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Drama Staff

Rikki Jackson

Director of Drama
BA (University of Warwick)

Rikki studied English and Theatre Studies at Warwick University and since then has taught Drama in various schools directing nearly 100 plays and musicals during that time. Rikki is also a sports fan, particularly cricket, rugby and football - although he spends most of this time being frustrated by the various teams he supports.

Helen Ryan

BA (University of Exeter)

An Exeter University graduate, Helen first joined Canford in 2015 as a Graduate Assistant before returning in 2018 after a year of teaching Drama at The Portsmouth Grammar School. As well as being kept busy in The Layard, Helen is also involved in the CCF and can often be found at the Real Tennis Courts. She also loves cat, cake and coffee.

Claire Camble-Hutchins

Wardrobe Mistress and Choreographer

Jonathon Ledger

Performing Arts Technician

Jon's first experience of the Layard Theatre was during his time as a pupil at Canford. He returned to Canford full time in 2018 following an engineering degree and a short time working in website coding.

Lisa Perry

Theatre Co-ordinator

A Graduate of Dartington's Theatre Studies BA, making and teaching theatre has been the hub of Lisa's experience, with particular interest in voice and breath, and collaboration practice. Making connections and working with others across the drama department to support pupils individually and in companies is a rewarding continuation of her previous experience and interests.

Jack Shannon

Jack studied Drama at Winchester University, cultivating an interest in Historical performance and 20th Century Theatre. Joining Canford in 2022 as the Graduate Assistant to the Chaplain, Jack is excited to join the department officially as a part-time Teacher of Drama alongside his contribution to the Chaplaincy and his position as Resident Tutor of Tennis Court Lodge.

Kevin Wilkins

Technical Manager

Kevin studied Multimedia systems at Bradford University. He has worked at many venues including Manchester Opera House, Nottingham Playhouse, Nottingham Arts Theatre, Theatre in the Mill and venues at the Edinburgh Festival. Kevin joined Canford in 2003 as the Layard Theatre's Technical Manager, he can also be found working on many events around the school. Passionate about theatre design, he enjoys creating theatre designs that combine multimedia video technology with scenic lighting and design. Kevin also supports local companies including Brownsea Open Air Theatre where he is a former Trustee and produced many lighting and scenic designs for the National Trust island for over 15 years. He also loves Cornwall, graphic design and Jurassic Park.