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Our Story
OUR VISION
At Halcyon Performing Arts, our vision is to provide a space where high-quality performing arts training and student wellbeing go hand in hand.
Since opening in 2018, we have been committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels valued, understood, and empowered to grow. We are proud to be a place where creativity is nurtured, individuality is celebrated, and every learner is encouraged to reach their full potential.
Our teaching is rooted in both professional performing arts training and educational practice. We offer specialist classes in dance, drama, and musical theatre for students aged 2 and upwards, delivered in small groups to ensure each child receives personalised support and attention.
At Halcyon, we look beyond performance alone. Through the arts, we actively support the development of confidence, communication, resilience, and emotional awareness - skills that extend far beyond the studio.
We are passionate about creating not just performers, but thoughtful, expressive, and self-assured individuals. By fostering empathy, collaboration, and a strong sense of community, we aim to make a meaningful impact both within our studio and beyond it.
Meet the Team
Principal Director
Rachel Hammerton
Miss Rachel is the Principal Director of Halcyon Performing Arts and a qualified teacher with a strong foundation in both education and the performing arts.
She began her training at Pat Eaket’s School of Dance and Drama, where she spent 15 years developing her skills across multiple disciplines. Here she gained vocational qualifications in classical ballet and tap, before achieving a first-class degree in Education.
With a passion for both teaching and the arts, Rachel founded Halcyon to bring high-quality, structured performing arts training to her local community. Her approach combines technical excellence with a deep understanding of how students learn and develop, ensuring every child is supported not only in their performance skills, but in their confidence and personal growth.
Under her guidance, students consistently achieve exceptional results, including a 100% pass rate and a 94% distinction rate in LAMDA examinations, alongside their continued success on stage and within the community.
Class Teacher
Lula Chinery
Miss Lula is a dedicated class teacher at Halcyon Performing Arts, with over 10 years of experience in the performing arts.
She has achieved distinction in all LAMDA examinations up to Grade 8, earning a prestigious Gold Medal, and brings both technical skill and genuine care into every class she teaches.
With three years of experience working with Early Years and primary-aged children, Lula specialises in inclusive teaching practices and is trained in British Sign Language (BSL). She is passionate about ensuring that every child feels seen, supported, and able to access the arts in a way that works for them.
Her teaching style is warm, engaging, and thoughtful, creating an environment where students can build confidence, develop their skills, and enjoy their learning journey.
Assistant Teacher
Brooke Ashton
Miss Brooke is a valued member of the Halcyon team, currently undertaking her teacher training alongside her college studies.
Having been a dedicated student at Halcyon for almost 10 years, she has developed a strong foundation in the performing arts and a deep understanding of the studio’s values and approach.
Brooke brings enthusiasm, patience, and a genuine love for working with younger students. As she progresses in her training, she is developing her teaching skills with a focus on creating a supportive and encouraging environment where every child can feel confident and included.
Her journey from student to teacher reflects the heart of Halcyon - nurturing growth, building confidence, and supporting the next generation both on and off the stage.