Exploring the grey areas of the human condition
STIGMAcollective was founded in 2017 with the aim of creating an artist community, from different disciplines, united in work that challenges stigma. We enjoy working with controversial subjects, producing brave and unapologetically challenging shows that explore the grey area of the human condition.
We want to ensure that our audiences leave a STIGMAcollective show with a lot to talk about - perhaps even having new and difficult conversations. In our work, we merge stark reality, humour and the absurd to create entertaining and moving performances that grab the audiences’ attention.
STIGMAcollective are always expanding, seeking to become an ensemble of creators.
We love working with people - be that people who have been a part of the industry for years, or people who have never created for theatre before. We believe these kind of collaborations keep the process fresh and exciting.
MEET THE CO-ARTISTIC DIRECTORS
RASA NIURKAITE
I am a director and dramaturg working across theatre, contemporary dance and ballet. With my work I like to explore messy truths of the human condition.
David Lynch and C.G. Jung are my rockstars, so that, coupled with the European theatre tradition I grew up in, results in some mad ideas. But real and believable characters always come first, no matter the circumstances.
Theatre to me is the biggest exercise of empathy. I come to the theatre for the opportunity to hear stories from people I wouldn’t necessarily meet. I come to the theatre to ask myself questions I wouldn’t normally ask. I make theatre for these same reasons.
ROSA FRENCH
I grew up in South East London. I don't think I was that interested in theatre until I saw a play by Gecko Theatre Company in secondary school; the work was so surreal, physical and downright weird, it completely captured me.
I studied English and Drama at the University of East Anglia, before going to RCS to do my masters. At university I was interested in creative writing, and wrote short fiction stories. That has naturally developed into writing scripts. I was frustrated about never getting cast as the kind of women I wanted to play, so I selfishly started just writing the parts for myself!
During my masters I became unwell, and was diagnosed with Lupus and Epilepsy. I'm passionate about invisible disabilities, the impact they can have on people's lives, and how the theatre world can be more inclusive.
Partnered and supported by:
