Rachel Yates

Rachel Yates received her theatre training in her hometown of Liverpool. Her exposure to the vibrant and groundbreaking ensemble company at The Liverpool Everyman during her formative years inspired and motivated her to pursue further studies in performing arts in London. After several years of lecturing in contemporary dance at Middlesex University, programming dance at Islington Arts Factory, and working as a freelance theatre practitioner, she became an Associate Director at Chickenshed Theatre Company in 1998.

In 2017, Rachel conceived and directed the intergenerational project known as "The Space Between Us" at Chickenshed. This innovative artistic process draws on the personal histories of each participant, guiding them through honest and creative conversations that foster dialogue and encourage the development of friendships. The project then progresses to other forms of communication, including writing, movement, and drama, gradually forming a script and laying the foundation for a powerful and unique theatrical piece. During the lockdown period, Rachel coordinated "The Living Letters" project for Chickenshed, connecting over one hundred intergenerational couples through letter writing. Rachel currently serves as the Programme Manager of "The Space Between Us Programme," which has reached communities across London with the support of The National Lottery Community Fund.

Outside of Chickenshed, Rachel has worked as an Assistant Director on performances at The Queens Theatre in Hornchurch, collaborating with Chris Bond, and contributed to productions at The Finborough. In the summer of 2019, Rachel established "The Come Together" creative community in partnership with Saffron Hall and the Britten Sinfonia Orchestra, which she remains actively involved with. She has also facilitated community workshops for Pimlico Musical Foundation and Cardboard Citizens and enjoyed a fruitful creative partnership with acclaimed director Dougal Wilson on award-winning adverts and music videos.

In addition to her community and theatre work, Rachel is a regular lecturer at Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts and serves as a director on the board of Giants Theatre Company.