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Playbox Theatre is proud to partner a number of pioneering arts organisations across the world – all united in their belief that the arts enriches the lives of young people, and can work towards a more positive, more united, society.

In 2025, a company of 23 Playbox actors and directors will return to Tokyo, Japan, to work alongside Model Language Studio, facilitating workshops and performances for Japanese children of all ages.

This upcoming tour is supported by DAIWA ANGLO-JAPANESE FOUNDATION and THE GREAT BRITAIN SASAKAWA FOUNDATION.

Santa Monica Playhouse

In 1989, Playbox Theatre hosted a company from the renowned ‘Santa Monica Playhouse’ – it was the beginning of a lifelong friendship and partnership, with shared philosophies and beliefs in the life-changing power of theatre with young people.

Since then, a regular exchange programme has been enjoyed by generations of SMP and Playbox companies, on both sides of The Atlantic, most recently in 2018, when a company of Playbox actors toured to Los Angeles, with productions of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’; ‘Monkey ~ Journey To The West’ and an interactive preschool Shakespeare programme, ‘Mustardseed’s Magical Mayhem’.

Playbox directors Mary King, Stewart McGill, and Emily Quash, are all Associate Directors of Santa Monica Playhouse.

Santa Monica Playhouse, established in 1960, has long stood as a cornerstone of artistic expression and theatrical education in Santa Monica, California.

Under the dedicated leadership of co-artistic directors Evelyn Rudie and Chris DeCarlo since 1973, the playhouse has created over 600 productions and made significant contributions to both the local and international arts communities.

The Playhouse prides itself on offering a wide array of educational programs, workshops for kids, teens, and adults, and unique international tours, all aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of live theatre.

With its mission to create, educate, and connect, the Santa Monica Playhouse has touched the lives of over 5 million people, proving the transformative power of theatre in building community and cultural exchange.

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Model Language Studio, Tokyo

In 1994, Playbox played host to ‘East Meets West’ – a major cultural event, bringing together companies from across three continents. One of these was ‘Model Language Studio’ from Japan, who were introduced to us by the Artistic Directors of Santa Monica Playhouse.

MLS extended an invitation to Playbox to visit Tokyo, and subsequently tours took place in 1995, 1997 and 2006. With Playbox directors and members working alongside MLS staff to enrich the language-learning and creative understanding of 100s Japanese children.

In 2025, Playbox will return to Tokyo, with a 23-strong company of actors, who will deliver a special programme of workshops and performances at MLS studios across the city.

Model Language Studio (MLS) in Tokyo uses an innovative approach to language learning through theatre.

Founded on the principles established by Broadway actor Richard A. Via, MLS uses the English Through Drama (ETD) Method® to enhance English communication skills. This method, founded on the principles of Stanislavski and Lee Strasberg, rooted in professional acting techniques, focuses on genuine expression and personal style, aiming to improve not just language proficiency but also the ability to communicate effectively.

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Dvorek Bialopradnicki, Poland

At the invitation of the Polish Cultural Embassy, Playbox Theatre was invited to take a company to Krakow in 1991 – this was to be the company’s first international tour.

Partnering the pioneering ‘Ddworek Bialopradnicki’, Playbox actors collaborated on workshops and performances, including a major performance of ‘NEWS’ in the city’s renowned theatre ‘The Bagatella’.

Following this, Playbox hosted the Polish company in the UK on several occasions, as well as returning to Poland in 1993 with productions of ‘The Trojan Women’ and ‘Pinocchio’. ‘Pinocchio’ was then featured in Polish television programme, ‘Plum Boom’, with the company performing on the rubble of industrial disaster site at Nova Heute.

Dworek Białoprądnicki Cultural Centre is a key cultural hub in Kraków, Poland, hosting a rich array of events, workshops, and artistic activities. Situated in a historic manor, it fosters creativity and cultural engagement through its diverse offerings, including music, literature, and performance arts and is a vibrant space for both the local community and visitors.

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Bay AreaChildren’s Theatre, San Francisco (2004-2023)

Following the relocation of a Playbox Theatre member to San Francisco, we were introduced to the wonderful ‘Bay Area Children’s Theatre’, and enjoyed an action-packed 10 day tour to The Bay Area in 2016, which included Shakespeare for early-years; workshop programmes and performances of ‘Monkey ~ Journey To The West’.

Bay Area Children’s Theatre was a beacon of the arts for young people across San Francisco.

They were celebrated for their commitment to enriching children’s lives through live theatre, offering a range of performances that catered to family audiences. The company was known for its innovative approach to storytelling, bringing classic tales to life and introducing new, engaging works specifically designed for children and young people. Their educational programs went beyond the stage, providing valuable learning experiences and workshops that encouraged children to explore their creativity and develop a lasting appreciation for the performing arts.

Following financial troubles after the COVID-19 pandemic, Bay Area Children’s Theatre has closed its doors, however its legacy of fostering a love of theatre in young people will undoubtedly continue to have an impact on all those it touched.

We are always eager to meet new friends from across the globe! If you would like to talk to us about a potential international collaboration, please contact emily@playboxtheatre.com and we would be delighted to hear from you.