CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
To mark Haringey Shed’s 25th anniversary in 2025/26 we asked people what Shed means to them. The gallery below is a great reminder of the importance and long-term impact of Haringey Shed, for young people most importantly but also for practitioners, staff and volunteers.
Actress & Model
Youth Theatre member / Dance Practitioner 2002-2012
“Haringey Shed changed my life. As a child with anxiety, it gave me confidence, community, and a love for performing that shaped my future. I went on to study drama and theatre production arts, specialising in lighting, sound, and set building. Today I work on major film sets, commercials, and music videos — and it all started at Haringey Shed.”
Teacher
Company member then Staff team 2000-2022
“Shed has played a part in helping get to where I am in my career-it gave me a buzz for teaching and working with young people.”
Inclusion Lead at SEMH School
Member 2001- to a member of the staff team
“Haringey Shed has been a huge backdrop in my life for 25 years .. I joined Haringey Shed when I was 7 and was a member of the first Children’s Theatre in 2001. I progressed to Youth Theatre and then became a member of the creative team of practitioners, both supporting in productions as well as devising, creating and directing performances. My passion for inclusive theatre continues in my role today as Inclusion Lead at an SEMH school where I spend every day being able to work with a variety of young people and ensuring that being creative is at the heart of what I do. I’m so proud and grateful for Haringey Shed.”
Actor
Children's and Youth Theatre member 2004-2011
“Not only did Haringey Shed introduce me to my first love, acting, it also taught me what it truly means to 'love your neighbour'. So much of who I am, how I view the world, and how I treat others, came from my many years at Haringey Shed. We learnt so much more than just acting, singing, and dance.”
Humanities Teacher
Children & Youth Theatre then practitioner 2001-2013
“Haringey Shed has helped me become the person I am today. Being a member of both the Children’s and Youth Theatre (and Shed Band) helped me develop my confidence – without which I do not think I could have become the teacher I am today. Shed helped me discover my voice – being able to speak up for myself, and to support others in doing so. Being a Practioner helped me discover my passion for helping young people and see the difference which giving time, support and a platform to help others thrive is important. Even though I am now in the classroom, teaching History, rather than the creative arts – the skills, passion and values Haringey Shed has helped shape have not left me."
Carer & Retired Teacher
Parent and Trustee since the beginning
“What does Haringey Shed mean to me? Well it means creativity out of inclusivity, friendship and mutual respect.”
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Company and Volunteer Manager 2001-2013
“I joined Haringey Shed at its inception and it was an absolute privilege to work with the many dedicated staff, volunteers and families to help it grow and flourish into an incredible theatre company. I particularly loved witnessing the children and young people growing up to become youth leaders, volunteers and staff as time went on. It’s a truly special place and I have the loveliest memories of my time there. Haringey Shed has continued to thrive over the years and it is heartwarming to see all the familiar faces who have stayed on. Once a Shedder always a Shedder!”
Company member from 2016 Volunteer till 2025
“I love that Haringey Shed is such a supportive tight knit community but their doors are always open to new and returning members.”
College student
Youth Theatre member 2016 - 2025
“Haringey Shed helped me become more independent in my life.”
Teacher Assistant
Youth Theatre member, Ambassador & Staff member
“Haringey Shed is important to me as it’s a place where you are not judged and you can just be yourself.”
Company member 2003-2018
“Haringey Shed is a place to where you learn new drama skills and develop your learning and knowledge in singing, acting, dancing or work.”
Student
Company member 2017-2024
“Being a part of the Haringey Shed family gave me a chance to develop my love of acting, performing & singing. I was able to be part of so many different experiences and took part in so many wonderful shows. Haringey Shed is so important because it allows young people with different abilities to enjoy the wonderful experiences that Haringey Shed provide. The staff supported but allowed me to grow in confidence so much that I have gone on to perform at different platforms like Enfield Got Talent and Autism Got Talent. I am now a student on a Performing Arts course and loving every minute. Thank you Haringey Shed.”
Creative Practitioner and Youth Mentor Student
Youth Theatre member 2013-2018
“I want to be what I never had growing up. I want these kids to know that I will always be here for them.”
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Undergraduate
Company member then volunteer 2012-2019
“Growing up around disabilities not only in the home, but in interactive after school clubs is so important. I learned patience and how to understand others through their body language as not everyone is able to communicate with their words. I also learned not to underestimate the talent of others just because they may have to work a little harder to get things done because of their disability (it doesn’t mean they can’t do it)."
Graduate and Performer
Children and Youth Theatre Member 2010 - 2021
“Haringey Shed gave me a passion for acting, it gave me a joy for singing and it gave me a love for dancing, because of Haringey Shed I now have a BTEC foundation degree and bachelors of the arts degree.”
Facilitator, Creative & Comedian
Company member through to Staff 2019 - present
“I grew in confidence at Shed & learnt how to have presence on stage. I learnt about the importance of community and inclusion and everything I do now has been influenced by the practice I have learnt at Shed.”
Graduate Internship for Project Search
Company member 2010-2019
“Haringey Shed is important to me as it’s a place where you can be happy, make new friends and learn new skills.”
Youth Theatre member 2013-2017
“Shed was a place that helped me with my social skills and a place that created amazing memories from day one.”
Trainee professional dancer
Children's and Youth Theatre member 2013 - 2020
“Life is a blessing so make sure you do whatever makes you happy work hard and stay doing what you love.”
After School Club Manager
Company member 2008-2018
“Whilst I was at Haringey Shed I developed my confidence which has helped in my studies and now my career.”
Charity Trustee and Consultant
Executive Director 2013-2025
“In my twelve years as Executive Director, I shed many tears of joy watching all of the wonderful creations young people brought to life. I saw first-hand how the 'Shed' model transforms lives - not just by teaching performance skills, but by building a community where inclusion is at the heart, giving each young person the potential to shine.”
Chair of Trustees
Youth Theatre Volunteer & Staff Member 2010-2015
Trustee 2015 - present
“I’ve loved being creative and working with young people and fellow creatives from my early days as part of the youth theatre team, through to helping shape the future and rhythm of the charity now as Chair of Trustees. Haringey Shed is a place where creativity, inclusion and community come together, and being part of that journey has been incredibly special.”
Senior Producer - Punchdrunk Enrichment
Youth Theatre staff 2011-2014
“15 years ago, the inclusion, kindness and community of Shed was an absolute foundational influence for me as a theatre-maker, and it still is to this day. The way that this community brings people together to learn from each other and enable everyone to thrive is simply how the world should be. And all of this in the heart of North London too! Here's to another 100 years!”
Director, Theatre Maker & facilitator
Practitioner, Director, Writer 2000-2008
“Working with Haringey Shed undoubtedly shaped my creative practice and continues to inform the work I do within community engagement, learning and participation, and working with actors in training. Haringey Shed is a space to celebrate the unique qualities of all the young people who find their place there: a sense of belonging, and a "part to play". I'm so proud to have been associated with Haringey Shed, seeing the way it has flourished, continuing to support the aspirations and achievements of the young people and community in which it sits.”
End of Life Doula
Executive Director 2000-2007
“Through creativity, music and theatre, Haringey Shed takes us beyond our limitations and raises our expectations. Inspired by Chicken Shed, a few of us came together with the shared intention to create something inclusive and wonderful. And together we did it, we birthed the amazing, living, changing, Haringey Shed, ‘where everyone has a part to play.’ Haringey Shed has an identity and momentum of its own. I feel SO honoured to have been part of its creation.”
Associate Primary School Teacher
Member 2017-2020
Volunteer 2020-2026
“Here at Haringey Shed I learnt that my passion is to work with young people. Shed has supported the development of my career and helped give me the skills and attributes which makes me the teacher I am today.”
Youth Worker & Undergraduate Student
Company Member to Staff 2007 -2026
"I was involved in pretty much everything at Haringey Shed when I was younger and I love coming back to work with the team on different projects. Haringey Shed opened doors and gave me experiences which I am grateful for."
Music Specialist
Artistic and Music Director 2008-2012
“If asked to describe Haringey Shed I’d say: An alchemy of raw talent, a unique family.”
Company Member 2000-2018
"Leonie was at Haringey Shed from the very beginning when her mum, Jan started Haringey Shed alongside Helen. Haringey Shed gave Leonie a platform to be her amazing, dramatic self spreading genuine joy to everyone she came across. Leonie enjoyed performing, her favourite part being the dancing and singing, often reciting songs weeks after the performance was over. Haringey Shed was a great place for Leonie to go to and feel welcome and accepted for who she was. Leonie had a very big personality and spread happiness in every room she was in."
Retired Company Director
Trustee 2000-2011
“Haringey Shed is a truly inclusive experience for all those involved and it is wonderful to watch the confidence and abilities develop. I was very proud to have released the first Haringey Shed CD on our record label Yassaba Records.”
Executive Director 2007-2013
Company Member to Staff 2007 -2026
“I want to be with them” was my thought the first time I saw a Shed performance with a stage full of people having a really good time. So, I became a volunteer until one day, Kate, our leader, left and I stepped into my perfect job. What an inspiration to be working closely with the children and young people, volunteers, parents and the creative team; managing the organisation so everyone could play their parts. And then, seeing all the growth and joy that followed. Thank you Haringey Shed for inviting me onto the stage and letting me be with you.”
Past Chair of Trustees
Trustee since inception until 2012
“I had a busy job, but every spare moment I spent with Haringey Shed relaxed and inspired me. Very proud to have been associated with its growth.”
Long-term Trustee/Parent & Company member
“Haringey Shed was like a breath of fresh air. Instead of feeling side lined because of her learning difficulties, Elizabeth felt central to the process, as do all Haringey Shed young people. Kate Annett’s welcome was such a delightful surprise: 'Thank goodness you’re here' she said. Whatever their perceived limitations, the young people feel respected, valued, and included.”
Retired Senco & Specialist Assessor
Trustee 2000-2011
“I have seen how Haringey Shed changes children's and their family's lives. The supportive community allows each individual to be who they are, develop their skills and be proud of their contribution. It gives a great sense of belonging. As a Senco in a local school I have actively encouraged my pupils to join Haringey Shed and have enjoyed watching them flourish and grow in the Haringey Shed family.”
Actor
Long time Trustee
“It has been a privilege to serve as Trustee of this dynamic, inclusive performing arts charity. As an actor, I have been particularly pleased to see how our young members grow in confidence as they develop their performance abilities, while leaning the vital life skills of empathy and tolerance.”
Company Member
"N’Raeyah was a member of Youth Theatre, Music Making, Shed Moves, Big Noise Choir & Writers Room. She also worked in Youth Forum helping shape the programme and was training to be an ambassador. N’Raeyah also performed in many special events including the Haringey Feast and hosting Shed Jam 2023. N’Raeyah emboided all the best parts of Shed."
Actor & Playwright
Youth Theatre member 2001-2002
"Haringey Shed was my first experience of theatre. The whole ethos was: what can we do with who we are and what we have? It was really raw and honest. I feel very emotional to be returning as a patron."
University student of cybersecurity
Youth Theatre member 2011-2019
“Haringey Shed is a place where you can discover yourself.”
Allocations and Lettings Team Leader
Artistic Project Leader 2013-2014
“Haringey Shed played a huge part in shaping me into the confident leader I am today. It taught me the power of inclusive spaces; places where everyone can thrive. I’m forever grateful. Thank you, Haringey Shed.”
Composer & Songwriter
Youth Theatre member, Musician, Musical Director 2004-2009
“Haringey Shed gave me the opportunity to develop my skills as an educator and curator. Their work is a necessity for young people and the community.”
Director, Facilitator, Actor
University placement turned long-term Staff member 2012 to present
“I arrived at Haringey Shed as a student and found a family. 14yrs later the staff, young people and ethos have shaped my life in ways I’ll always treasure. Shed will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Writer / Director
Youth Theatre member, then Director
“Haringey Shed is so important because of its impact on community and how it continues to develop young people. I would not be here without Haringey Shed.”
Musical Director, Vocal Coach and Composer
Music practitioner and Musical Director 2009-2013
“Haringey Shed taught me what it truly means to be an inclusive facilitator and teacher, and it laid the foundations for everything I do today. Shed changed my life, and the lives of so many young people and creatives who worked with or took part in its programmes. I still collaborate with creatives I first met at Shed, and together we’ve gone on to do incredible things, working on projects and sitting in creative rooms I could only have imagined 18 years ago. Shed will always be close to my heart, and I’m so happy to be part of this celebration of an organisation that genuinely changes lives.”
Founder member
“Goodness! Where did those 25 years go? Seems like only yesterday when Kate and Bizi and I took those first steps after years of inspirational input from the wonderful Chickenshed.”
Early Years & Primary School Teaching Assistant
Children and Youth Theatre Member 2016 - 2022
“I loved Haringey Shed shaped me to be who I am because it taught me to find beauty in everything. I look back on my time at Haringey Shed with fond memories and I am still friends with people I met in Youth Theatre”
Composer / Musical Director
Musical Director & Composer 2003-2008
“Establishing a model of socially inclusive music theatre has been truly life changing. For those participating and for practitioners like myself - inspirational, fun, important for the community, transformational!”
Anniversary celebrations culminated in a takeover of the iconic Alexandra Palace Theatre in March 2026. All Haringey Shed members performed together in our largest ever show, filling the stage with a production of ‘The Silver Hive” co-written by our young people and creative director Shereen Jasmin Philips. We had a sell out audience full of families, friends, supporters and many “Shedders” from across our history, including those very first trustees, practitioners and young people. A special night for all involved.
“The sense of the amazing community Haringey Shed has created over the past 25 years was palpable and being in the audience for this performance was very special!”
“It was so amazing seeing inclusive theatre showcased in such a big venue, all of the young people and adults were brilliant and it was such a joy to watch.”
“What an incredibly uplifting and emotional afternoon”
