Welcome to G&S Performing Arts, the brand new school located at Esher Theatre! Our focus is on performance rather than exams, offering non-syllabus classes that help build confidence and motivate passionate and enthusiastic children who love to perform. The school was inspired by Babette Langford and founded by Gioia Gray and Charlie Swift, who were motivated to create a unique experience for individuals aspiring to become performers and professionals in the entertainment industry. With a team of highly experienced instructors we aim to cover a varied program of dance styles and musical genres. G&S Performing Arts equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the competitive field of show business.
Gioia Gray - Principal / Founder
Gioia started her career as a child actor appearing in various TV shows, films and musicals. She trained at the Italia Conti. After leaving College her Film and TV Credits include La Passione, Casualty and Comrade Dad. She appeared in many Pantomines including Goldilocks & the Three Bears, Robinson Crusoe, Cinderella and Aladdin, where she was part of the Ensemble / Dance Captain and Understudy. Gioia has been the choreographer for Babette Langford's Young set for over thirty years. Choreographing for various London Cabarets, Variety Shows and Parades. She was the artistic director and choreographer for the Borough of Richmond's entry in the 2020 New Years Day Parade where they were awarded the 2nd Prize. Gioia is also the resident choreographer at Esher Theatre
Charlie Swift - Chairman / Founder
Charlie Swift is a creative producer, director and CEO of Swift Entertainment, a live entertainment and leisure company supporting vital infrastructure and facilities within the entertainment industry. Swift Entertainment are also the proud operators of Esher Theatre. Over the years Charlie has worked with many clients including, LG, Sainsbury’s, The London Resort, Barclays, Warner Bros, Yamaha, Historic Royal Palaces, Techfort, Cappagh, YMCA ,Princes Trust and many more. Within this Charlie is also is the producer and director of the Esher Theatre pantomime. With over 20 years of work and a constantly growing profile, Charlie is extremely excited and honoured to be a part of G&S and it's inspiring journey.
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Our Teachers
Adina May Monk - Teacher
Adina grew up in Bristol and started dancing at the age of 2. Over the years developed a deep love for musical theatre and all things singing, dancing and acting so started professional training at The Big Act Academy of Theatre Arts in Bristol before going on to study Professional Dance and Musical Theatre at the renowned Bird College Conservatoire for 3 years. Since graduating Adina has performed in a variety of productions including Pantomime, Immersive theatre, singing gigs and several dance jobs. With experience in teaching a variety of dance styles and in childcare, Adina is thrilled to be part of the team at G&S! ​
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Myfanwy Grace - Teacher (Junior Class)
Myfanwy grew up dancing and performing at her parents Performing Arts Academy in rural North Wales. She then trained in Musical Theatre at the acclaimed ArtsEd, London. She has appeared in a wealth of productions and performances, including leading a production of 'The Snow Queen' with the London Touring players, and performing as Maria Von Trapp with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall. Myfanwy has a wealth of teaching experience in ballet, jazz, musical theatre, tap and street dance working with children and young people from 6 months to 19 years!! As a teacher and performer, she believes that performing can help students grow in confidence and make friends that will last a lifetime, and is excited to be working at G&S Performing Arts!
Daisy Gray - Assistant Teacher
Daisy started working with children from the age of 14. She is a qualified Early Years Educator and has worked in several different nurseries from the age of 16. Daisy is a professional Chaperone and a qualified Pediatric First Aider and holds an advanced DBS, Daisy started dancing at the age of 2 & has appeared in numerous professional shows including Evita, Joseph, War of the World's, Scrooge, Never Forget & Jekyll & Hyde. Daisy is enjoying her new role as an assistant teacher at G&S.