Ardent is a registered charity with a social justice mission to end class inequality in theatre. We envision a future where at least 50% of theatre creatives and audiences identify as, or were raised, working class. This is our 10-YEAR MANIFESTO FOR CHANGE.

A new play by Andrew Muir performed by the ARDENT8 Ensemble running from 18-22 November at Southwark Playhouse. Set against the backdrop of a coastal town shrouded in sea mist, the play follows a 26-year-old man grappling with the weight of expectation, the pull of home and the dream of escape.

We caught up with some of our ARDENT8 actors just before they started rehearsals to see how they’re feeling about their upcoming production Drifting at Southwark Playhouse and their journey on the ARDENT8 programme so far.

We are thrilled to announce that writers Florence Espeut-Nickless, Shahid Iqbal Khan, Kelly Jones and Diana Nneka Atuona have been commissioned to write 4 short plays for our Autumn 2026 production OUR COUNTRY NOW.