Sadler’s Wells joined a group of nearly 100 UK theatres in signing up to an innovative action plan designed to increase diversity among theatre professionals working offstage.

Developed by BECTU, the UK’s media and entertainment trade union, the Theatre Diversity Action Plan aims to encourage greater diversity within the sector’s staff working in non-performance roles, and particularly to address the under-representation of black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people. The plan includes practical guidance as to how to improve the recruitment process, set realistic goals and avoid discrimination.

“Here in London we recognise that our diversity isn’t a weakness, but one of our greatest strengths,” said Mayor of London Sadiq Khan at the launch of the plan, held at the English National Opera last week. “It isn’t a challenge to be managed, but an asset to be unlocked.”

Young Vic artistic director Kwame Kwei-Armah speaking at the launch

Sadler’s Wells is among the leading London venues supporting the initiative, alongside the National Theatre, Royal Opera House, Old Vic and Young Vic, as well as commercial groups including Ambassador Theatre Group and Lloyd Webber Theatres.

“We’re delighted to be among over 90 theatres across England and Scotland supporting BECTU’s Theatre Diversity Action Plan,” said our Chief Operating Officer Britannia Morton, who is responsible for overseeing Sadler’s Wells’ Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy. “We firmly believe a diverse workforce is more creative and resilient – better at understanding and responding to audiences’ needs, problem-solving and driving innovation. This is why we are committed to improve and celebrate the representation of diverse talent among our staff.”

Find out more about BECTU’s Theatre Diversity Action Plan at https://www.bectu.org.uk/home.