Established in 2001, Red Stitch is Australia’s leading acting ensemble.
A theatre company created by and for an ensemble of actors, Red Stitch has always offered a rigorous creative algebra: brilliant writing brought to life largely by ensemble members who, despite tiny budgets and even tinier recompense, live and breathe the exhilaration of ‘the show’.
Our home space of 80 seats in St Kilda has produced critically lauded theatre for 23 years, with over 170 productions to our name, contributing to our reputation as a leading commissioner and producer of exceptional Australian theatre. Our INK program sustains the increased representation of Australian drama in the national repertoire, supporting an illustrious coalition of playwrights and artists. Eighteen Australian plays have been produced, one third of which have toured nationally or internationally. Our biennial site-specific festival of music and new writing, Playlist, has attracted a large and loyal audience and a vibrant reputation in the community.
“Red Stitch is one of Melbourne’s best-known and respected theatre companies.”
- THE AGE -
Our determination to create a pathway for emerging artists to traverse the challenging transition from tertiary institutions to the professional sector led the company to establish the Red Stitch Graduate program in 2008. Today the Hansen Graduate Program supports five early career practitioners annually, offering young artists the opportunity to work with the company throughout the year across a range of disciplines gaining vital hands-on experience. This has in turn furnished the company with fresh perspectives and ideas.
Current Artistic Director, Ella Caldwell, oversees a company in which over 60 artists have occupied ensemble positions, with 12-15 advisors active at any time and membership refreshed annually. Several original ensemble members hold advisory positions and regularly return to work with the company along with guest artists who bring their vision, talent and energy to the company.
“Red Stitch has always been a theatre company that punches above its weight.”
- THE AUSTRALIAN -
Red Stitch is a triumph of passion over resources. Our tiny budgets have created a resilient. constantly evolving and uniquely creative company, earning recognition and awards alongside much better funded high profile counterparts. As a crucial bridge between independent practice and larger institutions, our artists evolve and hone their craft while simultaneously generating exceptional work for audiences.
Red Stitch has earned a treasured place in the theatre-going community of Melbourne and contributed significantly to the national culture.
“One of the most compelling and consistently excellent theatre companies in the world, that has managed to turn its constraints into creative advantages and deliver theatre that is both intimate and exhilarating”.
- JOANNA MURRAY-SMITH -
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