Mary hails from Manchester and holds a degree in Drama, Applied Theatre, and Education from The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Her diverse career includes roles in specialised educational settings (such as Pupil Referral Units) and as a drama teacher at a specialist Autism school. Mary's involvement in Theatre Education spans renowned institutions like Shakespeare's Globe and The Tricycle (now Kiln). Beyond theatre, she collaborates with the Domestic Abuse prevention charity, Tender Education and Arts, using drama to conduct healthy relationship workshops for young people and professionals.

Within The Theatre Shed, Mary serves as a dedicated fundraiser, adept at securing grants for the charity, and conducts specialised workshops on Arts Awards and Relationships. Recently, she undertook responsibilities within the Youth Theatre and temporarily covers the role of Acting Artistic Director while Alice is on leave.

For Mary, the most rewarding aspect of her role lies in collaborating with passionate and ambitious young creatives, staff, and volunteers. Successfully securing funding to bring projects to fruition is particularly fulfilling for her, understanding the profound impact on everyone involved, including the wider community, which motivates her dedication.

Mary's contribution extends beyond fundraising; she brings innovative ideas and expertise garnered from her extensive experience in drama and educational organisations. Her enthusiasm for working with the young individuals at The Theatre Shed, coupled with her Arts Award experience and extensive professional network within the creative industry, bolsters the charity's growth and sustainability.

Embracing inclusivity, Mary has delved into learning British Sign Language (BSL), enhancing her inclusive practice and communication skills. Her role has reignited her workshop leadership and directing skills, refining her ability to craft successful funding applications and effectively manage time to meet deadlines. This experience has also enriched her understanding of financial management in fundraising endeavors.

Passionate about inclusion, Mary views Theatre Shed as a sanctuary where imaginations flourish, ideas are cherished, and individuals find a profound sense of belonging. Workshops exude joy and celebrate every individual's uniqueness, fostering a strong sense of community. She firmly believes in the transformative impact of Shed's inclusive environment, offering a safe space for self-expression and creative sharing while amplifying confidence, communication, relationships, creativity, and overall well-being.

Highlighting the impact of The Theatre Shed's work on the youth, their families, and the wider community, Mary emphasises the crucial role funding plays in maintaining the inclusive support they offer. Shed, she believes, fosters a vibrant community that celebrates diversity, values individuals, and contributes to a happier, more inclusive world.