Meet Our Teachers
Michael Lightfoot Our School’s Principal
Michael is the Principal and co-founder of our new theatre school, bringing with him a lifelong passion for performance and a deep belief in the power of the arts to transform young lives.
His own journey began at a young age, when access to theatre and creative training opened doors he never imagined possible. Those early opportunities shaped not only his career, but also his confidence, discipline, and sense of purpose. Today, his greatest motivation is to give children the same chances he was given at their age.
Professionally, Michael has worked with Disney, performed on an arena tour in front of audiences of up to 16,000 people, and appeared at the London Palladium in the West End. His experience also includes work as an extra in film’s and a role in the BBC drama Doctors. These varied experiences have given him a broad understanding of the industry—from large-scale productions to screen work—and the standards required to succeed within it.
As Principal, Michael’s aim is to create a supportive and inspiring environment where young performers can develop their skills, confidence, and creativity, while learning the realities of the industry in a positive and age-appropriate way. This school is built on the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to explore their potential, find their voice, and feel proud of what they can achieve both on stage and beyond.
Zane Lightfoot
Creative Director
Zane Lightfoot is the Creative Director and co-founder of Iconic Theatre School, bringing a wealth of international performance and industry experience to the local community.
Originally trained in dance in Latvia, Zane was part of an award-winning dance group recognised as the best in the country. She later continued her professional training in England, achieving a BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts. Her performance career spans stage, commercial, and live entertainment, with credits including popular musicals such as Grease and Oliver, a contract as a Parade Dancer at Disneyland Paris, and many years working as a Show Dancer for Haven Holidays.
Alongside performing, Zane progressed into events management, developing a strong understanding of large-scale productions, teamwork, and creative leadership. This blend of performance and production experience now shapes her role at Iconic Theatre School.
As Creative Director, Zane is deeply passionate about the power of theatre and dance to build confidence, self-belief, and life skills in young people. Co-founding Iconic Theatre School was driven by a clear belief: every child deserves a space to feel seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Chris Keeting
Head of Musical Theatre
Chris Keating is Head of Musical Theatre and Co-Founder of Iconic Theatre School. He is thrilled to bring his wealth of experience, passion, and industry insight to the next generation of performers here at Iconic! He is deeply committed to inspiring young people and supporting them as they embark on their own creative journeys.
A highly trained performer with over 15 years of professional experience, Chris has enjoyed a diverse and successful career across the entertainment industry. His work spans the West End and the wider UK theatre circuit, alongside extensive experience performing in pantomime productions nationwide—oh yes, he does! Internationally, he has performed on cruise ships and in holiday resorts as a production cast vocalist for leading companies, including TUI Family Life, TUI Lapland, P&O, Riviera, and Haven Holidays.
Chris began attending drama school from a young age, where his passion for the performing arts was first ignited—an experience that laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to the industry. He went on to train at the London College of Music, graduating with a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre, and also studied at Stratford-upon-Avon College, where he achieved a BTEC National Diploma in Musical Theatre.
Alongside his performing career, Chris has dedicated many years to teaching children both across the UK and internationally. Working with young people has always been central to his professional journey, and he is particularly passionate about nurturing confidence, creativity, and strong performance skills in aspiring performers.
Get in touch
- Phone : 07805 112 101
- E-mail: iconictheatreschool@gmail.com
- Address: Rubery, Birmingham, United Kingdom