Frantic Assembly

Lead by co-founder and director, Scott Graham, Frantic Assembly is an internationally renowned theatre company. They focus on hard-hitting, emotional plays that affect everyone alike. They have toured extensively across Britain and have also worked in 40 countries. They have internationally collaborated with some of today’s most inspiring, popular artists. For example, they have collaborated with writers such as Simon Stephens, Andrew Bovell and Mark Ravenhill. Their distinctive approach has influenced modern theatre-making and has inspired many writers to embrace new processes. They have won many awards and excel at inspiring writers and young dancers alike.

Founded in 1994, Frantic Assembly was created by Scott Graaham, Steven Hoggett and Vicki Middleton:

 "We were three students at Swansea University. We were suddenly inspired and then encouraged to form our own theatre company. This reckless and terrifying leap was the best thing we ever did. We were English Literature and Geography graduates and as such we were untrained in any aspect of theatre or dance but we were willing to learn and devoured any opportunity that came our way. As soon as we learned something we tried to teach it and pass it on. This simple starting point of encouragement, learning and training has been at the heart of the company ever since."  Scott Graham, Co-Founder & Artistic Director

Examples of their work: 

The curious incident of the dog in the night-time.

The curious incident of the dog in the night-time is a National Theatre production that was based on the novel of the same name by Mark Haddon. Frantic Assembly are the movement directors of this acclaimed production. Scott Graham and Steven Hoggett have collaborated to produce breath-taking, dynamic choreography. Winner of 7 Oliver Awards and 5 Tony Awards (including Best Play), this amazing adaptation is innovative and exciting for the whole family.

Based inside of Christopher Boone’s unique world, The curious incident of the dog in the night-time shows a unique look into the world of a teenager with Asperger’s (or as Mark Haddon prefers to say- behavioural problems). It is based upon Christopher’s teacher reading the book Christopher wrote whilst attempting to solve the mystery of a dog brutally murdered in a neighbours garden. They decide to stage the book as a play. The show uses this idea to break the fourth wall cleverly and believably. Christopher’s curiosity leads the audience to follow him on a journey to search for his mother in London. Stunning visuals from Frantic Assembly are used to naturally portray the hustle and bustle of the large city and show how overwhelming large cities are for Christopher.

“My recurring thought now is how much creating this show has changed my own creative process for ever. We all went way beyond our comfort zones and took huge risks. I found inspiration and solace in the honesty and bravery of the collaborators. We just had to be honest and brave and now I feel that is the only way to make work. Don’t hide behind the things you know! Be bold and set out to do something you have never done before! In fact, be more like Christopher!” Scott Graham