I won the Title ‘Young Actor of Mann’ in 2003. I had watched the competition for years before I was old enough to enter, as my mum, Jacqui Hawkes, entered pupils regularly. I finally won at the age of 17 after entering for four consecutive years—proof that perseverance pays off! As part of the prize, I won a week at the NODA Summer School, which became one of the best weeks of my life. We rehearsed scenes and numbers from The Scarlet Pimpernel, and I learnt a lot, whilst also making friendships that have lasted to this day. The experience was so positive that I returned the following year for the Les Misérables Summer School, and I am still in touch with people from those courses now.

On Island I trained at Stage One Drama School, Christine Wild Theatre school and with singing Teacher – Eleanor Shimmin BEM. I am extremely grateful for my early training which set me up for a career in this field. I went on to study Drama and Music at university. My Professional engagements are varied from Opera, Pantomime (usually the baddy!) and singing as guest Artiste on board ‘The Britannia’ for Fred Olsen Cruises. In 2008 i returned to the Isle of Man and taught at Stage One Drama School.

I later established my own private practice and, in 2013, founded Sing Up Singing and Performance School. Since returning to the Island, I have directed several youth musicals, including Matilda Jr., Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr., and Elf Jr. In 2016, I founded the All Island Theatre Company as a stepping stone between youth and adult theatre, giving young performers on the Isle of Man the opportunity to experience a professional rehearsal and performance process. Working with the next generation of performers is truly my passion, though I still enjoy performing whenever I get the chance.

My favourite roles to date are Madame Thénardier in Les Misérables and Sister Mary Robert in Sister Act, both with the Douglas Choral Union. In 2018 I began training as an adjudicator with British and International Federation of Festivals but I put this on hold to have my little boy Lionel, shortly followed by my twin girls Trixie & Glo. I am looking forward to recommencing the training in 2026.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to compete in the Young Actor of Mann competitions. It is so important that young performers have a platform to showcase their talents and learn from a professional adjudicator a from watching each other. It is definitely one of my core memories.