Artists
Alan Clay
Alan has been an artist with Mind the Gap for many years, taking on leading roles in several of the company’s acclaimed productions, including Leave the Light On for Me, Birdie, and The Invite. In 2015, Alan created Skip Rap, a powerful semi-autobiographical piece of gig theatre that has been performed to wide acclaim.
Alison Colborne
Alison has been an artist at Mind the Gap since 2010 and has performed in many of the company’s acclaimed productions, including Contained, Mia, ZARA, and most recently, as Iris in Leave the Light On for Me. Alongside her work as an Artist, Alison is also part of the Mind the Gap team as a part-time Administrator. A talented musician, Alison is a Grade 8 saxophonist and an accomplished flute player.
Anna Gray
Anna has been an artist at Mind the Gap since 2014. Her biggest role with the company was in the touring production of Mia, which spent three weeks at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017. Outside of Mind the Gap, Anna has also enjoyed success, appearing as Norma in Leeds Playhouse’s 2019 production of Be My Baby. A passionate performer, Anna is a keen dancer and singer.
Charlotte Jones
Charlotte is an artist and performer working professionally with Mind the Gap since 2019. Her recent work includes Cathy: A Modern, Birdie, and Knotted, a physical theatre piece currently in development. In 2025, Charlotte completed an audio description training course through BD25 with Vicky Ackroyd and has since applied this skill to describe Front Line 1984/1985, an exhibition exploring Bradford’s African Caribbean communities in the 1980s.
Jez Colborne
Jez has been an artist at Mind the Gap for over twenty years, taking on leading roles in numerous productions, including Cyrano, Of Mice and Men, Contained, and ZARA. In 2005, he embarked on an unforgettable road trip across America’s Route 66 on the back of then Artistic Director Tim Wheeler’s Harley Davidson — a journey that became the inspiration for On The Verge, a show that toured nationally and internationally. As a composer and creative force, Jez is the mastermind behind several of Mind the Gap’s most successful productions, including Gift, Trickster, and Irresistible, which toured for many years with performances at the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad and international appearances in Germany and Switzerland. In 2004, Jez also won the Eurovision Song Contest for Disabled People.
JoAnne Haines
JoAnne is an artist, performer, and facilitator who has been performing professionally since 2011. Her recent work includes Dancing with Colours , Wendy: A Peter Pan Story, Waldo’s Circus of Magic and Terror, the national tour and film of a little space, the lead role in the large-scale outdoor spectacle ZARA and The Invite.
Laura Reed
Laura has been an artist at Mind the Gap since 2016. From 2017 to 2019, she toured festivals across the UK as part of the company’s street theatre performance Mirror Mirror. She was also one of the hosts of Mind the Gap’s YouTube series MTG TV (2016–2017). Outside of her work with the company, Laura enjoys creating videos for social media and researching new performance opportunities.
Liam Bairstow
Liam has been an artist at Mind the Gap since 2014 and has performed leading roles in many of the company’s productions, including Treasure Island, Contained, and as news anchor-man Sam Hill in ZARA. Outside of Mind the Gap, Liam has achieved significant success, becoming the first person with Down Syndrome to be cast in a recurring role on ITV’s Coronation Street. Since 2015, his character, Alex Warner, has appeared in over 120 episodes. Liam is also proud to serve as an Ambassador for Mencap.
Lorraine Brown
Lorraine joined Mind the Gap’s ensemble of artists in 2018 after appearing in the company’s acclaimed production Contained. She also toured nationally as one of the five main characters in a little space, a physical theatre co-production between Mind the Gap and Gecko and in the outdoor production, Birdie. Outside of the company, Lorraine plays bass guitar and sings with a couple of bands.
Howard Davies
Howard has been a long-standing member of Mind the Gap and has appeared as a performer in several of the company’s acclaimed productions, including Leave the Light On for Me, ZARA and Contained.
Jack Riley
Jack has been working with Mind the Gap since 2016. As a performer, he has appeared in productions such as ZARA and Contained, contributing his talent to the company’s innovative and inclusive storytelling.
Staff
Charli Ward
For over 18 years, I have been fortunate to build a career where passion and purpose meet. In 2006, I began my journey with Mind the Gap as an eager graduate, volunteering on the Making Theatre training programme. Eighteen years later, I remain inspired by how my work continues to bring together creativity, purpose, and joy. What began as a first step into theatre grew into a decade of creative leadership, culminating in my role as Academy Director. Today, I have the privilege of collaborating with our learning-disabled and/or autistic Artists to shape and deliver the company’s artistic vision as Creative Director.
Maria Thelwell
Originally from a youth and community background, I’ve spent 25 years working in the arts sector in theatre venues, companies and as a freelancer, driven by a love for making creative opportunities accessible to everyone. I’m passionate about building authentic, creative partnerships, and engaging new audiences and communities in meaningful ways. As Executive Producer at Mind the Gap I like to collaborate with a hands-on approach, always looking for ways to challenge perceptions and open up new possibilities in the sector.
Lesley Davis
As Mind the Gap’s Finance Manager, I’m responsible for everything relating to money! From paying our suppliers and staff to ensuring we invoice for our performances and student fees, I keep on top of the company’s finances and make sure everyone, and everything, gets paid on time. I also ensure that Mind the Gap is compliant with Government and charity legalisation.
Emily Blackwell
I’ve always loved theatre but knew early on the spotlight wasn’t for me. While studying English and Drama at Queen Mary University of London, I discovered my passion for producing during an internship at Fuel Theatre. After six years working with venues and companies in London and Cambridge, I joined Mind the Gap as Creative Producer. I help turn creative ideas into touring productions regionally, nationally, and internationally and love championing the brilliant work we make while exploring new collaborations.
Caroline Sheard
I joined Mind the Gap in 2022 after training in stage management at East 15 Acting School. As the Production Manager, I’m involved in projects across the company and help ensure the building and productions run seamlessly.
Jess Boyes
Since I started at Mind the Gap in 2015, I’ve had lots of different roles and have worked across artist development, fundraising, and producing creative projects of all kinds. I’m now producing Mind the Gap’s Community programme, working with local learning disabled & autistic people to tell their stories and find places where people’s voices can make change.
Melissa Conyers
There’s a saying at Mind the Gap that once you step through the doors, you never leave – and I can confirm it’s true! Twelve years later, I’m still here. My journey began in 2013 as a volunteer, and in 2014 I joined as a Learning Support and Admin Assistant. In 2015, I took on a permanent role as Learning and Participation Coordinator, which I held for six years. I then progressed to Head of Learning and Support for three years before becoming Head of Academy in 2024. In this role, I oversee all Academy programmes and lead the company’s support initiatives.
Melissa Jackson
I first stepped through the doors of Mind the Gap as an eager 16-year-old on a three-week work placement, and I’ve been part of the story ever since! After volunteering with the Academy, I returned post-university for another placement, became the Academy Support Worker, and today I’m proud to be the Learning & Participation Coordinator. I coordinate the Arts Academy and Partner Courses.
Jack Yarrow
I first joined Mind the Gap in 2016 as a fresh-faced 23-year-old volunteer, supporting the Music programme. The following year, I officially came on board as a Music Support Worker, and over the next few years I expanded into Totally Theatre and the Academy at Calderdale. After a year travelling around New Zealand in 2022/23, I returned to Mind the Gap – it was always meant to be! I’m now the Performance Academy Support Worker and also teach music on the Music Academy programme.
Matt Evens
I am the Academy Music Tutor at Mind the Gap, and I run the Arts Academy and Performance Academy music programmes. I create fun and educational projects for students to develop their existing talents and also for students to explore new musical instruments, ensembles and experiences.
Karen Bartholomew
I’ve been championing inclusive and accessible dance since 2007, working with organisations like Phoenix Dance Theatre, Yorkshire Dance, Leeds Playhouse, and the Northern School of Contemporary Dance. I lead MeshDance, empowering young people and adults with learning disabilities and/or autism through dance training and mentorship. At Mind the Gap, I’m Associate Artist: Dance and Engagement, supporting movement and choreography across the company and its partnerships. Recent highlights include co-creating A Little Space with Gecko, being Movement Director for Birdie, and working on The Invite.
Becca Johnson
I joined Mind the Gap in 2021 after three years in theatre facilitation and support work across Yorkshire, mainly with Leeds Playhouse. I started as a Learning Support Worker and, in 2024, became Associate Artist: Theatre and Creative Support. In this role, I teach Theatre and Industry Studies on the Performance Academy course, run theatre-based workshops, and creatively support sessions to help students and Artists reach their full potential.
Katie Aynsley
I’m the Academy Dance Tutor and I have been with MTG for seven years, working across most of the dance courses, including Performance Academy, and Academy at Calderdale, both supporting and teaching. I am now focused on teaching on the Dance Academy course.
Sarah Chapleo
I’m the Academy Theatre Tutor at Mind the Gap, where I’ve spent four brilliant years supporting creativity and learning. When I’m not at Mind the Gap (usually on Mondays), I work as a theatre-maker and facilitator. My practice focuses on verbatim (documentary) theatre and creating inclusive spaces where people feel empowered to share their stories and express themselves.
Lisa Debney
I arrived at Mind the Gap having seen their show ‘Mia’ which left me wanting to know more about the company and their creative process! After two years of regular volunteering on the Arts Academy Theatre Course, I became the support worker for Mind the Gap’s first satellite course ‘Get into Performing Arts’ in Halifax. In addition to this I also work across the Partner Courses and Engagement Programmes, supporting Totally Theatre, Free Flow and Social Club and a number of engagement projects.
Bee Skivington
In the summer of 2010, I saw an advert for a Theatre Worker at Mind the Gap, and I knew instantly it was the job for me! Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of roles across Academy, Artists, Touring, and Engagement. I love meeting new people and sharing the work we do at Mind the Gap. In my current role as Engagement Programme Creative Practitioner, I use inclusive creative practice to create welcoming spaces where people can explore their creativity and share their stories.
Naelah Shahzad
I joined the company nearly 10 years ago as a Company Administrator, supporting key aspects of the company’s daily operations. After five years, I transitioned to the role of Community and Youth Development Worker, focusing on outreach and engagement within the local community. I am now the Community Projects Coordinator within Mind the Gap’s Engagement Team, where I lead the day-to-day management of projects and administration, and take a leading role in building strong connections with communities in Bradford.
MJ Jones
I am the Events and Operations Coordinator for Mind the Gap. This means I look after Mind the Gap’s wonderful building, keeping it in good shape and safe for everyone to enjoy. I also oversee any events that happen at Mind the Gap. I am usually the first person you will speak to if you give us a phone call, drop us an email, or visit us – come say hello!
Vicky Ackroyd
I am an access champion (I chose this job title as I think it suggests I might have a medal somewhere.. sadly I don’t) and I work with lots of creative organisations exploring accessible ways to work. With a background in theatre and media, I began audio describing in 2009 and regularly describe for theatre, dance and art exhibitions. I have been lucky enough to have been involved with Mind the Gap in some way or another since 2006 and now lead the partner programmes – Totally Arts and Totally Theatre, and support access.
Paul Wilshaw
I started out at Mind the Gap on the company’s Making Theatre training course before a brief stint as an Artist with the company. Following a successful internship as Assistant Producer on ZARA in 2019. I am an advocate for both the company and for people with learning disabilities, and I am also the host of the podcast Disability And…
Board member
Emma Gee
I have been involved with Mind the Gap for many years, first as the company’s Outreach Director in the mid-2000s and later as a freelance director. I now work for Orkney Islands Council as their Arts Officer, supporting artists and organisations to create wonderful work, but I always enjoy returning to Bradford – and visiting Mind the Gap – whenever I can. From 2022 to 2024, I have served as Co-Chair of the Board alongside Lynne Carter. In this role, I share responsibility for ensuring that Mind the Gap delivers on its promises in a way that is both legal and accountable to its funders. I work closely with the whole team to make sure the Board reflects the company’s audiences, participants, and partners, helping to guide the organisation with fairness, insight, and a strong connection to the communities it serves.
Lynne Carter
I joined Mind the Gap’s Board in February 2011 and currently serve as Co-Chair alongside Emma Gee. In this role, we are focusing on recruiting new board members, particularly people with disabilities, young people, and individuals from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, to help Mind the Gap become even stronger at removing barriers and making the arts accessible to everyone. I am also an active member of the People and Home Action Group and the Equalities Working Group. I retired from paid work in 2021 after a career teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages across Bradford and working as an Equality and Diversity Manager in the local NHS.
Lisa Mallaghan
I am the Executive Director of Bradford Producing Hub (BPH), a charity and arts development organisation dedicated to creating a fairer, more representative arts ecology in Bradford. I founded BPH in 2019 after 14 wonderful years at Mind the Gap in a variety of roles, including Senior Producer, though you never really leave MTG, and I’m delighted to be officially back in the family as a trustee! I’m often invited to speak on panels and at conferences, sharing my experience in dismantling systemic barriers to the arts and creative careers, and my passion for ensuring that Bradford’s arts sector thrives by truly reflecting the people it serves.
Jamie Saye
Before co-founding SAIL, I spent 11 years at Opera North in Leeds as a Technical Manager, and I continue to work on freelance projects across music, live events, and theatre. While at Opera North, I led the organisation’s sustainability initiatives, which were recognised with
the “Best Newcomer” award at the 2019 Creative Green Awards. At SAIL, I lead the sustainability partnership with Bradford 2025, UK City of Culture, and act as sustainability champion for Bradford Producing Hub. I am also a certified Carbon Literacy trainer, sit on the productions committee of the Theatre Green Book, and contribute to the directors and advisors’ group for Museum Development North
Ruth Mason
My career spans advertising and sales, leadership and management training, fundraising, and organisational development. I have also worked in theatre and opera, focusing on the business side of the arts. More recently, I have been working in the local NHS, helping people achieve their best and supporting the development of patient services. I am a member of the Money and Partners Action Group, working closely with Executive Producer Maria, Creative Director Charli, and the rest of the team to make the best possible decisions about how the company spends money and raises funds.
Susan Moreland
I have worked in a variety of organisations and have been a trustee before, so I have some understanding of what the role involves. Living in Heaton, it feels great to support a charity right on my doorstep. I currently work for a small charity in Bradford called Scholemoor Beacon, and I try to work in a way that celebrates differences and champions the idea that we all have skills and gifts to offer.
Val Robinson
Mind the Gap brings together two of my passions: creating opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities and neurodivergence, and the wonderful world of the creative arts. I am now retired, but I spent over 40 years working as a paediatrician in the NHS, learning so much about autism and learning disabilities from the young people I worked with and their families. I have always loved watching theatre, as well as performing and directing as an amateur, and I believe that the arts should be accessible to everyone.