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About The Acting Factory Inc.

The Acting Factory is an alliance of professional theatre practitioners and supporters based in Penrith area. Its mission is to:
  • Enhance the local arts landscape and lift appreciation of theatre in the West. 
  • Establish a focal point for actors, writers, directors and other theatre and film practitioners from the Greater West and Blue Mountains.
  • Be an integral part of the community out of which it has grown.
  • Offer vital, affordable theatre to the broad community.
  • Foster and produce new work, particularly work that is culturally relevant to our area.

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!

Our Patrons

Doreen Warburton

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........


Fiona
Press

Fiona began her life in theatre at the Q in Penrith, in 1978, studying under Richard Brooks, being mentored by Doreen Warburton and experiencing an unofficial ‘apprenticeship’ in all things theatrical. She continued her acting training at NIDA and since graduating....  Click here for more info........


Leone
Sharp

Leone commenced her theatre design career at the Q Theatre, Penrith over 40 years ago, designing productions for Managing Director Doreen Warburton and Artistic Directors Richard Brooks, Arthur Dicks and Kevin Jackson. Through the generosity of the.... Click here for more info........

Our Team

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

Testimonials

What Our Audience Says

"The Acting Factory is a gem! The performances are always top-notch and leave you wanting more."

What Our Audience Says

"I attended a workshop at The Acting Factory and it was a game changer for my acting career. Highly recommend!"

What Our Audience Says

"Every show I've seen has been filled with passion and creativity. It's a must-visit for theatre lovers!"

FAQs

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.

Get in Touch with Us