The Scarlet Lights Theatre Company (1/4) By Michelle Dee

(1/4), (2/4), (3/4), (4/4).

The group of students that would, in time, share a stage as the Scarlet Lights Theatre Company, first shared corridors and common rooms inside Hull College. Most of the young actors were studying for a B.A. in Performing Arts, except Louisa, who was taking an HND. Helen is the newest member of the group and the girls were immediately drawn to her sense of fun, bubbly and down to earth demeanour (she does little voices, they say in unison).

Helen also brought her own material, which helped to seal the decision to bring her on board.

Lucy, taking the lead in the room, explains more. We had talked for along while about starting a theatre group but the components didn't come together until much later. After we graduated we had to go straight into work for three years (I notice the girl's graduation photo sitting proudly in the lounge). When we undertook some role-play work with the local police force, the importance of having a group name became evident so the name Scarlet Lights was borne. Around this time some of the graduates went travelling; this chance to see more of the world broadened their horizons and proved something of a catalyst.

On their return, with a sense of purpose and sharpened intent, a theatre company was formed. Scarlet Lights was borne out of great friendships, great times and a desire to utilise that special friendship together and the natural talent of talking and sharing to create something. Not just a group but a company with all the usual business interests and concerns.

Although Scarlet Lights Theatre Company is a legitimate business concern, the members emphasize the essential and shared principles that run throughout the company are friendship and laughter. Also central is self belief, the belief and trust in each other to implement the DIY ethos.

Why just girls in the group? Was that a conscious decision or just a natural place to work from? Talking to the girls tonight particularly Director Caz, I see a genuine drive to encourage women in Hull to succeed in their own town. There's much talk of students graduating in Hull then looking outside of the city particularly down south to start their careers. We spoke of the serious lack of female creativity in Hull compared to the projects headed up by men. The Scarlet Lights want to address this pervasive problem in our city and hope they can prove that you can be a woman and a successful artist in Hull.

Continued .... Next Page (2/4)

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