Dear Giles
I am very happy to support your bid. I have lived in Stratford-upon-Avon since 2008.
Years ago I was involved in bringing small-scale theatre and music events to the village hall in the village in East Yorkshire where I lived. I have been involved in making short films and training videos etc, putting on training events and workshops, as well as being an enthusiastic member of the audience at many productions. More recently, I have worked on a collaborative project with Maggie Rose, a playwright who lives and works in Milan, after meeting her when she brought her play A Walk in Shakespeare’s Garden and a workshop on Italian Commedia del Arte to Stratford in 2017. Maggie’s new play, Two Sisters, was booked to be performed in June this year the Variety Bar at The Playhouse until the sudden closure meant we had to find another venue.
It would be great to see The Stratford Playhouse fully operational again and used in a more varied and diverse way than has sometimes been the case in the past. Stratford upon Avon is rightly known for excellent theatre, but it would be good to see more inclusivity and community involvement. Your manifesto and aspirations for the Playhouse sound exciting (and deliverable), and your track record of supporting and promoting small productions demonstrates the experience, knowledge and connections to make these work. It is important for the venue to be a viable going concern.
The mix of genres you propose to offer, and having the capacity to bring in some well-known acts, means that what is on offer and available to local residents looking to enjoy theatre, music and comedy productions will be increased. The RSC is understandably a huge tourist draw, and it has a faithful following of local people too, but it is expensive and not everyone’s cup of tea. Running the Playhouse in the way you propose would certainly make entertainment more affordable and inclusive for local residents, (an important consideration for Stratford Town Trust who own the building), but that would not preclude it from attracting visitors as well.
Your manifesto also demonstrates that if the Playhouse is set up as a community resource, the possibility of using it as a venue for training events, workshops, group meetings and so on means that it would be very useful in supporting eg, small groups, non -profit projects, and young people at the start of a career in the performing arts. This would add to the cultural life of Stratford-upon-Avon in a positive and useful way.
The building lends itself to a variety of uses and now that Brexit has reduced opportunities for a lot of collaborative UK/European projects, the Playhouse would be a good venue for some of those events, keeping the spirit of cultural exchange and interaction alive and available to local people.
It would also be interesting to see a synthesis of arts and well-being – for example showing vintage films and music providing entertainment and enjoyment for people with dementia, and a community choir. This could complement the excellent visual and heritage work done by the well established Escape Arts organisation, and open up opportunities for collaboration.
I wholeheartedly support your aims and plans for the Playhouse and I hope your bid is successful.
Kind regards
Liz Willetts
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Letter in support of Giles Shenton’s proposal concerning the Rother Street Arts Venue (otherwise known as the Playhouse theatre) in Stratford-upon-Avon
I am a playwright, former Chair of Theatre Studies and Performance at Milan University, Chairperson of English Theatre Milan. My connection with Stratford dates back to 2014 when my mother moved to Leamington, and for ten years I visited Stratford regularly for my Shakespeare research and to see shows. Thanks to a fortuitous meeting on Lake Garda, with Simon Allen, director of the Bear Pit, who saw my promenade play, A Walk in Shakespeare’s Garden, the play was performed in the gardens of New Place in 2016, and the Italian company I had brought over to Stratford ran a Commedia dell’arte mask workshop at the Bear Pit. In 2018, I spent a sabbatical leave doing research at the Shakespeare Institute library, where I was able to explore links between Shakespeare, Commedia dell’arte and the women performers and managers. With filmmakers Liz and James Willetts, Stratford residents, I set up the Green Shakespeare project, which includes the making of the documentary film, Shakespeare, Arlecchino and Green Passion, written by M. Rose and directed by James Willetts. In June 2025 my new play, Two Sisters, about Judith and Susanna Shakespeare, is scheduled at Tudor World in Sheep Street, Stratford-upon-Avon. It is produced by the Green Shakespeare project and English Theatre Milan. While I see many mainstream productions, including plays at the RSC, my own work, as a writer, director and producer, focuses on small-scale shows. With Sal Cabras, I direct English Theatre Milan, a non-profit association, which produces its own inhouse plays and imports plays in English from abroad (see website: englishtheatremilan.org). Regarding Mr Shenton’s proposal, the idea of a programme, which includes commercial and community theatre at the Playhouse, sounds financially very viable. His ideas about the different ways of using the three spaces at the Playhouse, moreover, reflect a clear, well-thought-out plan for the future of this important cultural institution.
English Theatre Milan would be very happy to discuss some international links between Stratford upon-Avon and Milan, if the bid is successful.
Yours sincerely
Margaret Rose
Chairperson and co-director of English Theatre Milan.
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We love this special venue. You have a great vision, placing the Stratford Playhouse Community Theatre at the very heart of the community. I was Director of a similar, smaller venue, and as one of your touring performers, I have seen close up that you have all the skills, energy and experience to make this fly.. You have my full support.
Katherine Clarke
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I sent an earlier email just saying what a great idea, now having re-read your manifesto, I’d like to 1) endorse the project 2) be involved artistically. I am former RSC director. I ran the Bridge Project at Warwick School’s Bridge House Theatre for 6 years. I’ve worked in rep, touring, the West End and in New York.
Alison Sutcliffe
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Dear Giles
On reading your manifesto for setting up a Stratford Playhouse Community Theatre, I wish to give my wholehearted support to your application.
The extent to which you have thought through your detailed proposals gives me confidence that you will succeed in transforming the former 'Playhouse' into a vibrant community arts hub, offering a wide range of experiences and opportunities, for local people and for visitors to the town.
The fact that you wish to enable local individuals to be part of the creative process, is very welcome. Anyone who has a particular skill to offer is likely to be well received. For example, last year I met your colleague Christopher Saul (actor/teacher/writer), made a video trailer for his one man show, EXIT, PURSUED BY A BARD, and took photos of him which you have used to update his profile on your website.
In terms of my background, as a one time student at University College London, I was active in photo journalism. As Principal Teacher of Classics at Ardrossan Academy, North Ayrshire (1976-2004), I took an extra-curricular interest in drama and film-making. My pupils won numerous prizes in national and international competitions. On four occasions in the 1990s they represented the UK in the Finals of the annual European Young Consumer Competition (held in Brussels) with great success. I became aware at that time that the UK is not always highly regarded by our fellow Europeans, that rightly or wrongly we needed to be 'cut down to size'. I was therefore highly chuffed when my pupils displayed such personality and talent that they were awarded second prize, or third prize, by the 'adult jury' (and at least one first prize by the 'junior jury' who were more inclined to judge us by ‘what we did’ rather than by ‘who we are’!). These days I have a YouTube channel and enjoy making films on a wide range of topics.
It is clear to me that you are keen to involve all kinds of people in the local community and ready to listen to anyone who shares your vision. I would add that, for all the merits of The Royal Shakespeare Company, we also need a theatre for everyone, with opportunities to engage personally in your various activities, and I am confident that you are offering something more.
I wish you every success in your application to the Town Trust. I look forward to this new exciting development in the cultural life of Stratford upon Avon which you are offering.
Best wishes
James Willetts
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I am writing this letter in full support of Lawrence Prestidge and his consideration for a leadership role at the Stratford Playhouse.
I have had the pleasure of working with Lawrence for over ten years, during which I have managed his diary, coordinated high-profile bookings for his podcast, and overseen public relations surrounding his written work. Over this time, I have watched him grow both personally and professionally, and I have no hesitation in saying he would be a true asset to any organisation, particularly one as central to the community as the Playhouse.
Lawrence is constantly striving to better himself. He is a natural networker, someone who values connection, collaboration, and community—qualities that align seamlessly with a leadership role in a local theatre setting. Whether building relationships with industry professionals or engaging with local groups, he leads with authenticity, curiosity, and respect.
One of Lawrence’s greatest strengths is his adaptability. In the ever-changing world of live events, media and publishing, he has consistently shown the ability to think on his feet and adjust quickly without compromising the quality or integrity of his work.
Over the years, many household names have commented on Lawrence’s professionalism, his transparency, and his sincere interest in their work. In his podcast The Shapes of Stories, he made it a priority to brief guests in advance, ensuring they were comfortable with the content and avoiding any surprises. That level of consideration and preparation speaks volumes about his character.
His children’s book Terror at the Sweet Shop continues to resonate with young readers nationwide—we regularly receive letters and messages from children and parents expressing their enthusiasm and appreciation. His storytelling ability is not only engaging, but also meaningful, and his commitment to young people’s creative development is evident in everything he does.
Lawrence goes above and beyond in every project he’s involved in. He gives 100% of himself, always, and does so with passion and care. It has been a joy to represent him, and a privilege to witness his continued growth year after year.
He cares deeply about the town of Stratford-upon-Avon, and as a former child actor himself, he has a profound commitment to creating opportunities for children and young people to experience the magic of theatre and express themselves creatively.
In my professional opinion, Lawrence would bring integrity, energy, and vision to the Stratford Playhouse. I fully endorse his involvement in a leadership role and would be happy to answer any further questions.
Kind regards,
Jade Callaway
Callaway PR
I have known Giles Shenton for a number of years. During that time I have been connected with “Flo Smith - Now and Then” - one of his numerous touring productions.
I have seen at first hand his abilities as a producer - in particular his enormous energy and commitment. He has formed strong relationships with many organisations which host small scale theatre productions up and down the country. His company has been invited to return to many venues, witness to his ability to forge strong alliances. It is clear how positive his relationships are with the staff and managements of many varied venues. He is able to mount a production quickly and efficiently and overcome obstacles with clarity, tact and great good humour.
Also he has clearly developed strong relationships with organisations such as Rural Touring who value his experience in planning, logistics and venue booking as well as his ability to deliver productions of quality. In addition, he has the business acumen necessary to set up financial arrangements in mounting and booking productions. Also he is very experienced in the practical side of mounting productions from lighting and sound design to Front of House arrangements.
Finally, he has the most valuable asset, unusual in most producers, of being an artist in his own right - as both a performer and director. This gives him an invaluable insight into artistic performances of all kinds.
I have no hesitation in recommending him most warmly.
Ian Watt-Smith
Director 60th Anniversary Tour of “The Mousetrap” 2012-15
Director School of Musical Theatre, Arts Educational Schools 1996-2008
Director Churchill Theatre, Bromley 1979-83
Director of Productions Welsh National Opera 1973-76
Director of Productions Welsh Drama Company 1972-77
Director of Productions Scottish Opera 1968-71
I am writing to offer my wholehearted support for Giles Shenton and his initiative to run the Rother Street Arts Venue, turning it into the Stratford Playhouse Community Theatre as a charity.
Giles is a passionate ambassador for the performing arts and an advocate for community enrichment, as well as having extensive experience in the management of theatrical projects and venues. I am personally thrilled to see such a dynamic leader spearheading this endeavour.
Giles has consistently demonstrated a profound dedication to the theatre, not only through his exceptional talent but also through his unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and inclusion. His vision for this new theatre is inspiring, promising to bring a fresh wave of drama and cultural enrichment to the Stratford community.
The establishment of this theatre will undoubtedly provide a platform for local talent to shine and offer audiences unparalleled experiences. Giles's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create immersive and captivating productions will ensure that this theatre becomes a cherished cultural landmark.
I have no doubt that under Giles's leadership, the new theatre will flourish, becoming a beacon of creativity and a source of pride for the community. I wholeheartedly support this venture and look forward to seeing it evolve to meet his vision, to the benefit of the Stratford community as a whole.
Yours sincerely,
Adrian Harding
Marketing Manager, Swan Theatre Yeovil
Special Projects Manager, Amateur Players of Sherborne
I have known Giles Shenton in a work context since around 2015. Giles has brought to the Vera Fletcher Hall in Thames Ditton very many productions, both his own and those of other practitioners. At the VFH, we know that we can rely on Giles to provide a professional show with professional support.
His admin/organisational skills are excellent. He has a keen eye for quality theatre, which is why we are happy to take on trust his recommendations of shows that would work well for our demographic.
He is always swift to respond to emails and to send marketing material promptly. He has a warm, pleasant and unflustered personality and he has always engaged positively with our largely volunteer staff. These skills are particularly suited the running of a venue where there is likely to be a mix of professional practitioners, paid and volunteer staff.
Giles was invited to step in at the Vera Fletcher Hall in the very difficult period emerging from covid, and he set about rebuilding our audience and programming imaginatively. He has now returned to running his own company, and he remains our go-to promoter for plays.
I would not hesitate to recommend Giles for the role of running a venue. He possesses the ideal combination of passion along with organisation and communication skills required.
Claire Evans,
Theatre Consultant at the Vera Fletcher Hall
Independent Theatre Director and Producer