The Royal Theatrical Support Trust (RTST) is a charity committed to supporting theatre companies and up-and-coming theatre practitioners as part of their mission to promote the theatre and theatre-going for the public benefit. It was founded in 1967 and has recently broadened its charity objects to form a new mission to promote knowledge, experience and appreciation of theatre and drama, and thereby play a part in securing the future of British theatre. The charity seeks to achieve its new mission by: supporting new and established theatre companies, including regional and repertory; supporting up-and-coming directors, producers, actors, designers and playwrights; promoting the works of internationally renowned dramatists, including Shakespeare, and encouraging theatre-going.