Business Details
29 Years
experience
Unlimited Theatre - Inspiring Change Through Arts & Culture
Unlimited Theatre was founded in 1997 by six artists committed to creating transformative live performances that challenge and inspire. Over 27 years, we established a global reputation for blending theatre with science, technology, and public engagement, touring extensively across the UK and internationally to 14 countries. Our work has always been driven by values of empathy, collaboration, and innovation, exemplified by award-winning projects like the Unlimited Space Agency, which partnered with NASA and the European Space Agency to inspire young scientists. In 2023, we transitioned from producing new work to supporting emerging artists through initiatives like unAwards, ensuring our legacy of artistic experimentation and inclusivity continues.Our team includes seasoned professionals with decades of experience in theatre, education, and leadership, while our anti-racist ethos and commitment to diversity remain central to our operations. We have been funded by Arts Council England and maintain partnerships with institutions like the Royal Observatory and British Science Association, reflecting our authority in merging artistic and scientific exploration. Our trustworthiness is demonstrated through transparent practices, ethical collaborations, and a focus on empowering communities through creative expression.
Services
Live Theatre Productions
Artist Support Programs
Educational Initiatives
Podcast Series
Community Engagement Projects
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 27 years of international experience in experimental theatre and science communication
- Award-winning educational initiatives like the Unlimited Space Agency
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and anti-racist practices in all operations
- Direct partnerships with NASA, ESA, and the British Science Association
- Transitioned to focus on nurturing emerging artists through unAwards
What people say
Fearlessly innovative
Stunningly brilliant
Inspiring next generation
Award-winning work
Fiercely committed to diversity
Services
Live Theatre Productions
We create immersive live theatre that merges artistic expression with scientific concepts. Our productions have toured globally, engaging audiences in themes like space exploration and ethics. Each show combines rigorous research with creative storytelling to provoke thought and inspire curiosity.
Artist Support Programs
Our unAwards initiative provides financial and collaborative opportunities for emerging artists. By offering grants with minimal bureaucracy, we empower creatives to experiment and develop inclusive practices. This program builds on our legacy of fostering innovation in theatre and performance art.
Educational Initiatives
The Unlimited Space Agency delivers science education through theatrical experiences. Partnering with institutions like NASA, we create interactive programs that make complex scientific ideas accessible. Our work has earned accolades including the Sir Arthur Clarke Award for Space Education.
Podcast Series
The Unlimited Archives podcast chronicles our 27-year journey from founding to legacy-building. Hosted by co-founder J Spooner, it explores key projects and artistic decisions. This audio archive preserves our contributions to experimental theatre and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Community Engagement Projects
We develop site-specific installations and public space performances that connect diverse audiences. These projects emphasize accessibility and social impact, often addressing themes like environmental sustainability and technological ethics through creative expression.
People
Rachael Abbey
Digital Comms Manager
Rachael manages digital communications, leveraging her expertise in online engagement to amplify Unlimited Theatre's global reach and artistic messaging.
Mark Hollander
Programme Manager
Mark oversees programme development, drawing on extensive experience in arts management and his previous role as Executive Director to guide strategic initiatives.
Sarah Oliver-Webb
General Manager
Sarah leads day-to-day operations, ensuring the organisation's values of collaboration and innovation are maintained across all projects and partnerships.
David Nicholson
Trustee Chair
David chairs the board of trustees, providing governance expertise as Director at Levati to support Unlimited Theatre's transition to artist-focused initiatives.
Louisa Ashley
Founding Artist
As a co-founder and former Artistic Director, Louisa established the company's ethos of artistic experimentation and social impact during her 26-year tenure.
Questions
What does Unlimited Theatre do?
We create innovative live performances blending art with science, now focusing on supporting emerging artists through unAwards and educational projects.
What are unAwards?
unAwards are grants for emerging artists, inspired by our history, offering funding with minimal bureaucracy to encourage creative experimentation and inclusivity.
How can artists apply for unAwards?
Applications open periodically; check our website for announcements. The process prioritises simplicity to let artists focus on creation rather than paperwork.
Where does Unlimited Theatre operate?
We work globally, having toured to 14 countries and partnered with international institutions like NASA and the European Space Agency.
Is there a physical shop?
Our online shop sells ethically produced merchandise supporting unAwards, hosted by Teemill with eco-friendly production and shipping.
