Headgate Theatre Productions

Headgate Theatre Productions (HTP) was established to ensure that the theatre programme included a wide range of drama to complement the plays produced by our hirers. It is also a means of generating revenue to help run the building.

HTP is rightly proud of its growing reputation which is reflected in positive audience feedback and extensive nominations and awards, as seen at the recent North Essex Theatre Guild Awards.

We aim to attract a diverse and talented range of directors and as a minimum the annual programme will always include a ‘classic’ , a contemporary play, a comedy, and a pantomime.

HTP cast from open auditions, and more details can be found on the specific audition notice for each production. All productions are licensed for amateur performance.

HTP welcome expressions of interest from those who might want to take on backstage, costume or technical roles, act as rehearsal prompts or be involved in prop making/scenic painting.

Previous productions by HTP

Upcoming Auditions

Open Auditions – The Girl on the Train

Open auditions for The Girl on the Train based on the novel by Paula Hawkins, adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and…

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Our Forthcoming HTP Programme

Home, I’m Darling by Laura Wade

Wed 14th – Sat 17th October 2026

Directed by Sharon Carter

Further information about Home, I’m Darling

Hansel and Gretel by Alan P Frayn

Wed 3rd – Sun 7th December 2026

Directed by Mike Cutmore and Stuart Williams

Further information about Hansel and Gretel

The Dumb Waiter by Harold Pinter

Sat 17th January 2027

Directed by Nate Drury

Further information about The Dumb Waiter

2:22 A Ghost Story by Danny Robins

Wed 3rd – Sat 6th March 2027

Directed by Elly Kent Johnson

Further information about 2:22 A Ghost Story

The Girl on the Train adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel, based on the novel by Paula Hawkins.

Wed 3rd – Sat 7th August 2027

Directed by Forest Morgan

Further information about The Girl on the Train

Check our social media and the News pages on the website for information about auditions coming up for all productions yet to cast.

Performing

We run open auditions for most Headgate Theatre Productions and tend to audition around 6-9 months in advance of a planned production. All auditions are advertised on our Facebook page, and in our What’s On monthly newsletter, with detailed information – character requirements/rehearsal plan etc. made available on this website.

We endeavour to make the auditions as non-threatening as possible. In certain circumstances we reserve the right to limit the numbers auditioning.

Directing

We welcome expressions of interest from new and experienced directors. Our programme of plays is usually developed from May – October of each year.

Following consideration of proposals by a small sub-committee, directors are allocated a “champion” to ensure that there is good communication, a budget is developed (over which the director exercises significant control) a rehearsal programme is agreed, and technical support is identified.

Technical Support

The technical support for Headgate Theatre Productions is drawn from our team of volunteers.

We always welcome new people with an interest or skills in lighting, sound, scenic design/painting, costume making or stage management (including making or sourcing props). Preparation for our annual pantomime requires lots of input and usually starts in the late summer. We are open to discussion with students (16+) who need to produce props or items as part of their studies.