About

Founder of Jump – Kelly O’Leary

After a career in the theatre, I moved to Warehorne from London eight years ago with my husband to start a family. The Village Hall was in the midst of being rescued by some motivated residents and we wanted to help in any way we could. I offered to organise a fundraising event and after calling in a few favours from friends, the first West End Comes to Warehorne concert took place.

I wanted to give the young people in the village an opportunity to be involved and so I worked with them on a short programme of dances and songs to be included in the show. The children loved it, particularly the opportunity to perform in front of an audience alongside professionals. I am glad to say the event was a huge success and we are now planning our fourth!

The young people asked if I would teach them on a regular basis. I said yes and so with the help of local graphic designer Lisa Wrake, JUMP was born.

Why JUMP?
  • we physically JUMP,
  • we JUMP from one performing arts discipline to another
  • we JUMP in with both feet.
Biography

Kelly-OLearyBefore moving to the beautiful Kent countryside I spent ten years as a performer in the West End, on television and in regional theatre. My varied career includes Les Miserables (25th Anniversary cast,  O2 Arena and West End production), the original West End casts of The Beautiful Game and Jerry Springer the Opera.  An accomplished cellist, my work as an actor musician includes the lead role in Craig Revel Horwood’s acclaimed production of Martin Guerre. I have appeared in soap operas, adverts and on original cast recordings. Alongside my career as a performer, I run workshops for children and young people across the country.