Phoenix Theatre & Phoenix Youth Theatre

Phoenix Theatre & Phoenix Youth Theatre are critically-acclaimed musical theatre companies with a proven track record of performing professional-standard musicals, pantomimes and concerts to the delight of Aberdeen audiences.

Phoenix Theatre was established in 1990 by Liz Milne BEM and Clare Haggart BEM, following their extensive theatrical training under Annie Inglis MBE and their experiences as assistant directors for four years of the Aberdeen Student Show. Phoenix’s debut production, Annie, opened at the Aberdeen Arts Centre in January 1991, with future Call The Midwife star Laura Main in the title role. Over 30 years later, the company has staged more than 50 shows, from classics like Guys & Dolls and Oklahoma to Jekyll & Hyde and the Scottish premiere of Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

The company prides itself on being a friendly, welcoming place – free from cliques and divas – where many lifelong friendships are formed as part of the Phoenix Family (a few marriages too!). There are no membership fees, costume or script hire charges – cast members are simply asked to be nice and to sell a quota of tickets for each show. Auditions are held each summer for people looking to join the company.

Phoenix Youth Theatre is a drama and dance school for children aged 6-18, with classes building throughout the year towards at least one major production – the best way to consolidate the theatre skills the children have been taught. Classes are held on Saturdays and Tuesdays throughout school term time.

The emphasis during each class is fun, which, along with discipline and teamwork, produces the quality of productions for which Phoenix is famous and creates long-lasting friendships. The aim is not to create superstars, but to induce a love and appreciation of the theatre and to develop skills which will aid children throughout life. Phoenix Youth Theatre will encourage the quiet child to develop confidence and the lively child to cultivate composure, all while having a thoroughly enjoyable time.

Phoenix’s founders and co-directors Liz and Clare were each awarded British Empire Medals in the Queen’s Birthday 2019 Honours List for services to theatre and the arts. Following Liz’s passing in July 2024, both companies continue to be run by Clare Haggart and the Milne family. Phoenix’s Musical Director is Kevin Haggart BMus (Hons), MMus, PCGE, who has over 30 years’ experience and is former Director of Music at Robert Gordon’s College. Choreography is provided by dance specialist Katie Baxter.

In addition to their stage pursuits, Phoenix has been offering high-quality, professional corporate entertainment for many years.

If you would like to join Phoenix Theatre or Phoenix Youth Theatre, are interested in hiring entertainment for an event, or are simply looking for more information, do not hesitate to get in touch.