About Us
The existence of a mill at Bagnor is recorded in the Domesday Book and the building has served as a corn mill and a paper mill for hundreds of years with its beautiful tithe barn alongside. It was converted into a theatre in the early 1960’s and the first short professional season opened in 1967.
In recent years The Watermill has progressed into the top league of regional theatre with many shows produced here transferring to London or touring throughout the UK or overseas.
Particular artistic partnerships with directors such as Edward Hall, John Doyle and Craig Revel Horwood and musical director, Sarah Travis, have resulted in strands of work – Shakespeare and Music Theatre – that now have their own strong identity countrywide.
The Watermill is a resource for the surrounding community and beyond. Our aim is to spread knowledge and understanding about the arts and in particular the art of theatre, through the production of plays and related activities, including touring, working in schools, with youth and community groups and with businesses.
We actively encourage new writing and nurture talented individuals in all areas. Our programme of work is designed to entertain, to challenge and to enrich the quality of life for all, whether participants or audience.
The Watermill is particularly committed to developing new talent in all areas of the profession including actors, directors, designers, stage management, marketing and administration.