The Purple Haired Lady

Musical Director, Vocalist, Musician, and HCPC-registered Music Therapist.

David Denzil Harris Thomas, or “Pops” to most

My work is deeply influenced by the people I love. My late grandfather, a trumpeter in WWII, was my first musical mentor. He always believed I would sing, even when I didn’t, and his unwavering belief is my constant inspiration. Today, that same passion shapes everything I do, from West End stages and live gigs to therapeutic sessions.

Oh, and if you’ve ever known me as “The Purple-Haired Lady,” you can thank a former London neighbor who found my hair color much easier to pronounce than my Welsh name!

Reviews and Testimonials

“Angharad really is the best, babies are mesmerised by her singing” Haven Songs Parent

“Absolutely brilliant once again. I’m sure we will want to book you again” Edge Festival Organisers, 2026

“One of the evening’s greatest strengths was undoubtedly the music. It was fantastic to see a full orchestra in the pit, something that always elevates a musical theatre production and adds an authenticity that recorded backing tracks simply cannot replicate. Under the musical direction of Angharad Saunders, the orchestra provided a rich and dynamic accompaniment throughout the evening, supporting the performers well and capturing the dramatic contrasts within the score.” Matt Hampson, Evita, Torch Theatre, March 2026

“the vocal standard across the entire company was outstanding. It is rare to hear such consistently strong ensemble singing, and it added significantly to the overall impact of the production. Musical Director Angharad Saunders should be congratulated for producing such confident vocal performances and leading a very capable band.” Matt Hampson, Made in Dagenham, Regency Hall, Saundersfoot, May 2026

“Awesome, awesome, awesome! […] Fulfilling two very important requirements of a cabaret, both a Ukulele AND a mash up! It was a win and I loved it and she’s Fantastic!” – Jamie Anderson, Cabaret Confidential Compere

“Angharad is so immensely talented musically and obviously has a vast experience of being an MD for many shows both in the UK and overseas […] She is patient, funny, achieves miracles in a short timescale and has a brilliant way with both young and old alike, keeping everyone in line in a very natural way. ” Rachel Donaldson-Leigh

“Fantastically talented band, a brilliant vocal performance, wonderful evening had by all, thoroughly enjoyed the style of music played!” – Rebecca Gent, Wedding client 2017.

Reviews of recent productions:

“Madagascar: The Musical”, U.K. Tour, Selladoor Family, directed by Kirk Jameson

“Once Upon a Mattress”, Lichfield Garrick Theatre, directed by Emily Summers

“the orchestra, with musical direction by Angharad Sanders, is first class.” CITY LIFE MAGAZINE

“I have enjoyed every moment of being led by Angharad. She has an unique ability to create the most amazing of melodies from (seemingly) nowhere! She puts it all together and makes the greatest of sounds. Patient, nurturing and exceedingly talented.” Cast member, Philippa Graty

“I was always happy to sing in a chorus (or the shower) where my voice couldn’t really be heard, but thanks to Angharad’s patience and natural ability to make people feel at ease she instilled the confidence in me to be able to take on a lead role in this years community musical “Once upon a Mattress” and sing a solo.
I’m not sure that she knew how much of a challenge that would be, but she never faltered and worked with me personally to ensure that I was comfortable with the song.  Without her trust in me to deliver, her professionalism and her friendship I would never have been able to take on the role of a lifetime.  For that I will always be truly grateful.” Cast member, Julie Roche

“The Dreaming”, Lichfield Garrick Theatre, directed by Tim Ford and Craig Sanders

“I had to let you all know what a fantastic production The Dreaming is. I went on opening night and was amazed at the quality of the show. There are definitely some stars in the making. Some of the singing sent shivers down my spine, and not just the solo performances, but the group singing too. One of my favourite moments was the scene with the lantern holders at the end of act one where the singing was positively uplifting.” – audience feedback

“Went to see the dreaming last night! Was fully entertained! The singing and music was incredible, hats off to Angharad Sanders! The cast was incredible too! Funny and engaging! A must see!” – audience feedback

“Once On This Island”, Lichfield Garrick Studio, directed by Angharad Sanders

“The music was perfectly executed as it always is with Angharad Sanders. Such a tight, intimate band of just a piano, and a drummer with a mixture of drums such as bongo’s sounded fantastic. The harmonies throughout the show were spot on, so great musical directing from Angharad.” – remotegoat.com

“The Hired Man”, Lichfield Garrick Theatre, directed by Tim Ford

“The full cast choral numbers are quite superb, for which we can thank Musical Director Angharad Sanders who led an onstage eight-piece band” – behindthearras.com, 2nd August 2016

“Curtain Up”, Lichfield Garrick Studio, South Staffordshire College

“Angharad Sanders was Queen of the Keys” – Love Midlands Theatre, 26th April 2016

“Steel Pier”, European Premiere, Union Theatre, directed by Paul Taylor Mills

“The band led by musical director Angharad Sanders on piano and sax, sound magnificent throughout!” – Frontrowdress.com, Wednesday 7th November 2012

“There is a first rate band, the leading players are superb” – William Russel, Reviewsgate.com, Nov 06, 2012

“The band is on stage at the head of the room throughout creating a wonderful aural aesthetic to delight the listener. Kander and Ebb’s music is in good hands with Angharad Sanders at the helm.” – Mary Ann O’Neill, bargaintheatreland.com, Nov 06, 2012

“The musical numbers [were] excellently played by a band of five, with multi- talented musical director Angharad Sanders at the helm.”  – Joe Crystal,  onestoparts.com, Nov 08, 2012.

Reviews from creative team members:

“Speaking as a director lucky enough to work with Angharad, and as a music director myself, she is everything you’d ever want in an MD. She blends a HUGE work ethic with amazing talent, dedication and affability. She is quintessentially what anyone working in musical theatre would want from a collaborator, creator and friend. I highly and enthusiastically recommend Angharad for any project.” – Tom Berger, Artistic Director, (re:)Directions Theatre Company, Director of the premiere production of “Band Geeks”

“Angharad understands the craft of singing and utilizes her knowledge to pull the best out of those under her direction. Anyone who is lucky enough to work with her will gain a better understanding of their voice and deliver a better performance.” – Daniel Bonnett, Director, “Children Of Eden”, Stagedoor Manor, New York.

 

Poopbags and Gladrags! Blogs from a creative brain ;)

Choose life :)

So over a year ago now I had my website changed to a WordPress host, with the intention of keeping it regularly updated and starting a blog. My fabulous cousin sorted all of this for me and is an unending support for my ridiculous lack of tech knowledge. Clearly this well intentioned plan is going …

Get in Touch

Whether you’re looking to discuss Musical Direction, book The Coastals for an upcoming event, inquire about vocal performances, or just want to say hello, I’d love to hear from you!

Feel free to email me directly angharad@hiraethhaven.co.uk

You can also connect with me across social media:

Looking for Music Therapy or Vocal Coaching?

For inquiries regarding therapy sessions, teaching, or community projects, please visit my sister site at www.hiraethhaven.co.uk.

 

Thanks for visiting 

xx

Media

Listen to live showreels and recordings showcasing musical direction, versatile solo vocals, and high-energy party sets.

@angharad.hiraeth.haven

What a spectacular summer we are having!! Huge thank you to the Harbour Inn for having us last night, it was a blast!!! Come see us next Saturday at the Ivy Bush in #Llandybie at 12 (this will be trumpet and piano/vocal) and at 7:30 at #Narberth Rugby Club with the full band. Have a fab day! xx #pembrokeshire #livemusic #fyp

♬ original sound – Angharad @ Hiraeth Haven
@angharad.hiraeth.haven

Come for the live music .. stay for the sing along! haha We’ll be bringing some @laufey, @chappell roan @Oasis @Olivia Dean and so much more to the Harbour Inn, Solva tomorrow night from 8! See you there xx #fyp #functionband #coverband #livemusic #pembrokeshire

♬ original sound – Angharad @ Hiraeth Haven

Angharad80 · Gonna Be Okay

Angharad80 · Lullaby of Broadway