On Saturday 29th March, Outside Edge Theatre Company celebrated a monumental milestone: 25 years of using theatre to support recovery, connection and creativity. Held at the Brady Arts and Community Centre, the evening brought together a vibrant mix of current and former participants, supporters, staff, trustees, volunteers, and friends from across our history. It was a powerful reminder of everything that makes Outside Edge unique. Our community, our creativity and our commitment to using theatre as a tool for personal transformation.

Phil Fox, Outside Edge’s founder, once said, “when I put down the drugs, the only thing I had left to hold onto was my life, my sanity, and my art.” His words set the tone for an evening rooted in resilience and artistic expression. The performances on the night—a devised play by Edge Two, rehearsed readings from our Write Two group and members of The Company performing Phil’s writing—were raw, honest and deeply moving. Participants shared work that reflected their journeys through recovery and personal growth, creating a palpable sense of connection between the stage and the audience.

Our Artistic Director and CEO, Matt Steinberg, spoke to the company’s growth—from its first Tuesday night drama workshop in 2001 to today’s programme of 16 free activities offered across London. “In the last 12 months, we welcomed 817 participants to 428 sessions. While theatre may not change the entire world at once, it has the undeniable power to change one person’s world. And from there, the ripple effect begins.”

But beyond the numbers and milestones, it was the people in the room that night—onstage and off—who brought the story of Outside Edge to life. As Tom Robertson, the Chair of the Board, said: “As I stand here in front of you all, I see what Outside Edge truly is – it’s you. You are the beating heart of this company… We listen to each other. We create with each other. We support each other… Tonight is a testament to Phil and Catherine Fox’s vision for what Outside Edge would become.”

To everyone who joined us in celebration, thank you. You are part of Outside Edge’s ongoing story. You can now explore photos highlights below to relive the energy, emotion and creativity of the night. We encourage you to take a look and see what 25 years of Outside Edge looks like in action.

Here’s to the next 25 years of creativity, connection and change. We’re just getting started.