Socks Off Theatre was founded by Kyla, a passionate performer and teaching artist dedicated to empowering young people through drama. A graduate of the Gifted and Talented Drama Program at John Curtin College of the Arts, she is currently studying Theatre and Behavioural Science at Notre Dame University.

Kyla has taught and directed children's theatre with Into the Mask Theatre, facilitated auditions for the John Curtin Drama program, and served as Deputy Chairperson of the WA Youth Theatre Company’s Youth Advisory Committee. In 2025, she received an arts scholarship to study in Seoul, South Korea, where she co-created the bilingual production Monopoorly. Kyla was also awarded the 2024 Highest Academic Achievement Award in Theatre Studies at Notre Dame.

Through Socks Off Theatre, Kyla creates joyful, inclusive drama experiences where children aged 6 -14 can build confidence, develop theatre skills and connect with others - no screens, just imagination and creativity!

Anja is currently in her first year of a Bachelor of Secondary Education, majoring in English Literature and minoring in Theatre Studies. Passionate about both education and the performing arts, she brings a thoughtful and creative approach to supporting young performers.

Anja also works as a primary school Education Assistant and has spent three months in the United States facilitating theatre programs at an American summer camp. These experiences strengthened her ability to encourage and inspire children in creative learning environments.

Throughout high school, Anja was actively involved in both community and school theatre productions. Her experience spans acting, stage management, and behind-the-scenes technical roles, including lighting and sound design. With a well-rounded understanding of theatre and a genuine enthusiasm for helping students grow in confidence, Anja is excited to support the next generation of performers.

Anja will be assisting Kyla in both Monday classes during Term 3!

Taleisa is a passionate musical theatre performer, director and teacher with years of experience in the performing arts. She holds a Diploma of Musical Theatre from Matrix Pro Academy and is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts (Theatre Studies) at Notre Dame University. A trained dancer and children’s party entertainer, Taleisa brings energy, creativity and confidence to every class.

Taleisa has assistant directed and choreographed many productions with Snapshot Youth Theatre Company and PADWA Talent Agency - bringing substantial industry experience to her role.  Her credits include choreographing and assistant directing Elf Jr (2021), Bedbugs (2022), and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2024) with Snapshot Youth Theatre. She has also worked closely with Christopher Horsey on the Broadway 1-Week Challenge, helping bring Newsies Jr (2022), The Drowsy Chaperone Jr (2023), and 42nd Street Jr (2025) to the stage.

Murray is studying to be an English and Drama teacher at Notre Dame University, and is in his fourth year of his bachelor of secondary education. He brings wealth of experience to the role, as he also works as an education assistant at Newman College for children with cognitive disabilities.

Murray is also a playwright and director, and has recently written and directed a play for the Performing Arts Association of Notre Dame Australia (PAANDA). The ensemble comedy, titled Damon & Pythias, starred some of the students from Socks Off Theatre, which was very exciting! Murray has always been involved in arts, including productions and pantomimes in his hometown of Denmark, and playing the piano for Albany Senior High School’s choir. Murray will be taking a break while he completes his teaching prac this semester.

Murray says, “Being a part of Socks Off has been incredibly fun so far! Kyla creates a great sense of community with the kids and fosters an environment where they feel comfortable to express themselves and their creativity. I feel really privileged to be involved.”