Red Ladder Theatre Company, in collaboration with Theatre Royal Wakefield and CAPA College, presents “Sanctuary,” a compelling new musical that explores the crucial question: “What kind of society do we want to live in?” This production, written by Boff Whalley and award-winning playwright Sarah Woods, tells the poignant story of one man’s plea for refuge in a time when not all strangers are welcomed.
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A Story of Compassion and Conflict
“Sanctuary” follows Alland, a young Iranian man who seeks sanctuary in a church in northern England, sparking a range of reactions from the local community. Molly, a young worker at the church, and Vicar Fiona join forces to protect Alland from both hostile vigilantes and indifferent authorities. A special community service sees voices on all sides expressing their views, leading Fiona to pose a critical question: “Do we give Alland over to the State or uphold our ideals of compassion?”
The story is deeply rooted in real experiences, as the creative team has worked closely with individuals hoping to make the UK their home. Writers Boff and Sarah have spent the past six years collaborating with the Welsh National Opera and the Oasis Centre for refugees and asylum seekers, creating original operas for a diverse audience. Cheryl Martin, the Artistic Director, has an extensive background directing plays with women refugees and asylum seekers.
A Collaborative and Educational Effort
Leeds-based Mafwa Theatre contributed to the project by running sessions with the team and students from CAPA College, who then developed workshops for secondary school pupils with the support of asylum seekers. This unique collaboration enriches the production, blending hard-hitting themes with memorable music and harmonies, performed by CAPA College’s talented performing arts students.
Cheryl Martin, who took over as Artistic Director in January 2024, emphasizes the musical’s timeliness:
“Sanctuary comes at a critical moment in the conversation about immigration, refugees, and asylum seekers. I hope this musical helps open up this conversation because it goes to the heart of who we are and the kind of society we want to live in.”
Diverse Perspectives and Impactful Stories
Co-writer Sarah Woods highlights the importance of telling diverse stories:
“There is a lot of hostility in the media regarding immigration, and we want to counter this narrative by offering audiences different viewpoints. The stories we tell can truly affect change. Many asylum seekers have stood up against oppression in ways many of us might not have the strength to do. We can learn a lot from their stories.”
Boff Whalley reflects on his experience working with refugees:
Tour Dates and Venues
The musical opens at Theatre Royal Wakefield on September 19 and will tour various theatres and community venues across the country throughout autumn. The tour schedule includes:
- Theatre Royal Wakefield: Sept 19 – Sept 21, 7:30pm
- The Rockwell Centre Bradford: Sept 24, 7:30pm
- St Mary’s Parish Church Hawksworth Wood Leeds: Sept 28, 7:30pm
- Stephen Joseph Theatre Scarborough: Sept 30, 7:45pm
- Stahl Theatre Peterborough: Oct 1, 7:45pm
- The Hub at St. Mary’s Lichfield: Oct 2, 7:30pm
- St. John’s Parish Church Staincross: Oct 5, 7:30pm
- Selby Abbey: Oct 7, 7:30pm
- Hull Truck Theatre: Oct 8, 7:30pm
- The Dukes Lancaster: Oct 9, 7:30pm
- The Grove Hall South Kirkby: Oct 11, 7:30pm
- Wesley Centre Harrogate: Oct 12, 7:30pm
- The Cluntergate Centre Horbury: Oct 20, 7:30pm
- Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield: Oct 23 & 24, 7:30pm
- Derby Theatre: Oct 31 – Nov 2, 7:30pm
- Drama Studio University of Sheffield: Nov 3, 8:00pm
- Leeds Playhouse: Nov 5, 7:45pm & Nov 6, 2:45pm & 7:45pm
- The Edge Manchester: Nov 8 & 9, 7:30pm
About Red Ladder Theatre Company
Red Ladder Theatre Company, founded in 1968, is renowned for its radical and socially engaging productions. With a mission to contribute to social change and global justice, Red Ladder creates new plays that challenge the systems of oppression and marginalization. Their productions range from performances in traditional theatres to more unconventional venues, always aiming to inspire and empower their audience.
Cheryl Martin, the current Artistic Director, brings a wealth of experience from her work with community arts and her involvement in LGBTQ+ and Global-Majority performance arts. Writers Boff Whalley and Sarah Woods also bring their rich backgrounds in theatre and collaboration with diverse communities, ensuring that “Sanctuary” is both impactful and authentic.
Final Point
“Sanctuary” is not just a musical; it’s a call to reflect on our values and the kind of society we strive to create. Through its powerful narrative and moving musical compositions, it encourages audiences to think deeply about compassion, community, and the human spirit. Don’t miss this extraordinary production as it tours the UK, offering a profound and entertaining exploration of one of the most pressing issues of our time.
