Understand
Essex theatre company leads the way in supporting working mums and performers with families
Overview
The Essex-based Rhiannon Faith Company (RFC) is helping performers with young families stay on stage by providing practical support, paying for childcare, and covering family travel expenses during tours. Led by Artistic Director Rhiannon Faith, the company aims to prevent talented artists from having to choose between motherhood and their careers. While advocacy groups note that some performing arts organisations are introducing flexible working measures, childcare remains a significant barrier across the wider industry, particularly for freelancers.
Key points
- The Rhiannon Faith Company (RFC) in Harlow supports performers with young families by paying for childcare and travel expenses.
- Performer Finetta Sidgwick received support during her pregnancy and rehearsals for the upcoming production Mary Mary.
- Performer Shelley Ava Haden was able to continue touring and breastfeeding with the help of company-funded travel for her mother and family-friendly accommodation.
- Research from the University of Essex indicates that about one in five working women have missed professional jobs due to motherhood.
- Parents in Performing Arts highlights that childcare remains a major obstacle for freelancers, who make up about three-quarters of the performing arts workforce.