An independent theatre company run by and for people with learning disabilities.
The Lawnmowers Independent Theatre Company is a unique company run by and for people with learning disabilities.
The Lawnmowers Independent Theatre Company is a unique company run by and for people with learning disabilities. Based in Gateshead, it works with groups locally, nationally and internationally, and over the last 32 years has led hundreds of workshops and researched, devised and toured work concerning the issues that matter most to its community.
Its work is wide-ranging, from touring theatre ensembles and break dancers to a youth Hip Hop Skool and DJ sets. Across all of it, the company provides a broad range of training and services with a single aim: to ensure that people with learning disabilities have access to arts and culture.
Held as a beacon of best practice nationally, a group of core members with learning disabilities use their skills to deliver high-quality art through drama and performance, forum theatre, dance and music, seeking to bridge gaps between communities. The company exists so that people with learning disabilities are not excluded from aspects of life that others take for granted.
Many members have often experienced social isolation. Through the company's activities they are able to grow in confidence in an environment where they can feel comfortable being themselves, finding a place where they belong.
“Individuals have come to us at rock bottom and have then flourished and found where they belong.”
The Lawnmowers Independent Theatre Company
The company reached a pivotal point in its evolution when it secured a new arts centre in Gateshead. The Trust's funding helped secure its programme of activities while it settled into the new home, during a fundamental period of development.
Moving into a home of the company's own was a landmark moment for an organisation with such a long history. By helping to secure the programme of activities through that transition, the Trust's support meant the everyday work, the workshops, rehearsals and performances, could continue while the company found its feet in the new centre. As its team has said, that recognition and support during such a fundamental period mattered a great deal.
“The funding we received from the Trust helped to secure our programme of activities while we settle into our new centre. We are incredibly grateful for the recognition and support during such a fundamental period for the organisation.”
Dawn Redhead, CEO, The Lawnmowers
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