OUR COACHES
As Upstage Concepts coaches we believe in relationship coaching. We cultivate quality and genuine relationships with our students to assist in actualizing their full potential.
Good communication, a strong work ethic, striving for excellence and respect are key elements in our studio and we believe that combining skills and techniques with related life-skills learning will be the springboard for long-term success of our students.
Jill Avis
Director & Founder
Jill Avis is the Director and Founder of Upstage Concepts, bringing 32 years of experience in nurturing young performers and developing excellence in the performing arts. Her passion for building confidence, inspiring creativity and helping students realise their potential is at the heart of the studio.
Jill remains actively involved in coaching and guiding students, including coaching Upstage’s national and international teams. She leads all curriculum development and oversees the studio’s artistic and coaching direction, working closely with fellow directors Donnaley Parker and Joshua Parker to provide inspiring training and exceptional performance opportunities.
A published author of an extensive range of performing arts books available internationally, Jill’s influence extends beyond the studio. In 2026, she was honoured with the Overall Top Teacher Award at the South African Championships of Performing Arts, recognising her dedication and outstanding achievements as a coach. Under her leadership, Upstage Concepts has earned an abundance of national accolades while remaining a place where young people feel valued, discover their strengths and develop the confidence to shine—on stage and in life.
Donnaley Parker
Director, Head of Schools Division & Modelling Head Coach
Donnaley Parker is a Director of Upstage Concepts, bringing over 20 years of experience in the performing arts as a performer and coach. She oversees both the Schools Division and the studio’s weekly lessons, playing a central role in the quality, creativity and care that shape each student’s Upstage experience.
Donnaley created and built Upstage’s Schools Division, which now coaches over 100 students across Johannesburg. Working with children aged 3 to 17, she is adored for her engaging, interactive classes and her ability to help young performers feel confident, supported and excited to learn.
An accomplished performer, Donnaley has earned numerous awards, including the Overall Top Acting Award at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles in 2015. She brings this experience and insight into her coaching, inspiring students to develop their skills and approach the stage with confidence.
As Modelling Head Coach and an accredited adjudicator in both acting and modelling for the South African Championships of Performing Arts, Donnaley combines a trained eye for performance with a warm, encouraging approach. Her dedication continues to expand Upstage’s reach, creating opportunities for young people to discover their talents and flourish.
Joshua Parker
Director, Director of Vocals & Head of OnStage Championships
Joshua Parker is a Director of Upstage Concepts, an accomplished recording artist, singer, pianist and sought-after performer. A finalist on The Voice South Africa, Joshua has recorded several songs and brings a wealth of musical talent, performance experience and creativity to the studio. He also dedicates much of his time and talent to singing at Rivers Church.
As Director of Vocals, Joshua is passionate about helping every student discover their unique voice and develop the confidence to share it. Adored by his students for his fun-loving, encouraging approach, he creates an environment where young singers feel comfortable exploring their abilities, expressing themselves and growing as performers. His coaching develops vocal quality, range, stamina and performance skills across genres including pop, musical theatre, country and jazz.
Joshua also leads OnStage Championships, helping create an inspiring platform for students to put their training into practice, celebrate their progress and shine. He is currently developing Upstage’s own recording studio and production company, opening exciting opportunities for students to gain recording experience and expand their creative and technical skills.
With his warmth, energy and passion for music, Joshua encourages young performers to develop their individual sound, pursue excellence and find joy in every step of their musical journey.