Pleasance Theatre Trust

Who we are

The Pleasance Theatre Trust is a leading UK arts charity dedicated to creating space for emerging voices, bright ideas, and outstanding performance. With a proud history rooted in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and a permanent base in Islington, London, the Trust fosters theatrical innovation, accessibility and growth within the performing arts.

Since its foundation in 1985, and its charity registration in 1995, the Trust has built a reputation for recognising, supporting, and showcasing both emerging and established talent. Each year, the Pleasance hosts hundreds of productions across its two hubs, provides critical support through artist development initiatives, and nurtures the next generation of performers, producers, and creatives.

For over four decades, the Pleasance has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of countless artists and creatives, both on and off stage, across theatre, comedy, and live performance. Many performers, writers, directors, and creatives who began their journeys at the Pleasance have gone on to shape the arts landscape both in the UK and internationally. This enduring legacy demonstrates the Trust’s dedication to supporting old ideas and providing a platform where new voices can flourish.

Our culture and values

We present acclaimed seasons of performance at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Pleasance London. We provide rehearsal and R&D space, technical and producing support, and mentorship through our flagship artist development programme, Pleasance Futures. This includes the Young Pleasance, our Charlie Hartill Fund, our Edinburgh National Partnerships and our London Associate Artist programmes. We are committed to reaching new audiences. Through community outreach, school engagement, and accessible performance initiatives, we aim to ensure everyone—regardless of background—has the opportunity to engage with theatre.

We exist to:

• Champion innovation across theatre, comedy and performance
• Provide accessible, affordable platforms for artists to take creative risks
• Develop the skills and careers of young and emerging talent both on and off stage
• Support a diverse, inclusive and equitable creative community
• Entertain, engage, and inspire audiences across the UK and beyond

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

We are committed to providing opportunities for everyone, regardless of background, gender, race, disability, faith or sexuality, and to ensure that our programme and teams reflect the diversity of our sites in Edinburgh and London.