About Us

Rising Stars Musical Theatre

The History of

Rising Stars

Founded in 2021 by Phil and Louise Simcox, Rising Stars is a youth theatre group built on a passion for performance and a commitment to nurturing young talent.

With over 40 years of experience in both amateur and professional theatre across the East Midlands, Phil has taken on roles both on stage and behind the scenes, directing numerous productions. Louise, a dedicated teacher and performer since the age of 16, has embraced a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic.

Their shared love for the arts and belief in the power of theatre to inspire and empower young performers led to the creation of Rising Stars—a place where creativity thrives, confidence grows, and the stage is set for the stars of tomorrow.

Join us and take your first step into the spotlight!

Matilda Jr

April, 2023

Musical Alphabet

July, 2023

Frozen

December, 2023

Bugsy Malone

April, 2024

Shrek Jr

November, 2024

Newsies

April, 2025

Watch this space

Mission statement

Power of Theatre

Our mission is to enrich our community through the transformative power of live theatre. We are dedicated to fostering creativity, inclusivity, and a love of the arts by showcasing local talent, telling diverse stories, and providing accessible performances and educational programs. Through collaboration and passion, we strive to inspire, entertain, and connect audiences of all ages.

vision statement

Magic of Theatre

To be a vibrant cultural hub that brings people together through the power of storytelling and live performance. We envision a thriving artistic community where creativity flourishes, diverse voices are celebrated, and the transformative magic of theatre inspires connection, learning, and shared experiences.

Team

meet our team

Phil

With a lifelong passion for theatre, Phil Simcox has been both a performer and director for many years, bringing a wealth of experience to the stage across the East Midlands.

As a performer, Phil has taken on a variety of notable roles, including Tony in Copacabana, Bill in Me and My Girl, Judas in Superstar, Anatoly in Chess, and Bobby in Crazy for You.

In addition to performing, Phil has spent over 20 years directing for Good Companions, helming productions such as The Little Mermaid, Shrek, Sister Act, 9 to 5, and The Witches of Eastwick. His directing credits also extend to RAMTC and Chesterfield, where he has led acclaimed productions including The Music Man, 42nd Street, Evita, and Jesus Christ Superstar.

Outside of the theatre, Phil is a dedicated Derby County supporter and enjoys a round of golf whenever time allows.

Louise

Louise is a primary teacher with a lifelong love for the performing arts. Having stepped onto the stage at just 16, she brings a wealth of experience to every role she undertakes. Louise has performed with a variety of local theatre groups, including Heanor Musical Theatre, RAMTC, Fourblokes, and Good Companions, showcasing her versatility in both principal and ensemble roles.

Some of her most notable performances include Carrie in Carousel, Mabel in Mack and Mabel, Doralee in 9 to 5, Lady Macduff in Macbeth, and Grace in Annie. Louise continues to share her talent and dedication, still performing regularly with Good Companions, where she is also an active committee member, supporting the group behind the scenes as well as on stage. Her ongoing commitment to the arts reflects her deep-rooted passion and extensive experience in the world of community theatre.

Hannah

Hannah has been with Rising Stars since the very beginning and continues to be a core part of everything we do. With over 10 years of teaching experience and full qualifications with the ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing), Hannah brings not only exceptional knowledge and professionalism but also a genuine passion for inspiring young performers.

Her love for the stage began early—she’s been performing since the age of 2—and that lifelong dedication shines through in every class she teaches. Whether it’s preparing students for shows, exams, or just helping them grow in confidence, Hannah approaches each lesson with energy, creativity, and care. Her students love her for her kind and supportive teaching style, and she takes great pride in seeing their progress both on and off stage.

Benefits of Musical Theatre

Musical theatre is a unique art form that combines acting, singing, and dancing. For children and teenagers under the age of 18, being part of a musical theatre group can offer numerous advantages that extend far beyond the stage.

Confidence

Building Confidence

One of the primary benefits of participating in a musical theatre group is the boost in confidence and self-esteem that young performers experience. As they learn to perform in front of an audience, they overcome stage fright and develop a greater sense of self. This newfound confidence can translate into other areas of their lives, making them feel more secure in social situations and academics.

Enhancing Social Skills and Teamwork

Joining a musical theatre group allows under 18s to collaborate and build friendships with peers who share similar interests. This social interaction fosters teamwork, communication, and empathy, as young actors learn the importance of supporting one another during rehearsals and performances. Furthermore, these social connections can lead to lasting friendships that extend beyond the theatrical experience.

Teamwork

Creativity

Exploring Creativity

Being involved in musical theatre encourages young individuals to explore their creativity and express themselves artistically. They learn to interpret characters, develop stage presence, and understand the nuances of storytelling through song and dance. Engaging in such creative outlets can be a fulfilling experience that enhances their overall emotional and mental well-being.