Meet the Team

Karin Clifford Director

Karin is the founder and Director of Kids Up Front Drama Academy and her passion is helping children gain confidence through having lots of fun! She loves watching children grow and develop and leading the creative and dynamic team of drama, vocal and dance teachers who teach for Kids Up Front.

Tom Rimmer Drama Teacher, Script Writer and Supervisor

Tom grew up in Tauranga, and after completing secondary school, he moved to Wellington to pursue acting. While living in Wellington, Tom studied the Meisner acting technique at the Wellington Actor's Studio. Tom made his professional debut in 2003 playing bumbling waiter Manuel in a production of the British comedy classic 'Fawlty Towers'.

Jo Kelsey Singing Teacher

Jo Kelsey is an Auckland based singer, pianist and songwriter. After studying at The Institute Of Contemporary Music Performance in London, Jo has built a successful music studio and career as a teacher, session musician and original artist, with 25+ releases to her name and touring the UK and Europe.

Cara-Lea Wright Dance Teacher

Cara-Lea Wright is a technically trained dancer who has been immensely involved in the dance competition scene, both as a dancer and as a teacher, choreographer and adjudicator for many successful troupes and soloists.