Great cultural work happens at the edges: between local and international collaboration, grassroots authenticity, and global ambition. We’re not interested in neatly defined boxes or familiar comfort zones. More interesting for us is the ability to create connections that disrupt conventional narratives and demonstrate why genuine place-making matters just as much as bold, boundary-crossing initiatives.

This month, we’re highlighting our collaboration with Ensemble 84, whose inaugural production of Mother Courage and Her Children concluded last week to widespread acclaim.

A bit of background: Ensemble 84 is a newly established theatre company based in Horden, County Durham. It began as a spark—ignited through a longstanding partnership with South Africa’s Isango Ensemble—and grew during County Durham’s bid for UK City of Culture 2025. Together, we asked an important question: could a model of performance-in-training and skills development that succeeded in Cape Town be adapted effectively to County Durham? Could local individuals, who traditionally face barriers to accessing professional theatre, receive training and support to develop their craft and become part of a professional ensemble? Given the stark lack of opportunities available in the North East, was it possible to reimagine how theatre could function differently in 2025?

Ensemble 84 was born, supported by Durham County Council, Redhills, and East Durham Trust, with investment through the county’s Place Partnership. The vision was clear and straightforward: conduct open auditions, select local individuals, pay them properly to undergo comprehensive training, embed the company within a community, and develop world-class, professional productions that create meaningful connections both locally and globally. Over twelve months, we have recruited 15 local people, established a base in an old Methodist Church, built strategic partnerships—and delivered a bold first production that met its audience with purpose and power.

Lee Hall—perhaps best known for his work on global stage and screen—penned this adaptation of Mother Courage and Her Children, which would typically be staged at venues like the Royal Opera House or The Factory. Instead, placing the production in Horden Methodist Church, Ensemble 84’s home, boldly challenged assumptions about where cultural excellence belongs and who it is for. The cast combined local talent with members of South Africa’s Isango Ensemble—fusing local and global, familiar and unfamiliar, in a production committed to finding connections and disrupting expectations. All of it made possible by taking risks, embracing global partnerships, and rooting deeply in place for the long term.

The production closed last week following a highly successful run. It received glowing 4-star reviews from The Guardian, The Times, and The Stage, and was featured widely across national media, including BBC (20-minutes onwards) and Channel 4 —a testament to the resonance and impact of the work.

This project takes place against a stark and shifting political backdrop. Like much of the North East, Horden has undergone profound political realignments, moving away from traditional Labour strongholds toward new forms of engagement. Within this context, initiatives like Ensemble 84 matter more than ever. While no single project can resolve all of Horden’s challenges, Ensemble 84 offers tangible proof that hope and possibility exist when communities collaborate, embrace diversity, and commit to meaningful change.

Until next time

Sud

Ensemble 84 - Mother Courage and Her Children

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