Hannah McPake is a name that resonates strongly within the creative industries of the United Kingdom. Recognised for her versatility, originality, and depth, she has carved out a career that spans theatre, television, radio, and music. Born in Edinburgh and now based in Cardiff, she is not only an accomplished actor but also a writer, director, and musician. Her journey is a testament to the power of imagination, creativity, and determination, making her a role model for aspiring artists.
Early Life and Training
Hannah McPake grew up in Scotland, where her passion for performance began to take shape. Encouraged by a strong sense of curiosity and creativity, she pursued formal training at the prestigious Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. Her time at the college equipped her with the technical expertise and confidence that would later help her transition into diverse roles across multiple platforms. This early foundation also instilled in her a bold approach to storytelling—one that blends traditional theatre techniques with modern interpretations.
Building a Career in Theatre
Theatre has always been at the heart of Hannah McPake’s career. Her range as a performer is evident in the wide spectrum of characters she has played and the companies she has worked with. She has performed with some of the most influential theatre organisations in the UK, including the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare’s Globe, National Theatre Wales, National Theatre Scotland, and Improbable. These associations illustrate her ability to move seamlessly between classical and contemporary theatre, always bringing depth, energy, and imagination to her roles.
Her passion for theatre also extends to creative leadership. In 2013, she co-founded Gagglebabble, an award-winning gig-theatre company known for pushing boundaries and merging live music with bold theatrical performances. Gagglebabble quickly became a platform for innovative storytelling, giving audiences fresh and engaging experiences that challenge expectations.
Writing and Play Development
Hannah McPake is not only a gifted performer but also an imaginative writer. Her debut full-length play, Tales of the Brothers Grimm, premiered at Sherman Theatre in 2022 as the venue’s Christmas production. The play showcased her ability to reimagine classic fairy tales with humour, heart, and a modern twist, enchanting audiences of all ages.
She is also the recipient of the Radical Creatures Commission from National Theatre Wales, through which she has been developing her new play Balloon Girl. Scheduled to reach the stage in 2025, this work is highly anticipated and promises to be another example of her fearless storytelling style. In addition, her project I Am Kevin, created in collaboration with Wildworks, was shortlisted for Best Single Drama at the Celtic Media Festival in 2024. These achievements highlight her growing influence not only as a performer but also as a playwright of originality and vision.
Solo Performance and Acclaim
Among her standout performances is the one-woman show The Shape of the Pain, produced by China Plate. First performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017 and later at Battersea Arts Centre in 2018, the show received critical acclaim for its emotional intensity and innovative presentation. It demonstrated McPake’s ability to command the stage singlehandedly, combining vulnerability with power in a performance that left audiences deeply moved.
Critics have consistently praised her work, with The Guardian describing her as an artist full of “fizzing imagination and delightful rebellion.” This recognition from respected voices in the arts reinforces her reputation as someone whose creativity cannot be contained within conventional boundaries.
Contributions to Television and Radio
In addition to her theatre work, Hannah McPake has made her mark on television and radio. She has appeared in popular TV programmes such as Trollied (Sky 1), Skins (E4), and Casualty (BBC 1). These appearances demonstrate her adaptability, proving that she can move from stage to screen with the same ease and charisma that defines her live performances.
Her radio credits include roles in Modesty Blaise and Seven Songs for BBC Radio 4. Radio is a medium that demands precision in voice and timing, and McPake has shown her versatility by excelling in this form as well.
Musical Talents
One of the most distinctive aspects of Hannah McPake’s artistry is her musical ability. She is a talented singer and multi-instrumentalist, proficient in playing the accordion, cello, double bass, guitar, and piano. Her musical background has often intertwined with her theatrical work, particularly through Gagglebabble, where the fusion of live music and performance creates unique experiences for audiences. This rare combination of skills has given her an edge in the industry, allowing her to bring something distinctive to every project she undertakes.
Engagement with Creative Communities
McPake’s commitment to collaboration and innovation extends beyond her personal career. She is an Associate Artist with Theatr Iolo, a company that specialises in work for young audiences, and she has worked with Yellow Brick on audio-led creative experiences. Her selection for BBC Writers Room’s Welsh Voices programme in 2023 reflects her expanding role as a storyteller in television and screenwriting. Currently, she is developing her first TV drama pilot, which marks yet another step in broadening her already impressive career.
Recognition and Influence
Over the years, Hannah McPake has been celebrated not only for her talent but also for her imagination and daring. She has received praise from critics, peers, and audiences alike for her fearless approach to storytelling. Her projects often challenge conventional norms, blending art forms and creating narratives that resonate with modern audiences while still respecting the traditions of theatre.
Her influence is particularly significant for aspiring artists. As a woman who has successfully navigated multiple aspects of the creative industries, from performance to writing and music, she serves as proof that versatility and originality are assets in a competitive field.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Hannah McPake’s career shows no signs of slowing down. With Balloon Girl set for 2025, her ongoing development of a television drama, and her continued work with theatre companies and collaborators, she remains at the forefront of innovation in the arts. Her willingness to experiment and her refusal to be confined to a single medium suggest that her impact will only grow stronger in the years to come.
Conclusion
Hannah McPake embodies the qualities of a modern creative powerhouse. From her roots in Edinburgh to her established base in Cardiff, she has built a career defined by versatility, originality, and a fearless approach to storytelling. Whether performing on stage, writing for theatre, acting on screen, or producing music, she consistently delivers work that is imaginative, meaningful, and memorable. Her journey is not only inspiring for fellow professionals but also for audiences who value bold and thought-provoking art.
With her track record of success and her ongoing projects, Hannah McPake is set to remain a prominent figure in the UK’s artistic landscape. Her story demonstrates the enduring importance of creativity, resilience, and innovation in shaping the world of performance and beyond.
