Stage Productions – Inspiration in Education nomination

Stage Productions – Inspiration in Education nomination

For nearly two decades Stage Productions has been creating professional-quality theatre shows and offering life-changing performance opportunities for more than 4,000 people of all ages.

The Stoke-on-Trent based community interest company has been nominated in the Inspiration in Education category of the Your Heroes Awards by the parent of a Stage Productions performer, who says it has been transformative for her child.

She said: “Stage Productions has become one of our local community’s most powerful educational forces, investing £2.2 million into local arts and creating life‑changing opportunities for more than 4,000 performers.

“Their belief is that every young person deserves the chance to shine. From first steps in their Stage School to standing ovations in full-scale productions like the recent Charlie and the Chocolate Factory production at the Regent Theatre, they nurture talent with patience, expertise and genuine care.

“Their work blends the enthusiasm of amateur performers with the skill of professional creatives, resulting in musical theatre of exceptional, West End‑level quality right here in Stoke-on-Trent. But their greatest impact reaches far beyond the stage.

“Stage Productions helps young people like my daughter and friend’s son who has autism grow in confidence, develop communication skills, build resilience and discover a sense of belonging. They create an environment where every child feels seen, supported and capable of achieving more than they ever imagined.

“This story is echoed by countless families who have watched their children thrive under Stage Productions’ mentorship. More than a theatre company, Stage Productions is an educational powerhouse inspiring creativity, strengthening wellbeing and shaping futures. Their commitment to opportunity, inclusion and excellence makes them an outstanding candidate for a Your Heroes Award.”

Stage Productions put on its first show in 2008 and now stages six to eight annually, including at The Regent Theatre in Hanley. It has also recently staged shows in a big top at Trentham Gardens.

The CIC is run by co-founder and producer Jonathan Cliffe, co-founder Chris Regnauld and co-producer and choreographer Grace Forrester.

Jonathan, who has a corporate background in marketing, said: “We grew up being part of youth theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme. When that closed we founded Stage Productions. We work with an awful lot of young people but also work with adults as well.

“There are challenges in Stoke-on-Trent. Building confidence is a big part of what we do whether that’s with young people or adults.”

He added: “It feels amazing for Stage Productions to have been nominated for a Your Heroes Award and to think that what we’ve been doing over the years has been recognised in that way. It’s lovely to hear.

“Ultimately we do it because we love it and it’s wonderful to hear that other people feel that way too. It shows it must be working.”