You say goodbye, and we say hello…
This summer, CapU Theatre had many changes in our faculty, with both faculty members who we had to say goodbye to, and new faculty members that we’re thrilled to welcome to CapU.
Craig Tompkins began working at CapU Theatre in 2008.
Craig taught singing at the CapU Theatre for over fifteen years before retiring this summer. His primary focus has been Musical Theatre Students, though in his last two years, his voice studio expanded to include students from the Acting for Stage & Screen Program.
As an instructor, Craig focussed on creating a safe, inclusive place where learners could make mistakes without repercussions, and where they felt supported in their journey at Cap.
“I have so many favourite memories from my time at Cap! At the top of the list was my trip to London in 2024 to see Caleb Lagayan in his West End debut as Prince Chulalongkorn in the The King and I. Other memories are the spectacular performances in the BlueShore and Arbutus Studio theatres.”
We wish Craig all the best in his retirement. You can stay in touch with Craig through his website, Craig Tompkins ~ Voice Teacher.
Shawn Henry taught voice and was a music director for CapU Theatre.
Shawn Henry arrived at CapU Theatre in January 2019. This summer, however, he decided to shift his sights to Edmonton, and accepted a position at MacEwan University as Associate Professor of Music Theatre Performance.
The years that Shawn spent at CapU were very full: he taught students in Musical Theatre and Acting for Stage & Screen, he was music director for several performances, including Into the Woods and Cabaret, and he helped the department find our way through the Covid-19 pandemic.
“My favourite memories include teaching the Set of 5 Performance Project every year. It was such a gratifying project and a wonderful way to get to hear the students’ stories. I shed many tears watching those cabarets over the years!”
Now, Shawn is music-directing MacEwan’s production of Heathers. Also, he’s in the beginning phases of writing a book exploring the transformative power of change in the lives of artists, with a focus on the moments that redefine artistic paths. “I hope to capture how leaps of faith and unexpected turns can lead to remarkable growth and creativity,” he explains.
Best of luck, Shawn! MacEwan is lucky to have you.
And now…welcome, new faculty!
Dawn Pemberton
A singer with deep roots in jazz, blues, funk, soul and more, Dawn is also an actor, radio host, and educator. Dawn joins our team as Voice Instructor for singing in Private Musical Theatre Instruction.
“I am delighted when students begin to expand their growing edges and find comfort and confidence with every knew skill. It’s thrilling!”
Janet Madelle
Janet is a professional voice and dialect coach, a certified instructor in Alexander Technique, a published author, and more. She joins our team as Voice & Alexander Technique Instructor in Private Theatre Instruction.
Melissa Morris
Melissa is a director, actor, singer, musician, musical director, composer, playwright, and educator. She joins our team as Voice and Musical Theatre Instructor, and Music Director.
“To teach music and theatre is to share joy.”