Our Story
Born out of a love for performing in open-air theatre productions, the Black Brook Theatre started out as a rather hare-brained scheme to provide a temporary theatre venue to a local theatre group.
The idea then blossomed into crafting entertainment on a more permanent basis, with plans to expand the project further, including the potential for construction of an auditorium, using locally sourced materials.
Further down the road is the hope of expanding the current programme for more summer productions and, in the future, the construction of a winter stage, sheltered from the elements, allowing for entertainment year-round.
The potential for the development of an exciting, vibrant new venue is near limitless.
The Location
The Black Brook Theatre is set in the heart of the North Essex countryside.
Nestled in rural woodland alongside the Black Brook tributary we offer an immersive theatre experience in a serene natural setting.
We also have easy access to the A12 for those of you travelling from farther afield and proximity to the picturesque village of Dedham.
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Yes, we have a field laid out for parking, free of charge.
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This venue has no cover over the audience. Please come expecting a British Summer!
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Whilst we make as much allowance for those less-abled as possible, please bear in mind this is a natural environment. There is uneven terrain and paths that may be too steep for wheelchair use. However, there is vehicle access to the stage area. If you have questions about accessibility, please contact us before booking your tickets.
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There is rudimentary seating provided with the use of Hay bales. Please feel free to bring cushions or blankets as required!
Meet the Team
Peregrine Maturin-baird
Founder & artistic director
Founder & Artistic Director, Peregrine Maturin-Baird
Beginning his acting career from the age of five, Peregrine has had a deep-rooted love of the theatre ever since. Having performed in and around Colchester for most of his life, Peregrine was inspired to start his own theatre by his experience acting in open-air theatre productions.
TOM milton
Producer
Producer, Tom Milton
Tom trained as an actor at ArtsEd and has worked on numerous short films and theatre productions, as well as his fair share of getting soaked performing outdoors. Tom started his journey as a Producer with The Finborough Theatre, London, on the Literary team and continues to seek out bold and exciting new work.