About the Company

Common Wealth make site-specific theatre events that encompass electronic sound, new writing, visual design and verbatim. Our work is political and contemporary – based in the present day – the here and now. We make work that is relevant and addresses concerns of our times.

We seek out places to stage our work that are right in a community; a residential house, a boxing gym, places where people who might not go to the theatre might come to instead – we aim to make theatre for people who don’t usually think it’s for them, we’re bored of theatre being for the middle classes and those that can afford it – we genuinely believe in theatre as an art form and the power it has. We think this should belong to everyone – as audience, participants and as protagonists.

Common Wealth started working together in 2008 in a very DIY way with no funding just access to massive buildings and networks of great people to collaborate with. On every project we seek to make something that will engage audiences in an encounter that pushes what theatre can be. We’re not necessarily interested in traditional story-telling but in creating memorable, unexpected experiences.

Our ideas are rooted in socialist politics, working class backgrounds, a keen interest in contemporary music/theatre/art/design, the people that we meet and an idealistic ambition to shift things. We see our plays as campaigns, as a way of bringing people together and making change feel possible.

Common Wealth are based in Bradford and Cardiff and make award-winning work across the UK and internationally. We are part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio and current recipients of the Breakthrough Fund with the Paul Hamlyn Foundation.

Common Wealth Theatre Company | Site-Specific Political Theatre

At the Bradford School of Art, we prioritise real world experience and industry collaboration as essential components of our educational approach. Our partnership with the Commonwealth Theatre Company exemplifies our commitment to providing students with opportunities that enhance their learning and prepare them for successful careers in the creative industries.

Understanding Industry Needs and Collaboration

Working with the Commonwealth Theatre Company allows us to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. By engaging with a prominent theatre company, our students gain insights into the creative processes and production demands of the industry, helping them understand the skills necessary for success in their chosen fields.

Curriculum Design and Implementation

Our collaboration with the Commonwealth Theatre Company has enriched our curriculum through the following initiatives:

Fast, Fast, Slow Project

Both our media make up and special effects students, as well as our performing arts students, participated in the Fast, Fast, Slow project, which involved touring in Blackburn and Bradford. This project provided students with invaluable hands-on experience in various production roles, including stage management, technical roles and performance.

Production Roles

Students had the opportunity to take on significant production roles during the tour, allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge in a professional setting. This experience not only enhanced their technical skills but also fostered teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities that are vital in the performing arts industry.

Performing Opportunities

One of our performing arts students was selected for a performance role with the Commonwealth Theatre Company as a result of their involvement in the project. This opportunity demonstrates our commitment to helping students pursue professional pathways and gain recognition in the industry.

Media Make up and Special Effects Collaboration

Our MMU students were commissioned to work alongside a professional designer to create headpieces for the show. This collaboration provided students with exposure to industry standards and practices, allowing them to develop their skills while working on a live production.

Impact on Student Learning and Career Readiness

The partnership with the Commonwealth Theatre Company significantly enhances out students’ learning experiences. By participating in real-world projects, students develop a deeper understanding of the creative process and the demands of the industry. This collaboration not only prepares them for future employment but only fosters their artistic growth and professional confidence.

Fast, Fast, Slow – Commonwealth Theatre Company Placement Project

Fast, Fast, Slow

Six Bradford School of Arts Students Shine in Commonwealth Theatre Company’s Fast, Fast, Slow Production.

Performing Arts First Year Degree Students

In an exciting opportunity for our talented first-year Performing Arts degree students, four of them had the privilege of working in production roles with the esteemed Commonwealth Theatre Company. From working behind the scene to stepping on stage, these students showcased their passion and dedication to the performing arts during their involvement in this fast-paced production.

Travels to Blackburn

Throughout the month of October, Rose Dastor, Chelsea Stoyles, and Harry Leadbeater embarked on weekly journeys to Blackburn, where they actively contributed to the success of the Commonwealth Theatre Company’s production. These learners were assigned significant production roles, ensuring smooth operations and seamless performances. The remaining student, Qaraman Saizada, was cast as a performer, showcasing their acting skills alongside the talented cast.

Special Effects and Mask Work

Degree Students in Media Make up and Special Effects

Two of our students from the Media Make up and Special Effects Degree, Ellie Dennis and Leon Ivic, played a crucial role in the production by collaborating with the designer Sascha Gilmour, to create captivating mask work. Their expertise and creativity were put to the test as they crafted unique and visually stunning masks that added depth and intrigue to the performances. This hands-on experience allowed them to refine their skills and gain valuable insights into the world of theatrical makeup and special effects.

Return to Bradford – BD is LIT

The experience gained by all of the BSoA students during their time with the Commonwealth Theatre Company was nothing short of fantastic. They were exposed to the intricacies of production, honing their organisational, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Additionally, their time in Blackburn allowed them to understand the importance of adaptability and flexibility in the fast-paced working environment.

Following their successful stint in Blackburn, the students returned to Bradford College to continue their journey on their home ground. Their newfound skills and experiences will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation for their future endeavours in the industry.

Supporting Career Pathways

In addition to the production roles and performances, one of our FE students, Usman Sheikh, had the unique opportunity to shadow the technical elements of the production, specifically focusing on lighting. This hands-on experience provided valuable insight into the technical aspects of theatre production, supporting Usman’s career aspirations within technical theatre. Such opportunities help students explore various areas of the performing arts industry and make informed decisions about their future career paths.

Fast, Fast, Slow – Common Wealth (commonwealththeatre.co.uk)

Common Wealth Theatre Company | Site-Specific Political Theatre

Fast, Fast, Slow by Common Wealth – British Textile Biennial