A passion for travel and theatre led Alison Tasker to her dream career as a Stagecoach Performing Arts franchisee. After a brief stint in acting and a high-flying career at Virgin Atlantic, Alison moved to Australia, where she reignited her love for the stage and saw a promising business opportunity in Stagecoach.
“I spent my teenage years acting with West Glamorgan Youth Theatre and the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain, but when a career in acting didn’t work out, I pursued my other passion—travel. After years of working in the travel industry, I had my daughter and, eventually, moved to Australia in 2013. When we arrived, I enrolled her in the Joondalup Stagecoach school, continuing the journey she had started years earlier in the UK. It wasn’t long before I realised what a fantastic investment opportunity Stagecoach was.”
With her daughter having spent 12 years as a Stagecoach student, and Alison’s own passion for theatre, becoming a franchisee felt like the perfect fit. "Stagecoach gave me the chance to work for myself while being involved in the performing arts, something I’d always dreamt about. Buying into the franchise provided just the right amount of support, allowing me to grow my confidence and skills, while having a team behind me."
Alison reflects on the comprehensive training she received from Stagecoach, which provided her with everything she needed to succeed. "The training was fantastic—it gave me the courage to proceed when I might have lost my nerve. Since then, the journey has been incredible. The freedom of being my own boss, combined with the support of the wider network, truly gives you the best of both worlds."
Today, Alison runs three schools in her territory with a team of six teachers and over 125 students. She also offers holiday workshops and has plans to introduce Further Stages classes for older students. “The most rewarding part is seeing the students grow in confidence and watching their bonds flourish. It’s magical to see a student, who might be introverted off stage, absolutely come alive in the spotlight."
Owning a Stagecoach franchise has provided Alison with not only financial independence but also the flexibility to balance her work with her family life. "Running a Stagecoach franchise means I can plan my work around my kids and still have plenty of time for fun with my family. I feel fulfilled in my work while having the freedom to enjoy those quiet days at home."
Alison’s advice to anyone considering joining Stagecoach is simple: “If you’re passionate about the arts and arts education, don’t hesitate. Stagecoach offers the perfect franchise package with plenty of support and a network of committed Principals who are always happy to help.”
If, like Alison, you're looking for a business that offers great income, flexibility, and an outlet for your love of the performing arts, find out more about Stagecoach by clicking here.