The Ladder

Dedicated to establishing a creative space for Cornwall, The Ladder, founded by theatre and production professionals, Josh Nawras and Felix Mortimer, is on a mission to save, restore and set up a creative hive in Redruth’s Passmore Edwards Library. With this commercially viable premises behind them, The Ladder is in the process of breathing new life into the space, with visions to create a thriving arts centre encompassing rehearsal and performance studios, co-working and residency space for artists, and a bustling social and cultural hub for the community. This funding has honed the vision for a flagship collaboration space, which can demonstrate how commercial leasing can operate alongside an arts centre concept.

How this year’s shaped up

Over the last 12 months, SPF capital investment has been put towards the redevelopment of the building, including a nursery, co-working space, a café, and a shepherd’s hut to hire—all helping build a sustainable cash flow model. This funding has honed the vision for a flagship collaboration space that can demonstrate how commercial leasing can operate alongside an arts centre concept. In addition to the physical space, The Ladder has also been commissioned to produce a festival for Redruth this summer. Their live arts production and curation experience as Rift, in London, has built them an excellent reputation for inspiring live arts programming and producing. Both the building and the festival represent the ambitions for Redruth to ascend new heights and become an engine house of creativity for Cornwall.

2023 / 2024 Highlights

• Previous Creative UK assigned mentor, Julie Caplin Gray appointed as Non-Executive Director.
• Plans have been laid out for a new biennial theatre festival, set to take place in September from the 21st – 30th 2024.
• Volunteers have helped clear the gardens, creating a usable courtyard space.

Where they’re setting their 2024/25 sights

The Ladder is continuing redevelopment and completion of the Passmore Edwards Library building for collaboration, with plans to launch in Autumn 2024. To help achieve this, the team hope to build on their board and governance, which will give a stronger strategic position, visibility and foothold in the South West. The founders would like to explore the role of Rift, their highly acclaimed storytelling theatre and production company, and how it can be incorporated into The Ladder’s offering.

Growing with Creative UK

“Time for deep conversations and networking, as well as having accountability, was a big programme highlight, alongside the fantastic knowledge gained via our mentor Anthony Lilley.” Felix Mortimer, Co-founder