About Us
We are a not-for-profit performing arts group and charity based in St. Neots, which is run by a team of dedicated enthusiastic volunteers and professionally trained tutors with the joint aim of developing and nurturing the performing arts capabilities of local children. And what a talented group of children they are!
Our Creative Team
Jacqui Coleman
Director & Acting Coach
Jacqui has been deeply involved in the world of theatre for many years, both on and off stage, and graduated from the University of Warwick with a BA Hons in Theatre & Performance Studies in 2016. With a strong background in performance, education, and community engagement, she has a passion for storytelling and actor development, helping performers refine their craft and bring compelling performances to the stage.
Beyond directing, Jacqui is deeply committed to mentoring and safeguarding young performers. Her experience as a School Liaison Officer with Bedfordshire Police was pivotal in shaping her approach to working with young people, placing their safety and development at the forefront of her work. Through theatre, she created a space for open dialogue, developing Theatre in Education pieces, immersive escape rooms, and podcasts to help young people express themselves and address important community issues.
She also founded TAPS (Theatre and Performance Studies Group) at Warwick University, ensuring that students from all backgrounds had the opportunity to perform in an inclusive and supportive environment. With a strong belief in the power of theatre to educate, inspire, and empower, Jacqui continues to champion safe and creative spaces where young performers can thrive.
Ian Tipping
Senior Group Musical Director
Ian has been a professional bass player and composer for many years. He has toured all over the world including residencies at the Disney Parks in North America and performing at the casino in Monte Carlo. He has worked in theatre orchestras aboard high-end cruise ships, alongside such performers as Bradley Walsh, Bobby Davro and The Osmonds, amongst many others. He has composed music for various classical ensembles including the Milton Keynes City Orchestra and the Alani String Quartet. He currently spends most weekend evenings playing with his indie-rock covers band ‘The Modern Fix‘ and can often be found playing bass in the pits of local theatres.
Emily Wainwright-Meekins
Pupil Manager & Junior Group Musical Director
Emily has been in the performing arts industry for more than two decades and graduated from Anglia Ruskin University with a BA Hons in Music in 2016. She became musical director of the Riverside Juniors in 2014 and was additionally given the title of Pupil Manager in 2022. Outside of the Theatre Company, Emily teaches private singing and piano lessons and leads St. Neots Community Choir.
Ellen Tipping
Choreographer
Ellen studied at Bodywork Company Cambridge, graduating in 2003 with a diploma in professional dance. Since then she has been travelling around Europe performing as a dancer with various production companies in Estonia, Stockholm and Barcelona to name a few. Ellen decided to move into teaching dance and Pilates to share her passion for dance with enthusiastic students. She has choreographed several major productions and her work has been performed in the O2 and the Royal Albert Hall.
Our Executive Committee
Terri Lalonde
Chair
Terri joined Riverside committee in support of her daughter who is in the Seniors. Terri has been involved in drama and amateur dramatics since her teens at school, later going on to be in a number of shows with the St Neots Players and St Neots Vamps, as well as holding a variety of posts on their committees. Terri is hoping her skills and expertise will help Riverside to grow, and encourage new members to join this amazing group.
Jacqui Huckle
Treasurer
Jacqui has been involved with Riverside for several years as a parent to her youngest daughter who is a long-term member of the company. She works as a Church Administrator in Cambourne where she lives with her husband and 3 children. As the Treasurer for Riverside, her role includes paying invoices, collecting subs, and ensuring the financial records and reports are kept accurately.
Jacqui Coleman
Child Protection Officer
As well as being a talented Director, Jacqui is RTC's Child Protection Officer.