About GASP!
GASP! is a womxn-led theatre company on a mission to create comedic performances that are farcical, daring and intelligently silly. Their aim is to exhibit thought-provoking messages that express empowerment through mockery from a womxn’s perspective.
They blend 16th century archetypes with 21st century stereotypes, exploring modern day situations in quick witted, risqué performances that promise a good night out. With societal change at the heart of their productions, their aim is to highlight powerful socio-political messages, connecting with their audiences through a playful, comical manner.
Their wider aim is to build a network of emerging womxn creatives, between the ages of 18 – 30. They recognise the challenge of entering the industry outside of formal drama school pathways, and the difficulty this can create securing professional credits. Their outreach work prioritises access and opportunity, with a continued commitment to engaging and employing early-career and emerging artists on their projects.
GASP! were recipients of the Propel Associate Programme at Mayflower Southampton from 2022 – 2025. During this programme, they received funding, mentoring, and production support in developing their new play with music, Girls will be Girls.
They will continue to develop GWBG with a second research & development phase beginning in Summer 2026.
WHO ARE WE?
Alexandra Saunders-Yates
Alex is an alumni of the Stage One New Producers scheme, and has most recently worked as Producer & Programmer at Mayflower Southampton. Alex has produced across both commercial and subsidised projects, and has collaborated with many national and international organisations including Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Wolk Transfer Company.
Sophie Kronenberg
Sophie trained at Guildford School of Acting, graduating with an MA in Acting in 2023. She has since diversified into Creative Producing and Event Management, working in production and producing roles for Arts Organisations across theatre, exhibitions, participatory art projects and large-scale outdoor festivals for grass roots, national and international multidisciplinary artists.
Our History
GASP! Theatre Company was originally founded in 2015 by Georgina Stafford, Alexandra Saunders-Yates, Sophie Kronenberg and Philippa Holmes, who met whilst studying at The University of Kent.
They were the Artists in Residence at Kent University’s School of Arts from September 2017 – March 2019. During this residency, we toured our original comedy Not All Plane Sailing around the south-east of England, and performed at the FacT Arts Festival in Pisa, Italy in 2019. We also performed our first original comedy She Wears the Trousers at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2016.
GASP! were recipients of the Propel Associate Programme at Mayflower Southampton from 2022 – 2025. During this programme, they received funding, mentoring, and production support in developing their new play with music, Girls will be Girls.
They will continue to develop GWBG with a second research & development phase beginning in May 2026.