Nottingham Playhouse: Rising from Strength to Strength

Over the last few years, Nottingham Playhouse has undergone a remarkable transformation, firmly establishing itself as one of the UK's leading regional theatres. Through bold programming, powerful community initiatives, a commitment to sustainability, and a firm belief in inclusivity and accessibility, the Playhouse has not only weathered the turbulent years post-pandemic—it has flourished. Its journey is a powerful case study in how a regional arts institution can balance artistic ambition with social responsibility.

Artistic Innovation and Acclaim

At the heart of the Nottingham Playhouse’s success is its fearless and diverse artistic output. Since 2017, Artistic Director Adam Penford has overseen a radical evolution in programming. His vision has combined crowd-pleasing favourites with boundary-pushing new work, ensuring the theatre’s season offers something for everyone—from first-time theatregoers to seasoned audiences.

One of the most talked-about productions in recent memory was Punch, a world premiere written by Nottingham-born James Graham. Inspired by the real-life story of Jacob Dunne—a Nottingham teenager involved in a tragic one-punch killing—the play was both critically acclaimed and socially impactful. It sparked nationwide conversations around crime, rehabilitation, and restorative justice, highlighting the Playhouse’s unique ability to use theatre as a catalyst for dialogue and change.

In 2024, the Playhouse broke new ground with a reimagined production of Dear Evan Hansen. As the first non-replica production outside of London’s West End, it was a significant moment in regional theatre. Directed by Penford himself, the show featured fresh choreography, innovative staging, and a new take on the ensemble, earning praise for reinvigorating the beloved musical while maintaining its emotional core.

That same year, the theatre also tackled Minority Report, directed by the acclaimed Max Webster. The futuristic thriller captivated audiences with cutting-edge effects and design, while thought-provoking themes about surveillance and free will resonated deeply in our digital age. The season also included The Children by Lucy Kirkwood—an environmentally charged drama that not only sparked discussions but was itself staged using eco-friendly production methods in line with the Theatre Green Book’s sustainability standards.

Another standout was Liberation Squares, a compelling co-production with Fifth Word. It focused on the lives of three British Muslim teenage girls who use their love of comic books to challenge societal expectations and stereotypes. The production proved that the Playhouse isn’t just making bold artistic choices—it’s placing underrepresented voices at the very centre of its storytelling.

Recognition, Awards, and Industry Impact

Nottingham Playhouse's exceptional achievements haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2025, the theatre was named Theatre of the Year at The Stage Awards, one of the most prestigious accolades in the UK theatre industry. The judges commended the Playhouse for its artistic leadership, commitment to inclusivity, and enduring impact on its local and national communities.

This wasn’t the first time the theatre had been recognized on a national level. In 2023, it was awarded the UK Theatre Award for Most Welcoming Theatre, a testament to its dedication to access and audience engagement. From relaxed performances and BSL-interpreted shows to its Pay What You Can ticket scheme, the Playhouse has continually opened its doors wider, dismantling barriers to theatre for thousands of people.

Notably, this recognition has translated into growing partnerships with other leading theatres across the UK. Collaborations with the Almeida Theatre, Hampstead Theatre, and Fifth Word have strengthened the Playhouse’s creative network, while also bringing Nottingham's stories to broader stages.

Sustainability and Greener Theatre-Making

Another area where the Playhouse has led the way is environmental sustainability. Even before it became a widespread industry conversation, the theatre had already taken steps to reduce its carbon footprint. A significant building upgrade in 2014–15 included energy-efficient insulation and the installation of solar panels on the roof. These changes resulted in a 35% reduction in energy use—an impressive figure for a mid-sized regional venue.

But the commitment to sustainability hasn’t stopped with infrastructure. In recent years, productions such as The Children have been consciously produced with recycled materials, digital scripts to reduce paper waste, and eco-friendly lighting systems. This kind of forward-thinking design is rare in theatre, but it’s quickly becoming the norm at Nottingham Playhouse, making it a leader in green theatre-making.

In 2024, the theatre also hosted a symposium alongside The Children, inviting creatives, producers, and technicians to discuss how the industry can adapt to climate change without sacrificing artistic quality. The event helped position the Playhouse as a national hub for conversations on sustainable creativity.

Community Engagement and Local Impact

A defining strength of Nottingham Playhouse is its deep-rooted connection with the community. Its Participation department, led by a team of dynamic facilitators, has become a cornerstone of the organisation. In 2024 alone, over 13,000 people engaged with over 60 ongoing programs—ranging from youth theatre and drama therapy to refugee storytelling projects and over-55s acting classes.

The theatre’s “Shining a Light” initiative has provided a platform for underrepresented stories, from neurodiverse creators to working-class voices often absent from mainstream stages. These aren’t just outreach efforts—they’re woven into the very fabric of the theatre’s identity.

Moreover, the Playhouse has been a vital space for local artists through its Amplify programme, which supports emerging creatives from the East Midlands. The scheme offers mentorship, dramaturgy, rehearsal space, and professional development. It’s been responsible for launching the careers of several writers, directors, and performers now working nationally.

One notable offshoot was the establishment of the Phoebe Frances Brown Award, in partnership with Hampstead Theatre. Named after the beloved Nottingham actor and writer who passed away in 2022, the award supports emerging writers from working-class backgrounds. The first recipient, Olivia Mace, was recognised for her powerful debut Stigma, which premiered to strong reviews and further cemented the Playhouse’s reputation for talent development.

Looking to the Future

The future of Nottingham Playhouse looks brighter than ever. With ambitious new seasons on the horizon, increasing national attention, and an unwavering commitment to making theatre for everyone, the Playhouse is proving that regional theatre can be every bit as vital and visionary as the West End.

From its bold artistic choices and industry accolades to its groundbreaking community engagement and environmental leadership, Nottingham Playhouse has risen from strength to strength—and shows no sign of slowing down.

Whether you’re a theatre lover in the East Midlands or simply looking for proof that the arts can thrive with purpose and passion, Nottingham Playhouse is a model of what modern theatre should aspire to be.