The Mercury Theatre in Colchester has announced that Fuse Theatre CIC will become its newest Associate Company.
Fuse Theatre CIC is a Deaf-led company producing bold, BSL-led theatre and creative experiences that champion Deaf talent and foster connection between Deaf and hearing communities.
Founded in 2024, Fuse creates original productions, live events, and workshops that centre Deaf voices, with accessibility and representation embedded at every level.
From cabaret nights like A Night in Sign to artist development programmes and consultancy, Fuse is reimagining what inclusive theatre can be.
The company now joins a prestigious group of Associate Companies at the Mercury Theatre, including Graeae, Frantic Assembly, Paines Plough, and English Touring Theatre.
As an Associate Company, Fuse will bring BSL-led events, workshops, and productions to Colchester, promising to excite and entertain local audiences.
Chris Fonseca and Harry Jardine, Artistic Directors of Fuse Theatre CIC, said:
“We are so excited to start working with the Mercury Theatre as an associate company. We will bring innovative and groundbreaking performances, events and experiences along with a particular focus on continuing to shine a spotlight on Deaf and Hard of Hearing talent in Colchester and around the UK. We have known Natasha Rickman for a long time and we can’t wait to put all of our exciting conversations we’ve had over the years into action. Let’s do this!”
Natasha Rickman, Artistic Director of Mercury Theatre, added:
“I could not be more delighted to welcome Fuse Theatre to join us as the Mercury’s fifth Associate Company. The work that Harry and Chris create is so exciting, and I can’t wait to welcome them to the building.”
This partnership continues Mercury Theatre’s commitment to accessible, high-quality creative work and deepening engagement with Deaf artists and audiences.
The theatre is also home to Stagetext, a Deaf-led charity making the arts more accessible through captions and subtitles, and continues its collaboration with Graeae Theatre Company.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
