The Family
Jai Crick
Co-Founder
Hi, I am Jai.
I am the Artistic Director for Manna. This is a calling from a dream. I have worked in the world of performance arts for over 18 years and have been a freelance tutor with Trinity College London, mentoring both young people and adults on a weekly basis.
Manna was born in our hearts nearly 30 years ago, when we pioneered a performing arts ministry in East Sussex that produced musical theatre productions and involved children from various churches and denominations.
I (Jai) then had to step back 17 years ago, as I was bedridden with a serious illness called PoTs and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which left me in 24/7 pain.
It was during this time that the Lord gave me the desire for Manna, a Christian arts mission that would be accessible to all, regardless of financial status, and that would enable the Word to speak in our communities and in the marketplace.
It remains a walk of faith for me, as I trust in my complete healing and take each day one at a time. I am so blessed to write the musicals, and I always give all credit to the Lord for the inspiration and ideas He freely provides.
As the artistic director, I happily oversee and create all the content for our mission. I am also proud to be the mother of four wonderful children- they are my constant inspiration and cherished friends. Together, we form a true team, affectionately known as Team Crick!
During the week, Gary and I happily serve as volunteer wardens at the Christian Retreat house in the scenic Staffordshire Moorlands, where we enjoy reaching out to the local community.
I have also authored books and continue to write and self-publish; my books can be found on Amazon. To learn more about the conditions I have walked through, please follow these links.
Gary Crick
Co-Founder
I had a military background, and when I came to find Jesus as my Lord and Saviour, it was through a praying mother! Laying down my sergeant stripes in the TA, I knew God was asking me to make room... for more of Him.
Having started in Eastbourne just after we were married in 1997, the Lord moved us to Hertfordshire, where we spent two years training children and young people weekly, putting on performances in local YWAM facilities. We have always loved the Creative Arts; we ran a creative literacy business in primary education together as a couple before Manna started. Through many seasons, we were eventually led to where we are now. Manna Family.
A family of six, with one in Heaven waiting for his parents. (Victor). So 7. I am such a blessed father to have all our children involved in what we do; we never realised that they would inherit, as it were, the love for the arts in quite the way they did, and they really have! We are honoured to be Christian workers supported by the charity 'Stewardship'. This is an exciting journey, and God has done so many miracles for us as a family!
Jai and I oversee the whole mission with a support group around us for wisdom and advice.
We often wear many hats, from those of the props team to the driver, administrator, and teacher, and that is in addition to being a father, husband, and disciple.
The Kids
Noah Crick
Hi my name is Noah, I have 12+ years experience in live theatre and teaching, I have loved working in this industry since a young age. My job within Manna is the media and production manager, I love it!
Arialle Crick
With five years of vocational training in teaching speech and drama through Trinity College London, as well as seven years of vocational training in teaching dance, I am a Christian author and a passionate lover of all things creative, wildflowers, and sheep. I am now married to my wonderful husband.
Oscar Crick
My name is Oscar and I’m 19. I’ve been involved in Manna for nearly my whole life, and it’s a privilege to serve in ministry with my family. I write songs for productions, help write and produce audio dramas, and act. I also do Bible school, lead worship, play instruments, write songs, bake, cook, play with my little brother, and listen to old-fashioned vinyl on my record player.
Eli Crick
Hi I'm Eli, I love to be on stage with my family. I especially love playing with my dog and making puppet movies. I have been acting on stage for 4 years and acting up at home since I was born. I love to tell jokes and make people smile.