John Godber comedy Teechers coming to Reading Rep Theatre this June

The John Godber Company is set to bring its acclaimed revival of the modern classic Teechers to Reading Rep Theatre this June. Running from 2 June to 13 June, the production offers a hilarious and hard-hitting look at the state of the UK education system, newly reset for post-Covid times.

The play follows characters Salty, Gail, and Hobby as they use their BTEC Performing Arts exam to tell the story of life at Whitewall Academy. Through a fast-moving account of staff, students, and site managers, the trio highlights the impact of their new drama teacher, Miss Nixon, while exploring themes of aspiration and educational inequality.

Directed by Jane Thornton, this production features Yorkshire actors Jo Patmore, Levi Payne, and Sophie Suddaby. The play has received national critical acclaim, with The Times awarding it a “10 out of 10” and The Guardian describing it as “joyous, energetic and bitter about educational inequalities”.

Jo Patmore plays the role of Gail and is a versatile actor, singer, and musician from the East Riding of Yorkshire. She is a frequent collaborator with the John Godber Company, having previously appeared in their productions of Wolf Country and The Highwayman. Her wider stage experience includes roles in Ladies Day at the New Vic Theatre and the Hull Truck Theatre production of Rapunzel.

Sophie Suddaby joins the cast as Hobby, bringing her experience as a Hull-born actor and musician to the production. She has worked extensively with the John Godber Company on projects such as Moby Dick, Do I Love You?, and This Is Not Right. Beyond the company, she recently appeared in the UK tour of Inside No. 9: Stage/Fright and has performed at the Hull Truck Theatre in The Railway Children.

Levi Payne takes on the role of Salty, having trained at the University of Central Lancashire and developed his craft with the Hull Truck Theatre Young Actors Ensemble. He is well-acquainted with this script, having previously performed in Teechers Leavers 22. His career spans both stage and screen, with television credits including appearances in Coronation Street, Brassic, and the film Bank of Dave 2.

Reading Rep Theatre, based on King’s Road, is hosting the production as part of its 2025/26 season. Founded by Paul Stacey, the theatre is known for its commitment to accessibility and bold programming. This latest touring production from the John Godber Company remains as provocative and entertaining as when it first debuted, reflecting the ongoing challenges within the school system.