Esk Valley Theatre

The tiny village of Glaisdale seems an unlikely home for a professional theatre, but in 2005 the Esk Valley Theatre Company was formed and produced its first show in The Robinson Institute. Every August since then, just like the moorland heather, the theatre blooms, enriching the cultural landscape and bringing social and economic benefits to the Esk Valley.

The inspiration for the theatre came from co-founder’s actor/director Mark Stratton and director/choreographer Sheila Carter. Both have enjoyed long and successful careers in theatre, film and television and now combine their freelance work with their passion for Esk Valley Theatre.

Each year the company starts from scratch and puts together a professional team to produce a play. This includes a director, producer, production manager, set designer, costume designer, stage manager and actors.

Once a play is chosen Sheila Carter takes on the role of producer, pulling all the different elements of the production together, liaising with the creative team and moving the project forward.

Production Manager Graham Kirk converts the Robinson Institute in to a theatre. The stage is extended, a lighting rig and tiered seating installed, and gazebos erected outside on the lawns to create a bar area. Once this is all in place and the actors have rehearsed all the theatre needs is an audience. And then the magic can start!

The company was originally formed to serve the communities of the North York Moors, but now attracts visitor from the rest of the UK and beyond. EVT has established a vibrant annual event, creating employment, boosting the local economy, and bringing a lot of pleasure to a great many people. Theatregoers can enjoy a pre-theatre meal at a variety of local pubs and restaurants, drinks on the lawn, local ice-cream, and the stunning landscape of the North York Moors.

Esk Valley Theatre is a not-for-profit company Limited by Guarantee.
Registered in England and Wales. Company No. 6719735