WIREDGOV

With The Government Inspector and Tommy firmly under its belt, Ramps on the Moon has already achieved great things. The fully integrated casts for both performances lit up the stage, delivering performances that have wowed audiences across the country.

And now the seven partners, led by New Wolsey Theatre, have received £2.1million of National Lottery funding through the Arts Council's Strategic Touring Programme to continue their important work to transform mid-large scale mainstream touring theatre and break down barriers to participation. New Wolsey Theatre is also a National Portfolio Organisation.

Through its work, Ramps on the Moon is normalising the inclusion and contribution of D/deaf and disabled people in our theatres. And this latest funding will support years four, five and six of the Ramps on the Moon project. It will enable the seven partners to bring about lasting change by continuing the strong, collaborative touring circuit that engages more D/deaf & disabled audiences and participants.

Hedley Swain, Area Director, South East, Arts Council England, said: “We’re delighted to continue our support for Ramps on the Moon. In just three years, the project has illustrated what can be achieved when we proactively get out there and make change happen. To date the project has produced fantastic, high-quality mid-scale theatre and, because the project champions integrated casts, it resonates with audiences and gives people the chance to see a ‘reflection’ of themselves on stage.

“But Ramps on the Moon is about more than that, it is about wholesale change. Yes, it is about attracting and inspiring new audiences. But it is also about creating new career pathways for Deaf and disabled actors, directors and back-stage staff – making sure the opportunities are there for them to realise their ambitions and to break down barriers.”

Sarah Holmes, Chief Executive at the New Wolsey Theatre, and Michele Taylor, Director for Change at Ramps on the Moon, said: “We are delighted that Arts Council England is continuing to invest in Ramps on the Moon following our achievements to date. This funding will allow us to consolidate and take further our mission to embody the Creative Case for Diversity and achieve a sea change in our industry.”

Find out more

• Read about Ramps on the Moon
• Find out about Our Country's Good, the next production from Ramps on the Moon
• Learn about the partners and Agents for Change