age, Nicholas has been a fervent believer in the power of creating one’s own success and forging a unique path in life. His journey began with soaring ambitions in the aviation world, where he trained to be a commercial pilot after high school. However, destiny had a different plan for him. Nicholas soon realized that his dreams were not in the clouds but in the limelight, traveling the world to make a profound impact on people’s lives.
Having left Pilot School, Nicho’s path took a dramatic turn when he pursued his passion for the arts. He embarked on a journey that saw him studying Musical Theatre Performance at the Trinity College of London. He honed his vocal prowess, achieving Grade 8 in Vocal Training, and delved into the world of filmmaking at City Varsity. His quest for knowledge also led him to Business Management studies through correspondence online learning with Yale University, proving that he’s not just a man of the stage and screen but a true scholar of the arts.
From a young age, Nicho has loved the arts. Singing, Acting, Theatre and Film. He carries with him today over 8 years of professional experience in the film, television, and theatre industry, Nicholas is a multifaceted talent. His name resonates not only for his impressive performances on stage and screen but also for his remarkable Director and Producer roles. He has spearheaded award-winning short films, taken on the mantle of Director and Executive Producer for major television shows on National Cable TV, and lent his expertise as a Producer and Assistant Director to three Major International Feature Films. Nicholas is a true maestro in bringing stories to life both in front of and behind the camera.
On stage, Nicholas has breathed life into iconic characters, from the British Clock Cogsworth in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” to the larger-than-life Edna Turnblad in “Hairspray” and the endearing Seymour in “Little Shop of Horrors.” His talents have graced productions like “DREAMS The Musical,” where he portrayed Michael, which he also skillfully directed and produced among with many other theatre productions, including “Once Upon A Song,” “Hairspray,” “Night in Hollywood,” and more.
But Nicholas’s commitment to the arts goes beyond the spotlight. Fueled by his own experiences of overcoming obstacles and witnessing the gaps in performing arts and theatre education, he founded SAFATA Academy—an Internationally Accredited Performing Arts College. Here, he serves not only as the Founder but also as the Global CEO and International Head of Academics, guiding aspiring artists to achieve their dreams.
As the newly appointed Company Director of Theatretrain Oxshott, Nicholas is ready to embark on his next thrilling adventure. He’s excited to once again be part of something greater than himself and to shape young minds, nurturing their talents and crafting them into something truly magical. Nicholas Barnard is not just a star on the stage; he’s a guiding light, inspiring others to reach for the stars and follow their dreams.
Danielle Bennett:
The CFO Turned Theatre Maestro
Meet Danielle Bennett, a woman of remarkable versatility, whose journey from numbers to the limelight has been nothing short of extraordinary. Danielle, with her vibrant spirit and a flair for the arts, has carved her unique path, leaving an indelible mark in the world of theatre and education.
Danielle’s life story takes a fascinating twist when she became the co-owner of Theatretrain Oxshott in July 2023. Theatretrain Oxshott, a thriving hub for young talents, found a dynamic leader in Danielle, who brought her passion for the performing arts to the forefront. But how did this number-crunching accountant find her rhythm in the world of theatre?
It all started with her daughter, a budding star in her own right, who immersed herself in the world of singing and dancing. Danielle, ever the supportive parent, became her daughter’s biggest fan, attending musicals, concerts, competitions, and even international championships in New York. It was during these moments that Danielle discovered her deep affection for the arts.
Yet, beneath the dazzling performances and applause, Danielle also encountered the darker side of the industry, including the toxic environments that can often plague it. Determined to create a better space for aspiring young artists, she joined forces with Nicho to establish SAFATA International Academy in 2018. Danielle vowed to foster an environment where children could not only flourish but also find joy in their artistic pursuits. Her mission was clear: to counterbalance the industry’s pitfalls with a nurturing haven.
While maintaining her career as an accountant, Danielle’s passion for the arts led her to pursue a performing arts teaching diploma. Juggling her daily accounting tasks and her role as CFO at SAFATA, Danielle’s dedication shone through. She became a guiding force for the academy, ensuring it remained a place of creativity, inspiration, and growth for young talents. Something she is excited to bring to Theatretrain.
But Danielle’s journey doesn’t stop there. She has also spent significant time on film and television sets, wearing multiple hats as an Executive Producer, Producer, Series Director, and Production Manager. Her love for the arts knows no bounds, and she’s played a pivotal role in bringing stories to life on the screen.
Danielle Bennett is more than just an accountant; she’s a visionary, a champion of young talent, and a beacon of creativity. Her determination to make a difference and impact lives through the arts is truly remarkable. Whether it’s crunching numbers or nurturing young stars, Danielle embodies the spirit of a true arts enthusiast, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she touches.
Learn Genuine Theatre Principles While You Make Friends At Theatretrain Oxshott
The Theatretrain Way puts theatre back into the performing arts. Along with technical performance skills in acting, singing and dancing, young people get the chance to release their creativity in a safe and friendly place. Here, in an environment nurturing confidence and empathy, our students can expand to be more than they ever thought they could be. Our aim isn’t just to create better performers, but to help your children reach their full potential.
We Create The Welcoming Environment Where Aspiring Performers Thrive
Gain Skills For All Aspects Of Life, Not Just The Big Stage.
Meet the Theatretrain Oxshott team
Learn more about our team and get to know what we’re all about.
Nicho Barnard
Acting Director
Laura Kent
Musical Director
Natasha Christensen
Choreographer
Beth
Junior Ensemble Director
The Theatretrain Story
Theatretrain was founded on the belief that the performing arts should be accessible to everyone, no matter their age, skill or ability. Our large-scale productions are unique to Theatretrain and invite our students to enjoy the learning experience and be a part of something bigger than themselves.
The world’s your stage at Theatretrain Oxshott!
See our session times and book your initial taster below…
