Background

Red Earth Theatre was founded in 1999 by Artistic Joint Directors Wendy Rouse and Amanda Wilde. Both directors are experienced teachers and have worked as Education Director and Associate Director respectively in repertory theatre, touring theatre, children’s and young people’s theatre.
Associate Director Laura McEwen designs the company’s shows (as well as designing for repertory and touring companies around the country). Laura won Manchester Evening News 2005 Best Design Award for Beautiful Thing, a co-production by Pilot Theatre and Octagon Theatre, Bolton. Laura's design for Red Earth Theatre's The Crane is part of Collaborators: UK Design for Performance 2003 - 2007 at the V&A Museum in South Kensington. It is part of a display that "brings together the work of 100 of Britain's most creative theatre designers recognised worldwide for their skills and innovative designs. Red Earth's graphics, print and website are designed by Dominic Mallin.

The company’s president, Dorothy Heathcote (described as one of the greatest teachers of this century), is actively involved in the artistic and creative learning work of Red Earth.
From its inception, the company has sought to make work that is inclusive and accessible for all children and young people, and to develop diverse audiences. Central to the company’s work is the idea of collaboration with people, places and communities as much as with artists and companies.
In 2002, Red Earth moved to the Guildhall Theatre in Derby to become resident company as part of the Open Door project, in partnership with the venue and the city council. Open Door was a highly successful 3 year programme that raised the profile of children’s culture in the city and developed new audiences of children and young people at the Guildhall Theatre.

Red Earth gratefully acknowledges funding support from Arts Council England - East Midlands and core support from Derby City Council.

Red Earth Theatre is a member of:
ITC (Independent Theatre Council)
ACA (Action for Children’s Arts)
NCA (National Campaign for the Arts)
AMA (Arts marketing Association)

ASSITEJ (The International Association of Theatre for Children & Young People)

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