Since its opening in 1990 WYP has remained one of the largest and most popular repertory theatres outside of London and is much more than a mere stage.  The Playhouse goes far beyond just the production of plays being heavily involved in education and community projects.

WYP is a theatre with a heart; producing and creating shows right here in Leeds and maintaining a strong community focus. As a combination of two unique theatres, the Quarry and the Courtyard, the Playhouse is at the heart of the communities of West Yorkshire as well as a centre for excellence within the region and further afield. The two theatres (350 and 750 capacity) lend the space and versatility for different productions and uses.

As a producing theatre, the Playhouse creates and produces its own shows, many of which go on to tour nationally and even end up in the West End. In 2009, a WYP production of Othello starring Lenny Henry, and in co-operation with Northern Broadsides, enjoyed a successful run at Trafalgar Studios in the West End.  Popular productions like these require a dedicated and versatile staff and the Playhouse employs over 200 people in a vast range of different jobs; both front of house and behind the scenes crew.

In conjunction with its theatre productions, the WYP also has a full arts education program for both adults and children.  In 2009 the Playhouse opened First Floor; a space dedicated solely to young people and providing arts activities and projects throughout the year. As part of this initiative, the West Yorkshire Playhouse Touring Company tours schools in the region, challenging attitudes with its thought-provoking but exciting performances. The WYP also  runs children’s workshops alongside the many child-friendly productions it shows.

Funding for WYP is currently split between Arts Council England, the National Lottery and Leeds City Council with theatre income from ticket sales, donations and fundraising making up half its income. In 2010 WYP was awarded with National Lottery funds as an Action Research initiative. The project hopes to develop a new business model for theatres, as well as opening up creative opportunities.

Hospitality & Conferences

The Playhouse has several different sized rooms with varying layouts available for hire. Hospitality events or conferences are most welcome with catering and technical support readily available.