More than 250 supporters, partners and guests gathered at Leeds Playhouse for the annual Summer Drinks Party, celebrating the transformative work of the theatre and the vital role supporters play in its future.

The evening offered guests an opportunity to hear first-hand how Leeds Playhouse is changing lives through its artistic, community and youth programmes, while sharing plans for the years ahead. 

Refreshments were generously supported by corporate partners Carlsberg and Alconot, and guests were entertained by Zak, a talented young pianist from Chapeltown who first attracted national attention when he wowed judges on Channel 4’s The Pianist in 2025. 

Guests were given an exclusive insight into the Playhouse’s work as a creative hub for the city and its upcoming season of produced shows by Chief Executive Shawab Iqbal and Artistic Director Tom Wright. Youth Theatre member Enaya also joined them on stage to speak about the invaluable opportunities she has gained through her relationship with the Playhouse. 

Shawab spoke about the recent relaunch of the theatre’s regular giving scheme, outlining the important role that audience support plays in the organisation’s future ambitions. He emphasised that continued investment from supporters will be key to enabling Leeds Playhouse to reach more people, expand its impact and deliver an increasingly ambitious programme of work. 

Tom gave a fascinating overview of his inaugural season at Leeds Playhouse, highlighting the eight recently announced new and reimagined productions that audiences can look forward to in the coming months. 

Enaya reflected on her experience as a member of the Playhouse’s Youth Theatre, describing the programme as a significant part of her life since joining at the age of nine. 

Shawab Iqbal, Chief Executive, said: “There is no doubt that engaging with my local theatre fundamentally transformed my life and allowed me to realise my potential. People invested in me before I knew what I might become. That’s why I care so deeply about this place. Because every day I see lives being changed here. And those opportunities only exist because people choose to support them. So, my ask is simple: if Leeds Playhouse has ever inspired you, challenged you, entertained you or made you proud, please support us. If you already support us, please consider whether you can do a little more. Thank you.” 

Tom Wright, Artistic Director, said: “Leeds Playhouse is so much more than a producing theatre. It is a civic institution. A place where people gather, where stories are shared, where young people discover their creativity, where artists build careers, where communities find connection, and where audiences encounter ideas, experiences and perspectives that might otherwise remain unseen. That work only happens because of a partnership between the theatre and the people who choose to support it […] The ambition is simple. To build a theatre that is rooted in Leeds, but resonant far beyond it. A theatre that creates outstanding work, develops exceptional artists, and genuinely reflects the city we serve. A theatre that belongs to everyone.” 

Youth Theatre member Enaya said: “There’s no better feeling than performing on the stage, giving it your all, and fully committing to a character. Coming here has presented me with many different opportunities. For example, last summer I was able to be part of the cast of Brainstorm. This was my first ever professional production where it was publicly advertised, and youth theatre members were able to audition. What I also love is coming every Wednesday and being able to hang out with everyone as we aren’t just close as a youth theatre group, but we are close as friends. That’s why youth theatre is so important!” 

Every year, more than 210,000 people walk through the Playhouse’s doors. More than a theatre, Leeds Playhouse is a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can engage, participate and create. 

Last year alone, the theatre provided more than 17,000 complimentary tickets to schoolchildren and over 8,000 free or subsidised tickets to community groups. More than 4,000 Pay What You Can opportunities were offered, and more than 160 young people took part in over 230 Youth Theatre sessions. 

Through Heydays, the Playhouse’s arts programme for older people, more than 85 participants took part each term, with over 1,200 sessions delivered across the year. 

By becoming a supporter of Leeds Playhouse, you’ll help ensure this theatre – built by, for and with the people of Leeds – continues to thrive for generations to come. 

From just £10 a month, you can support the next generation of artists, audiences and young people, and enjoy exclusive benefits that bring you closer to the heart of our theatre.