Looking Ahead to 2026: A Big Year for the RSC and Our Associate Schools

2026 marks 20 years of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s long-term partnerships with schools across England, including the Associate Schools Programme. To celebrate, Next Generation Act will be right at the heart of the anniversary year, and are teaming up with LUNG, the campaigning theatre company known for bold, exciting, and deeply personal work. They will be creating a brand-new play exploring the role of the arts in education. LUNG will be developing the piece directly with some of our 280 Associate Schools.

The year will be packed with activity: LUNG will continue travelling to schools across the country early in 2026, gathering stories and voices. In the spring and summer, our Next Generation company will come together in Stratford-upon-Avon for skill-building, rehearsals, and the shaping of the new production.