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We are proud to be a female led organisation committed to promoting and expanding the role and voice of women in the arts.
Kate is Artistic Director of ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company, which she founded in 2002. She is an Associate Artist at the Old Vic and at Sadler’s Wells, where ZooNation is also a Resident Company.
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Associate Artistic Director Dannielle, well known as Rhimes, is a London based Creative, Choreographer, and Entrepreneur.
Dannielle is known to craft together impactful movement and storytelling. She has brought creative life to both stage and screen as a performer and a creative architect.
Her stage performance credits include ‘Rap-On-Zel’ in ZooNation’s critically acclaimed award-winning West End show ‘Into the Hoods’ (2006 – 2009), Boy Blue’s Olivier Award winning production ‘Pied Piper’ and their Barbican sensation ‘Over the Edge’.
On screen Dannielle has performed the role of Justine in the box office smash hit film ‘Street Dance 3D’.
In 2012 Dannielle led Boadicea Crew to reach the finals of Got to Dance (Sky One) and later onto the show as a Supercrew. Following this Dannielle joined forces with Ashley Banjo to take Boadicea on tour with Britain’s Got Talent winners, Diversity. Tours included ‘Digitized’,’Limitless’, ‘Limitless The Reboot’ and ITV’s Up Close and Personal.
Choreographic work includes Assistant Choreographer for 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremonies, Assistant Choreographer on ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ (BBC), Associate Choreographer ‘Into The Hoods Remixed’, Associate Choreographer of ‘Everybody’s Talking about Jamie’ West End, UK Tour, Motion Picture and Australian tour and Associate Choreographer on ‘An Officer and a Gentlemen’ (Leicester Curve), Choreographer ‘Dick Whittington’ (National Theatre), ‘In the Willows’ (Meta Theatre), ‘The Sun, The Moon, The Stars’ (Stratford East). Choreographer on brand new British musicals ‘To The Streets’ and ‘The Lost Spells’. Her work on ‘Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World’ included choreography, songwriting and script consultation.
Directing credits include Associate Director on ‘Some Like It Hip Hop’ and Resident Director on ‘Everybody’s Talking about Jamie‘ West End production, Artistic Director of ZooNation Youth Company (Birmingham Hippodrome) and directing remounts of ‘Groove on Down the Road’ at Wolverhampton Arena Theatre, Birmingham Hippodrome and Southampton Mayflower Theatre. Dannielle is the winner of the OFFIES best Choreography/Movement award, was nominated for the Black British Theatre awards and has been a Judge and Mentor on BBC Young Dancer.
Dannielle’s most recently co-directed ZooNation’s 20th Anniversary show ‘Mixtape‘ at Sadler’s Wells, and was Choreographer on Olivier Award Winning production of ‘Hey Duggee’ (Southbank Centre and UK Tour). Currently Dannielle is working as the movement Director on Darren Brown’s latest West End Show ‘Unbelievable‘ (The Criterion Theatre).
Flo has 14 years experience working in theatre and the performing arts and has a background as a producer, senior leader and new business developer. Prior to working at ZooNation Flo spent ten years at the National Theatre growing their digital output. She produced more than 80 National Theatre Live broadcasts and grew the cinema broadcasts to a hugely successful and profit generating business reaching an audience of 11 million worldwide. She launched the streaming platform NT at Home during the Covid 19 pandemic and oversaw the educational streaming service NT Collection which is used by the majority of UK state schools.Flo has also worked at Complicite, the Barbican Centre and Theatre Royal Stratford East.
Flo lives in London, where she also grew up and alongside theatre and dance she loves live music, cold water swimming and attempting to make pottery.
“ZooNation produces truly groundbreaking work and engages with audiences, future generations and artists in a really exciting way. I have admired the company for many years and so I’m delighted to be joining the brilliant team and co-leading the company in its next chapter”.
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Chantal is Joint Executive Director for ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company. She has oversight for the company’s production and participation portfolio and financial strategy.
Chantal has worked with ZooNation since 2002 in a variety of roles from a performer, producer and now as joint Executive Director. She is also the Director and co-founder of ZooNation Academy of Dance, the not-for-profit teaching Academy of ZooNation which currently trains over 250 students each week.
“I have worked with the company since the beginning of it’s life as ‘ZooNation Dance Troupe’ in 2002. Initially as a performer, then as a Producer and now as joint Executive Director, and I feel very lucky to still be as excited and inspired by this wonderful company today as I was all those years ago. I am so proud to be have been part of the journey until now and even more proud to be part of what is to come.”
Sandra Castell García is the Executive Producer for ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company, where she leads on all aspects of production, from conception to delivery, working closely with partners across the UK and internationally to bring the company’s bold, high-energy work to the widest possible audiences.
With over 18 years’ experience across both the commercial and subsidised theatre sectors, Sandra brings a wealth of producing expertise particularly in large-scale touring and international collaborations. Before joining ZooNation, she held the role of Senior Producer at Selladoor Worldwide delivering a diverse slate of global tours including Flashdance the Musical, The Producers, Fame and Spamalot.
Sandra’s producing journey began in London’s most respected cultural institutions including an eight-year journey at Sadler’s Wells where she worked as a Producer in the Producing & Touring team collaborating on landmark productions and building relationships with venues worldwide.
“I’m so proud to be part of ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company, a company led by an inspiring woman whose values of creativity, diversity and representation resonate deeply with me. As we expand our reach and continue to champion meaningful, movement-led storytelling, I’m excited to help shape the future of the company and connect with audiences around the world through the power of theatre, dance and music.”
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Sophie is General Manager for ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company. She oversees day to day operations of the company, working to steer the strategic development of ZooNation and secure effective financial management.
With over 20 years in the creative industry, Sophie is a passionate and committed supporter of the performing arts and has extensive experience working with diverse artists and companies who remix cultures in new and inspiring ways.
Formerly she has been General Manager for Upswing Aerial and Nutkhut, and Senior Music Manager at Continental Drifts.
“I am thrilled to be joining ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company at such an important and exciting transition. The work is truly exceptional, and expanding nationally is one of the ambitious steps we are more than ready to take.”
Annie is Producer for ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company and also manages ZooNation Youth Company (ZYC).
Beginning her career as a dancer, Annie also taught in schools across London and is passionate about working with young people to increase their opportunities in dance and theatre.
“Having had several different roles since joining ZooNation, I am so excited to start my new position at such a pivotal moment for the company. I have huge admiration for the work that we do, love seeing the positive impact of our projects and feel very privileged to work with and learn from such an inspiring and talented team.”
Frankie is the Marketing and Communications Manager for ZooNation, responsible for our digital platforms and output.
Frankie moved to London from Yorkshire to study theatre at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Prior to joining ZooNation Frankie freelanced in the arts marketing sector for Some Voices Choir, Studio Cultivate, People People and the National Youth Theatre – where she worked in-house as their marketing manager for three years. Living in South East London, any downtime is usually spent with her young family.
“Working for ZooNation is everything I hoped it would be having been a massive fan of their work. We are a company with big ideas and a determination to collectively make them happen.”
Jasmine is the Company Coordinator for ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company. She is responsible for liaising with schools and artists to arrange workshops and assisting on projects across the company. As a recent graduate, Jasmine is over the moon to be kick starting her career in the industry within a company that she has admired for years.
‘It is a privilege to be working for a company that not only produces incredible work but also has such a focus on developing talent, promoting equality and empowering it’s audience’
Bradley is ZooNation’s Youth Mentor and Wellbeing Officer a role that works and supports young people engaged in ZooNation projects to nurture their creative and professional ambitions alongside acknowledging and supporting their personal development. Bradley started dancing professionally over 16 years ago, his experience has allowed him to teach and perform both nationally and internationally.
He has worked with some of the top commercial and underground artists in the entertainment industry on film projects, commercials, Theatre, Arena and world tours. His credits include working on the West End run of “INTO THE HOODS” with ZooNation, performing with Boy Blue Entertainment in their Laurence Olivier Award winning theatre show “PIED PIPER” as well as delivering choreography and performing with Flawless UK on their most recent world tour.
Bradley starred as lead character “Frankie” in the film STREETDANCE3D and performed and choreographed for the 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony. He is associate choreographer for National Theatre productions ‘Hex’.
We’re proud to work with a variety of freelance artists and creatives at ZooNation, these include:
D.J. Walde – Composer Josh Cohen – Composer Ben Stones – Set & Costume Designer
Lucy Atkinson is an experienced Producer and Executive Director working for twenty years in the performing arts. Lucy’s career has crossed art form and scale both in the subsidised and commercial sectors, with experience leading organisations and projects nationally and internationally. Working for and with some of the UK’s most influential and exciting artists and companies, Lucy is passionate about making and supporting work that is both engaging and accessible.
What excites you about being on ZooNation’s board?
‘Kate and the team are doing something incredibly special at ZooNation and I can’t wait to support this group of brilliant females to dream and achieve big. ’
Chris has worked for one of the ‘Big 4’ accounting firms for over 20 years, and particular enjoys working with businesses as they scale and grow.
He moved to London in 2014 and very shortly thereafter discovered the world of ZooNation as an escape from the mundane world of paper shuffling and spreadsheets. Although he is firmly on the audience side, rather than a performer, he was immediately engaged by the passion, enthusiasm and connection of the performers on stage and those who came to see the shows.
Chris lives in South West London with his wife and a variety of animals, including cats, chickens, snakes and a gecko.
Giving more people access to a form of performance art which is accessible and relevant to them is really important to me. I can’t wait to work with the directors to build on the fantastic foundations that they already have in place to help deliver that ambition.
Aran Cherkez is a theatre director, DJ, and Programme Manager at Go Live Theatre.
Formally the Artistic Director of Harringay Shed, with experience spanning London’s West End, Fringe, and Regional theatre, as well as music industry collaborations with Glastonbury and Southbank Centre, Aran bridges the gap between interdisciplinary practices. Their dedication extends to supporting the next generation of artists, ensuring a vibrant future for the creative community.
‘Championing the incredible work of the ZooNation team, ensuring the next generation has access to the arts and inspiring the future of theatre.’
Jo has worked in commercial and subsidised theatre for nearly two decades, with management and producing roles at the Gate, Donmar Warehouse and Runaway Entertainment. She is currently CEO of Mischief Worldwide, the strategic home for the work of Mischief, the global comedy group. Jo is a huge advocate for the storytelling, emotion-inducing power of dance.
‘I have been a ZooNation fan for years – of the skill, passion and joy in their shows and the integrity and commitment in their work with young people. I am so excited to get the chance as a trustee to support their future world dominance!’
Joanna has worked within the creative industries for over 20 years in leadership roles that span the disciplines of marketing, brand, communications, commercial income, strategy, data insights, audience development, digital engagement and fundraising. She is currently Chief Marketing Officer at The Old Vic, prior to which she led the marketing and communications functions for Leeds Playhouse, Lyric Hammersmith and the National Portrait Gallery.
‘The work of ZooNation, both on and off stage, is thrilling, inspiring, inclusive and entertaining. To be able to support the team – whether this be in developing the work on stage, developing projects for the next generation of talent, or exploring the pastoral and social benefits of engaging with their work – is a huge honour.’
Oke has had 4 distinct phases of his career. Firstly, he has had a very successful corporate career, joining Legal & General from university where he qualified as an accountant. He then joined Prudential where he had a number of senior leadership roles. It was here that he discovered his passion for customer experience.
Oke also has a passion for improving Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the UK. Oke has launched a start-up social enterprise, Elevate Colour, which will help leaders of colour, ‘arrive, survive and thrive’ in UK business.
What excites you about joining the ZooNation Board?
‘I believe that the work that ZooNation do is magical…who wouldn’t want to be involved in making more magic happen!’
Magdalen Fisher is an independent adviser, specialising in organisational development, fundraising, and strategic communications. She previously held leadership roles at Sadler’s Wells, English Heritage, Museum of London and Wigmore Hall. Magdalen supports the Imperial Health Charity as a member of its arts committee, is arts adviser to the Alzheimer’s Society, and a trustee of the Holburne Museum in Bath.
‘Being inspired by the Company, facing challenges together, having fun, and sharing knowledge and skills.’
Hannah is the Education and Community Director at The Old Vic Theatre leading on the strategy, development and implementation of all Education and Community projects and initiatives. Hannah specialises in using the arts as a social development tool and has worked in various arts education charities including Tender Education and Arts, Synergy Theatre Project and Tavaziva Dance where she was also a trustee.
‘Having the opportunity to support and connect with a brilliantly creative and driven company.’
Sharon is a Director in Google’s EMEA Partnerships team. She joined Google in 2011 and has had multiple roles at Google leading both Client facing Technical Services teams and Program Management teams in Strategy & Operations. Prior to joining Google, Sharon was Yahoo!’s EMEA Director of Advertising Operations. She is a passionate advocate for Diversity & Inclusion, co-chair of Women@Google UK, and a Trustee of Graeae Deaf/Disabled theatre company.
‘What excites you about being on ZooNation’s board?’
‘I am thrilled to join the board of ZooNation, a company whose innovative approach to dance resonates deeply with my passion for accessibility and inclusivity in the arts. I look forward to contributing to ZooNation’s mission of creating powerful stories through dance that engage and inspire diverse audiences.’
Ama Ofori-Darko is a British-born Ghanaian arts fundraiser. Currently Head of Development at Park Theatre, she previously held roles at Sadler’s Wells, the Young Vic, Royal Opera House, Kiln Theatre, Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, and Donmar Warehouse. Ama began her career as the inaugural Williams Fundraising Fellow at Tate Gallery. Additionally, she serves on the boards of Le Gateau Chocolat and the Contemporary Art Society, She was a London Theatre Consortium MOBO Executive Fellow in 2023.
‘I am a big fan of ZooNation, and the opportunity to support them on their board is a huge honour for me. ZooNation’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the arts resonates deeply with me. I am excited to contribute to their efforts in fostering a more inclusive creative landscape and engaging with the next generation of theatregoers.’
With a career spanning nearly 2 decades in the business, Jerry Reeve has danced, choreographed and created for some of the world’s top music artists and talent shows. Credits included Taylor Swift, John Legend, Kylie Minogue, George Michael and is currently Creative Director The Voice UK.
‘I’m honoured to be a part of such a board with a diverse group of people, allowing growth targeted change.’
Luke has worked in the world of theatre and arts marketing for close to two decades and is more driven than ever to expand how many people connect with and enjoy the thrill of the collective live experience. In collaboration with some of the industry’s most innovative producers and creatives, he has been trusted and is proud to have worked on a broad range of projects across the West End, Nationally and Internationally.
What excites you about being on ZooNation’s board
‘I feel immensely proud to be a part of a company that opens the doors to audiences of tomorrow, today.’
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