Draft:Tie it Up Theatre

Tie It Up Theatre is a UK-based theatre company specializing in Theatre in Education (TIE). Founded in 2016,the company focuses on delivering impactful performances that address critical social issues, particularly for school audiences.

Origins and Development In 2017, the company launched its pilot tour with a production of Mark Wheeller's "Hard to Swallow," a verbatim play depicting the tragic story of a young girl's battle with anorexia. The production received positive feedback from both teachers and students, leading to subsequent tours in 2018 and 2019.

Founding and Mission Founded in 2016 by David Chafer and Elliot Montgomery, Tie it Up Theatre emerged from a shared vision of bridging drama and education. Chafer, an actor and producer, joined forces with Montgomery, a drama teacher and educational leader, to address a need for high-quality, curriculum-focused theatre productions. Their mission is to inspire, educate, and engage young audiences by tackling real-world challenges through compelling storytelling.

Collaborations and Productions Tie it Up Theatre has become well-known for its productions of verbatim plays, particularly those written by playwright Mark Wheeller. Two of their most notable works include:

"Hard to Swallow" This play explores the story of a young girl's battle with anorexia, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of the disorder. Tie it Up Theatre’s production has been widely praised for its sensitive portrayal of the subject and its educational value in raising awareness about eating disorders.

"I Love You, Mum – I Promise I Won’t Die" Developed in collaboration with the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation, this play recounts the tragic true story of 16-year-old Dan, who lost his life after taking MDMA. The production emphasizes the dangers of drug misuse and fosters conversations around decision-making and peer pressure. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company produced a filmed version of the play, making it accessible to schools worldwide.

Educational Outreach Tie it Up Theatre employs the principles of Theatre in Education to foster learning and encourage dialogue. Their productions are often accompanied by workshops and resources designed to deepen students’ understanding of the topics addressed. The company has toured extensively across the UK and internationally, including Scotland, England, and the American School of Paris.

Impact and Recognition Since its launch, Tie it Up Theatre has reached over 15,000 students and staff. Their work has been celebrated for its ability to provoke meaningful discussions, change perceptions, and inspire action. The company has also expanded its impact by collaborating with schools, charities, and community organizations.

Future Goals Looking ahead, Tie it Up Theatre aims to continue its mission of delivering transformative educational experiences. With plans to explore new themes and develop original productions, the company remains committed to using theatre as a powerful tool for social change.

Contact Information For more information about Tie it Up Theatre, including upcoming productions and educational programs, visit their official website: www.tiu-theatre.co.uk.