Our vision for GSA

To build on the significant success of the GSA and in support of the University of Surrey’s strategy, we have outlined the following vision for the School.
A globally-leading university conservatoire and centre of creative excellence for specialised and intensive training, education and research in performer and technical theatre training and performance making. At its core, a creative and reflective community of practitioners and researchers positively contributing to the social, economic, political and cultural challenges of the contemporary world.

Maintaining the unique nature of a conservatoire within a research-led university requires teaching and research of the highest quality. It is vital that close engagement with the creative industries and the related sectors are combined with a robust conviction and communication of the benefits of its activities to industry and society.

GSA Building

We have great ambitions for GSA. The Advisory Group will help us achieve these ambitions by:

  • Offering advice, guidance and ideas
  • Providing motivation, encouragement and focus
  • Promoting GSA within their own industries and networks
  • Helping us secure investment

The Advisory Group’s terms of reference will be:

  1. To advise the School on projects which will have an impact on the achievement of GSA’s vision, mission and strategic goals.
  2. To act as advocates on behalf of the School to a variety of constituencies
  3. To assist the School in achieving sustained excellence across a broad range of criteria.
  4. To act as a sounding board for the School

Advisory Group Members

Ashley Herman (Chair) Founding Director | Playing Field
Alastair Lindsey-Renton Agent | Curtis Brown Literary & Talent Agency, GSA Alumni
Bruce Guthrie  Theatre Director, GSA Alumnus
Catherine McNamara Head of Guildford School of Acting
Chris Ryan  Commercial Director | Encore Tickets
David Dobson  Business Development Director | Really Useful Group
Fiona Thomas Vice-President | Disney Theatrical Europe
Hugh Wooldridge  Theatre Director
Ian Talbot OBE Theatre Director
Kevin McGrath OBE  Chair | McGrath Charitable Trust
Kobna Holdbrook-Smith  Actor, GSA Alumnus
Michael Gattrell Managing Director & Senior Agent | CDM Ltd
Paul Wooller Head of Casting | Cameron Mackintosh
Paul Taylor-Mills Theatre Producer
Pippa Treharne Operations & Engagement Manager
Sean Sweeney  Theatre Producer | Charing Cross Theatre
William Herman  General Manager | Jermyn Street Theatre, GSA Alumnus