Meet the Team
At Northern Star Theatre Arts
Geri Feeney
Principal / Singing Teacher
Geri trained at one of the top drama schools in London 'Mountview Theatre School' she has extensive experience of all three disciplines of performing arts, acting, dancing and singing has held roles in productions in London's West End and acted in regional theatre. Geri has acted in TV dramas for ITV and BBC & commercials, but also performed as part of the show team on board P&O's luxury cruise liners. Geri has previously taught speech & drama at Bow Durham School, Sunderland High School, Argyle House and Emmanuel College. Geri is also a qualified LAMDA instructor with an enviable track record for success.
Elaine Taylor
Drama Teacher
Elaine's journey in the Performing Arts began early, earning A-levels from Tyneside College. She graduated with a 2:1 in Performing Arts from Sunderland University, covering Acting, Dance, and Music. Furthering her education, she obtained a P.G.C.E teaching qualification at Northumbria University and became a certified LAMDA instructor. Elaine joined Northern Star as a student, and then progressed to become our drama instructor Elaine's drama credentials include TV adverts, safety videos, and local television productions. Her extensive expertise has made her an integral part of the Northern Star team for many years.
Sarah Riach
Dance Teacher
Sarah, holding a BA (Hons) Dance 2:1 and PGCE from the University of Sunderland, is a seasoned dance professional with over two decades of experience in various styles, from Ballet to Charleston. She earned an MA in Education from Durham University. A dance instructor across multiple north-east schools, she currently serves as the Associate Head of School for Performance at the University of Sunderland, whilst also contributing 16 years of creativity and enthusiasm to the Northern Star Theatre Arts team. Sarah is also a freelance choreographer who also holds a Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA).
Matthew Smith
Technical Director
Matthew is a Stage Manager and theatre technician who has worked in theatres across the West End and regionally, including Deputy Stage Manager on Gerry and Sewell at the Aldwych Theatre and Newcastle Theatre Royal. He has been part of the Northern Star Theatre Arts family for over a decade, working across a wide range of productions in both stage management and technical roles. He holds a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Production Arts (Distinction) from Gateshead College and is currently studying BA (Hons) Production Technologies and Stage Management at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London. Alongside his studies, he continues to support Northern Star remotely with production and administrative work, returning during term breaks to work in person with the team.
Neve Cameron
Admin and support
Neve, who transitioned from being a dedicated Northern Star student to a valuable staff member, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the daily operations at NSTA. Managing fee payments and ensuring transparent communication with parents are key aspects of her responsibilities. However, her impact extends beyond administrative duties, as she actively supports students facing challenges. Neve provides comfort, assists in calming them down, and facilitates their smooth reintegration into lessons. This focus on student care underscores Neve's unwavering commitment to the well-being of the NSTA community.
Lisa Cairns
Safeguarding and support
Lisa, who has been part of the Northern Star Theatre Arts community for many years, serves as our Support and Safeguarding Lead and Head Chaperone. She works every Saturday supporting students and staff, ensuring a safe, caring and well-managed environment across all sessions. With all of her children having attended Northern Star over a number of years, Lisa’s commitment to Northern Star Theatre Arts is deeply personal as well as professional, and she continues to be a valued and trusted part of the Northern Star family, supporting both the wider team and the young people within it.
