proteus has a busy and diverse programme and a commitment to producing new work and new writing. Although we produce at least 2 tours a year only one, usually is a new commission. From time to time we also commission writers to work on shorter pieces for community projects etc.

Normally, up to 4 actors are employed per show (although, of course, there can be more characters). Actors are employed specifically for each production, so male/female/age/musicians are cast as required. An average performance running time would be 80 minutes. Generally, the winter tour is aimed at family audiences. The spring tour is more diverse.

proteus tours to mid scale theatres, arts centres, village halls, community venues and schools nationally, but with a focus on the south east. The set, lighting and sound all fit in the back of a van, and are erected by the cast and a tour manager on arrival at the venue. At the end of the night it is all dismantled, put back in the van and driven back to base.

The subject matter needs to have appeal to the venues, who book the show for a set fee, then sell tickets themselves to the local audience. If the venue booker does not feel confident they will be able to sell tickets, they will not book the show.

The village halls of Hampshire are less likely to book shows with bad language / nudity or "shock value". On the other hand, village hall and touring audiences can sometimes be more open to experiments with form, tend to be less cynical and react more like a coherent group than many other audiences.

Our work for larger theatres tends to be more experimental as proteus believes the audience is as important as the artist, and that to create truly dynamic and relevant theatre the audience and artist must inspire each other's imagination.

Perhaps the best way to understand the work of the company, and the sort of venue/audience we attract, is to see a show. If you are already on our mailing list, you will receive information on tour dates and venues. If you wish to be added to the mailing list, please e-mail here.

As proteus does not have a dedicated script reading team, it may take some time for your play to be read. As such, unsolicited submissions are not encouraged. Instead, if you have an idea, and believe it to be appropriate, please send a synopsis, cast breakdown and copy of your CV. The company address is located here

The artistic policy is located here.

Limited Company 1742642
Registered Charity 291718
ITC Approved Managers