Camden People’s Theatre (CPT) is celebrating three decades of shaking up London’s creative landscape. From its humble beginnings as a reclaimed pub space, this North London gem has become a beacon for emerging artists, experimental theatre, and cultural innovation. It’s not just a theatre; it’s a launchpad for some of the most daring voices in contemporary performance.
CPT has nurtured careers, defied conventions, and redefined what theatre can be. As it marks 30 years, the theatre shows no signs of slowing down. Instead, it’s doubling down on its mission to support emerging talent and break new creative ground.
A Tricennial Celebration of Creativity
Camden People’s Theatre will host a special event on January 30, 2025, as the crowning moment of its year-long anniversary celebration. This event is more than just a milestone; it’s a tribute to three decades of fostering new voices, championing bold ideas, and connecting communities through theatre.
CPT’s journey has been one of grit and determination. Leaky ceilings? Check. Financial struggles? Absolutely. Squatters? Why not? Yet, through all the challenges, CPT has remained steadfast in its mission to push boundaries and provide a stage for those who dare to think differently.
Launchpad for Theatre’s Brightest Stars
Over the years, Camden People’s Theatre has been the starting point for countless artists who have gone on to achieve national and international acclaim. It’s not just a theatre—it’s a vital community hub and a creative incubator.
Tobi King Bakare first stepped onto the stage at CPT at just 17. Today, he’s a celebrated actor with credits in the West End and on TV. From starring in Sky’s Temple to shining in FOR BLACK BOYS Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy, Bakare credits CPT as a formative part of his artistic journey.
Haley McGee, Olivier Award nominee, found her creative home at CPT with her second-ever production, The Ex-Boyfriend Yard Sale. CPT supported her through its Starting Blocks programme, propelling her work to global stages and critical acclaim.
Ridiculusmus, the award-winning theatre company, owes its early success to CPT. Their breakout show Yes Yes Yes set the stage for a career that later included residencies at the Barbican Centre.
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Visionaries
CPT’s commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond individual artists. It has become synonymous with fostering bold, experimental theatre that challenges conventional narratives.
Artists like Chris Thorpe, founding member of Unlimited Theatre, have used CPT as a springboard to explore the intersection of theatre and science. Sh!t Theatre, known for their DIY aesthetic and political comedy, debuted their now-celebrated works at CPT. Even the award-winning multi-arts collective Highrise found its footing here, with shows like Merryville and Drill.
Adapting for the Future
In 2024, CPT welcomed its new Artistic Director, Rio Matchett, ushering in a fresh era of innovation and inclusivity. Matchett emphasizes the theatre’s commitment to adapting to the changing cultural landscape while staying true to its mission.
“Artist development is the lifeblood of theatre,” says Matchett. “The voices, stories, and audiences of tomorrow depend on it.”
Camden People’s Theatre: 30 Years of Impact
From its founding mission to challenge norms and spark new ways of thinking, CPT has grown into one of London’s most influential grassroots arts hubs. It remains a space where emerging artists can thrive, and audiences can discover the unexpected.
As it celebrates its 30th anniversary, CPT looks ahead with unwavering dedication to supporting creativity, championing inclusivity, and redefining theatre for the next generation.
