Young Theatre Makers take centre stage at Theatre Royal Plymouth as Playhouse returns for 2025

Theatre Royal Plymouth (TRP) is proud to announce the return of the Playhouse; an inspiring drama initiative aimed at primary school children from across Plymouth and the wider South West. Designed to bring theatre to young whose access to creative arts is limited, the project offers students the chance to explore their voices, express themselves, and take to the stage.

Through the generous support of Princess Yachts, Playhouse will engage with over 180 students and 12 teachers throughout 2025, offering programme of drama workshops, opportunities to visit the theatre and TR2, and professional training. The initiative culminates in the much-anticipated Playhouse Festival, running from 08 - 11 July in The Drum at TRP.

Led by TRP’s skilled directors and technicians, Playhouse supports schools throughout the creative journey from rehearsals to performance, bringing out the best in every child. The resulting plays, written by celebrated playwrights such as Miranda Larson & Tom Fletcher, Jennifer Lunn, Fraser Grace, and Adam Peck, explore powerful and relevant themes including reducing waste, displacement, and climate change.

Janette Owen, Project Manager, said:

“Playhouse offers an incredible opportunity for both schools and the theatre. Each year, we welcome over 180 young people who might be encountering theatre for the first time. Our venue creates a red-carpet experience, that celebrates every young performer and technician. Through these new experiences, the project helps children build confidence, form strong bonds, and develop genuine pride in themselves. Playhouse inspires a lifelong passion for theatre, and we’re grateful for the continued support from Princess Yachts.”

Each school will present a powerful, original production that challenges audiences and gives voice to important conversations.

Playhouse Festival Performances 2025

Tuesday 08 July
Fountain Head House School
A Song to Save Us… by Jennifer Lunn

A story about being brave, singing songs of hope and working together for a better future.

A young whale, Canu, lives with her grandmother who sings ancient songs, carrying the wisdom of generations past.

Once a large pod, now it is just Canu and her grandmother and the waters are getting warmer….

Canu must find the strength to protect the world they share.

Wednesday 09 July
Sir Robert Geffery’s School – 12.00pm
Following Pharaoh by Fraser Grace

The Pharaoh has ordered the construction of a grand pyramid to safeguard his riches in the afterlife. But will the cunning “Geezer Giza’s” manage to steal the gold, or will the Pharaoh’s curse catch up with them first? Packed with mischief, twists, and lots of laughter, join us as we venture deep into the heart of the pyramid, where danger and treasure await at every turn…

Ernesettle Community School – 5.30pm
The Creakers by Miranda Larson & Tom Fletcher

One day, the kids in the town of Whiffington wake up to find all the grown-ups have completely disappeared. Our heroes set out on a musical adventure of a lifetime, under the bed…. But we soon realise that maybe it’s not the monsters under the bed that are the scary ones!

Thursday 10 July

Manadon Vale Primary – 12.00pm

Hyde Park Junior School – 5.30pm
“The Jungle” by Adam Peck

A group of MONKEYS have gathered Here. Here is a place where animals go when they have been displaced from their natural habitat, an unusual refuge for animals displaced from their homes. They are waiting to find out whether they will be granted passage to the Island, where they can start anew. Could you decide who should be allowed to enter?

Friday 11 July

Weston Mill Community Primary Academy – 12.00pm

Prince Rock Primary School – 5.30pm

The Creakers by Tom Fletcher

One day, the kids in the town of Whiffington wake up to find all the grown-ups have completely disappeared. Our heroes set out on a musical adventure of a lifetime, under the bed…. But we soon realise that maybe it’s not the monsters under the bed that are the scary ones!