Great news for theatre lovers in the West Midlands!
A brand new professional repertory company, the Aethelflaed Theatre Company, has been founded in Bridgnorth, Shropshire. This is an exciting development, promising to bring high-quality, sustainable theatre to the region.
Founded in collaboration with director Naomi Coleman, the company is an ambitious new project for the area. Coleman is a well-known name in the local arts scene, having previously co-founded Pop Up Theatre, which famously brought the first modern-era play to Soulton Hall.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Soulton Hall – directed by Naomi Coleman
Her work in pioneering theatre at that historic venue demonstrates a deep commitment to revitalizing Shropshire’s cultural landscape.
By committing to at least two productions a year, Aethelflaed aims to create new opportunities for local professional creative talent, providing a much-needed platform for artists right here in Shropshire.
The company’s name itself is rooted in local history, paying homage to Aethelflaed, the Anglo-Saxon Warrior Queen who famously founded and fortified Bridgnorth. It’s a powerful name that suggests both strength and a deep connection to the town’s heritage.
Æthelflaed statue outside Tamworth Railway Station, erected to commemorate 1,100 years since she died in Tamworth.
Their inaugural production is already on the horizon. The company will present Conor McPherson’s The Birds from Thursday, November 13th to Saturday, November 15th, 2025. It’s a fantastic chance to support this new venture and see what they bring to the local arts scene.
