Leah Sawyer

PRINCIPAL

Hi everyone, I’m Leah, Founder and Principal of Act One Stage & Screen, which I launched in 2023 (formerly known as Swish Winchester).

Alongside my incredible team, I am passionate about creating a supportive and inspiring environment where every child can build confidence, develop their performance skills and discover a lifelong love for the arts.

My own performing arts journey began at a young age. By the time I was 10, I was represented by a talent agency and working professionally in television and film. These early experiences gave me a unique insight into the industry and sparked my passion for both stage and screen performance.

I went on to train at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music & Dance before graduating with a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre

from Italia Conti. Throughout my career, I have performed at prestigious venues including OVO Arena Wembley, before moving into a creative role as an Assistant Director, working alongside West End directors on a range of productions.

Founding my own theatre school has always been a dream of mine. Act One Stage & Screen was created to give young performers a place where they feel supported, inspired and encouraged to reach their potential — whether they are stepping onto a stage or in front of a camera for the first time.

My aim is to share my passion, experience and industry knowledge while helping every student grow in confidence, creativity and friendships that will last a lifetime. I can’t wait to welcome you and your family to Act One and be part of your performing arts journey.

  • LUCY

    EARLY STAGE

    Our fantastic Early Stages teacher, Lucy, brings together a wealth of experience in both Musical Theatre and Early Years education. She studied Musical Theatre at the University of Winchester, where she trained in singing, dance and drama, and also holds a Grade 8 qualification in Musical Theatre alongside dance qualifications in Ballet, Modern, Jazz and Tap.

    Alongside her role at Act One, Lucy is a Reception Teacher and EYFS Lead, with previous experience teaching Year 2. She also leads Music and Dance within her school, where she has written and directed six productions for infant-aged children. Her passion for creativity, learning through play and nurturing young performers makes her a fantastic addition to our Early Stages team.

    Lucy is dedicated to creating a fun, inclusive and encouraging environment where every child can build confidence, develop their imagination and discover a love for singing, dancing and acting. Her enthusiasm, warmth and expertise ensure that every child enjoys an inspiring first step into the world of performing arts.

  • AIMEE

    DANCE

    Our amazing Main Stage Dance Teacher, Aimée, brings a wealth of professional performance training, teaching experience and passion for the arts to Act One Stage & Screen.

    Aimée trained in Musical Theatre at the Guildford School of Acting (GSA) and holds LAMDA Gold qualifications in both Acting and Musical Theatre, alongside RAD Ballet and ISTD Advanced qualifications in Tap and Modern. She has also completed a BA (Hons) degree in Primary Education and gained Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), combining her performing arts expertise with a strong understanding of how to inspire and support young learners.

    Aimée is passionate about creating engaging, encouraging classes where students can develop their technique, confidence and creativity. Her energy, expertise and love of teaching make her a fantastic member of the Act One team.

  • GEORGIA

    ACTING

    Our talented Acting Coach, Georgia, brings a wealth of professional performance experience and passion for storytelling to Act One Stage & Screen.

    Georgia began her training in Musical Theatre at Trinity Laban before completing her degree in Acting for Stage and Screen at the Professional Preparation Academy, where she graduated with a First-Class degree. Alongside her acting training, Georgia has worked professionally as a voice actor from a young age, a career she continues alongside her teaching at Act One.

    With a passion for voice, performance and helping young people find their confidence, Georgia is excited to begin her Master’s degree in Voice next year, with the aim of supporting children with speech difficulties. Her creativity, expertise and enthusiasm make her a wonderful addition to the Act One team.

  • ELLIE

    SINGING

    Our wonderful Musical Theatre Teacher, Ellie, brings fresh industry knowledge, creativity and a passion for performance to Act One Stage & Screen.

    Ellie has recently completed her degree in Musical Theatre, developing her skills as a performer across acting, singing and dance. She is passionate about continuing her own training and growing as an educator, with the ambition of inspiring the next generation through teaching Performing Arts in secondary schools across Winchester.

    Ellie’s enthusiasm, dedication and love for musical theatre help create engaging classes where students can build confidence, develop their skills and enjoy their own performing arts journey.