August 2014: Red Ladder.....                           Who / What / Why? 

Originally Agitprop Street Players, Red Ladder "is a radical theatre company with over 40 years of history behind it, Red Ladder aims to make provocative theatre that contributes to social change and global justice.

Back then the plays were short and biting, morale-boosting sketches often relying on striking visual images to get the message across, they were highly portable relying on few props and were performed at mass political demonstrations, tenants association meetings, weekend schools etc.

They moved to Leeds in 1976 were they remain active in their mission to make theatre which provokes debate about the world in which we live; theatre which supports struggle and gives voice to the dispossessed; theatre of dissent." (Source)  

Ugly © Red Ladder (2010)

What They Up To Now? 

Current (2014-2015) Production: We’re Not Going Back

Save Red Ladder Campaign: #GIs A Tenner Follow @SaveRedLadder

History Written By The Company: Red Ladder Website

For a detailed history and pictures of what they did back in't day (1968 - 1988) bob over to: Unfinished History Website

"Founders [of Red Ladder] had limited theatrical experience but were stirred by the events of 1968. They wanted to develop a fused political and cultural practice that related directly to working class audiences and their emerging struggles." (Source)

What I Think... 

What I like about their work is that it sneaks up on you, like you'll be toe tapping to a tune or laughing at a joke, then BOOM they hit you with something real. They also hit up non-traditional venues which is a thing I really admire. Their work can be seen in Music Halls, Pubs, Social Clubs and some festivals too.  

I must admit I haven't seen their work for a while but I always support what they do, and what they have done, by telling folk about them. 

Rod Dixon (current Artistic Director) was also my mentor for 3 months back in 2011 for a show I wrote and co-directed. If you want to know what I'm on about then check this out: Julie's Shoes. Shocking that Rod could put up with me that long, I know. 

I love that they actively engage audiences and help local artists too. They offer a training programme for actors and often run workshops in collaboration with other organisations and communities. Ace, right?!

Julie's Shoes © Emma Jackson (2011)

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That's Nice.... But What's The Point Of All This?! 

Its basically just an in-road into something you might not have heard of before. If you've read all this and think "whatev's" then that's cool. If you've read this page and thought "awesome, maybe I'll check them out further and support them" then that's cool too. Either way, I'm happy. 

To help spread T word check this out #BATChat1 and RT. Simples. 

For other company shout-outs head back to the homepage for #BATChat and you'll find more.