OUR COACHES
As Upstage Concepts coaches we believe in relationship coaching. We cultivate quality and genuine relationships with our students to assist in actualizing their full potential.
Good communication, a strong work ethic, striving for excellence and respect are key elements in our studio and we believe that combining skills and techniques with related life-skills learning will be the springboard for long-term success of our students.
Jill Avis - Head Coach
Jill Avis is the principal coach and owner of Upstage Concepts who has 28 years experience coaching students in the performing arts. Jill is passionate about building confidence and great skills in young performers. Under Jill’s leadership Upstage Concepts has won an abundance of awards and is considered one of the top performing arts studios in the country.
Jill is also a script writer, the director and developer of the online programme The Drama Academy as well as an accredited Adjudicator for SA Championships and National Eisteddfod of SA. Jill serves as a Board Member of the SA Association for Talent, Modelling and Entertainment as well as Kids Talent Festival.
Donnaley Parker - Acting & Modelling Coach
Donnaley Parker heads up our Schools Division and coaches students from aged 3 to 17 in various schools in our community. She has been coaching for 8 years and is adored by her students for her engaging and interactive classes.
Donnaley is a very accomplished performer having won numerous awards including the Overall Top Acting Award for the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles in 2015.
Additionally, Donnaley runs our modelling division and is an accredited Adjudicator for both acting and modelling for the SA Championships of Performing Arts.
Joshua Parker - Vocals Coach
Joshua is a singer, pianist and performer. He recorded an album in 2022 called Through it All and was a a finalist on The Voice SA.
He is passionate about sharing his talent and knowledge. His vocal lessons are designed to help students gain confidence in their singing and improve the quality, range and stamina of the voice. His fun and relaxed style encourages students to perform exceptionally and enjoy every lesson.
Students are trained to sing various genres of music including pop, musical theatre, country and jazz.