Our commitment

The Playhouse has equality, diversity, access, and inclusion in its DNA. We are committed to making the Playhouse a welcoming, safe, and respectful place for everyone to work and visit.

We are dedicated to creating an environment which is friendly and warm. This ethos is reflected across all our creative activity; from the broad and inclusive programme of work we make and present on our stages, to our artist development programme, Furnace and our award-winning and longstanding Creative Engagement programme.

For staff, we also have a champions and allies support system for all protected characteristics so no one should feel marginalised or unable to raise their views, in particular, ensuring that no potential or actual employee receives more or less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, colour, ethnic or national origins, marital or civil partner status, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, age, religious beliefs, care experience or socioeconomic situation.

We are committed to being:

• Pioneers of accessibility. We are the first theatre in the UK to initiate Relaxed performances and the first in the world to have Dementia Friendly performances. We are committed to continuing this legacy through our work with a variety of deaf, disabled and neurodiverse artists, creative integration of access in our productions and as part of the Ramps on the Moon consortium.
• An anti-racist organisation. We have developed a Plan for Change to take a deep look at what we need to do to become a truly anti-racist organisation that provides a safe and supportive environment for Black people, Asian people and anyone who experiences racism. We’re at an early stage of our journey and it’s subject to constant review and improvement based on the experiences of people who both work with and visit us.
• A safe space for everyone who uses it. We are the world’s first ever Theatre of Sanctuary; a place of safety, hospitality and support for refugees and people seeking asylum. We are committed to being a safe space for all who use it – artists, audiences, staff, participants, even someone who pops in for a cup of tea or simply to use the loo.

More information can be found below.