Josh Stainer


Josh (he/him) was born and raised in London, where his passion for storytelling through theatre began at the age of fourteen with the Rose Youth Theatre. It was here that he first began to shape his craft, a journey that would eventually lead to the writing and directing of his debut play, FOUR SHARP CORNERS (Michael Frayn Theatre, 2019), during his school years. Since then, he has relentlessly pursued his artistic vision, refining his skills as both a creator and a storyteller.

Over the years, Josh has directed, written, and produced a wide array of stage productions. His most recent work, AN ADEQUATE ABRIDGEMENT OF BOARDING SCHOOL LIFE AS A HOMO (Just the Tonic, Waterloo East, Alma Tavern, Waterside Arts, Underbelly, 2024-25), has garnered significant attention, earning him the prestigious Bobby Award at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe.

Josh is a graduate of the University of Manchester, where he earned a First Class Bachelor's Degree in Film and Drama. It was during his time at university that he co-founded two production companies — Choir Boys Productions and Hedge Maze Theatre — both of which are dedicated to showcasing timeless narratives while providing a platform for emerging artists.

Currently based in Manchester, Josh continues to weave his passion for theatre into every project he undertakes.


EXPERIENCE

AN ADEQUATE ABRIDGEMENT OF BOARDING SCHOOL LIFE AS A HOMO

Just the Tonic (Edinburgh Fringe 2024), Waterloo East Theatre (London), Waterside Arts (Manchester), Alma Tavern and Theatre (Bristol), Underbelly (Edinburgh Fringe 2025)

August 2024 - (ongoing)

Director

TWISTED ROOTS

Contact Theatre, Manchester

October 2024

Producer

PARLIAMENT SQUARE

John Thaw Studio, Manchester

April 2024

Director & Choreographer

I LOVE VITA

Applecart Arts, London

January 2024

Assistant Director

BAD TRAFFIC

Contact Theatre, Manchester

March 2023

Writer, Director & Choreographer

OODLES OF DOODLES

Bar Pop, Manchester

October 2022

Producer

THE WAIT

Michael Frayn Theatre, Kingston

November 2020

Writer & Director

FOUR SHARP CORNERS

Michael Frayn Theatre, Kingston

October 2019

Writer & Director

EDUCATION & TRAINING

BA Film and Drama

(First Class with Honours) University of Manchester

2024

National Youth Film Academy

2021-

National Youth Theatre

2020-

Rose Youth Theatre

2016-2019