My First Theatre Company was established in 1995 in Ealing, West London to produce challenging, independent theatrical productions. Founder Diane Bader has an extensive background in the arts – her CV includes work with the Bridewell, as well as productions in her native New York.

The company's first production was the critically acclaimed staging of Gillian Plowman’s “Me and My Friend” at the Canal Café, Camden, which was hailed as “[a] rare…production of such quality on the fringe” by The Paddington Times, and turned a profit – unprecedented for a first production by a new company.

Dealing with the then hot topic of Care in the Community, “Me and My Friend” explores the implications, and subsequent tragi-comedy of patient self-care. Working closely with mental health organisations and the local council, My First Theatre Company established solid community links.

At present, My First Theatre Company is garnering funding for an original play with music derived from the 1953 Ed Wood cult classic “Glen or Glenda”. Titled “Glen or Glenda? – a love story with music between a man, a woman and an angora sweater”, the project will commence with a concept album featuring score and songs by Diane Bader and Daryl Griffiths and arrangement by Rodney Newton. The company is assembling a unique cast to reflect the idiosynchratic nature of the storyline, and is currently negotiating with significant stars of stage, screen and the music industry. The music – jazz-blues with a latin rhythm - is raw and early 50s with a sound that predates rock and roll. The album will be available to purchase soon, with all proceeds going to the staging of the musical in October 2008 – the anniversary of Ed Wood’s birth.

For further information on past productions with press, photographs and videos, mailing list, and more details on Glen, including the concept album and music, please explore the links.

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