Our Mission

The theatre industry is challenging for many artists to break into. It can leave aspiring talent feeling helpless to navigate pathways into careers and experienced creatives feeling frustrated trying to climb the proverbial career ladder. According to the Guardian, "only 8% of creatives in film and TV come from a working-class background." So what do actors do if they don't come from money, industry or family connections, or have a spot of luck? 

In the old days of rep theatre, actors like Judi Dench, Ian McKellan, Derek Jacobi and the like got to practice, make mistakes, stretch themselves, and learn from seasoned craftspeople in the old repertory theatre system. The system of putting on play after play and working within an ensemble meant  actors were constantly developing their skills. It was hands-on learning, and for some, it was a way into the industry without having to go to an expensive drama school or it could serve as a stepping stone for those who did go to drama school get a foothold into the professional world.  

Mary Rose Productions was created to renovate the former rep system. We cannot replace the system but what we can do is aim to take the best of the old system and make something our own. It means we don't wait for a lucky break, fame, or fortune: we self-produce and foster new talent by collaborating with experienced theatre-makers on productions of exceptional quality. It's our goal to make art a sustainable and viable job again, open to people of all backgrounds.  Ambitious, we know, but at least worth a go. If we can help increase the number of working class actors and creatives in the industry from 8% to 9% then we will have made a difference!

To accomplish, our rep-style theatre company provides educational workshops, skill-sharing with work-shadowing placements, and artistic collaboration culminating in professional-grade productions. Essentially, adding that next step up the ladder for those who want it.