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About Us

Chair

Rachael Rogers

My journey with The Island Savoyards began in 2007 while I was a police officer organising a community crime-prevention event. I met wonderfully talented local actors who agreed to support the project. Several were society members, and through them I discovered the warm, welcoming world of The Island Savoyards.

What began as a chance meeting developed into lasting friendships and growing involvement with the group. Although I had always loved theatre from the audience, I soon gained an appreciation for the hard work, teamwork and community spirit behind every production.

During show weeks, I swapped onto night shifts so I could attend every performance. My colleagues were delighted, as nobody else liked working nights! Because my police uniform was black, I wore it backstage with the white POLICE insignia covered, then left for work as soon as the final scene change was complete.

I progressed from making tea—and a few mistakes—backstage to joining the committee as retirement approached, eventually becoming Chairwoman.

It is a journey I could never have predicted, but one of which I am immensely proud. Cut me in half like a stick of rock, and you would find a thin blue line alongside The Island Savoyards logo.

Vice Chairman

Luke Cumberbatch

I have been a dedicated member of the company for over 13 years, first stepping onto the stage as Ambrose Kemper in Hello, Dolly! Since that debut, I have grown alongside the society, contributing to its productions, its people, and its spirit. Now serving as Vice‑Chairman, I am committed to leading with clarity, ambition, and heart — championing a future where the society continues to thrive, evolve, and inspire. My vision centres on bringing the biggest and best shows to the stage while preserving the community, creativity, and camaraderie that define the company. With a focus on sustainable growth and nurturing the society’s core values, I aim to guide the organisation into its next chapter without ever losing the magic that has made it home for so many.

Membership Secretary

Maureen Sullivan

I’ve been involved in amateur theatre on the Island for several years now, and will undertake just about any role connected with a show…except the technical stuff! So I have directed, helped with props, costumes, set, front of house, made the coffee…and even been on stage! Given my long career in teaching, I also take great interest in supporting and encouraging young performers, and am a licenced chaperone.

I have acted (and even been persuaded to sing) in a variety of productions ranging from Shakespeare to panto to musicals, including several Savoyards shows. A few years ago I took on the role of Membership Secretary, which can be a mixed blessing – it’s my job to remind people to pay subs and fill in membership forms – but also I get to represent all Savoyards members and work with the committee to make our society the great, friendly and amazing place it is, presenting high quality shows and getting together on a social basis. This is something I’d like to help to develop further in the future – so we all truly feel like part of the wonderful Savoyards family

Committee Member

Richard Young

I have been actively involved in the technical aspects of amateur theatre production, mainly stage lighting design & control, for many years, with numerous companies across the Island. Having joined the Island Savoyards in 2024, as a member of stage crew, I now regularly design lighting & stage manage our productions. As a new member of the society’s Committee, I take a lead in managing the scenic workshop & props store.