About the Company
The Mercury Theatre Company is a highly respected ensemble company producing classic and new plays and working extensively in the community. Its work is at the heart of the Mercury’s single objective: to inspire, engage and entertain through theatre-making.
The Mercury Theatre Company was formed in 1998. Through extensive work in the Community, it aims to develop the actor/audience relationship, which is at the centre of all great theatre.
Mercury Theatre Mission Statement
To provide theatre for, and in, the community. Through the creation of work, which enriches audiences intellectually, emotionally and spiritually, the Mercury aspires to become one of the leading centres of excellence in the country. A commitment to quality, innovation, diversity and accessibility results in larger, younger and broader audiences. The theatre and its work actively contributes to the regeneration of producing theatre in the Eastern Region, through working partnerships with Arts Council England, East and other regional organisations.
The Mercury Theatre provides an extensive annual programme of home productions, co-productions and visiting companies over 48 weeks per year. This work is accompanied by a commitment to young people’s development through an active Community and Education Department which provides programmes for young offenders, social inclusion, schools, colleges and the wider public from toddlers upwards. The Mercury also provides facilities for a large number of local amateur and community groups.
Mercury Theatre Core Values
• The Colchester Mercury Theatre Company (MTC) – is a company of actors, performers and creative artists – whose two core activities, work on stage and work engaging the community of all ages and needs, remain of equal and vital importance.
• The MTC remains innovative and challenging in its work.
• The aspiration to strive for regional, national and international collaboration and partnership working and recognition.
• The theatre is a learning organisation encouraging personal growth within the organisation and community.
Whilst upholding these core values it remains the role of the board to:
1. Maintain a policy of inclusiveness and diversity
2. Ensure responsible financial control which is prudent and sustainable
3. Support the striving for excellence and high quality in all in which the theatre is involved.