I have a strong track record of creating mid and small-scale theatre for families and children, with ambitions to create larger-scale work. I also have extensive experiences of leading innovative participatory theatre projects with a range of different communities.
In my theatre-making I value storytelling filled with imagination, bold visuals, heart, and emotional truth.
I endeavour to lead honest, open and fun spaces where people feel empowered to create excellence together.
I am a theatre artist and director based in Greater Manchester for the last 12 years.
Originally from Essex, I grew up in Harlow, dressing up and finding drama and Youth Theatre wherever I could. My brothers and I were the first in our family to go to University.
I gained a first class honours degree in Drama from the University of Exeter. On graduating I stayed in Devon to found and run storytelling company, Kaleidoscope Theatre. I then moved to London and for ten years was a storyteller in schools and a theatre-maker of work for and with young people, including becoming deputy artistic director for Arc Theatre.
In 2011, I completed the Birkbeck MFA in Theatre Directing and moved to Manchester. I am an associate director with Goblin and I currently lead the internationally recognised Elders at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester.
Most recently I directed The Lost Spells (co-produced by Goblin, Watford Palace Theatre, Polka Theatre and Theatre by the Lake, Keswick) – Guardian 4 stars “enchanting musical has an abundance of magic- 4stars”.
In 2021, I was listed in The Stage 100 for my work with the Elders Company during the Covid 19 crisis. In 2022, I was nominated for a Manchester Culture Award.
In 2014, I directed Sanctuary from the Trenches at Dunham Massey for the National Trust which was a finalist for Museum of the Year in 2015.
In 2016, I was the Associate Director (North West) for Jeremy Deller’s We’re here because we’re here.
I have worked as a freelance theatre director, facilitator, teacher and producer for a range of organisations including: Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre, National Trust (Dunham Massey & Quarry Bank), British Council (Japan & Korea), The LGBT Foundation, LIPA, RNCM, ALRA North, University of Manchester, University of Salford, Monkeywood, Arc Theatre, Goat and Monkey, and Punchdrunk.
Andy Barry 