Welcome Sally!
We’d delighted to welcome Sally Rapier to our team at NAPA!
Passionate Educator, Acclaimed Director, Champion of Emerging Talent
Sally Rapier is a dynamic and visionary force in acting and musical theatre education, with a transatlantic career that spans directing, choreography, and pedagogy. A proud Hull native, her journey began with Northern Theatre and continued at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA), where she discovered a deep passion for directing. That early spark ignited a lifelong commitment to storytelling, artistic excellence, and empowering the next generation of performers.
Her directing and movement work has been seen in regional theatres across the UK, as well as in award-winning productions at the Edinburgh Festival. She served as Resident Director at The King’s Head Theatre in Islington before forging a thriving freelance career as a director, choreographer, and educator—renowned for her meticulous eye and deep respect for the actor’s process.
Internationally, Sally’s influence in musical theatre has been significant. She served as Assistant New Works Director for the National Alliance of Musical Theatre in New York and led the Global Search for New Musicals as Artistic Director for Cardiff’s International Festival of Musical Theatre. Her advocacy for new writing and emerging voices has supported the development of bold, original storytelling on both sides of the Atlantic.
As a respected tutor, Sally has taught at world-leading institutions including Ithaca College (NY), Stage Door Manor (NY), the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Rare Studios (Liverpool), LaSalle College of the Arts (Singapore), and LIPA. Ranging from masterclasses to full-scale residencies— her work has inspired countless students, many of whom now enjoy high-profile careers in the industry.
A recipient of the prestigious Beatrice Lillie Scholarship at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Sally is currently pursuing a PhD in musical theatre directing and actor training. While teaching at Liverpool John Moore’s University, she has been recognised with Personal Tutor of the Year and Course Team of the Year awards for her outstanding contribution to student experience.
At the heart of Sally’s practice is a powerful belief: that high-quality, inclusive performing arts training should be accessible to every young person, regardless of background. She brings passion, empathy, and a wealth of professional experience to every rehearsal room—and is thrilled to be joining the team at NAPA, where she will continue to inspire, mentor, and champion the next generation of performers.