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Singing Teachers and Acting Coach

TEAM

MEET
THE TEAM

Expert coaches. Passionate mentors.

At Midlands Voice Academy, our team of expert vocal coaches is united by a shared passion for helping singers of all levels reach their full potential. Based in Hinckley, Leicestershire, each coach brings a unique blend of industry experience, technical knowledge, and a supportive, student-centred approach.

 

Whether you're just beginning your vocal journey or preparing for a professional career in performance, our team is here to guide, challenge, and inspire you every step of the way. Under the leadership of Founder and Principal Alana Shirley, our coaches are handpicked to deliver outstanding training that reflects the academy’s core values: excellence, creativity, and care.

THE MVA
FACES

FOUNDER • CEO • LEAD COACH

 

The vision at Midlands Voice Academy is the belief that vocal development is not just about sounding great - it’s about building confident, healthy, and resilient performers. Under the leadership of internationally recognised and award winning performer Alana Shirley, the schools' mission is to nurture every student's technique, vocal health, and personal growth through expert, personalised training.

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As a certified voice specialist, Alana trained at the prestigious Bird College of Performing Arts, graduating with a First Class Honours Degree. She holds a Diploma in Musical Theatre from the London College of Music, certifications in Estill Voice Training, and is a fully qualified Vocal Health First Aider. She a trusted name in elite vocal coaching, combining evidence-based technique with deep industry experience.

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Alana's performing career includes headline credits across the UK and internationally, including:

  • The D-Day Darlings - Britain’s Got Talent (ITV), Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, Saturday Kitchen, Channel 5 News, Heart FM, UK Top 5 album 'I'll Remember You' (Sony Records)

  • BBC Proms: Sondheim at 80 - Royal Albert Hall (BBC2) alongside Dame Judi Dench and Stephen Sondheim

  • Lead vocalist in international tours and productions across North America, Canada, Europe, South America and China, including Broadway Christmas Wonderland, Dancing Queen, Hooray for Hollywood & Man In the Mirror

  • Featured soloist at prestigious events for Princess Anne, The England Cricket Board, Amanda Holden, and The Sovereign Prince of Monaco

  • International Cruises with P&O, Silversea, Princess & Marella

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SINGING • PIANO

VICE PRINCIPAL

 

Eleanor Charman is the Vice Principal of Midlands Voice Academy and a highly respected Vocal and Piano coach, specialising in advanced training and professional industry preparation. A graduate of the prestigious Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, Elle brings exceptional insight into the demands of today's performing arts industry.

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With a focus on elite-level audition coaching, technical mastery, and musical versatility, Elle works with aspiring professionals to prepare for drama school entry, West End auditions, and performance careers. Her students consistently achieve outstanding results, with a 100% Distinction rate in Musical Theatre graded exams (London College of Music) - the highest possible achievement.

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Eleanor’s teaching is sharp, focused, and empowering. She tailors her sessions to suit each performer’s goals, combining high-level vocal technique with expert repertoire guidance, stylistic versatility, and performance coaching that builds both confidence and presence.

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As a seasoned educator and performer, Eleanor plays a key role in shaping the academy’s training programmes, ensuring that every student receives the support, feedback, and challenge needed to reach their full potential.

With a deep understanding of the current industry landscape, Eleanor is passionate about helping singers not only meet the standard - but rise above it.

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ACTING
 

Kimisha Lewis is a professional actress, director, and acting coach, bringing a wealth of industry experience and creative expertise to Midlands Voice Academy. A graduate of Rose Bruford College, Kimisha works actively across stage, screen, and film, and draws on her vibrant career to guide and inspire her students at every stage of their journey.

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Kimisha’s extensive performance credits include major roles in acclaimed productions such as:

  • Sabrina in Everybody's Talking About Ronaldo (Birmingham Rep/Tectum Theatre)

  • Vanessa in When We See Ourselves (Derby Theatre/Altered Skin)

  • Naomi in A Play for the Living in a Time of Extinction (Headlong Theatre)

  • Ms. Senabo in I Ain’t Dumb (Belgrade Theatre, directed by Rikki Beadle-Blair MBE)

  • Desiree/Dancing Bear U/S in The Upstart Crow (West End - Gielgud Theatre)

  • Wizard Jane in Odd Squad (BBC & PBS)

  • Leonie in Sent to Cov (Sky Arts)

 

With a diverse portfolio across classical theatre, new writing, family shows, and television, Kimisha brings a wide stylistic range and real-world insight to her teaching. Her lessons are tailored to the individual, empowering each student - amateur or professional - to develop their unique voice and identity as a performer. 

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Kimisha’s coaching is rooted in joy, structure, and discovery. Whether you're training for drama school, preparing for auditions, or looking to refine your acting craft, she offers consistent support, expert guidance, and a nurturing environment that encourages risk-taking and growth, inspiring the next generation of actors.

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SINGING • PIANO

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Louise Calver is a passionate and engaging singing teacher at Midlands Voice Academy, with a rich background in performance, music education, and youth theatre. A confident and versatile performer, Louise has trained and performed with Midlands Voice Academy, Coventry Youth Operetta Group, Birmingham Ormiston Academy, and SOTE, gaining experience across a wide range of musical styles and settings. Louise gained her professional performance degree from Performers Essex in Dance & Musical Theatre.

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As a vocalist, Louise is proud to have performed with the Firebirds Charity Choir, helping to raise over £50,000 for vital causes. Her commitment to using music as a force for good reflects her positive, community-driven spirit - something she brings into every lesson she teaches.

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Louise's journey began as a child actor and model, appearing in national campaigns including adverts for KFC, Disney's Alice Through the Looking Glass, and modelling for Asda George. These early experiences in the industry give her a unique understanding of performance from both a professional and developmental perspective.

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Louise's teaching style is warm, supportive, and creative - designed to help even the youngest students feel confident, inspired, and excited about their voice.

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At Midlands Voice Academy, Louise focuses on helping students build strong foundations in vocal technique, musicality, and performance confidence. Her lessons are full of energy, tailored to each individual's needs, and always delivered with care and encouragement.

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SINGING • PIANO • CLUB LEADER

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Grace Tracey is a talented and dedicated singing teacher at Midlands Voice Academy, known for her warm approach, technical knowledge, and ability to bring out the best in every student. With a strong foundation in vocal performance and a deep passion for music education, Grace works with singers of all ages levels to build confidence, improve technique, and develop their unique vocal identity.

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Her lessons focus on healthy vocal habits, stylistic versatility, and expressive performance, ensuring that each student receives tailored guidance suited to their goals - whether that’s preparing for exams, auditions, or personal growth.

Grace believes in creating a supportive and empowering environment where students can explore their voice without fear, and grow not only as singers but as confident individuals. She brings creativity, patience, and encouragement to every session, helping students unlock their full potential through structured, enjoyable, and inspiring vocal training.

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In addition to her studio-based 1:1 singing lessons, Grace Tracey also leads MVA After-School Clubs across infant and junior schools in Warwickshire and Leicestershire. She introduces children to the joy of singing through fun, age-appropriate sessions that focus on building confidence, creativity, and vocal expression. Grace’s work in schools plays a key role in nurturing musical potential from an early age, helping young singers explore their voice in a positive and inclusive environment.

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SINGING • PIANO • CLUB LEADER

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Imogen began her performing arts journey at ASA Theatre Arts, where she trained in Musical Theatre, before moving to London to continue her professional training at the prestigious Italia Conti Academy. With a strong foundation in vocal performance and extensive training in singing, Imogen brings both expertise and infectious energy to every lesson.

 

Imogen’s teaching is creative, friendly, and highly individualised - carefully tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. Whether preparing for graded singing exams, auditions, or simply developing confidence and technique, her lessons strike a perfect balance between structure and fun.

 

Over the past two years, Imogen has been a valued member of the MVA team, specialising in vocal coaching for children aged 5-14 years. She focuses on building solid vocal foundations, exploring rhythm through the use of instruments, and guiding students through a wide and exciting range of repertoire.

 

Her warm, encouraging approach is especially effective for more nervous singers, helping them feel safe, supported, and empowered to find their voice.

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SINGING • CLUB LEADER

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Kenzie Lauder is a dynamic singing teacher and commercial performer, bringing her energy, industry experience, and love for the arts to students across Midlands Voice Academy. Trained at the renowned Addict Dance Academy, Kenzie is a versatile performer and passionate educator dedicated to developing confident, expressive young voices.

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In addition to her studio-based 1:1 singing lessons, Kenzie leads the MVA After-School Clubs across infant and junior schools in Warwickshire and Leicestershire, where she introduces children to the joy of singing through engaging, age-appropriate sessions that focus on confidence, creativity, and vocal fun. Her work in schools plays a vital role in nurturing musical talent from an early age, helping young singers discover their voice in a supportive, inclusive environment.

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As a professional performer, Kenzie’s credits include:

  • Commercial Dancer on the Becky Hill UK Tour

  • Appearances in three music videos for up and coming artist Alimish

  • Stage roles in Funny Girl, Billy, and Our House at the Concordia Theatre, Hinckley

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Her background in both Musical Theatre and Commercial dance gives her a dynamic edge in the classroom, inspiring students to bring energy, presence, and storytelling to their vocal performances.

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Kenzie’s teaching style is upbeat, approachable, and focused on building technique through enjoyment and encouragement. Whether working with beginners or experienced students, she brings a genuine passion for helping each young performer grow in confidence and skill.

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SINGING • CLUB LEADER

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Charlotte Stickels is a talented singing teacher and after-school club leader at Midlands Voice Academy, known for her fresh, student-focused approach and strong understanding of today’s industry standards. A recent graduate of ASA Theatre Arts, Charlotte is up to date with the latest professional training methods and performance expectations, offering her students valuable, relevant insight into the world of Musical Theatre and vocal performance.

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Charlotte has played lead and featured roles in a variety of productions, including:

  • Serena in Fame

  • Pilar in Legally Blonde

  • Violet in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

  • Ensemble in Be More Chill

 

She also had the honour of performing on the West End stage at the Lyric Theatre alongside an esteemed host of West End stars, as part of the Cheer Up Charlie Charity Concert, supporting diversity and inclusion in the performing arts.

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In addition to her 1:1 vocal coaching in the studio, Charlotte leads MVA After-School Clubs across infant and junior schools in Warwickshire and Leicestershire. Her sessions are fun, inclusive, and focused on building confidence, creativity, and strong vocal foundations for young singers.

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Charlotte’s teaching style is warm, energised, encouraging, and tailored to each student’s individual journey. She is passionate about helping the next generation of performers find their voice and thrive - on stage and beyond.

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"Fabulous school - my daughter thoroughly enjoyed her time at MVA, and the skills she was taught her enabled her to go on and train at Italia Conti. She will be forever grateful for the training and encouragement she received at Midland Voice Academy, and so will I".

Elaine Greedy-Hubbard

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