Sarah was first and foremost a trusted friend but also my closest colleague for sixteen years. We collaborated in so many ways, teaching and directing, commissioning new plays, running courses, creating ensembles, and planning all sorts of creative and pedagogic endeavours.

Sarah was vivacious and fun-loving, positive and inspiring, knowledgeable and empathic, caring and forthright, fiery and diplomatic. There was a special spark that kindled little fires of creativity in all those around her.

When I picture Sarah, I see her swinging a huge skipping rope, conducting strange but beautiful ensemble dances, parading out of rehearsal spaces, down corridors and bursting into the world beyond, theatrical encounters in weird and wonderful spaces, a calm face listening to others, a chuckle over a glass of wine: most of all I see her smiling and laughing.

Sarah had immense inner strength and resolve but she wore it lightly and with grace. I remember countless excursions to the theatre, walking and talking, drinks outside in the sun, working trips to New York and San Francisco. I remember her patience, consistency and gentle encouragement of her students. I remember her genererosity of spirit to all her colleagues and her joy at collaboration.

We shared stories of the successes of our children and our love of our families. I feel the world is less rich and colourful with Sarah’s absence but far richer for her having been in it. Her legacy will be felt everyday through the small creative acts and choices that she inspired others to take and keep on taking.

My love and condolences to John, Ben, Lottie, Sarah’s extended family and friends. Mx