Unpuzzled
Our Beliefs
At Unpuzzled Theatre Company, we firmly believe in the transformative power of theatre and the arts. Inclusivity lies at the core of our approach, using participatory theatre techniques to create innovative programs and opportunities for those who may not have had access before.
“Everybody acts. Everyone is an actor.”
~ Augusto Boal
Our Vision
Our vision is to build confidence, empower marginalized individuals, and challenge societal norms. We seek to create theatre that sparks change, as well as provide a safe and inspiring space for local communities to connect.
Our Work
Through collaborations with communities, we craft bespoke participatory theatre that empowers participants. Our theatre in education shows allow young people to become part of the performance, giving voice to their thoughts and emotions.
In our first year as a community interest company, we have secured in excess of £60k funding to help deliver powerful theatrical experiences to those that wouldn't usually be able to afford a trip to the theatre.
WITH FUNDING AND SUPPORT FROM
"As a theatre director, practitioner, and former primary school teacher, I decided to step away from education to establish Unpuzzled Theatre. This choice stemmed from a decade of firsthand experience in education and the arts, allowing me to recognise the gaps and deficiencies in these domains. Central to Unpuzzled's philosophy is the aspiration to expose every child to the arts, irrespective of their background or financial circumstances. Our core mission is not only about enriching young lives but also enhancing the arts sector for fellow artists. Comprising a dedicated team of artists, our collective determination rests in dismantling barriers and creating opportunities for marginalised voices to resonate within the arts industry, fostering meaningful change."
Victoria Jones
Founder and Artistic Director
Maryam Noorhimili
Associate Director
Maryam is a Muslim Singaporean who graduated as a theatre-maker and facilitator from the East 15 Acting School. She has led UTC’s Youth Theatre programme and also spearheaded "When You See Me", a 10 month-long engagement project with young refugees and asylum seekers in Southend. Currently she is engaged with Gecko Theatre as Local Facilitator in Essex, works at Discover Children's Story Centre, and is mid-production with Spinning Wheel Theatre on their show for 1-4 year olds.
James Little
Associate Actor Facilitator
I have been a theatre practitioner and commercial actor since 2016. In 2024 I stepped away from hospitality to focus on the creative practices that I have a passion for. I run children’s storytelling events, regularly take part in improvisation sessions and with Unpuzzled have been in the Mitten, Knight at the Museum and facilitate with the drama workshops. I believe in inclusion, immersion and involvement in shows and activities putting the audience in the driving seat, I look forward to the next projects Unpuzzled gets involved in.”
Callum Rhys-Williams
Associate Actor Facilitator
Callum is an actor & creative arts facilitator from South Wales, based in Westcliff-on-Sea. He trained at East 15 Acting School, and since graduating has been working primarily in children’s theatre & participatory arts workshops. Callum’s most recent project was as visiting artist for ‘Mighty Mega’, a weekly workshop for disabled children in Newham, where he spent 12 weeks facilitating sessions involving music, drama & puppetry. Callum has worked with several community arts organisations, including Parrabola, NW Live Arts & Discover Children’s Story Centre.
Annalena Lipinski
Associate Actor Facilitator and Musician
Annalena is a German actor, facilitator and theatre-maker based in London. After graduating from BA Acting and Community Theatre at East 15, they have facilitated for Unpuzzled, as well as acted for Phantom Peak (immersive theatre experience). They also run their own theatre company (Moon & Sun Theatre Company), addressing topics of the queer community through movement, poetry and music. Annalena is currently undertaking an MFA degree in Advanced Theatre Practise at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. They love performing and teaching through clown, with their viola and their juggling balls!
Bella Hinton
Associate Assistant Artist and Facilitator
Hiya I’m Bella, I’m 20 years old work as an assistant facilitator for Unpuzzled’s Youth Groups. There’s nothing more rewarding than nurturing young creative minds and watching their confidence grow !