EMBEDDED COMMUNITIES
Embedded Communities is part of Hampstead Theatre’s ENGAGE programme, bringing Camden residents, community organisations and professional artists together to explore creativity as a means of connection.
The programme supports adults at risk of loneliness and social isolation, creating spaces to share stories, build confidence and connect through creativity.
Professional artists spend time embedded within community settings, working alongside participants to explore ideas, experiences and new ways of making theatre together.
Writer in Residence
For 2026, Hampstead Theatre has commissioned Juliet Gilkes Romero as ENGAGE Writer in Residence.
Juliet has been spending time with community partners and participants across Camden – listening, sharing stories, writing and exploring ideas together. These sessions will lead towards a large-scale community production in July 2026.
Writing, conversations and ideas developed during the sessions will help shape the themes, perspectives and content of the final production. The project aims to create a space where partner organisations, professional artists and community members can all join in the creation of an ambitious piece of theatre.
Directed by Hampstead’s Participation Director, Jennifer Davis, the production will feature a cast of community and professional actors and will be performed on Hampstead Theatre’s Main Stage.
Current Community Partners:
Camden Carers
Camden Carers offers information, advice and support to unpaid adult carers living, working, studying or caring for someone who lives in Camden. Camden Carers is also the gateway to a wide range of services provided by other local organisations and agencies working with carers in Camden.
Alongside Camden Carers, we are working with the Black Carers Collective, which offers a culturally safe space for Black carers to meet, discuss and celebrate.
Camden Disability Action
Camden Disability Action is a pan-disability, user-led organisation pressing for the removal of barriers that disable people with conditions/impairments. They provide Disabled people with advice and advocacy support while also supporting them to lead the way in re-shaping services, activities, attitudes and mainstream culture so the borough works for all of us, no matter our differences.
Alongside CDA, we are working with the diverse community of Disabled people in Camden.
The Winch
The Winch is a Camden-based charity that has been supporting children, young people and families since 1973. Rooted in North Camden, it offers a welcoming space where local people can connect, feel supported and build lasting relationships. The Winch works alongside young people and their families through life’s challenges, helping each child to grow, thrive and feel confident in their future.
Alongside the Winch, we have been working with residents in temporary accommodation. This project was led by England’s Lane Artist in Residence, Yasmin Dawes and supported by Juliet Gilkes Romero.
Hampstead Theatre appreciates the generosity of its community of donors and members, whose contribution supports all our work. If you would like to make a donation to Embedded Communities please click the button below. All donations make a difference - thank you.
