ABOUT P.O’N. CARDEN

P.O’N. Carden is a highly respected, client-focused accountancy firm with a long-standing reputation for excellence, particularly within the creative industries. For decades, the practice has been a trusted partner to individuals and businesses in the performing arts, including actors, directors, musicians and visual artists. Clients consistently praise the firm for its deep understanding of the unique financial challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry, as well as its ability to provide tailored, expert solutions. Renowned for its friendly and approachable team, P.O’N. Carden combines professionalism with a personal touch, ensuring clients feel supported and valued. Clients frequently highlight the team’s ability to simplify even the most daunting financial processes, making tax compliance straightforward and stress-free. Whether helping clients transition to digital tax systems or resolving urgent tax issues with HMRC, the team consistently goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional service. Testimonials emphasise the firm’s ability to explain complex financial matters with patience and precision, empowering clients to make informed decisions.

P.O’N. Carden’s commitment to excellence is matched by its genuine investment in its clients’ success. The team’s empathy, compassion, and deep industry knowledge set it apart from non-specialist accountants, creating a profound and lasting impact on those they serve. Clients describe the firm as more than just accountants – they are trusted advisors and partners who prioritise their clients’ best interests. With a legacy of professionalism, innovation, and care, P.O’N. Carden continues to be the go-to accountancy firm for creative professionals, earning glowing recommendations and unwavering loyalty from its clients. Whether you are just starting out or well-established in your field, P.O’N. Carden offers the expertise, reliability, and personal attention needed to navigate the complexities of financial management with confidence.

Founded in 1977 by the late, great Philippe O’Neill Carden (1950-2024), P.O’N. Carden has been a trusted partner to creative professionals for nearly 50 years. Philippe’s vision and dedication to the arts established the firm as a leading specialist in the tax affairs of individuals in the performing arts, including theatre, television, film, opera, and dance. Over the years, the practice has expanded to serve a wide range of creative industries, from designers and writers to visual artists. Philippe’s passion for the arts and his commitment to excellence left an enduring legacy. His lecture, “How to Survive the UK Tax System,” delivered to drama school students became a cornerstone of financial education for aspiring performers and technicians. Mondane Carden, Philippe’s daughter, now gives this legendary lecture which has been adapted for the modern world of tax.

Since joining the practice in 2012 and becoming a partner in 2015, Mondane, a qualified Chartered Accountant, has brought a fresh perspective and innovative strategies to the firm. Our services go beyond compliance. We provide tailored advice and support, from preparing accounts and tax returns to offering specialised services such as Double Tax Relief calculations and averaging rules for creators of literary and artistic works. Our expertise ensures that clients in the creative industries can focus on their craft while we handle the complexities of their financial affairs.

At P.O’N. Carden, we are proud to offer a personal, family-run approach combined with professional excellence. Our values of integrity, dedication, and client care continue to guide us as we build on Philippe’s legacy. Our clients trust us to deliver clear, actionable advice and innovative solutions, making us a valued partner in their success.

Friendly service

We pride ourselves on delivering a personal, approachable, and consistent service. Our clients trust us to provide a supportive and reliable partnership, ensuring they feel secure and confident that their financial affairs are in expert hands.

Specialisation in the Arts

With years of dedicated experience, we have developed extensive expertise across the entire spectrum of the performing arts, enabling us to provide specialised support tailored to the unique needs of creative professionals.

Bespoke offering

We offer a bespoke range of services, carefully tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. From compliance services such as accounts, tax returns, VAT, and payroll, to strategic advisory support in business growth and tax planning, we provide comprehensive solutions designed to help our clients thrive.

Clear tax advice

We provide clear tax advice, including detailed tax payment schedules and step-by-step guidance to help you navigate HMRC’s requirements with confidence. As a Making Tax Digital-ready firm, we ensure our clients are fully prepared for the digital future of tax compliance.

MEET THE TEAM

Mondane Carden, BSc, MAAT, FCA

Mondane Carden, BSc, MAAT, FCA

Partner

A partner since 2015, Mondane’s expertise in managing the accounts and tax affairs of sole traders and limited companies empowers clients to understand their businesses. She specialises in advising performers and businesses within the creative industries, offering tailored financial solutions to meet their unique needs. She regularly delivers a lecture entitled “How to Survive the UK Tax System” to graduating students at drama schools. She is also involved in the National Youth Arts Trust masterclass program, sharing her knowledge with the next generation of creative professionals. Balancing her time between Derbyshire and the office in Ewell, Mondane combines her deep industry knowledge with a client-focused approach to deliver exceptional service. In addition to her professional work, Mondane is a founding trustee and the treasurer of a village wildlife group. Following nomination, in June 2025 she became a finalist in the BBC Radio Derby Make a Difference Award in the Green category.

Andrew Fairmaner, BSc, MAAT, ACCA

Andrew Fairmaner, BSc, MAAT, ACCA

Practice Manager

Andrew joined the firm in 2013 after a career in retail management, primarily in museums and galleries. As an experienced member of the team, he specialises in reviewing accounts and tax returns, ensuring accuracy and compliance in clients’ financial matters. In addition to filing Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and VAT returns, Andrew brings a meticulous and client-focused approach to his work. He achieved the ACCA qualification in May 2019. Outside of work, Andrew enjoys theatre, cycling, and music.

Debbie Tissié, BA

Debbie Tissié, BA

Assistant Manager

Debbie joined the company in March 2022 and specialises in limited company accounts, directors’ tax returns and VAT returns. During busy periods, she will turn her hand to preparing income and expenditure accounts with accompanying personal tax returns. Debbie balances studying for the Association of Tax Technicians (ATT) qualification with work commitments, demonstrating dedication and a strong work ethic as she develops her expertise in the field.

Jessica Lapping, BA

Jessica Lapping, BA

Assistant Manager

Jess joined P.O’N. Carden in June 2018 and is an integral part of the team. She specialises in preparing income and expenditure accounts, tax returns, and VAT returns with precision and attention to detail. With a creative background and as a practicing artist, Jess brings a unique perspective to her work. Currently studying for her AAT qualification, she is committed to expanding her expertise and delivering exceptional service to clients.

Lucy Rock, BA

Lucy Rock, BA

Accounts Clerk

Lucy joined the team in the summer of 2019 and is a valuable member of the practice. Lucy focuses on preparing income and expenditure accounts, tax returns, and VAT returns with accuracy and efficiency. She is dedicated to enhancing her skills and providing exceptional support to clients.

Lindsay Watson, BA

Lindsay Watson, BA

Accounts Clerk

Lindsay joined the firm in April 2025, supporting the firm transition into the digital age. Lindsay plays a key role in ensuring the firm is fully prepared for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax, helping to position the practice as a forward-thinking, MTD-ready organisation.

Kate Thurlow, BA

Kate Thurlow, BA

Coordinator

Kate plays a key role in supporting the firm’s operations, often meeting with clients and assisting with administrative tasks. In addition, Kate’s versatility and attention to detail enable her to contribute to number-crunching, making her an esteemed member of the team.

Megan Straker

Megan Straker

Administrator

Megan joined the team in January 2020 and is the firm’s dedicated administrator. With Megan’s organisational skills and attention to detail, she plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the practice.

Fawn Perry

Fawn Perry

Administrator

Fawn is supporting the practice by covering Megan’s maternity leave, assisting with administrative tasks and helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the office. Originally from the US, Fawn has moved to the UK and brings a creative background to the team as an artist specialising in tattoo art. Her organisational approach, attention to detail, and artistic perspective make her a valued addition to the practice during this period.

Mondane Carden, BSc, MAAT, FCA

Mondane Carden, BSc, MAAT, FCA

Partner

A partner since 2015, Mondane’s expertise in managing the accounts and tax affairs of sole traders and limited companies empowers clients to understand their businesses. She specialises in advising performers and businesses within the creative industries, offering tailored financial solutions to meet their unique needs. She regularly delivers a lecture entitled “How to Survive the UK Tax System” to graduating students at drama schools. She is also involved in the National Youth Arts Trust masterclass program, sharing her knowledge with the next generation of creative professionals. Balancing her time between Derbyshire and the office in Ewell, Mondane combines her deep industry knowledge with a client-focused approach to deliver exceptional service. In addition to her professional work, Mondane is a founding trustee and the treasurer of a village wildlife group. Following nomination, in June 2025 she became a finalist in the BBC Radio Derby Make a Difference Award in the Green category.

Andrew Fairmaner, BSc, MAAT, ACCA

Andrew Fairmaner, BSc, MAAT, ACCA

Practice Manager

Andrew joined the firm in 2013 after a career in retail management, primarily in museums and galleries. As an experienced member of the team, he specialises in reviewing accounts and tax returns, ensuring accuracy and compliance in clients’ financial matters. In addition to filing Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and VAT returns, Andrew brings a meticulous and client-focused approach to his work. He achieved the ACCA qualification in May 2019. Outside of work, Andrew enjoys theatre, cycling, and music.

Debbie Tissié, BA

Debbie Tissié, BA

Assistant Manager

Debbie joined the company in March 2022 and specialises in limited company accounts, directors’ tax returns and VAT returns. During busy periods, she will turn her hand to preparing income and expenditure accounts with accompanying personal tax returns. Debbie balances studying for the Association of Tax Technicians (ATT) qualification with work commitments, demonstrating dedication and a strong work ethic as she develops her expertise in the field.

Jessica Lapping, BA

Jessica Lapping, BA

Assistant Manager

Jess joined P.O’N. Carden in June 2018 and is an integral part of the team. She specialises in preparing income and expenditure accounts, tax returns, and VAT returns with precision and attention to detail. With a creative background and as a practicing artist, Jess brings a unique perspective to her work. Currently studying for her AAT qualification, she is committed to expanding her expertise and delivering exceptional service to clients.

Lucy Rock, BA

Lucy Rock, BA

Accounts Clerk

Lucy joined the team in the summer of 2019 and is a valuable member of the practice. Lucy focuses on preparing income and expenditure accounts, tax returns, and VAT returns with accuracy and efficiency. She is dedicated to enhancing her skills and providing exceptional support to clients.

Lindsay Watson, BA

Lindsay Watson, BA

Accounts Clerk

Lindsay joined the firm in April 2025, supporting the firm transition into the digital age. Lindsay plays a key role in ensuring the firm is fully prepared for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax, helping to position the practice as a forward-thinking, MTD-ready organisation.

Kate Thurlow, BA

Kate Thurlow, BA

Coordinator

Kate plays a key role in supporting the firm’s operations, often meeting with clients and assisting with administrative tasks. In addition, Kate’s versatility and attention to detail enable her to contribute to number-crunching, making her an esteemed member of the team.

Megan Straker

Megan Straker

Administrator

Megan joined the team in January 2020 and is the firm’s dedicated administrator. With Megan’s organisational skills and attention to detail, she plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the practice.

Fawn Perry

Fawn Perry

Administrator

Fawn is supporting the practice by covering Megan’s maternity leave, assisting with administrative tasks and helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the office. Originally from the US, Fawn has moved to the UK and brings a creative background to the team as an artist specialising in tattoo art. Her organisational approach, attention to detail, and artistic perspective make her a valued addition to the practice during this period.

“Many of our final-year undergraduate students progress into freelance careers within the entertainment industry as designers and technicians, so developing a clear understanding of the UK tax system is invaluable. Mondane has an exceptional ability to simplify and demystify what can otherwise feel like a daunting subject, delivering up-to-date guidance in a way that is engaging, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable for our students.”

Paul Halgarth – Programme Leader for Theatre and Production Technology BA (hons)
The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts

“The best accountancy firm in the business.”

Andrew J K Barker
runs the Equity Pension Scheme

“The star, the legend, the most amazing accountancy firm in the galaxy.”

A.S.
Actor

“I’d gladly recommend the P. O’N. Carden team – they’ve looked after me for several years and the service is always warm, professional and comprehensive. On top of the help with my accounts, I find the blogs are excellent at explaining accountancy issues and updated HMRC policies in a clear and understandable way.”

Jack
Actor & Writer

“Friendly, reliable, professional and efficient – P.O’N. Carden has been an asset to the Students at Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and we are extremely grateful. Mondane is exceptionally knowledgeable, arming our Acting Students with the tools to tackle the financial aspect of their professional careers, which can so often feel daunting without the right guidance.”

Kelly Clare
Industry Liaison Manager
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London

“Thanks for buttoning up my tax matters for the year so efficiently as usual. Since residuals started coming in, it threw a spanner in the works with the additional stream of income needing to be dealt with for tax purposes. Whilst, if I put my mind to it, I’m sure I’d be able to manage it on my own, after my mini brush with HMRC prior to coming back to you (interest/fine for a late payment) I’d rather not have the hassle. You and your staff set everything out in a way that is easy to follow and so make my tax affairs so straight forward.”

K.P.

“The whole team at P’ON Carden are utterly delightful to work with. They never fail to go the extra mile to help me understand the mysterious minefield that is tax! They are consistently hard working, so responsive and joyous to deal with – I cannot recommend them enough. I am so grateful to Mondane and the team, who walked me through every step of the seemingly daunting process of moving my tax return from paper to digital. Thanks to Mondane it was incredibly simple and has subsequently made my life infinitely less stressful! What used to be a week of anxious dread, every January, as I hauled myself through mounds of receipts is now a couple of hours, maximum, of collating details and sending ONE email. Thanks to Mondane’s nurturing guidance in a realm that genuinely baffles me – I now send in my tax return in April and am not remotely triggered when it comes to tax. I honestly hated the whole process and now I’m at ease, thanks to Mondane and everyone in the office. As well as being so genuinely wonderful to work with as people; their specific knowledge, extensive experience and deep understanding in the acting financial landscape is beyond impressive. Having worked with a non-industry specific accountant in the past, the difference is truly profound, they have taught me so much. P’ON Carden are more than simply accountants, they are genuinely invested in you as a client and, most importantly, as a person. They never have anything other than your best interests at heart.”

D.F.
Actor

“I have been relying on Philippe and his team to help with my accounts since shortly after I left drama school over a decade ago. In the last few years it has been Andrew who has been my first port of call there. He has helped me navigate everything from maternity allowance, to VAT registration, to capital gains tax, explaining it all to me with clarity and patience. He is impressively swift at replying to emails and incredibly thorough. Everyone at P’ON Carden is a pleasure to deal with and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.”

Fiona
Actor

“Mondane’s lecture to our Model Making students was full of practical advice to support them as they transition from college into the world of work. The feedback from our students was overwhelmingly positive and they felt it gave them more confidence to approach freelance work after their studies. Mondane’s approach was pitched at the correct level for the stage of our HND students, and we hope to build upon this relationship and offer this opportunity in future years.”

Steph Hyams
Lecturer of Model Making – 3D Design & Drama
City of Glasgow College

“I have been with PON Carden for 30 years and can recommend the high level of professionalism coupled with the personal and dedicated service they provide. Philippe and his team are always there for you, whether you are starting in the entertainment industry or fully established. It is good to know a company that cares as much for their clients as they do in the expertise of their tax affairs. Thanking you all.”

Nick
Writer

“I’ve always been slightly wary of accountants. And admit I arrived to this wonderful firm in a tax mess with HMRC hot on my heels and full of dread and embarrassment. Thankfully the professionals here at P.O’.N Carden put me at ease immediately and took control of the situation. They care and they know the world of finance and are always on top of the almost endless financial developments taking place. They explained everything and sorted me out in record time. Also sorting my pensions and other tax related issues I’ve neglected for years. I am very grateful to them. I’m also delighted to finally be with a firm of accountants who know the business of Acting. A company of people who have empathy and compassion for the trade and all its delights and challenges. I feel aligned and supported by them moving forward.”

“I’m just about to file my third return with P’ON Carden and I couldn’t be happier with the service I receive. I only wish I’d found them earlier. Mondane and Andrew have always been there when I’ve needed them no matter what the issue. They give sound advice and I’ve never felt rushed or hassled as I have done in the past. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for an accountant. Top people and top service!”

Jim
Actor

“As someone new to the UK tax system and just embarking on my journey in acting, I cannot express enough how invaluable and inspiring the session with Mondane Carden was for me. It was not just informative but deeply reassuring, filling me with a newfound hope and clarity. It was an immense relief to have everything broken down in such a clear and compassionate way. I left the session truly empowered, brimming with confidence to face the financial aspects of my career and to pursue my passion with renewed determination.”

Ami Gray
Rose Bruford College

“Highly recommend Mondane and her team, who have helped me for over a decade with all things tax related. They’re always readily available, friendly and patient with my many questions.”

Celia Wright
Coach and Trainer

“Mondane and her team at P O’N Carden have looked after me and my tax affairs for many years. All the team are superb professionals, but with a lovely, personal touch that makes it a pleasure to do business with them. Long may your business grow and flourish.”

Kate
Music Director

“I have been using P.O’N Carden and the team for over 26 years now and always had a great experience with them. Whether it be sorting out inputting issues from my end in QuickBooks, to helping with much larger issues, there is always someone happy to help and guide me. Mondane, Andrew, Jess and the entire team are great at what they do and make tax easier to deal with. They are definitely the people I recommend to all of my colleagues to keep your tax in check.”

Leigh
Lighting Technician

“I have been with this lovely team since the early ‘90s. Friendly, approachable and always up to speed with the latest changes and requirements from our friends in the tax office. They know all the ins and outs of theatre and TV world but extremely helpful in my other business forays! I just can’t recommend enough!”

Jill
Actor

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