Harlow and District Chamber of Commerce

Razed Roof is an inclusive performing arts company for people with and without disabilities and learning difficulties based at The Playhouse in Harlow (http://razedroof.btck.co.uk/) but with links into other areas in Essex and Hertfordshire.

Comprising adults with specific learning difficulties and disabilities and young people from mainstream education, and supported by an experienced staff, the company provides theatre skills training and opportunities for performing publicly. They meet every Thursday to work together for over six hours. Building social skills and confidence is an integral part of the work.

Established in 2004 it has grown into a performing troupe of 40 members delivering a wide range of activities including workshop sessions, performances and outreach projects.

We believe that the performing arts provide opportunities to improve the quality of life for everyone involved. Our aims are:

- to widen participation in the performing arts for people with disabilities and learning difficulties

- to develop an inclusive environment for people with a wide range of abilities

- to create a supported and supportive environment in whih work skills relevant to the performing arts industry can be developed.

The company has an impressive record of local and national performances including The Harlow Playhouse, The Arcola in London, Langdon Down Trust Theatre in Teddington, The Brighton Dome Theatre, The Lord Mayor's Show and Holocaust Memorial Day.  The company has worked on scripts by established playwrights including Alan Ayckbourn, Judith Johnson, Christian Martin and Philip Ridley. The choice of play is guided by its use of imagery and the potential for movement work. The script is adapted so that it can be told through words, music and dance and allows full participation from every individual.

In November 2011 Razed Roof were one of four finalists in The National Lottery Awards Best Arts Project for their work "Inclusion through Practice".

Over the next five years, Razed Roof plans to expand its role as a centre of expertise and provide training to facilitate the setting up and operation of similar activities elsewhere in the communities of Essex, Hertfordshire and London. The intention is to offer “The Razed Roof Experience” to many more people.