Creating Devised Theatre
Red Leap aim to extend and grow their craft with each new production. We enjoy crossing the forms primarily of physical theatre/dance, imagery/puppetry, storytelling and song. In saying that, however, we are always searching to grow into new areas and venture in whatever direction the work invites.
As devisors we strongly believe in the practical experimenting and development of ideas. Our work begins with development workshops. In between these workshops we research, create physical imagery, build fitness, practice skills and allow concepts created in the workshops filtering time. Strong ideas remain steadfast and others fall away.
Nothing beats trying ideas out in a rehearsal room. Pulling apart an idea and practically looking at all possible facets before either storing it, throwing it away or returning to it later in a different light.
Ideas can begin anywhere - a thought, a dream, a discussion, in research or the discovery of a writer, an artist, a theme, subject, piece of music. That idea then takes form on the floor. It might ask for a specific image, prop or skill which we then work on as a company. We then assess what we have created. Does it capture and hold our attention? Does the work keep us interested? Would we want to pay to watch our own work?
An idea will always ask for commitment in performance. When our actors commit we are truly able to see if the idea will hold its own. Our actors get used to creating lots of physical material without getting attached. They may need to let go of something they made or see another performer use what they have created. We work as an ensemble. The work calls for actors to disengage the ego. Many find this liberating. We value our people and strive to ensure there is always enough fun and limelight to go around.
Our company as a whole get used to taking initiative in being part of the creative process, bringing all their individual skills to the project. Everyone be they designers, actors or management is able to feed into the creative journey,especially during the development phase. Our walls are plastered with images, stories, articles and other resources brought in by company members to inform and inspire us.
Inside the workshop room instinct and play guide us. An actor can really work their unique voice. We encourage an actors spark and their connection with the other performers. This connection is critical regardless of whether we are moving as an ensemble or as characters moving around one another. Most of all in the rehearal room we want to feel as though we are connected and inspired. We work consistently and diligently, aligning always with the highest energy in the room and committing to the present moment fully.
We remain always mindful of the teachings of John Bolton who reminds us to stay connected to the heart of what we are trying to achieve.
To recieve information on Red Leap auditions, classes, workshops and productions send us your details.
The Company can also be employed to run private workshops. We can tailor these to meet your needs or you may wish to choose from our current Education Packages
