The extraordinary true life of Eugene Bullard.
This is one of history’s overlooked true stories. This is a name that should be known, a story that must be told.
This is a story of hope.
A young actor stands on a stage. He begins to tell us a long forgotten true story.
With each word, an astonishing history is mapped out. And as the hidden life of an unsung hero unfolds, unsettling truths of the actor’s own experiences break through to the surface.
Eugene Bullard is a name that should be known, a story that must be heard. In extraordinary times he lived an extraordinary life.
Runaway, circus entertainer, boxer, night club owner, one of the first black fighter pilots in World War One, jazz drummer, spy, civil rights activist – Eugene Bullard’s life story traces many of the 20th century's most important moments.
Born in Georgia, USA, and forced to flee the segregation of his homeland, Bullard sought acceptance in Europe during a period of turmoil and social change.
He worked with Josephine Baker and Duke Ellington and knew Hemingway and Picasso. Wounded in World War 2, he then spied against Hitler’s regime, and yet, Bullard ended his days as a lift operator in New York’s Rockefeller Center.
imitating the dog bring their unique story-telling techniques to bear on this forgotten story, told through the lens of modern-day experience. With inspirational stagecraft, digital wizardry and original songs, All Blood Runs Red is an intimate show that breathes the history of the 20th century into life, into now.
This is a story of hope and perseverance; one true story which, in its telling, makes other stories known.
CREDITS
An imitating the dog production
Created by Morgan Bailey, Pete Brooks, Simon Wainwright and Andrew Quick
Post-Show Discussion: Friday 7th March
Litfest and imitating the dog invite you to a free post-show discussion with the show’s creators and actor, following the performance on Friday 7th March.
[imitating the dog’s] three artistic co-directors, Pete Brooks, Andrew Quick and Simon Wainwright, magicking together technology and live performance, create spectacular, innovative theatre, as dramatically forceful and thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
Clare Brennan, The Guardian (2021)
Image Gallery
WARNINGS
Age Recommendation: 12+
- Flashing imagery and lighting effects
- Loud noises on occasion, including sudden bangs and gunshots
- Contains themes of racism and references to racist violence
- Scenes featuring moments, descriptions and images of violence
Pricing
Downstairs: £12
Balcony Seats: £12
Balcony Standing: £8
