Cultural Contribution, Jude Haste – Rank & File Theatre, sponsor M&G Real Estate
A theatre company and its artistic director that give “a voice to the voiceless and a platform to promote social change” have been nominated for the Cultural Contribution award.
Rank & File Theatre was formed by artistic director Jude Haste in 2019.
“Jude works with asylum seekers, refugees, survivors and people with experiences of (dis)abilities and/or mental health,” said the nominator.
She devises theatre and film “with the aim to create original collaborative practices that inform/inspire political and social change through performance,” they said.
“Rank & File aims to counter isolation and allow people to develop performance and writing skills through acting and creative writing. Giving a voice to the voiceless and a platform to promote social change.”
Rank & File was awarded the accolade of Theatre of Sanctuary status in 2023.
“With support from Arts Council, Reading Council and Berkshire Community Foundation, R&F has recently toured a collaborative production and film/audio trail for the Reading Museums Partnership for Refugee Week titled ‘Where do we go from here?’, said the nominator.
“The play demonstrates that we have more in common than that which divides us.” Rank & File performed the play in venues around Reading.
“Rank & File is a vital community group that benefits individuals and their communities. Together they explore creative processes to show how arts and culture can raise awareness and promote dialogue around social issues and change,” the nominator added.
The Cultural Contribution award is sponsored by M&G Real Estate.
