Cameron has been working in theatre and drama in education for over 30 years.

In this time he has taught at all levels of education, been involved in curriculum research and design and has acted in and directed numerous plays and commercial work. Cameron has worked in Australia and the USA teaching and directing for professional theatre companies and Universities.

Since he arrived in 1990 Cameron has developed a unique course of study for Hagley Theatre Company where he is currently Artistic Director.

Cameron is also the Company's Head of Acting and tutors Stage Direction.

Darryl Low  Dip.PerfArts
Associate Artistic Director / Musical Theatre

Following two years training with the Company Darryl attained his Diploma in Performing Arts in 2000.

He then acted in a nationwide tour of the USA with the California Theatre Center in 2001 and returned to New Zealand later that year to complete his Internship in Directing. He joined us in 2002 as the Associate Artistic Director.

Darryl directs many of our public seasons and is also Creative Director for StageOne, our programme dedicated to youth. He is also involved with ballet and annually produces a piece in aid of the Nelson Hospice.

In addition to working for us Darryl is the Arts CoOrdinator for Hagley College.

Candice Egan 
Dance/Choreography

Originally from Melbourne, Candice obtained her Double Degree in Arts and Teaching from Deakin University in 2005, with a focus on contemporary dance and theatre. She then taught Performing Arts at Ringwood Secondary School (Melbourne) which included directing and chorographing musical productions in addition to co-leading a world tour.

As a performer Candice has appeared at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, been involved with many musical productions, toured extensively with a Theatre in Education company and has had wide experience with television, sporting and charity events.

Candice moved to Christchurch in 2009 and taught for both St Margaret's College and Rangi Ruru Girls' School before joining our team in 2010.

In addition to teaching our students Candice is also Head of Dance for Hagley College and Director of Hagley Dance Company.

Damien McGrath 
Physical Theatre

Events have come full circle for Damien who returned to Hagley Theatre Company in 2011, but as a tutor and not a student.

Damien completed three years of training with us in 2001 and since then has travelled, studied mime and founded two of his own independent performance companies.

Damien also gained his Bachelor in Education while teaching for StageOne and has jumped at the chance to return and inject his own style and perception of Physical Theatre into the Company. He never strayed too far and we are very pleased he has come back.

Wendy Lahy-Neary  BA (Hons)   PGCE   MA   DipC
Performance Studies / World Theatre / Dance

Wendy is the Head of Drama for Hagley College and, together with her husband runs the tank driving experience Tanks for Everything

Wendy completed her extensive qualifications in England with Manchester University, Bedford College and Liverpool University. As a performer she has appeared at The Green Room, The Crucible Theatre and completed a tour of Europe. Her teaching career has taken her to the United Kingdom, USA, Thailand and of course New Zealand.

Marie Huston   NZNSA  ITEC International
Make Up

We are very lucky to have secured the services of Marie, a highly regarded make up artist who has an extensive list of credits ranging from theatre, TV and film to opera, dance and fashion. Marie introduces our students to the basics of make up and special effects required for characterisation.

Always in demand Marie is the make up authority in Christchurch and currently works with many organisations including Showbiz and Southern Opera.