Laura Ashton
Biography
Growing up in a musical family, with both parents working in the music industry, Laura developed a passion for singing and performance from an early age. Her experience spans songwriting, studio recording and musical arrangement, including collaborations with emerging artists.
An experienced vocal tutor, Laura has taught singing privately for many years and continues to develop her expertise, with a particular interest in the positive impact of singing on mental health and wellbeing.
Laura holds two LAMDA Gold Medals with Distinction, achieved through two intensive ten-week programmes of study as a mature student. Her training sparked a keen interest in theatrical practitioners, whose techniques she incorporates into her teaching to enhance TLA's LAMDA programme.
A valued member of the TLA team, Laura brings warmth, creativity and enthusiasm to her lessons, working with students from our youngest Tiny Little Actors through to our Graduates. She is passionate about nurturing individuality, building confidence and helping every student achieve their potential.
Alongside teaching, Laura volunteers as TLA's School Co-ordinator, overseeing timetables, events, rehearsals, examinations and performances across Lower, Middle and Upper School. She also acts as the first point of contact for Lower School enquiries, providing a vital link between families and the TLA team.
Laura's dedication, organisational skills and commitment to her students make her an invaluable part of the TLA family.
Directing/Production Portfolio
Alongside her teaching, Laura has built an impressive portfolio of musical direction and production experience, contributing to a diverse range of theatrical performances, concerts and showcases.
Laura is currently involved in three exciting projects. She is undertaking the roles of Director and Musical Director for TLA Lower School's The Butterfly Effect, an original production written by Jennifer Whittaker, and Tinies Love Autumn, a TLA Tiny Little Artists production. For both projects, she works collaboratively with fellow Lower School teacher and Lead Choreographer, Fiona Garbett, combining their creative expertise to bring these productions to the stage.
In addition, Laura is volunteering as Musical Director for the Christmas Extravaganza in Queensbury, continuing her involvement in community performance and musical events.
Previous Production Credits
2026
- Assistant Musical Director – Which Witch, TLA Graduate Showcase
- Musical Director – Cherry Tree Lane (a Mary Poppins adaptation), Bradford Arts Centre
- Musical Director – Pure Imagination (a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory adaptation), Bradford Arts Centre
- Assistant Director – An Inspector Calls, Bradford Arts Centre
2025
- Musical Director – The Aristocats, TLA Lower School Spring Sharing
- Musical Director – Matilda (adaptation), Halifax Playhouse
- Musical Director – It's Good to Be Me, TLA Lower School
- Assistant Musical Director – The Claus Behind the Cause, TLA Christmas Concert
- Assistant Musical Director – Back on Stage, Carriageworks Theatre, Leeds
2024
- Musical Director – The Grinch, Square Chapel, Halifax
- Musical Director – The Polar Express, Queensbury Community Christmas Concert
- Musical Director – Julia Donaldson Musical, TLA Lower School
- Musical Director – Daisy Pulls It Off, Annie and St Trinian's
Through her work as a director and musical director, Laura brings together her musical knowledge, creativity and passion for performance. She particularly enjoys working collaboratively with fellow creatives and supporting performers in developing their confidence, vocal technique and stage presence, helping to create memorable theatrical experiences for both students and audiences.




