We seek to bring people together to experience stories that deepen our understanding of ourselves, each other and the world around us.
Our Vision
To inspire deeper human understanding through the power of theatre, by redefining how Shakespeare and great storytelling connects us all, creates opportunities and brings joy.
HOW WE DO THIS
We have a framework for the next five years, taking us to 2030. It defines what we want to do, why we want to do it and how we are going to achieve it through five clear objectives which guide us in everything we do. They are:
1. Creative brilliance
Create an inspirational, artist-led programme across multiple platforms that’s part of a local, national and global conversation.
- Attract artistic talent through creating the best conditions for artists to make their work
- Grow the RSC’s audiences through our artistic programme
- Expand the RSC’s presence nationally and internationally
- Create innovative new storytelling experiences
- Lead on government and policy advocacy for the theatre industry
2. Reframing Shakespeare
Bring Shakespeare to life for all, creating new forms of learning and engagement with and for schools, communities and partners across the UK.
- Bring the works of Shakespeare to even more people through our creative learning programme
- Transform the way young people and partner communities engage with Shakespeare
- Establish the RSC as a leader in Shakespeare and arts impact research
3. Skills and talent
Champion craft and talent by becoming an inclusive global centre for skills development and theatre innovation, in Stratford, the West Midlands and beyond.
- Become a model for nurturing skills and talent locally and regionally
- Improve access to the theatre industry through inclusive development pathways
4. Financial resilience
Build a robust, sustainable financial model and ambitious development and commercial strategies to underpin the RSC’s long-term growth
5. Transforming the RSC
Renew the RSC’s internal culture and processes to become a more effective, inclusive and environmentally sustainable organisation.
Our values
Our values are at the heart of everything we do, and guide how we work together, make decisions and support one another.
By being creative, collaborative, inclusive, sustainable, and accountable we create a positive, supportive Company where everyone can thrive.
Our history
Our roots lie in the bold vision of a local brewer, Edward Fordham Flower, who in 1879 established a theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon with his son Charles.
The RSC as we know it today was formed by Sir Peter Hall in 1961, whose ambition was to produce new plays alongside those of Shakespeare and his contemporaries.
We continue this today across our three permanent theatres in Stratford – the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the Swan Theatre and The Other Place – as well as in London, digitally and around the globe.
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