At a time when access to the arts is under increasing pressure, Hackney’s Immediate Theatre is marking 30 years of making a real difference to local lives through connection, storytelling and performance. The organisation ensures creativity remains accessible to everyone in Hackney, regardless of age, background or circumstance.
Founded in 1996 by Jo Carter, the organisation works in the local community and uses drama to share people’s real experiences to help create healthier communities. Unusually, Immediate Theatre works directly in community centres, youth spaces and neighbourhood hubs, rather than traditional theatre venues.
“Immediate Theatre has always been about people and possibility,” said founder Jo Carter. “We create spaces where everyone feels welcome – whether they’re 5 or 85. When people share their stories, they discover confidence, creativity and community. And sometimes those experiences open doors they never imagined. When young people can see themselves reflected in stories and know their voices matter, it can change the direction of their lives.”
While many participants go on to pursue careers in the arts, both on stage and behind the scenes, others simply develop a lifelong love of creativity and connection.
Jo adds: “It’s about having fun. When people feel safe enough to laugh, perform and experiment, that’s when real transformation begins.”
For Shekeila Scarlett, now Chair of Trustees for the charity, finding Immediate Theatre was a turning point. She joined at 14-years-old, having been excluded from school and disengaged with education. Through workshops and performances, she discovered confidence and purpose.
Having served as a chair of Governors for a Hackney Secondary School alongside her role as a Senior Manager for Transport for London Shekeila is now turning 30 and has become an important spokesperson for young people excluded from school.
“Immediate Theatre helped me believe I could lead,” she said. “It gave me confidence when I had none and showed me that my voice mattered.”
For Janet Evans, Immediate Theatre offered something equally powerful: belonging. After losing her husband in 2017 at the age of 70, she joined a community programme looking for connection. Ten years later, she says it changed her life.
“When I arrived, I didn’t want to be known as ‘the widow’. I just wanted to be Janet again. At Immediate Theatre I found laughter, friendship and courage. I stepped on stage for the first time in my life and realised that life doesn’t stop at 70. Sometimes it’s simply the start of a new chapter.”
Over three decades, the organisation has focused on creating performances about the issues that matter to local people, and it hasn’t been afraid to tackle the big issues with performances around social issues like knife crime, drugs and gangs.
Current participant Alaine, aged 18 comments: “I found something I hadn’t experienced in school; a space where young people could speak freely, explore ideas, and be taken seriously.”
Through playing characters, collaborating with others, and understanding emotions beyond her own, Alaine discovered not only empathy but ambition. Immediate Theatre provided the opportunity to experience live theatre, take on roles in live and filmed work and to have the courage to speak out about her experiences of discrimination at the Town Hall.
Alaine explains: “I feel part of a family. I love it here and feel safe enough to talk openly about my experiences of growing up in Hackney and sharing my story I hope helps others feel less alone. Being part of Immediate Theatre has made me kinder person as I share my story and listen to and support others.”
Hackney-born actor, Sir Idris Elba has long championed the importance of creative opportunities for young people growing up in the borough and as patron of Immediate Theatre he recognises the power of the work they do: “Community theatre companies play such a vital and unsung role in supporting young people in some of London’s most underprivileged boroughs. I have been so impressed with the team at Immediate Theatre and their tireless efforts working with young people in Hackney, providing them with a place of safety and encouragement where they can be free to express themselves, and I’m proud to be their Patron”
As Immediate Theatre celebrates its 30th anniversary it does so with renewed purpose to champion all voices across communities while faced with depleting resources to support the work. At a time when hope and community connection is so vital many arts organisations are struggling to sustain this vital work. Donations from individuals and organisations looking to support local community are needed to help the organisation remain at the heart of the community for another 30 years.
Immediate Theatre employs between 50 – 80 people each year and welcomes over 2500 people through its doors every year.
Jo finished: “Over 30 years we have supported thousands of people as they experience the joy of making theatre. We tell contemporary stories that have meaning and impact on our community. But, we want to be here for another 30 years and need support to do that. We would love to hear from businesses and individuals keen to get involved.”
To participate, watch performances or donate please visit www.immediate-theatre.com
Upcoming dates:
August 2026 – Sumer Exposure, annual production with young people aged 12-19, this year exploring mental health.
