Progress Theatre

Progress Theatre is a theatre company in Reading that presents regular performances in a 97-seat venue. The programme includes classic and contemporary works performed at various locations, including open-air productions held at Reading Abbey.

The company was founded in 1947 and initially operated from Palmer Hall before relocating to The Mildmay Hall in 1951. During the 1950s it staged early English performances of works by major European and Irish playwrights.

The company has built a reputation for staging works that challenge audiences and give lesser-known playwrights a platform. Visitors experience a mix of established plays alongside productions that push boundaries and reflect the theatre's commitment to creative risk-taking.

The venue is located near Reading University, making it accessible by public transport. You should check the schedule beforehand since performances vary by season and some productions take place at different locations.

Kenneth Branagh performed on this stage in the 1970s before becoming the theatre's patron in later years. This connection reveals how significant the company has been in launching careers of performers who went on to wider recognition.

Location: Reading

Inception: 1946

GPS coordinates: 51.44442,-0.95781

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:07