The RSC has resident acting companies – groups of twenty to forty actors working together on a variety of projects over a longer period of time than is customary for theater – sometimes up to two or three years. The last major ensemble finished in 2008, having performed all of Shakespeare's History plays.
"This ensemble is a secure environment without ever being a comfort zone. All of us are continually challenging ourselves and being inspired by those around us to reach new levels in all aspects of our work."
— Geoffrey Streatfeild, The Histories Ensemble