People

Michael Cassel Group produce, present and create world-class musical, theatrical productions and live entertainment. Our mission is to inspire audiences by offering them the very best live entertainment experiences.

While our home is in Sydney, Australia our outlook is global. With management staff based
in Sydney, Melbourne, New York and Singapore, our productions entertain audiences around the world – on stage in Australia, on tour internationally and on stages on Broadway and
the West End.

 

MICHAEL CASSEL AM

Producer & CEO

MICHAEL CASSEL AM

Producer & CEO

Michael Cassel AM is an internationally recognised producer, forming the Michael Cassel Group in 2012.

In January 2024, Michael will produce the West End premiere of Sydney Theatre Company’s acclaimed production of The Picture of Dorian Gray starring Succession’s Sarah Snook.

In Australia, his recent credits include & Juliet and Mary Poppins and, as Executive Producer, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and the Australian tour of The Phantom of the Opera.

 Following its success in Australia, Michael will produce the forthcoming international tour of Hamilton, which launched in Auckland in May 2023 and will travel through Asia and the Middle East. In September he produced the Asian premiere of & Juliet in Singapore.

 Previous productions include the Australian and international tour of Les Misérables, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, the 10th Anniversary Tour of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, the Australian premiere of Cyndi Lauper’s Kinky Boots, the Australian and Asian tour of Singin’ in the Rain and the Melbourne transfer of The Picture of Dorian Gray.

Michael produced the first international tour of Disney’s The Lion King which toured for almost five years, playing cities including Abu Dhabi, Manila, Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul and Bangkok.

Concerts and events include The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Sydney’s ANZ Stadium broadcast on the ABC and BBC, the opening celebration of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup with a live television broadcast audience of 1.6 billion people, Julia Gillard’s Not Now Not Ever and tours including Celeste Barber, Lea Salonga, Tina Arena, Rita Wilson and Darren Criss.

Broadway and West End credits include Almost Famous and, as co-producer: Into The Woods, MJ: The Musical, Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical, DreamWorks’ The Prince of Egypt, Pretty Woman: The Musical and The Cher Show. Michael is co-producer of the US Tour of Into The Woods which launched at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.

Michael is focused on developing and investing in new content encompassing a growing slate of world-class IP and original shows destined for Broadway, West End and international stages. Michael initiated a commercial ‘First Look Agreement’ for all future works produced by Sydney Theatre Company, providing the opportunity for shows to be transferred or remounted as commercial productions in new markets, with the intention of touring across Australia and internationally.

In addition to the group’s expanding theatrical interests, the company represents former Australian Prime Minister, The Hon. Julia Gillard AC, journalist and broadcaster Liz Hayes, former Olympian and global sporting administrator Lord Sebastian Coe CH, KBEStrictly You by Sonia Kruger,  best-selling author Sarah di Lorenzo, Better Homes and Gardens personalities Charlie Albone and Juliet Love and beloved Australian television presenter Sami Lukis.

During his ten-year tenure with Disney Theatrical Group, working with the company in both Australia and New York, he oversaw the company’s Broadway stage productions in international markets including The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, AIDA, The Little Mermaid and High School Musical, as well as supporting Disney on Ice and Disney Live! licensed to Feld Entertainment.

Michael began his professional career working with Australia’s legendary producer and celebrity manager, Harry M. Miller.

Michael was appointed a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia (General Division) for significant service to theatre production and is the recipient of a Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) from the University of Wollongong.

Michael lives in Sydney with his wife Camille and their children Eveleigh and Vaughn.

TODD LACY

Head of Production

TODD LACY

Head of Production

Our Head of Production, Todd Lacy, most recently served as Senior Vice President of New York Productions for the Madison Square Garden Company. Amongst his responsibilities, Todd oversaw business and production aspects of the Christmas Spectacular and New York Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, including financial, creative, technological, marketing, and administration.

Todd also worked for twelve years at Disney Theatrical Productions. He was the Associate Producer for The Lion King, overseeing the launch of United States tours and international productions in Australia, Netherlands, Shanghai and South Africa, concurrent with oversight of Broadway and productions in London, Japan and Germany. Additionally, Todd served as the Associate Producer for the Broadway production of The Little Mermaid and the Broadway and US Tour productions of Mary Poppins.

NATALIE BYRNE

Head of Marketing

NATALIE BYRNE

Head of Marketing

As Head of Marketing, Natalie provides leadership and direction across all marketing related functions including ticketing and PR for all MCG productions.

Natalie has over 15 years’ experience in the arts and culture industry and spent the last 7 years in New York City working with leading Broadway advertising agency AKA NYC. As Senior Director of Agency Communications and New Business, Natalie was responsible for business diversification and strategic communications enhancing the Agency’s profile and market share. Natalie also worked in Client Services across Broadway productions including Matilda, Les Miserables and Anastasia to name a few.

Prior to NY, Natalie spent 4 years with AKA Australia in the position of Client Services Director, NSW following several years working with Disney Theatrical Productions on the Australian premiere seasons of Mary Poppins and The Lion King.

Natalie is excited to bring her family home to Sydney and apply the invaluable experience gained in NYC to this new chapter working with the exceptional team delivering world-class content at MCG.

AOIFE DENNISON

Head of Finance

AOIFE DENNISON

Head of Finance

As Head of Finance, Aoife provides leadership and direction across a range of disciplines, oversees commercial arrangements, tax, treasury, financial planning and reporting.

Aoife has over 13 years’ experience working in the entertainment industry, most recently working at Opera Australia with the finance and commercial teams on transformation project for their musicals.

Prior to that, Aoife worked for over 11 years as Finance Manager for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Australian subsidiary, The Really Useful Company, touring first class musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera and Cats through Australia and Asia, providing decision making support to senior executives, managing risk, commercial deal structuring and financial planning & analysis.

Aoife has an honours degree from Trinity College, Dublin and is a qualified Chartered Accountant.

Originally from Ireland, she moved to Sydney in 2001 where she lives with her family.

JANE ABRAMSON

Head of Creative Development

JANE ABRAMSON

Head of Creative Development

A producer and creative executive, Jane Abramson spent the first two decades of her career developing and managing new Broadway musicals for Disney Theatrical Group, including Frozen, Aladdin, Newsies, The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins and The Lion King as well as the regional and international productions of Hercules, Freaky Friday, The Jungle Book, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Shakespeare in Love, Aida, Tarzan, Peter and the Starcatcher, High School Musical, and Beauty and the Beast. In 2018, in collaboration with her Disney colleagues, Abramson co-founded and produced the landmark event Women’s Day on Broadway, which has now grown from an annual forum to year-round programming. Independently, Abramson has produced over three dozen productions in the downtown, New York theater circuit, including plays, musicals, short musicals, and short films.

Discovering new voices, nurturing the creative process, and collaborating with innovative talent across the theater industry is a passion and a calling for Abramson. As is working for Michael Cassel Group.

GLENN MCGUINNESS

Head of Business Affairs

GLENN MCGUINNESS

Head of Business Affairs

Our Head of Business Affairs, Glenn McGuinness, has over 25 years’ experience in the Arts and Entertainment Industry in senior executive positions working with ticketing companies, venues and retail. Following seven years managing art galleries on the east coast of Australia, Glenn joined Ticketmaster in 1998. Over the following decade, Glenn held several general management roles overseeing business development, marketing and operations. During his tenure at Ticketmaster, Glenn oversaw the entry of Ticketmaster into several new markets including Western Australia, South Australia and New Zealand. In 2005/6, Glenn managed the commercial and operational components for the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games selling a record 1.67million tickets.

In 2010, Glenn joined Marriner Group as General Manager overseeing operations at the Regent, Princess, Comedy and Forum Theatres. Over the next seven years the venues played host to a diverse range of shows including musicals such as The Lion King, Matilda, Book of Mormon and King Kong as well as numerous concerts by local and international artists such as Madonna, Pink and Paul Kelly.

Glenn has also worked as a consultant to ticketing companies, promoters, producers and venues across Australia providing specialist advice on ticketing, audience development, programming and maximising commercial outcomes.

 

JAMES THANE AM

Senior Advisor

JAMES THANE AM

Senior Advisor

James Thane AM has spent almost 35 years in senior executive capacities for the three leading producers of the musical theatre world, across Broadway, the West End, Australia and Asia.

James was a founding director of Cameron Mackintosh’s Australian company in 1984 and was Executive Producer of the Australian premiere productions of CatsLes Misérables, and The Phantom of the Opera.

James established the Australian subsidiary of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Really Useful Group in 1991 and oversaw productions of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Aspects of Love in Australia and Cats and The Phantom of the Opera in Asia.

In 1994, he was appointed Managing Director of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Really Useful Theatre Company in London, with responsibility for theatre projects in the West End, UK and Europe, including Sunset BoulevardThe Phantom of the OperaBy JeevesJesus Christ Superstar, Starlight Express, Sunset Boulevard and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

In 2002, James was appointed Managing Director to establish the Australian operations of Disney Theatrical Productions, overseeing a successful season of The Lion King. From 2006 he spent three years in New York as Associate Producer of the Broadway and US tour productions of Mary Poppins. Returning to Australia in 2009 he oversaw the Australian premiere productions of Mary Poppins and Aladdin, as well as a second tour of The Lion King.

 

LUCIE MCGEOCH

Director, Client Management

LUCIE MCGEOCH

Director, Client Management

After more than fifteen years working across the Australian television and media industry Lucie joins the Michael Cassel Group as Director of Client Management.

Lucie’s career has been driven by a desire to connect with people, tell their stories, discover new talent, seek out opportunities and deliver high-quality content to a broad Australian audience.

Beginning as a producer at Foxtel, Lucie was selected for a News and Current Affairs cadetship at the Nine Network. Lucie soon after began as a producer at A Current Affair, then the number one national current affairs programme, hosted by Ray Martin followed by Tracy Grimshaw.

Five years later, Lucie spent over a year in weekly magazines as News Editor for Woman’s Day before returning to the highly competitive world of nightly current affairs this time Today Tonight with the Seven Network.

As a producer Lucie’s most memorable stories remain a profile with the late Prime Minister Bob Hawke and Blanche d’Alpuget, and also a story about Colin McLaren, a former undercover police officer turned bestselling author and documentary maker who Infiltrated the Australian Mafia.

Lucie was promoted to Chief of Staff at Today Tonight where over two years she helped to lead a team of reporters, producers and production staff.

For the last Seven years Lucie worked as Supervising Producer at Australia’s number one morning show, The Morning Show with the Seven Network.

Lucie has two young sons Ted and Rex.

 

DEETA COLVIN

Director, Corporate Communications

DEETA COLVIN

Director, Corporate Communications

Deeta Colvin has had a successful career in marketing, communications and strategic integrated campaigns for building international brands. These include Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Dior, Versace, Krug, Cointreau, RM Williams and BMW. Her expertise lies in communications strategies and marketing initiatives to support brands in achieving a unique position in their respective markets.

She started her own communications business specialising in luxury brands in fashion, food and wine and as part of the platform created very tailored special events, such as the Cointreau Ball, which she started with her team in 1987 and finished in 1997. Deeta sold her business in 2001 and was appointed Director of Corporate Relations and Events for PBL Media which included at that time, Channel Nine, ACP Magazines and Ninemsn. When PBL Media was sold in 2008 Deeta commenced work with Consolidated Press Holdings assisting in relationship opportunities and events for clients. Deeta is a current Non-Executive Director on the National Breast Cancer Foundation Board.

BLAKE TATROE

Director, International

BLAKE TATROE

Director, International

Blake Tatroe joins Michael Cassel Group focusing on the roll-out of the company’s touring theatrical productions around the globe, and the development of new musical markets. Blake has spent the entirety of his professional career working across the sports and entertainment industry specializing in business development, marketing, and commercialization. Most recently, Blake was at ONE Championship, Asia’s largest global sports media company, where he held the position of Senior Director, Event Marketing. Blake was responsible for the development and execution of the global tune-in and live event marketing initiatives for ONE Championship products.

Prior to this, Blake served eleven years with Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer and promoter of live touring family entertainment experiences including Disney On Ice, Marvel Universe Live!, Monster Jam, and more. During his tenure with Feld, Blake was integral part of the sales and marketing team in Asia Pacific, including his time as Managing Tour Director where he was responsible for establishing and negotiating tours in South Asia and Asia Pacific and, prior to this, Blake was the Senior Marketing Director, responsible for managing the event marketing, ticketing, and commercialization for the company’s touring shows throughout Asia Pacific. Blake’s strongest contribution has been his lead role introducing first time sports and entertainment experiences to Myanmar, Vietnam, China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and more.

TESS HERRETT

Director, Marketing

TESS HERRETT

Director, Marketing

An experienced music and entertainment industry marketer, Tess most recently served as Marketing Manager at the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

Leading the Sydney Symphony Presents portfolio – a portfolio of major commercial live concert events – Tess managed strategy and campaign execution for an array of events, from concerts with international artists including Lea Salonga and Ben Folds, to blockbuster films-with-orchestra such as the Harry Potter™ and James Bond series.

With a love of all things brand and audience, Tess has collaborated on rebrands, e-commerce website redevelopment, data research and segmentation, as well as product pipeline strategy.

Previously, Tess has worked with the Michael Cassel Group on the leading productions of Priscilla Queen of the Desert: The Musical, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and Kinky Boots.

MICHEL HRYCE

Director, People & Culture

MICHEL HRYCE

Director, People & Culture

As Director of People and Culture, Michel leads the company’s human resources strategy and labour relations across the company’s slate of productions, including talent acquisition, leadership development, diversity and inclusion, organisational structuring and cultural enrichment, as well as employee learning and advancement programs, with responsibility for supporting a diverse workforce of over 500 employees.

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Michel served as In-house Counsel, Director of People and Culture at the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Australia’s flagship orchestra.

Bringing to the role extensive experience in theatre, entertainment and labour relations, Michel served, for eleven years, as National Director of Theatre, Lawyer and NSW Secretary for the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) negotiating collective bargaining agreements on behalf of the union’s members with SBS, the Sydney Opera House, Opera Australia, the Australian Ballet, the Sydney Dance Company, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and national theatre companies in both the subsidised and commercial sector. Following her time at MEAA, Michel was General Manager, Human Resources and Industrial Relations at the Sydney Ferries Corporation from 2004 until 2009.

In August 2023, the Australian Government’s Minister for the Arts announced Michel as one of six inaugural members of the Creative Workplaces Council of Creative Australia, previously the Australia Council of the Arts. The role of the Creative Workplaces Council is to inform and support the operation of Creative Workplaces. The Creative Workplaces Council will promote fair, safe, and respectful l workplaces for Australian artists and arts workers. It will support arts workers and arts organisations. Michel’s appointment is for 4 years commencing 24 August 2023.

 

NATHANAEL COOPER

Director, Publicity

NATHANAEL COOPER

Director, Publicity

Nathanael Cooper is a media industry professional with nearly two decades experience at a local, state and national level, cementing his position as one of Australia’s leading advocates and storytellers of arts and entertainment, with a particular expertise in theatre.

Nathanael joined the country’s pre-eminent publisher, Fairfax Media in 2016, now Nine Publishing, as deputy culture editor where he was responsible for driving the culture news for Australia’s most read mastheads – The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age and setting the tone of the culture agenda in Australia’s two biggest cities.

In 2021, he conducted an investigation into the Australian music industry’s toxic workplace culture. His explosive investigation saw Denis Handlin, the long-serving chair and chief executive of Sony Music Australia and the most powerful man in Australian music, leave his role, along with four other executives. His work is credited for creating enormous change in the Australian music industry that is still ongoing.

Most recently, Nathanael has been leading the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age’s audio team as executive producer, overseeing the content and commercial success of the emerging storytelling platform.

He was the main host of Please Explain, one of the country’s most popular daily news podcasts and the executive producer of Liar, Liar: Melissa Caddick and the Missing Millions, Australia’s No.1 podcast.

He has previously held senior editorial roles at News Corp and APN.

Nathanael is thrilled to join Michael Cassel Group as Director, Publicity leading the country’s only in-house commercial theatre PR team, working on the most exciting shows in the world.

 

SCOTT GAINSBURG

Director, Ticketing

SCOTT GAINSBURG

Director, Ticketing

Scott joins MCG from ACMN, where he was a Marketing and Ticketing Manager, a position he held for eight years. As well as working on a variety of productions in Australia & New Zealand, Scott also provided ticketing services to international productions in Singapore (Matilda, Phantom of the Opera and Cats) & Kuala Lumpur (Phantom of the Opera and Cats).

Prior to ACMN, Scott worked at Newtheatricals, providing marketing, tourism & ticketing services for productions including Jersey Boys Rock of Ages.

Other roles have included Vice President, Visitor Services and Volunteers for Luminato, Toronto’s Festival of Arts & Creativity; Manager, Customer Service at the Sydney Opera House; Director of Audience and Visitor Services for the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Inc. in Philadelphia; and Associate Director, Customer Service for the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Inc. in New York City.

ANNELIES CROWE

Associate Producer

ANNELIES CROWE

Associate Producer

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Annelies worked for Sydney Theatre Company (STC) as Company Manager across all productions, including the world premiere of Muriel’s Wedding the Musical (STC and Global Creatures). Prior to her role as Company Manager at STC she worked as Casting Coordinator and then Casting Manager.

Previously, Annelies worked for Belvoir as Company Manager on the international tours of Diary of a Madman(BAM), and The Book of Everything (The New Victory Theatre).

Annelies has a Bachelor of Arts Management (WAAPA) and Bachelor of Contemporary Art (Theatre)(UTAS).

JAKE JARRETT

Associate Producer

JAKE JARRETT

Associate Producer

Jake’s commercial theatre career began at Back Row Productions in London, after winning an international scholarship in his final year at NIDA.

Since returning to Australia, Jake has worked in various roles on productions including Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical, Tap Dogs (Back Row Productions), Wicked (The Gordon Frost Organisation), Mary Poppins the Musical (Disney/Cameron Mackintosh Limited), War Horse (Global Creatures/The National Theatre), Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (James Anthony Productions), Les Misérables (Michael Cassel Group/Cameron Mackintosh Limited), The Lion King (Disney), Singin’ in the Rain (TEG Dainty Theatrical/Michael Cassel Group) and Sweeney Todd (TEG Life Like Company).

Before returning to Michael Cassel Group, Jake was the General Manager of TEG Life Like Touring where he produced international and domestic tours of family entertainment productions for brands including Nickelodeon, Disney and Warner Brothers.

Jake has a Bachelor of Dramatic Art (Technical Production) from the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA).

 

JAQUELINE KOLEK

Associate Producer

JAQUELINE KOLEK

Associate Producer

Jaqueline started her career as a summer intern in New York for the general management company Richard Climans Inc. where she assisted on the production of Twelve Angry Men, produced by The Roundabout Theatre Company.

She then moved to London, working as a stage manager, box office and production assistant at the Menier Chocolate Factory and later for Robert Fox Ltd. on the West End production of The Lady From Dubuque starring Maggie Smith.

For three years Jaqueline worked in-house for the Theatre Royal Haymarket Productions on numerous West End productions including Waiting for Godot starring Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart.

Jaqueline was the Associate Producer under Daniel Sparrow and Mike Walsh on the London production of Holding The Man.

In her spare time in London, Jaqueline produced shows at the Edinburgh Festival and Theatre503.

Jaqueline moved to New York in 2010, returning to Richard Climans Inc. working on numerous Broadway productions including; The Mountaintop starring Samuel Jackson and Angela Bassett, Porgy and Bess starring Audra McDonald and An Evening with Patti and Mandy.

For five years, Jaqueline was a Producer for Blue Man Group Productions, based in their head office in New York, working on countless Special Events around the world in various mediums – from sky diving stunts in Las Vegas, Carnival in Rio-de- Janeiro and a two-hour concert event of Blue Man Group at the Hollywood Bowl. She later worked on the Blue Man Group show with productions in New York, Chicago, Boston, Las Vegas and Orlando. Jaqueline remounted the Berlin production in 2014 and launch the Blue Man Group World Tour in Singapore in 2016.

In 2017 Jaqueline moved back to Australia and started working with Michael Cassel Group as Associate Producer on Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and the ICC T20 World Cup Opening Celebration.

 

LIAM MANGAN

Associate Producer

LIAM MANGAN

Associate Producer

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Liam was the Artistic Administrator at Sydney Theatre Company where his broad responsibilities included producing the company’s artist and creative development programs, planning and scheduling of the company’s mainstage performance seasons, and the project management of the Muriel’s Wedding The Musical creative developments and its documentary Making Muriel. While at STC, Liam also tour managed the Australian Defence Force coproduction The Long Way Home national tour. Previously, Liam was Administration Officer at Perth Theatre Company.

Liam graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts with a Bachelor of Arts (Arts Management), and currently sits on the WAAPA Arts Management Industry Advisory Committee.

YOSSI TORBINER

Associate Producer

YOSSI TORBINER

Associate Producer

Yossi graduated as Valedictorian from the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) with a Bachelor of Production (Lighting/Stage Management) in 2012.

He has worked at Michael Cassel Group since 2014 in a variety of roles across several productions in Australia and Asia including HamiltonHarry Potter and the Cursed ChildBeautifulKinky Boots and Les Misérables.

In 2019, Yossi was Associate Producer of the Helpmann Awards, which were presented in Melbourne for the first time.

Other professional credits include Assistant Stage Manager on the Australian Tours of Grease The Musical (GFO/Howard Panter) and Legally Blonde The Musical (John Frost/Sue Farrelly).

KELLY KIM

Legal Counsel

KELLY KIM

Legal Counsel

Kelly joins Michael Cassel Group after previously working as a media and communications lawyer in Sydney.

Kelly’s legal background involves advising and representing clients in the media, advertising and marketing communications sector including global and boutique agencies, household brands and entrepreneurs.

Kelly has also assisted various industry bodies in Australia including Advertising Council of Australia and she has been part of the Best Practice Working Group at AiMCO (Australian Influencer Marketing Council) assisting on various guide sheets regarding all-things influencer and social media law.

Prior to obtaining her law degree and legal qualifications at Macquarie University and The College of Law, Kelly also completed her Bachelor of Music (Performance) at Sydney Conservatorium of Music, majoring in classical piano. She brings to this role a passion for the arts, entertainment and theatre, which stems from her own experience as a performer.

 

AMY MARIE HAVEN

Manager, Creative Development

AMY MARIE HAVEN

Manager, Creative Development

Amy Marie Haven, an acclaimed producer & director, is thrilled to serve as Michael Cassel Group’s Creative Development Manager after being awarded Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness’ Producing Fellowship on Broadway’s The Music Man through Black Theatre Coalition. A believer in collaborative processes and new forms, Amy Marie has developed work with American Idol’s Taylor Fagins, The National’s Rachel Menendez, The Magic Theatre, The Quixote Project, We Players, Cutting Ball and Four Larks. She co-founded and serves on the board of Tomorrow Youth Repertory; has held artistic leadership positions at Throckmorton Theatre, Oakland School for the Arts and African-American Shakespeare Company; with international experience spanning Australia, Mexico and Honduras.

SOPHIE INKSTER

Manager, Marketing

SOPHIE INKSTER

Manager, Marketing

Sophie joins the Michael Cassel Group after previously working at AKA Australia and following her move from the UK in 2015 where she worked for Leeds based dance inclusion company, Yorkshire Dance.

As the Social Content Manager at AKA, Sophie worked across numerous theatre productions including SIX the Musical, Billy Elliot the Musical, Aladdin and Frozen the Musical.

Sophie has also worked in Hospitality and Event Marketing and in the PR and influencer space and is particularly interested in social sentiment, data and analytics, and creative strategy.

She has always been incredibly passionate about all things theatre and is thrilled to work with the fantastic MCG team on such special productions.

CATRIONA MCNAUGHTON

Manager, Marketing CRM and Data

CATRIONA MCNAUGHTON

Manager, Marketing CRM and Data

Catriona was thrilled to join Michael Cassel Group initially to work on the Australian Premiere of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

Drawing on her ticketing, marketing and theatrical background, she is now refining and developing MCG’s CRM to deliver top quality data and insights to MCG.

Catriona has a B. Applied Arts (Dance) UNSW and Master of Marketing from University of Sydney.

JENNIFER DANG

Manager, Office of the CEO

JENNIFER DANG

Manager, Office of the CEO

Prior to joining the Michael Cassel Group Jennifer worked for TEG as Executive Assistant to the CEO. For over 2.5 years Jennifer was involved in all facets of the TEG business which included managing, ticketing and promoting live events across the music, sport and exhibition genres, both domestic and international, primarily in the Asia-Pacific region.

Jennifer started her career as Executive Assistant to the General Manager, Sydney Showground. During her 5 years at Sydney Showground Jennifer also worked with the events team on a number of major events such as the annual Sydney Royal Easter Show, Stereosonic, Big Day Out, Swedish House Mafia and sporting events such as the V8 Supercars, GWS Giants and T20 Cricket.

Jennifer graduated from the University of Technology with a Bachelor of Business & Event Management.

Jennifer is delighted to join Michael Cassel Group.

VANESSA KNOX

Manager, Ticketing

VANESSA KNOX

Manager, Ticketing

Vanessa has extensive experience in event ticketing ranging from musical theatre, to concerts, sports and festival ticketing.

Vanessa started her career in ticketing at Ticketmaster, moving her way up from Call Centre Casual to Box Office Manager, before moving on to her first of three Sydney Festivals. Other ticketing roles have included Ticketing Manager at ANTIX Management, Ticketing Services Manager at City Recital Hall and Guest Ticketing Coordinator for Sydney Worldpride. Vanessa also has vast experience with Front of House and Stage Door at Sydney’s Capitol and Sydney Lyric Theatres.

Vanessa is beyond thrilled to be joining the team at Michael Cassel Group.

CLARE MCCALLUM

Manager, Ticketing

CLARE MCCALLUM

Manager, Ticketing

Clare joins Michael Cassel Group from Ticketek, having worked as a Senior Client Services Manager for two of Sydney’s biggest entertainment venues, Qudos Bank Arena and ICC Sydney. Prior to the pandemic, Clare was an Account Manager with TIX Group, and has nearly reached her tenure working in Front of House at Sydney Opera House.

Clare spent 7 years at The Powerhouse Museum, joining with Harry Potter: The Exhibition in 2011 and worked in Education, Contemporary Programming and Visitor Services.

Clare is also an established Cabaret and Musical Theatre performer, holds a BMus (Music Theatre) and is currently enrolled in her Masters of Teaching. Whilst living in London, Clare trained in Acting, Shakespeare, and Directing through Richmond Theatre (UK) and was a founding member of the Richmond Theatre for Young People.

She is beyond thrilled to be joining the team at Michael Cassel Group.

 

JENNIFER BARTLETT

Production Administrator

JENNIFER BARTLETT

Production Administrator

Jen comes to Michael Cassel Group from Opera Australia where she worked as an Associate Producer, managing mainstage productions such as The Merry Widow and Bluebeard’s Castle, as well as the company’s National Tour of Carmen. In previous roles at Opera Australia, Jen tour managed the company’s 2019 tour of Madama Butterfly and looked after the day-to-day operations of Opera Australia’s touring programs. Prior to this, Jen was the Administration and Marketing Coordinator at CDP Theatre Producers, working broadly across the company’s productions that toured Australia and the world.

Jen holds a Bachelor of Arts (History and Performance Studies) from the University of Sydney.

CAITLIN BRASS

Production Administrator

CAITLIN BRASS

Production Administrator

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Caitlin worked for Sydney Theatre Company (STC) as Casting Coordinator. In this role, Caitlin provided support to the Casting Director, coordinating the employment and employment conditions for artists engaged by the company. Previously, Caitlin held Education Company Manager, Education Manager and Education Coordinator positions at Bell Shakespeare, managing the day-to-day operations of the company’s national education programme.

Caitlin has also provided casting support on Michael Cassel Group’s productions of The Lion King and Mary Poppins.

Caitlin graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts with a Bachelor of Arts (Arts Management) in 2014.

 

RACHEL BROWN

Production Administrator

RACHEL BROWN

Production Administrator

Rachel comes to Michael Cassel Group from CDP Theatre Producers where she worked as an Associate Producer across the company’s touring productions for young audiences. Prior to this, Rachel was the Technical Operations Manager at English National Ballet, managing the day-to-day operations of the department, and producing the company’s national tours of the My First Ballet Series. Rachel also held positions in the Engagement department at the English National Ballet, coordinating the company’s outreach and education programme. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Arts (Dance and Culture) from the University of Surrey, and a Master of Arts (Arts Management) from Middlesex University.

 

 

 

NATHAN SMITH

Production Administrator

NATHAN SMITH

Production Administrator

Nathan returns to Michael Cassel Group after previously working for the organisation as Company Manager on Disney’s The Lion King International Tour. Prior to re-joining MCG, Nathan was Head of Operations & Planning at Orchestra Victoria. Other Company Management credits include the Australian/NZ and South Korean tour of Cats (Really Useful Group), The Sound of Music (GFO) and Once (GFO). Nathan also creates dance films through his company Running Man, with his films screening globally and winning international film festival awards.

Nathan holds a Bachelor of Dance (Victorian College of the Arts) and a Graduate Diploma in Arts Management (University of Melbourne).

PHOEBE WILLIAMS

Production Administrator

PHOEBE WILLIAMS

Production Administrator

Phoebe was most recently the Company Manager of Moulin Rouge! Australia (Global Creatures). Prior to this, Phoebe served as Company Manager on Billy Elliot (LWAA), and as Deputy Company Manager on MAMMA MIA! (LWAA). She has worked in a variety of other roles across theatre, ceremonies and live events, in Company Management, Stage Management and as Associate Producer, working with several organisations including GFO, Bell Shakespeare, FiveCurrents, Jack Morton and Imagination.
Phoebe graduated from the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) with a Bachelor of Dramatic Art (Production) in 2012.

HARLEY MCGRATH

Casting Associate

HARLEY MCGRATH

Casting Associate

Since joining Michael Cassel Group in 2018, Harley has held a variety of roles in production and casting across shows including Hamilton, Disney’s The Lion King, Mary Poppins, The Picture of Dorian Gray and & Juliet.

Prior to his work at Michael Cassel Group, Harley served as Administration Coordinator at an InterContinental Hotels Group property, where he assisted the General Manager, maintained global standards compliance and managed shifts.

Harley began his career as a Customer Service Representative for Commonwealth Bank, where he quickly established himself as a dedicated and results driven individual.

GREG THORNTON

Audience Insights Coordinator

GREG THORNTON

Audience Insights Coordinator

Prior to joining the Michael Cassel Group, Greg worked in the entertainment industry for over 10 years as a Pre-Production Executive in the operations department for Universal Sony Pictures, for the two studios home entertainment business in Australia and New Zealand. There he managed the physical pre-production as well as the operational functions of transactional digital releases across both studios content.

With a passion for live theatre and the performing arts, Greg is excited to join the Ticketing team at Michael Cassel Group.

LILY EVEREST

Education Coordinator

LILY EVEREST

Education Coordinator

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Lily worked as the Schools Engagement Officer at Melbourne Theatre Company. Previously, she has worked in ticketing at Melbourne Theatre Company and RISING.

With a passion for the performing arts education of young people, Lily sits on the Youth Advisory Body for the Australian Theatre for Young People.

Lily is currently completing a Masters of Arts & Cultural Management and holds a Bachelor of Arts (Media & Communications) from the University of Melbourne.

KYE MAURER

Marketing Coordinator

KYE MAURER

Marketing Coordinator

Kye comes to the Michael Cassel Group from an international performing career and over 10 years as an arts educator. Completing his Bachelor of Performing Arts (Dance) at Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Kye has facilitated education programs for both West Australian Ballet and Sydney Dance Company and spent many years of his performing career as a dancer for Tokyo Disney Resort and Royal Caribbean Cruises.

Most recently Kye has worked in content creation and marketing for local businesses and schools in the Port Macquarie area while completing his Master of Communications specialising in Digital Media. With a passion for live theatre and the performing arts, Kye is so excited to join the marketing team at MCG.

FELICITY CLIFFORD

Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

FELICITY CLIFFORD

Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Felicity was Sales & Marketing Manager for SPACE Property in Brisbane. During her time in this role, she developed marketing and social media campaigns, managed client relations and assisted with property sales.

Having previously worked for Queensland Theatre Company, Felicity brings arts experience from a development and philanthropy perspective, as well as events management.

Felicity is currently completing a Master of Business (Public Relations) and holds a Bachelor of Business (Public Relations) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Drama) from Queensland University of Technology.

JORDAN LIDE

Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

JORDAN LIDE

Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Jordan began at Michael Cassel Group in the role of Receptionist / Office Assistant. Prior to this she worked as a Production Assistant with Packemin Productions on their shows Wicked, Mammia Mia! and Kinky Boots. She also completed an internship with Merrigong Theatre Company.

Jordan is highly passionate about theatre and excited to continue working with Michael Cassel Group in publicity and marketing.

Jordan holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Management) and a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Theatre) from the University of Wollongong.

 

 

 

PHYLLIS WANG

Group Financial Controller

PHYLLIS WANG

Group Financial Controller

Phyllis is a chartered accountant with over 7 years’ of accounting experience in South Africa and Australia. Previous roles include managing the end-to-end finance function of various entities of the Allan Gray group and shortly after, taking on the responsibilities of a group statutory reporting manager at AMP Limited. Prior to this, Phyllis practiced as an auditor with Deloitte in South Africa and across USA.

Phyllis graduated from the University of Cape Town with a Bachelor of Business Science Finance degree and a Post Graduate Diploma in Accounting and is a member of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants, Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand and Connecticut Society of CPAs.

Born and raised in South Africa, Phyllis and her family moved to Sydney in 2020. She joins the Michael Cassel Group in October 2021 as a Production Accountant.

 

CATHY BARNES

Project Accountant

CATHY BARNES

Project Accountant

Cathy’s work experience reflects her passion for travel, entertainment and the arts. She has held senior commercial roles at Air New Zealand, Global Creatures and Show Group Travel working in Sydney and London.

As Project Accountant, Cathy works across both Corporate and Production teams to solve business issues.

Cathy has a Bachelor of Business in Finance and Accounting, is a CPA, has a Master of Business Administration and is a Graduate of the Institute of Company Directors.

DANIELLE CARTER

Senior Production Accountant

DANIELLE CARTER

Senior Production Accountant

Danielle returned to Michael Cassel Group in 2021 as the Production Accountant on Mary Poppins, after coming full circle from her 2015 internship with the company.

Since 2019, she has been working for Musica Viva Australia as their Financial Accountant. Her role included working closely with the CFO on board reports and budgeting, while also being responsible for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the day-to-day accounts.

Prior to this, Danielle worked as a Senior Associate for Grant Thornton in Audit & Assurance where she was lucky enough to work with companies such as NIDA, Bell Shakespeare, and Sydney Film Festival. She also interned at The Hayes Theatre and Opera Australia throughout her university studies.

Danielle’s passion and dedication to the arts combined with strong financial skills has allowed her to build a wonderful career in the entertainment industry, and she is excited to grow further with Michael Cassel Group.

Danielle is a CA qualified accountant.

 

MAUDY WORUNG

Senior Production Administrator

MAUDY WORUNG

Senior Production Administrator

Maudy joined Michael Cassel Group in 2018 as Production Accountant for The Lion King International Tour. She has more than 10 years’ experience in managing production accounts for both Australian productions and International touring productions.

Her most recent experience was with Opera Australia working as Production Analyst and Production Accountant for My Fair Lady the Musical – Australian tour 2016-2017.

Maudy first introduction to the entertainment industry was when she joined the finance team of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Really Useful Group Sydney office back in 2004. She was responsible in managing & reporting production accounts for CATS International Tour, Love Never Dies Australia, and the Phantom of The Opera Asia Tour 2012-2016 with seasons in Manila, China, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong & Istanbul.

Maudy is a CPA Australia qualified accountant. She graduated from Australian Catholic University in North Sydney majoring in Business Accounting.

 

INDIA CORNISH

Production Accountant

INDIA CORNISH

Production Accountant

India hails from Wollongong where at Wollongong University she completed her Master of Professional Accounting with Distinction and her Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting. Prior to her accounting degrees, India undertook a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Philosophy and French at the Universite Francois-Rabelais, in Tours, France.

India is no stranger to the entertainment industry coming highly recommended from our partners at Disney. Indeed, India worked as a Park Greeter at the Walt Disney World Resort Orlando Florida, in the USA as part of Disney’s International College Program.

More recently India has worked as a company accountant in the Aged Care Sector and Labour Hire Corporate industry.

India has relocated from Wollongong to Sydney to join us at the Michael Cassel Group and is looking forward to the challenging but rewarding industry that live entertainment is.

 

MING YANG

Financial and Management Accountant

MING YANG

Financial and Management Accountant

Ming is a qualified accountant with more than 15 years’ experience in Finance. After graduating from Western Sydney University with a master’s degree in accountancy, Ming worked for the coffee brand Robert Timms as a corporate accountant for 6 years. She then move to SGK, a global creative and designing company to work as a Senior Financial Accountant.

Ming is competent at gathering and monitoring financial data, preparing financial statements and reports, forecasting and budgeting, and advising company leaders on business practices and strategies. She is passionate about her work in this industry and working to pursue the best result.

CHRISTINA ONG

Production Assistant Accountant

CHRISTINA ONG

Production Assistant Accountant

Christina has previously worked at Really Useful Company on their Asian tours of Cats and Phantom of the Opera. She has also worked in non-for-profit and manufacturing companies and at Telco. Christina holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Technology, Sydney and a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting from Macquarie University.

CELINA BRECKNER

Accounts Administrator

CELINA BRECKNER

Accounts Administrator

Celina is a keen fan of musicals, movies and theatre and therefore enjoys the creative energy that the Michael Cassel Group provides. She has seen over 30 live productions from South Pacific (her favourite) to The Lion King and Singin’ In The Rain.

Celina joined the Michael Cassel Group Finance team after many years of working in such diverse industries such as Insurance, Health Care, Banking and Wine Retail. In her most recent role as Finance Officer at Beazley Underwriting Group, she streamlined processes and was responsible for multi-million dollar payments. She liaised with external suppliers and clients ensuring that all invoices and queries were handled effectively and promptly and while working at a wine retailer, she once got to sample a glass of port from 1896!

Though new in the Entertainment business, Celina is responsible for some of Michael Cassel Group’s Payroll functionalities, Accounts Payable and Receivable to name a few. She also assists the Production Accountants in a various range of duties.

In her own time, Celina loves to cook, paint and decorate. She enjoys the simplicity of life and is looking forward to learning more and enjoying “now”.

 

MASUMA BEGUM

Finance Assistant

MASUMA BEGUM

Finance Assistant

Masuma first joined the Michael Cassel Group Finance team in 2022 as her first step into the entertainment industry. This opportunity prompted her interest in music, play and drama. Before working at Michael Cassel Group, Masuma spent past years working with different tax, recruitment, and transport business organisations where she further developed her skills and experience.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Science and an accounting Diploma.

Masuma is excited to experience the new experience of the musical theatre platform.

CHLOE PERRETT

Production Assistant

CHLOE PERRETT

Production Assistant

Chloe is thrilled to be a part of the Michael Cassel Group after previously working for Jigsaw, Australia as the State Business Manager assisting Australians with disability into open employment opportunities. Chloe also has a background in theatre, having been a Producer at Hunter Drama, a Director and Artistic Director at Stooged Theatre and Front of House Representative for the Marriner Group, working on & Juliet and Harry Potter & the Cursed Child.

MICHELLE SVERDLOFF

Production Assistant

MICHELLE SVERDLOFF

Production Assistant

Michelle previously worked for Michael Cassel Group in the Company Management team for the Lion King International Tour seasons in Taiwan and Abu Dhabi. She holds a Bachelor of Communication (Theatre/Media) from Charles Sturt University and a Master of Business (Arts and Cultural Management) from Deakin University.

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Michelle worked freelance in Company and Stage Management for seven years. She has worked for many of Australia’s performing arts companies, such as Opera Australia, Griffin Theatre Company, Ensemble Theatre, Bell Shakespeare and CDP Theatre Producers. She also worked in New York on Punchdrunk’s renowned immersive theatre show ‘Sleep No More’ in 2016. Michelle is passionate about theatre and loves supporting artists to make, present and tour their work.

 

RACHEL NOSSACK

Client Services Manager, TIXTRACK

RACHEL NOSSACK

Client Services Manager, TIXTRACK

Coming Soon.

SU YAP

Legal Council

SU YAP

Legal Council

Su Ling has been a legal counsel in the entertainment industry for over 25 years and has an L.L.B. (Hons) from the National University of Singapore.

Prior to joining Michael Cassel Group, Su Ling was the Asia-Pacific Legal Counsel for Cirque du Soleil and was responsible for corporate and legal affairs in the region. She was part of the global legal team providing legal support for productions across Asia-Pacific as well as Europe and North America. Additionally, Su Ling was involved in the business development team identifying the commercial potential of new markets and partners in Asia-Pacific.

GREG KNIGHT

Manager, Information Technology

GREG KNIGHT

Manager, Information Technology

Greg has worked in the IT industry since 1989. Initially working in internal Software support at Coopers & Lybrand and moving to external IT Consulting at PKT Technology and starting his own IT Consultancy support business in 1999. As a qualified Chartered Accountant, he is able to bring a strong business focus to his clients.

Greg has been working for Michael Cassel Group since it started in 2012 and brings his 30+ years of IT Experience to bear in managing all facets of MCG’s technology requirements.  In addition to managing MCG’s IT needs, Greg assists with Facilities Management and any special projects!

MICHAEL TABERNER

Business Development & Sales Representative, TIXTRACK

MICHAEL TABERNER

Business Development & Sales Representative, TIXTRACK

Michael joins TixTrack Australasia with over 10 years’ experience in account management and client services roles. No stranger to live entertainment and ticketing, Michael has 5 years’ experience with TEG, including Eventopia as a Client & Event Manager, and with Ticketek as a Marketing Account Manager specifically for their marketing alliance partnerships.

Prior to joining the Michael Cassel Group, Michael was working in the craft beer industry. He helped launch a craft beer dedicated marketing agency as well as a content and retail platform in partnership with News Corp.

With a more sporting lens, Michael has managed client onboarding and support for league and venue management solutions both in Australia and the UK, event managed social sporting leagues, and worked at the Wimbledon Championships as a retail manager.