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About Us

Identity Theatre opened in 2013 and has built into a thriving community of performers of all ages who meet to make friends, enjoy creating drama and produce high quality performances.  Many of our members have grown up with us and we are proud of the supportive, friendly and welcoming groups that have formed.  There is always a lot of laughter during our classes and rehearsals - and that's just how we like it!

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With a focus on Drama (although we do enjoy a bit of singing), Identity is based on the belief that the best performances come when the cast are relaxed and having fun.  It's called a play for a reason and we believe ever step of the rehearsal process should be about playing and enjoying what we create.

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At Identity we strongly believe in ensemble performances.  Every cast member is important. We don't believe in having stars and a chorus (there are no villager number 3's in our performances).  We choose shows that give everyone involved the opportunity to shine.

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Jo Ebberley BA (Dist) Acting PGCE

Teacher & Director 

Jo Ebberley Director at Identity Theatre

Jo has always had a love of theatre and working with children and young people.  She trained to act at QMUC, Edinburgh (Conference of Drama Schools) receiving her BA (distinction) in Acting.  Her first job after Drama College was with the National Scottish Fencing Display Team. 

 

She went on to gain her Post Graduate Certificate in Education at Goldsmiths University, London.  As a Secondary Head of Drama, Jo taught GCSE, BTEC and A-Level Drama, moving from Kent to the North East in 2004.

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Opening a Youth Theatre has always been her goal so when she took a career break to have her three children, Jo was able to start Identity Youth Theatre in 2013.  Starting with Saturday classes and growing from there. Imagine Me! Adventures opened shortly after: drama adventures for pre-school children, it has proved exceptionally popular in libraries and schools alike.  More recently an Identity Theatre adult company has also formed.

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"It's so important to me that everyone can get involved at Identity.  We are always willing to adapt and change what we do so all our members can get fully involved".

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Jo continues to lead all the groups at Identity.  She enjoys working across the age groups from 2 up to adults throughout the week and is passionate about bringing the joy of theatre to everyone that gets involved, in a fun and friendly style.

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"Becoming part of a theatre group is something very special.  You can use your imagination, develop your skill, make new friends and build your confidence in a lively, supportive and inclusive space".

Rehearsals with Jo Ebberley at Identity Theatre
Radio recording to be used in a show with Jo Ebberley at Identity Theatre
Imagine Me! Adventure in Soft Place Centre with Jo Ebberley
Jo Ebberley with Imagine Me! Adventures at Crown Street Library
Rehearsals with Soptlights and Jo Ebberley at Identity Theatre
Jo Ebberley with Imagine Me! Adventures in South Park Darlington for Darlington Library
Jo Ebberley rehearsing with Captain Hook at Identity Theatre
Jo Ebberley with Imagine Me! Adventures at Crown Street Library

Meet The Team

Shanice from Identity Theatre

Shanice Pudge BA(Hons) MA
Lead Drama Assistant

Liv from Identity Theatre

Liv Mountain BA(Hons)
Lead Drama Assistant

Mikey from Identity Theatre

Mikey Richards
Drama Assistant

Rehearsals with Shanice at Identity Theatre

Shanice joined Identity as a member of our Youth Theatre before becoming part of the staff.  During her time with us she has gained a BA (Hons) in Acting & Performance Practice and a Master of Arts with Commendation in Theatre and Performance, brings her extensive knowledge and passion for theatre to our sessions. Shanice is also a member of our Adult Company.

Rehearsals with Liv at Identity Theatre

Liv joined Identity as an assistant in 2018.  With a background in Youth Theatre and a love of singing, she has fitted right in with us from her very first session.  A lover of everything Disney,  and a member of Well-Versed Community Choir, Liv brings a passion for musical theatre to our rehearsal room.  Liv is also a member of our Adult Company.

Rehearsals with Mikey at Identity Theatre

Mikey joined Identity as a member of the Limelights and later became one of our Young Assistants, helping in sessions and working backstage for a number of years.  He joined the staff in 2024 and brings his high energy, knowledge and enthusiasm to every rehearsal room.

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