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