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Leadership Changes Mark Exciting New Chapter for NAPA

The Northern Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA), a cornerstone of Hull’s cultural and educational landscape, is entering a new era as CEO Carl Wheatley steps down after six impactful years at the helm.

Carl is taking on a new challenge as Chief Executive of WISHH, a Hull-based charity dedicated to enhancing the city’s hospitals. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for NAPA, during which the organisation has expanded its outreach, grown its full-time educational offering, and launched the ambitious Big Build campaign.

Stepping into joint leadership roles are long-standing team members Katie Wright and Jamie Wilks. Both have been with NAPA since 2004 and bring a wealth of experience and passion for the performing arts. Whilst Katie becomes Director of Education, overseeing curriculum and student development, Jamie takes on the role of Director of Operations, managing partnerships and the day-to-day running of the academy.

Carl Wheatley said: “It’s been a real honour to lead NAPA and help so many talented young people find their voice on and off the stage. I’m incredibly proud of everything we’ve achieved, especially the growth of our full-time courses and outreach work in schools. Katie and Jamie are the perfect pair to take NAPA forward. Their dedication, creativity and care for our students is second to none.”

As a registered charity and dedicated performing arts school, NAPA continues to offer classes across its three focus areas of acting, dance, and musical theatre. Developments in recent years include the launch of a full-time course in partnership with Wilberforce College, which will soon be complemented by a one-year Intensive in Performance (Acting & Musical Theatre). The charity also offers vital support to students on their path to other forms of higher education or professional training in the arts. Key examples are the ‘Emergence’ programme, which breaks down barriers and encourages more boys to get involved in dance, and an outreach campaign into primary schools, ensuring that performing arts are accessible from a young age.

Additionally, thanks to the recent appointment of Sally Rapier, an experienced educator with a background in university-level drama training, NAPA is strengthening its intensive audition preparation programmes and career-focused learning for students aged 14 to 19. These initiatives aim to guide aspiring performers through the often daunting process of applying to drama schools, with dedicated support in skills development, confidence building and career readiness.

Meanwhile, NAPA’s Big Build campaign, launched in 2024, is also gathering momentum. With support from a professional bid writer and fundraiser, the charity is preparing dual applications to the Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic England, as well as encouraging public donations to help realise its vision for a revitalised home for the arts in Hull.

Carl added: “NAPA’s strength lies in its staff, students and supporters. I know that under Katie and Jamie’s leadership, the academy will continue to thrive, inspire and nurture the next generation of creative talent.”

 

Carl Wheatley, Katie Wright, Jamie Wilks.