Background:
I love theatre in all its forms and am a self-proclaimed musicals obsessive. A fitness fanatic, I love the energy exercise gives me. I have travelled extensively throughout my life and love visiting new countries. A mother of two young boys I spend a lot of time outside walking and exploring. My weekends are often spent ferrying between football matches and mountain bike tracks.
What work experiences led you to the role you are in today?
Straight out of university I was lucky enough to start my career in professional theatre programming, working for Ambassador Theatre Group. The bright lights of the West End were swapped for the classroom way back in 2008 and I haven’t looked back since. The glamour of a London press night really is nothing compared to the pride you feel when your students create exciting work. Since then, I have been lucky enough to teach Drama at some fantastic schools with a long stint as Director of Drama at Cranleigh school which saw me develop my passion for directing. I am now delighted to be here at The Royal and am passionate about the performances we can create.
What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now? What makes it so interesting?
‘Royal Roots’ is an immersive site-specific piece we are writing about the history of our school due to be performed in July at our Creative Arts Gala. Jess Callanan, humanities teacher has been leading the research and I have been so intrigued by everything they have found. There is so much, I feel this summers piece might be ‘Royal Root’s part one.
What do you love most about your job and why?
I love watching a student’s creative idea taking shape, helping add a little seed to that idea and watching it flourish. I love throwing open a challenging conversation and encouraging discussion and debate. Most of all I love being able to turn tears into a smile just by listening, this is one of the best parts of the job.
What is a fun fact no one knows about you?
I used to be quite accomplished in an aerial hoop
Who inspires you?
My dad, Professor Andrew Lockwood. Stereotypical I know, but he was a teacher, so I think is part of the reason I am one. Together with my lovely mum they were incredible parents and now the best grandparents ever…oh and Dame Judy Dench, surely, I don’t need to explain that one.
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
I love Scuba Diving, I have ticked off manta rays but am now keen to dive with a whale shark. I also love performing and am a member of the Haslemere Players.
What single item would you take on a deserted Island?
A suitcase…with my children in it…(that counts as one item right?!)
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
This is a game I play with my children; you have to take turns to make up each other’s best day ever. An active outside day is always my favourite. I love a beach day, ideally with some Scuba involved, a beach BBQ, watching the sun set while listening to live music. Going to theatre is also a firm favourite!