
The Acting Factory grew out of Richard Brooks' Three Stage School of Acting, which in turn grew out of the original Q Theatre run by Doreen Warburton. A Shakespeare workshop program in 1998 led by Brooks for Q Theatre and Three Stage graduates gave rise to an ambitious, finely-tuned production entitled Shakespeare, No Holds Bard. To publicise the performances the group needed a name and, since Three Stage was housed in a factory unit in South Penrith, the name The Acting Factory was coined.
Incorporated in 2001, the groups first production was Gordon Graham's highly controversial play The Boys, followed later that year by more great Australian theatre, The Popular Mechanicals.
To date, The Acting Factory Inc. has presented eighteen major productions (as well as many smaller offerings) including our Kid's Shows at Penrith Regional Gallery and Norman Lindsay Gallery, and our ever-popular Shakespeare by the River - both of which have been presented annually since 2004 and are an eagerly anticipated yearly event for people from all over the Greater West, Blue Mountains, Sydney Basin and beyond.
The Acting Factory is an Incorporated Association, which means it is a non-profit organisation managed by a member elected committee. Membership is open to everyone but training and/or experience is required to perform or direct. Contact us for a Membership form and Guidelines.
The Acting Factory is listed with the Register of Cultural Organisations and is recognised as a Deductible Gift Recipient by the Australian Tax Office. All donations (of $2 or over) are fully tax deductible.
At The Acting Factory, we bring stories to life through the power of performance. Our talented actors and creative team work tirelessly to deliver captivating shows that entertain, inspire, and resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned theatre-goer or new to the stage, we invite you to experience the thrill of live performances with us!

VALE - Doreen Warburton OBE (22/03/1930 - 19/07/2017). Doreen Warburton was the sole Patron of The Acting Factory since it’s inception until her death on 19 July 2017. “Theatre should reflect society. Everything we do artistically should help us and our audience.... Click here for more info........


President - Sari Erasmus Hickey
Treasurer - Jim Pope
Vice President - Lynda Henderson
Secretary -Ann Attwood
Members - Felicity Burke, Neridah James, Kaitlin Peek, Margaret Pope, Margaret Kenny
At The Acting Factory, we provide a wide range of performances, including plays, musicals, and one-act shows. Our diverse programming showcases talented actors and enriching stories for all audiences.
You can purchase tickets online through our website or at the box office on performance days. We recommend booking in advance to secure your seats for your favorite shows.
To stay informed about upcoming shows and special events, subscribe to our newsletter via our website. You can also follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and promotions.