Formed in 1989 Hagley Theatre Company has launched many careers in theatre, film, television and radio. With a predominant focus on the practical nature of study our fulltime students have classes in acting, voice, physical theatre, music, dance, playwriting and stage direction - leading to public performance seasons. A self-contained, independent programme attached to Hagley College we help students achieve the skills necessary to compete in the performance arena, both amateur and professional.

StageOne began in 2005 following repeated enquiries from parents looking for better options in drama training. Parents and students like our structured classes, limited numbers (12 per class), strict enrolment procedures and variety of performance opportunities. With contacts all over the world StageOne uses the most up-to-date and relevant scripts available - some of which have never been seen before in New Zealand. 

In 2010 we introduced separate tuition for Dance, utilising staff from Hagley Dance Company and the purpose-built facilities at Hagley College.

StageOne students will have a variety of tutors and directors throughout the year. Our staff are actively involved in the industry, continuing to enhance and display their skills through performance. Their varied practical experiences and first hand knowledge of performing are valuable tools in the classroom environment.

Darryl Low        Creative Director

Originally from Invercargill, Darryl moved to Christchurch and completed his Diploma in Performing Arts in 2000 followed by an Internship in Directing in 2001. That same year he travelled to the USA where he taught and performed nationwide with the California Theater Centre. In 2002 he was appointed Associate Artistic Director for Hagley Theatre Company, a position he still holds today.

As well as overseeing the day-to-day running of Hagley Theatre Company Darryl also tutors Musical Theatre to both year levels and directs many of the Company's public seasons. 'Daz' works closely with Hagley College as their Arts CoOrdinator (incorporating Dance, Drama, Jazz and Music) and is also involved with the College's community education programme.

Darryl is also a performer in his own right, a former improvisation champion who regularly appears on stage for Hagley Theatre Company and in independent projects.

As Creative Director Darryl is responsible for ensuring StageOne continues to hold its well-earned reputation for excellence in the teaching of performing arts to the youth of Christchurch.

Damien McGrath

One of the original tutors from the very beginning of StageOne, Damien is also a graduate of Hagley Theatre Company. A recipient of a scholarship to attend the School of Mime in Finland (2002) Damien is a big fan of physical theatre and has used his skills and knowledge to create some fantastic performance pieces for StageOne.

Though he took some time out to travel overseas and then complete his Bachelor of Education Damien continues to be involved in the theatre community. He is the founding director of Liminal Theatre and devises many of their public pieces, one of which premiered recently at the Wellington Fringe Festival. In 2011 Damien came full circle when he returned to Hagley Theatre Company as their tutor of Physical Theatre.

Danielle Millar

After completing her training with Hagley Dance Company in 2008 Danielle began freelance teaching and performing, most notably at the 2009 Body Festival.

She was first to raise her hand when the Young Dance programme was suggested in 2010 and is a very popular teacher! In 2011 Danielle took over the administration of the Young Dance children.

Danielle works for Hagley College and is also studying with Canterbury University .

Stacy Goldsworthy

As an early childhood teacher and nursery veteran Stacy is well-placed to tackle our youngest Young Dance classes!

Stacy graduated from he Hagley Dance Company in 2004 and since then has performed and taught for a number of companies, including some in Melbourne and also offers herself as a host for childrens parties.