Our Story
Meet our Founders
Paula Boyle & Kate Maddison-Greenwell
Our Story
Paula and Kate’s story began on stage in Byrne and Hirsts' wonderful play, The Incident Room, at Ilkley Playhouse. They discussed the wealth of talent in the North, the incredible stories that go untold and the potential of theatre to provoke thought and bring about change.
Our Story
Paula and Kate’s story began on stage in Byrne and Hirsts' powerful play, The Incident Room, at Ilkley Playhouse. They discussed the wealth of talent in the North, the incredible stories that go untold and the potential of theatre to provoke thought and bring about change.
Their shared vision and passion became apparent and the next step seemed obvious: to set up their own production company
Start small, work hard and dream big.
Meet
Paula Boyle
Paula is an actor, writer and singer-songwriter who put her passion for the Arts to one side to complete her medical training and is now delighted to have made space for both.
What Co-Founder Kate says about Paula
"When I meet someone that eats a lot of cheese, and is a kind soul AND has amazing stage presence, I make it my mission to get them in my life.
Paula is extraordinary.
Her commitment to her performances and her collaborative approach to those around her make working with her a joy.
It was only natural that we should want to set up Rise and Howl to create inclusive opportunities for writers, directors and actors to create magical moments.
She said she would…..and she is."
Meet Kate
Maddison-Greenwell
After 25+ years forging a career in HR, Kate found her way back to acting in 2023. Having her son, JP, turn 18 was the wake up call she needed to restart acting and live a creative life again.
What Co-Founder Paula says about Kate
"I can't believe it's only a year since I met Kate. She danced into my life like a breath of fresh air bringing her energy, light and enthusiasm for people and the Arts.
Kate's passion is energising and her commitment to a project so powerful she is the person everyone wants on their team. What struck me the most is the genuine joy she gets from supporting and celebrating others successes as much as her own. Her incredibly efficient, organised, IT savvy approach is the perfect antidote to my pencil and pad, scattergun, mind-map world. Thank you Universe!
She said she would.....and she is."