Tread the Boards Theatre Company

Award‑Winning Theatre in the Heart of Stratford‑upon‑Avon

Founded in 2008, Tread the Boards Theatre Company has grown from a small family‑run venture into one of Stratford‑upon‑Avon’s most respected and prolific independent theatre companies. Over the past 16 years, the company has produced more than 100 productions, ranging from Shakespeare and classic literature to new writing, children’s theatre, Halloween spectaculars and beloved family pantomimes.

Our work has reached audiences across the UK, including performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and innovative outdoor and drive‑in productions during the COVID‑19 pandemic.

The Attic Theatre

Stratford-upon-Avon’s No.1 Fringe Venue

Home to Tread the Boards, The Attic Theatre has been consistently voted the No.1 Fringe Theatre in Stratford‑upon‑Avon. This intimate riverside venue, located at Cox’s Yard, showcases a vibrant mix of local talent and visiting companies from across the country.

With its warm atmosphere and unique riverside setting, The Attic Theatre offers the perfect environment to enjoy theatre, comedy, and live music.

Our Mission & Creative Approach

Founded by Catherine Prout and John‑Robert Partridge in 2009, Tread the Boards is dedicated to creating high‑quality, accessible theatre that champions both established performers and emerging local talent.

We are committed to:

• Providing a professional platform for new and upcoming actors

• Delivering bold, imaginative productions

• Offering audiences an intimate and unforgettable theatre experience

• Supporting the cultural life of Stratford‑upon‑Avon

Our productions continue to receive five‑star reviews, and we are proud to be rated the #1 thing to do in Stratford‑upon‑Avon on TripAdvisor, earning the prestigious Traveller’s Choice Award in 2022.

Awards & Achievements

Tread the Boards and The Attic Theatre have been recognised with numerous accolades, including:

Major Awards

• TripAdvisor #1 attraction in Stratford‑upon‑Avon (since 2016)

• TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award (2022)

• Pride of Stratford Awards

  • Arts Organisation of the Year (2014 & 2016)

  • Team of the Year (2016)

Festival & Performance Awards

• Best Family Show – Peter Pan, Edinburgh Fringe (2015)

• Best Actor – Marc Alden Taylor (Smee), Edinburgh Fringe (2015)

• Primary Times Children’s Choice Award – Finalist, Edinburgh Fringe (2015)

• Stratford Fringe Best Performance – Bronte (2017)

Venue Recognition

• Muddy Stilettos Best Arts Venue – Finalist (2018 & 2019)