Rhys Whiteside

Rhys first trod the boards as a donkey in his nursery nativity (a role he took very seriously). But it was watching an amateur production of We Will Rock You that lit the spark for good—he knew from that moment that theatre was where he belonged, and he’s never looked back.

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Since then, he’s built a varied professional career performing across the UK and Germany in everything from musical theatre to Shakespeare, and of course in plenty of Wicked pantomimes—where he’s become well known for his long limbs, high kicks, and even the odd outrageous frock. Favourite highlights include The Producers, The Importance of Being Earnest, and his larger-than-life Dame Sarah Soggybottom in Snow White. He also had the joy of being part of the very first pantomime at the newly refurbished Wilton’s Music Hall, working alongside the legendary Roy Hudd (making his Dame debut) and performing in front of audiences that included none other than Sir Ian McKellen.

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Trained in Musical Theatre at CPA Studios, Rhys can sing, dance, and act to varying degrees of chaos and charm, and has directed everything from slapstick panto to Shakespeare, particularly during his time working in Germany. Teaching has been a huge part of his journey too: he has taught in several schools and led workshops for students of all ages, always focusing on building a truthful foundation in performance while encouraging playfulness, risk-taking, and fun.

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He believes students should feel safe to explore, experiment, and yes—even make mistakes—because that’s where real growth as a performer happens. His mission is to nurture both future professionals and those simply looking to build confidence, with the same end goal: to have fun, to discover, and to shine.

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Beyond the theatre, Rhys once set up his own board game café (which mostly meant paying himself to play Dungeons & Dragons), proving he’s as passionate about dice rolls as he is about curtain calls.

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But of all his roles, the ones he treasures most are husband to his brilliant wife Lydia, and dad to his greatest achievement—his daughter, Margot.

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Now, as Head of Drama at Wicked Academy, Rhys is thrilled to inspire the next generation of performers. Whether they’re dreaming of West End lights or simply finding their confidence on stage, he’s here to help them kick high, laugh loud, and make a little magic along the way.