Trish Marsden

Trish has been involved in theatre in one way or another for more than 30 years. She is well known to Whakatane theatre audiences, having taken leading roles in many major productions - including Evita, Les Miserables, Chicago, Annie and The Addams Family - to name just a few. In addition to singing, acting and dancing on stage, Trish has also worked as a director. She plays piano, loves writing poetry and has dabbled as a playwright. Trish loves working with children and young people. Before running her business, O’Hagan Home Loans & Insurances, she spent years working as a Paediatric Nurse. Trish is married with 2 children, both of who are grown. 

In 2024 Trish had the chance to play her 'dream role' of Mrs Lovett in Hamilton Musical Theatre's production of Sweeney Todd, for which she was awarded a Zony Award for Best Leading Lady.

With her love of performing and her enthusiasm for teaching, tutoring Stage Door Musical Theatre Classes is Trish’s ‘perfect storm’! Trish found her passion in theatre and believes that encouraging and mentoring the next generation is an awesome adventure.  

“Often those that don’t fit in other areas such as academia, sports or even with socially, find their place in theatre. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing pupils come in to their own, becoming more confident within themselves, and discover a new passion”.

"The best thing about working at Stagedoor is seeing the growth and development of the skill and confidence in the students.  To see the students so passionate about their involvement is just pure gold. Love it!"