Founded in 1985 by actress Andrea Black, with the playwright Sam Dowling and actor Ron Forfar, the Tabard began as a modest carpeted room that soon evolved into a place for new writing and experimental theatre. It’s an establishment where creativity and community meet, fostering a supportive environment for emerging talents and seasoned professionals alike.
In recent years, the theatre experienced a renaissance under the stewardship of Simon and Sarah Reilly. Simon, who previously managed the Tabard Theatre from 2008 to 2019, returned with a vision of reviving its legacy of high-quality, accessible theatre. His background is a tapestry of roles—from marketeer at Hackney Empire to a producer and guest lecturer—imbuing him with a profound understanding of theatre production and community engagement. Sarah’s journey from an usher to a powerhouse in fundraising and production adds another layer of expertise, ensuring that the theatre thrives both artistically and financially.
The Tabard’s eclectic programming spans classical adaptations, contemporary revivals, and new musicals. It’s a space where legendary comedians like Dara O’Briain and Russell Howard test their mettle, and where innovative plays like “The Importance of Being Earnest” and “Sherlock Holmes and The Invisible Thing” enchant audiences. This tiny 96-seat venue punches well above its weight, offering West End calibre performances in an intimate setting.
Historically, the Tabard Theatre has been a launchpad for groundbreaking work. From its early days, nurturing new playwrights, to its more recent refurbishments and in-house productions that garnered critical acclaim and West End transfers.
Details
- Address:
- 2 Bath Road
- W4 1LW
- Contact:
- https://tabard.org.uk/
- 020 8995 6035
- Transport:
- Stations: Turnham Green, Gunnersbury