Business Details
46 Years
experience
Outdoor Theatre & Creative Productions
Desperate Men have been pioneering innovative outdoor theatre and art projects for over 43 years, blending creativity with community engagement. Founded in 1980, our work challenges conventional boundaries through collaborative performances that respond to landscapes and societal themes. We specialise in large-scale outdoor productions, bespoke street animations, and educational initiatives, working alongside local authorities, artists, and organisations to foster inclusive participation. Our repertoire includes award-winning shows like Slapstick & Slaughter and immersive events such as the Wye Valley River Festival, which have captivated audiences globally.With a commitment to environmental and cultural narratives, we transform public spaces into dynamic stages. Our artistic directors, including co-founders Richie Smith and the late Jon Beedell, have cultivated a legacy of anarchic yet meticulously crafted performances. Recognised by the Arts Council and Arts Council of Wales, we continue to inspire through play, provocation, and participatory artistry.
Services
Outdoor Theatre Productions
Creative Productions
Education Projects
Street Animations
Bespoke Performances
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in outdoor arts and theatre production.
- Our collaborative approach engages communities and local authorities in creative projects.
- Award-winning shows like Slapstick & Slaughter demonstrate artistic excellence.
- We specialise in transforming public spaces with environmentally responsive performances.
- Recognised by the Arts Council and Arts Council of Wales for innovation.
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council
- Arts Council of Wales
What people say
Fantastic response
Ground-breaking
Captivated audiences
Artistic excellence
Inclusive participation
Services
Outdoor Theatre Productions
Desperate Men creates large-scale outdoor theatre that merges storytelling with public spaces. Our productions, like Slapstick & Slaughter, use humour and spectacle to explore cultural and environmental themes. Designed for diverse audiences, these performances transform streets and landscapes into immersive stages.
Creative Productions
We develop bespoke creative projects that collaborate with communities and artists. From river festivals to interactive installations, our work responds to local contexts while addressing universal narratives. These productions often blend music, dance, and visual arts for unique experiences.
Education Projects
Our educational initiatives engage schools and communities in participatory arts. Through workshops and residencies, we empower participants to explore creativity and self-expression. These projects often culminate in public performances or installations that celebrate collective achievement.
Street Animations
Street animations bring communities together through dynamic, site-specific performances. Using props, costumes, and interactive elements, we create memorable events that reimagine urban spaces. These animations often incorporate local history or environmental themes.
Bespoke Performances
We design tailored performances for festivals, corporate events, and cultural celebrations. Each show is crafted to align with the client's vision while maintaining our signature style of blending absurdity with profound social commentary through physical theatre.
People
Jon Beedell
Artistic Director
Co-founder of Desperate Men, Jon was a performer, writer, and director who believed in street theatre's power to connect communities. He passed away in 2022, leaving a legacy of creativity and collaboration.
Richard Headon
Artistic Director
Joined in 1996, Richard co-directed major projects like the Wye Valley River Festival. His work spans theatre, installations, and education, focusing on environmental and cultural narratives through collaborative artistry.
Richie Smith
Co-founder
Co-founder and creative force behind Desperate Men, Richie combined theatre with ecological advocacy. He directed award-winning shows and now contributes to environmental projects while maintaining ties to the arts.
Shirley Pegna
Music Director
Composer and workshop leader since 1992, Shirley creates soundscapes for performances and community projects. Her interdisciplinary work spans theatre, dance, and festivals, blending sonic art with visual storytelling.
Questions
What type of performances does Desperate Men create?
We specialise in outdoor theatre, street animations, and large-scale art projects that engage communities and explore cultural or environmental themes.
How can I collaborate with Desperate Men?
Contact us via email or phone to discuss partnerships for performances, workshops, or community projects tailored to your needs.
Are your performances suitable for all ages?
Yes, our shows are designed to be inclusive and accessible, often incorporating elements that appeal to both children and adults.
Do you offer educational programs?
We provide workshops and residencies that use theatre to foster creativity and learning, often collaborating with schools and community groups.
Where have you performed internationally?
Our work has reached audiences in the USA, Europe, and Asia, with notable projects in Germany, the Netherlands, and Hong Kong.
How are your events funded?
We receive support from Arts Council, Arts Council of Wales, and project-specific grants, alongside commissions and partnerships.
