Bradford-based theatre company Displace Yourself Theatre (DYT) is disrupting the arts sector with their eco-friendly travelling show, A World Without Death, set to premiere at Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture this September.
With sustainability at the core of its creation, A World Without Death, challenges the current model of touring productions which rely heavily on fossil fuels. This innovative show takes place on a bespoke, upcycled stage made from an old HGV trailer built by Salford-based arts organisation, Walk The Plank, and will be transported using a DAF electric-powered truck provided by Ford & Slater.
Mike Auger, Co-Director of DYT, said: “A World Without Death is a story about what happens when unchecked greed and disrespect for life run rampant. It’s a reminder to cherish the world we inhabit. Sustainability is at the core of this story and in its creation. Working with Walk The Plank, we were able to source a trailer which would have otherwise ended up in the landfill into a dynamic stage and worked closely to source materials that were upcycled into props. Our partners at Ford & Slater donated a DAF electric lorry for the performance week that will transport our stage across Bradford District, ensuring travel to every performance is zero emissions.
“We hope that by adopting these sustainable touring practices we can demonstrate how arts organisations can lead in environmental stewardship and help to influence audiences and policymakers in the importance of protecting the climate.”
John Wassell, Creative Producer and Co-Founder at Walk the Plank, said: “For A World Without Death, we worked closely with Displace Yourself Theatre to transform a retired articulated lorry into a beautiful, innovative mobile stage. I really enjoyed working on this project – it was a fantastic opportunity to combine creativity with our shared commitment to sustainability. By giving new life to something that might otherwise have gone to waste, we reduced environmental impact while creating a versatile touring platform that supports the show’s ambition and values.”
Josh Spencer, EV and Sustainability Manager at Ford & Slater, said: “We’re proud to support Displace Yourself Theatre in bringing this production to audiences across Bradford with the fully electric DAF LF. Every industry has a part to play in moving towards a cleaner, more sustainable future, and the arts are showing how that transition can be both practical and inspiring. This partnership highlights what’s possible when different sectors work together to make positive change!”
Jenny Harris, Director of Programme at Bradford 2025, said: “Bradford 2025 is committed to delivering a year of culture that is as environmentally responsible as possible and we’re proud to be collaborating with Displace Yourself on these eco-friendly performances. A dynamic theatre company who always put people’s wellbeing at the centre of what they do, A World Without Death is a testament to the innovative Bradford spirit.”
Featuring an international cast of storytellers, performers and aerialists, A World Without Death is an electrifying adaptation of the Norwegian folk tale “The Boy Who Tried to Cheat Death”, infused with the vibrant spirit of Día de los Muertos. Working closely with the displaced community in Bradford, the production includes a Community Chorus made up of aspiring performers who are based in Bradford District as well as people who have refugee status.
A World Without Death is supported by Bradford 2025, Arts Council England, Bradford Council and Bradford District and Craven Mind.
A World Without Death will premiere across Bradford from 5-7 September in Centenary Square, Odsal Stadium and Morrisons Girlington. For more information and to book tickets, visit: https://bradford2025.co.uk/event/a-world-without-death
