Meet the new Patrons of Hackney Showroom.

Jo Martin

Jo Martin is a celebrated British actor. She made television history on Doctor Who as the Fugitive Doctor, becoming the first Black Doctor in the series. Her theatre work includes Noughts and Crosses, Don Carlos and Oronooko for the RSC and The Westbridge at the Royal Court theatre. Jo has worked with Hackney Showroom as an actor on the development of multiple projects over the last ten years. 

“I applaud Hackney Showroom, especially in times like these, because we need organisations that are prepared to take risks and tell diverse stories we haven’t heard before.”

Jessica Gunning

Jessica Gunning is an Emmy and Golden Globe Award winning actor and writer with an illustrious career spanning stage and screen. Her credits include Baby Reindeer, The Outlaws and the film Pride. Jessica has been a staunch supporter of Hackney Showroom from the beginning and performed at the launch of the company in 2015.

“I was at the launch of Hackney Showroom in 2015, so I’m very honoured to be a patron 10 years on. It’s a place that nurtures talent and gives opportunities to many people”.

Jayde Adams

Jayde Adams is a writer, actor and multiple award winning comedian. She is best known for the BAFTA-winning series Alma’s Not Normal. Jayde received the Edinburgh Fringe Best Newcomer award in 2016 and the Funny Women Award for Best Female Comedy Performance in the same year. Her Amazon Prime Special, “Serious Black Jumper,” garnered over 200 million views and received an Emmy long-listing in 2021. Jayde performed at the launch of Hackney Showroom in 2015 and has previewed all of her comedy shows with Hackney Showroom.

“It was Hackney Showroom who gave me my first chance and believed in me. After that first opportunity, I went to Edinburgh Fringe Festival and won an award”.