About us

Progress Theatre is a self-governing, self-funding theatre group, run by volunteers, and founded in 1946. We are members of the Little Theatre Guild and the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA), and are a registered charity in England (no. 1182798)

Our intimate 96-seat venue has a fully licensed bar and is the oldest producing theatre in Reading. There is wheelchair access and a hearing loop, and we are committed to making further improvements in the coming years to make our building more accessible. We recently upgraded our toilets and foyer with unisex cubicles, easy access to the new disabled toilet and an enlarged bar area. We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming to all. We endeavour to include a relaxed performance for most of our productions. - learn more about inclusion and accessibility at Progress.

Progress is governed and maintained by volunteers. We have a thriving Youth Theatre, a digital theatre - Progress TV, Writers' Group, and a friendly and energetic community of members.

We also enjoy good relations with the Arts and Leisure department of Reading Borough Council, who support us in our Open Air productions at Reading Abbey Ruins each summer.