The Replay Theatre Company Board:
Ellen McKenna – Chair
Ellen is Head of Drama in Wellington College, Belfast, where she has taught English and Drama for 20 years. Ellen graduated from Queens University Belfast in 1999 and later completed a Masters degree in drama during which she was struck by the diversity of theatre practice in Northern Ireland, and in particular, how theatre can be used as a tool for creating positive and sometimes transformativeeffects on the lives of young people. She strives to pass on her passion for theatre to her students and enjoys directing a wide variety of school productions.
Paul Jordan – Secretary
Paul worked with the Community Relations Council since 1998 and has been its Director for Funding& Development for around the last 8 years. Paul has previously held a number of youth work roles many of which included writing and producing a range of theatre pieces with particular focus on the themes of peace building.
Lesley Shannon – Treasurer
Lesley was newly appointed to the Board in December 2020. She currently works as Director of Finance with Tourism NI. A qualified chartered accountant, she is keen to bring her expertise in accounting and finances to support the Company for years to come.
Caroline McCarthy – Board Member
Caroline has been a teacher in Glenveagh School for the last 19 years, working with children and young adults aged 8-19 who all have severe learning difficulties. It’s an exciting learning environment, getting to see the enjoyment and fulfilment that the arts can give to all the pupils. Caroline moved to Belfast with her husband over 24 years ago after living in London (growing up watching all the West End shows). She loves travelling to get the sun and surf and embracing the Belfast climate, walking in all weathers with her dog and standing at the sidelines cheering on her son and his team.
Emma Copland – Board Member
Emma is an organised and conscientious theatre practitioner. Experienced in the arts and education sectors, working as part of a team and with individual initiative. Driven by discovery, to create new and interesting experiences for a variety of audiences and participants. Striving for creative innovation, audience connectivity and continuous personal development. Looking for further responsibility and the opportunity to work on more research-based projects.
Michelle Baird – Board Member
Michelle is an award-winning Marketing & Communications professional with 20+ years’ experience and expertise in marketing, communications and strategic business development across the private, public and charitable sectors. She is driven and highly creative with an innovative flair and passion for marketing and recognised for decisive leadership, proven ability to achieve results, devising effective strategies and identifying new business opportunities.
Lisa McAnally – Board Member
Lisa is Senior Event Manager at SSE Arena, and has previous experience in global events such as Summer and Winter Olympics. With 20 years of experience, she has a keen eye for operational project planning. Additionally, as Access Officer for The SSE Arena and with 2 children with additional needs, Lisa has a passion for DE&I and looking forward to supporting the Up! Programme within Replay Theatre.
Louise Cavanagh – Board Member
Louise is an associate director in Millar McCall Wylie Solicitors. Louise has extensive experience in all aspects of media law and regularly advises content creators on legal and commercial issues in the development, financing and exploitation of their projects. Louise also advises on corporate governance matters; drafting and negotiating a wide variety of commercial agreements; and all aspects of corporate transactions. Outside of work, Louise enjoys exploring the arts and championing projects that make a real difference in the community.