Over the last 19 years, CentreStage has opened many doors for young people looking to pursue their passion for the arts, giving them the space to develop their strengths and unlock their potential. Aged nine, Gemma was introduced to CentreStage by one of our outreach programmes and has been on a journey with us since. 



Our outreach programmes aimed to provide access and opportunities in the arts to people who might otherwise go without – ensuring everyone has the chance to be included, and to find their place. Following a visit to Gemma’s school, she joined us at CentreStage every Saturday morning and eventually performed in her first show, ‘The Little Mermaid Jr.’ 

When recounting her first performance, Gemma, like many others, had this to say: 

“I remember having terrible stage fright because I’d never sang in-front of anyone before and I refused to be in the second show”.  

Despite her stage fright, Gemma persevered and CentreStage gave her the tools to overcome her anxieties towards performing. Supported by leaders, CentreStage built up her confidence and she continued to flourish, going on to perform in musicals including ‘Annie’ and ‘Hairspray’. These productions were shown in theatre across the community, providing opportunities for everyone to watch, and be a part of the CentreStage magic. 

When she turned 14, she began to volunteer during the primary 4-7s summer camp. Due to her incredible work and dedication, she took on a role within the creative learning team when she was 17. She supported and led musical theatre and dance theatre classes for young people, as well as getting involved in many of our funded projects. During her time as a class leader, her achievements include being involved in the choreography for the Dance Theatre show ‘Dig’, co-directing ‘Beauty and the Beast’, and writing and directing the exclusive show ‘Jungle Jigsaw’. Gemma became a fond and well- known face around the building because of everything she has been involved in throughout her CentreStage journey. 

Throughout her time as a leader, Gemma became a role model and someone the young participants could look up to. Reflecting upon her time teaching, participants spoke about the influence and positivity Gemma spread in the classes she led: 

“Gemma has been my favourite inspiration.” 

“Just a big thank you to Matt, Gemma and Corran for helping me through this and helping me gain my confidence.” 

“Gemma, Matt and Corran are amazing people to teach me, they are so kind, sweet and helpful, give me big hugs when they know I need it most, they are the kindest people in the world. “ 

One participant wrote to Gemma personally as a thank you for all the incredible support provided during her time at CentreStage which really shows the impact she had across all the participants she engaged with. 

“I just really wanted to say thank you. I’ve never felt more at home than this. CentreStage is my comfort place all thanks to you, Matt and Corran. I didn’t give up when I most wanted to. I’ve struggled with my confidence since forever, but you and the others made me realise it’s okay to be myself. I never would’ve made it to this show if it wasn’t for your support. CentreStage is like a second home to me, and I hope to continue doing shows here for a long time”. 

When asked about her time at CentreStage Gemma emphasised the ability the organisation has to transform people’s confidence in the most positive manner. She said: 

“CentreStage constantly builds people up to reach their potential in a positive way which has really helped my confidence grow. CentreStage has sparked my interest in theatre. If it wasn’t for CentreStage I don’t think I would have studied, it in college and university.” 

If it had not been for the arts being taken into communities such as Ardeer, participants like Gemma may never have unleashed their potential and talent for theatre, and the resulting opportunities and aspirations that led her to being accepted into Urdang University. 

Gemma’s journey was forever changed that one afternoon, eleven years ago in Ardeer. Since being provided the opportunity, Gemma has gone on to perform in several shows from ensemble to lead, co-produced and led productions, and inspired another generation to explore the arts. 

Our Creative Team Lead, Matt Allison, has had the privilege of being there for the entirety of Gemma’s CentreStage journey and he said: 

“I’ve had the privilege of knowing Gemma for nearly 11 years- first as her leader, then her coworker, and more recently her team lead- and I couldn’t be prouder of the journey she’s taken. From her early days as a participant in Ardeer and the 15-21s musical theatre class, she’s always stood out for her commitment, warmth, and incredible stage presence. Some of my favourite moments have been watching her shine as Karessa in tick, tick… BOOM! – her performance of Come to Your Senses was genuinely beautiful and moving – and as Pilar in Legally Blonde, full of sass sparkle, and joy (and yes… “you off the hizzle g!”). Most recently, having her as choreographer and assistant director for Sister Act in May was an absolute pleasure. She brought such creativity, care, and calm to the process, and was a brilliant support to the cast and to me. Gemma is a hugely valued and much-loved part of the CentreStage family, and I have no doubt she’ll thrive at Urdang. We’ll miss her loads, but we’re all cheering her on for the exciting next chapter”. 

The next chapter of Gemma’s life brings new opportunities and we fondly wave goodbye as she moves on to study Musical Theatre in Urdang University in London. Everyone at CentreStage would like to thank Gemma for all the hard work and dedication she has put into the organisation, and we wish her all the best in London!