ARTISTIC POLICY

Learning & Training

Greenwich Theatre is committed to providing a nationally unique programme of educational opportunities for young people, primarily through the operation of the Greenwich Musical Theatre Academy. This unique and ever-evolving initiative, run through a dynamic partnership of cultural, social and educational organisations, works with hundreds of young people throughout the year, free of charge, and enables young people to engage with all aspects of theatre production, providing training, career guidance and a renewed sense of purpose to those young people who may have struggled with mainstream modes of learning. The Theatre has no 'Education' or 'Creative Learning' department, just as it has no 'Theatre' department – it is simply a part of what every member of staff does.

Musical Theatre

In all aspects of both programming and producing Greenwich Theatre is committed to supporting the production of musical theatre, in a cultural climate which increasingly favours commercial recognition over theatrical innovation, and the theatrical presentation of established popular music over wholly original musical theatre. With its thrust stage and intimate auditorium, Greenwich Theatre is ideally suited to the presentation of musical theatre – one of this country's most valuable cultural exports. The annual festival Musical Futures provides a unique opportunity for new writers and composers to showcase their new work in front of an audience of invited industry professionals and public musical theatre lovers alike. Historically Musical Futures has been funded by Arts Council England. Future plans for the festival are under consideration.

Children's Theatre

Greenwich Theatre has a strong commitment to providing a wide range of performances and participatory opportunities for children. In 2008 with support from Docklands Light Railway the Theatre launched the first ever Greenwich Children's Theatre Festival, and companies featured in the growing children's programming strategy include Blunderbus, IndefiniteArticles, Taiko Meantime, The Flying Gorillas, Gomito Productions and Les Enfants Terribles.

Access & Opportunity

Ultimately, theatre holds something for everyone, and Greenwich Theatre is committed to promoting equality of opportunity across all aspects of its operation. This applies to audiences, performers, practitioners, young participants and staff alike. In education, we strive to use theatre to tackle the barriers which prevent young people from accessing education, employment or training. For musical theatre writers we strive to offer developmental opportunities unavailable elsewhere. In programming, we offer a broad, diverse selection of productions to satisfy a wide audience. For staff we encourage training and personal development, both inside and outside of the industry. In welcoming audiences, we strive to offer accessible facilities, performances and activities throughout the year.

More than anything, we are ready and keen to talk to our audience, our participants and our staff at any time to improve the many and varied opportunities provided by Greenwich Theatre.