People’s Theatre Collective is a creative home for young theatre makers in Banbury and the surrounding areas.

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We believe that all young people deserve the opportunity to access and create theatre, regardless of background, experience, or barriers they may face.

 

Founded in 2004 by Nasser Memarzia and Karen Corradi, our community-owned company connects young people with professional artists to co- create 

inspiring theatre, developing skills, confidence and positive relationships 

that last a lifetime. Our patron, Sir Trevor Nunn, former Director of the RSC and National Theatre, champions our mission:

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“People’s Theatre Collective truly provides access for all and responds to need.”

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We are proud that many of our alumni have gone on to train at leading drama schools such as RADA, Mountview, The Central School of Speech & Drama, Italia Conti, 

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and the New York Academy of Dramatic Arts. 

Others credit their time with us for giving them vital skills and confidence for life 

beyond the arts.

 

“It’s so lovely to be a part of the group. It’s life changing. My life would be entirely 

different without it.” – Participant

 

Alongside our core community programme, we create professional touring theatre developed through R&D with young people. Past projects include 'Sam & Zoe 

Vs Evermore', developed through OTM’s Emanate programme in 2020 and 

subsequently touring the UK, and 'Song of the Summer', gig theatre production 

co-produced with Royal & Derngate Northampton, featuring professional actor-musicians and local young people. Our outdoor productions 'Myth' and 'Myth II' 

brought communities together, touring Oxfordshire housing estates and public 

parks.

 

Today, our Amplify Community Programme reaches thousands of young people 

each year through free, accessible workshops and performances in schools, parks, 

shopping centres, and community venues. We partner with trusted local 

organisations to engage young people on their terms - whether that’s in a 

mosque, a community centre, or a refugee support group.

 

As a registered charity, all our groups are free to attend and open access. We rely 

on donations and grant funding to keep our work inclusive and accessible, 

ensuring that no young person is ever excluded due to cost.

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Our work celebrates diversity, nurtures creativity, and champions youth voice. Fromdevising plays on social issues to performing in unique spaces like a 

decommissioned nuclear bunker or a historic boatyard, our young people are at 

the heart of everything we do.

 

“Everyone is supportive and lovely. They make you feel that no idea is a bad idea.” – Participant