Our team
At Theatre Star, our team brings over 100 years of combined experience in the theatre and event production industry.
A True Partnership
Our skilled professionals are dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in every project. From expert designers and fabric specialists to our knowledgeable customer service team, we work closely with clients to provide tailored solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and safety. With a deep passion for the arts and events, our team ensures that every curtain, drape, and backdrop is crafted to perfection, helping you create unforgettable stage and event experiences.
Meet our team
Rod Paton
Managing DirectorRod is a seasoned expert in theatrical fabrics and curtains, with over 20 years of experience supplying major Australian venues, including the Sydney Opera House. Starting in theatrical curtain workrooms, he pursued his vision of creating a business dedicated to premium stage drapery. His extensive knowledge has made him a trusted industry name, with work seen in leading arts institutions nationwide. Passionate about innovation, Rod constantly explores new fabric ranges, refines manufacturing processes, and ensures Theatre Star stays at the forefront of quality craftsmanship.
Vanessa Collins
Creative SupervisorVanessa is a skilled and detail-oriented professional who brings experience and reliability to Theatre Star. Known for tackling complex challenges, she has built a strong reputation for precision and excellence. With a background in interior design and expertise in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp, Vanessa blends creativity with technical skill to bring ambitious projects to life. If something seems impossible, she finds a way to make it happen. Outside of work, she enjoys the peace of her farm in country Victoria, spending time with family and her four-legged friends, embracing a balanced lifestyle.
Shirley Jensen
Sales and AdministrationShirley has been passionate about theatre since she was 15 when she sewed her first stage drape for the school musical on a domestic machine at the family dining table. Her career has spanned costume making, set building, makeup, lighting rigging, and production management. She specialized in theatre lighting, working at Arts Centre Melbourne and later in the UK as dayman in the lighting department at the Piccadilly Theatre, then designing and making lighting special effects at Howard Eaton Lighting. Returning to Australia, she worked in technical lighting sales at Bytecraft Entertainment (now PRG), then moved into their Showdrapes division (when Rod was manager), while raising two daughters with her husband, Murray. Now reunited with Rod, Shirley applies her vast experience of technical theatre to the many and varied projects at Theatre Star.Â
Grace Yang-Paton
Accounts CoordinatorGrace is the behind-the-scenes powerhouse who keeps Theatre Star running. Working remotely, she plays a key role in managing business operations with efficiency and precision. Her expertise in finance and administration makes her indispensable. Along with handling the company’s daily needs, she ensures payroll is covered — making her a much-loved team member! Though not always in the spotlight, Grace’s contributions are crucial to Theatre Star’s success, allowing the team to focus on delivering exceptional stage drapery.
Tiani Heatherich
Workroom Supervisor (In Training)Tiani joined Theatre Star with a passion for all things theatre – from acting on stage to making and running props, and a love for the creative side of Theatre. Starting with no sewing experience, she is now proficient in cutting, sewing, finishing and packing the various theatrical drapes and gauzes we manufacture.