Red Ladder Theatre Company
“I have seen…students go through the [Red Ladder] program and develop decision-making skills that will empower them to become leaders in their communities. A new sense of positive leadership develops from a stronger sense of self confidence and a willingness to take risks.” - Barbara Papamarcos, Title VII Program Manager, Bishop School
About the Red Ladder Theatre Company
Red Ladder Theatre Company, the social outreach program of San Jose Repertory Theatre, works with under-served and disadvantaged communities to improve and enrich lives through the art of theatre.
Red Ladder was founded on the premise that creativity is the key to personal achievement and individual well being. It offers participants a safe and nurturing place to play, invent, express, and create. Guided by Red Ladder Company members, participants are encouraged to examine and solve the issues and problems that affect and often derail their lives. Through the tools and techniques of improvisational theatre, participants are able safely to come to terms with, and triumph over, the forces that hamper their lives while also actively developing their abilities to make positive choices, solve problems creatively, focus on tasks, and work collaboratively.
Red Ladder is devoted to the development of the individual regardless of circumstance. It engages participants wherever they may be. It embraces who they are. The Red Ladder method is a flexible life-enhancement tool that seamlessly adapts to individual and group needs. Whether working with homeless high school students, incarcerated adults, or at-risk youth, Red Ladder strives to prepare participants to achieve their full potential, develop perspective, rise above circumstance, forge bonds of trust, and create positive life experiences.
“[Red Ladder] staff and company members are truly multi-talented professionals who have all the qualities, patience, and understanding to work with ‘special needs’ students.” - Grace Hernandez, Teacher, Advent Girls School