Penny co-founded Jermyn Street Theatre in 1994. She is an absolute powerhouse, working tirelessly, to make sure everything runs smoothly at every performance.
She had the vision to create Jermyn Street Theatre from the former staff changing rooms at a Spaghetti House restaurant. Together with Howard Jameson they transformed the space into a 70-seat studio theatre. The Theatre now has a huge following, many distinguished patrons, and stages contemporary and innovative work. One often sees well known faces and actors not only on stage, but also in the audience.
Penny has helped launch the careers of young actors, and the venue continues to host both upcoming and established actors at the theatre. The performances range from traditional to cutting edge, new work.
Although the theatre has been recognised for its achievements, the Fringe Theatre Awards wanted to acknowledge Penny’s tremendous personal contribution to London theatre, and her courage and determination in setting up Jermyn Street Theatre and making it the success it is today. Most nights Penny is to be seen at the theatre and she is not afraid to muck in and literally get her hands dirty- for example when there was a flood at the theatre, despite the fire brigade telling her it was not safe to be in the building, Penny nonetheless went inside to bale out water and rescue as much as possible from the flooded building.
A well known face, much loved by theatre goers, Penny is a very worthy recipient of The Fringe Theatre Awards’ first Special Award.
