In 1991, Creative Producers John Wassell and Liz Pugh, a partnership motivated by the prospect of producing stunning theatrical performances in alternative locations and a shared love for the aquatic way of life, established Walk the Plank. With a vision to spread their unique performances beyond the confines of conventional theatre spaces, Walk the Plank aims to bring the arts to those who would not otherwise have the opportunity to encounter lush performance experiences.

At the same time, the duo located a Norwegian cargo ferry and brought her to the UK from beyond the Arctic Circle. The vessel was adapted to create a theatre on the aft deck and sailed its first national tour of the British Isles in 1992.

“We often forget that we live on a group of small, yet very beautiful islands. By creating the UK’s first theatre ship, not only did we have an alternative and innovative performance space, we had access to around 7,700 miles of coastline and the opportunity to take our work to millions. It felt like the perfect place to begin the Walk the Plank adventure.” Liz Pugh, Producer and Co-Founder, Walk the Plank.

The company began by producing work based on and around their ‘head office’ The Fitzcarraldo, touring the UK and Europe with inventive theatre pieces.

For several years, John and Liz remained Walk the Plank’s only two permanent full time staff, working with freelance artists to produce work and by 2000, Walk the Plank had developed a fantastic profile and expanded their capability, now working across the country on land and in the air, as well as on water.

Recognised as pyrotechnic experts, at this time the company launched trading subsidiary, WTP Pyrotechnics Ltd, a division of pyrotechnic experts specialising in firework design, displays and the production of spectacular shows.

Today, Walk the Plank consists of 8 full time Salford-based staff and the company works with up to 200 artists and production specialists each year. The company has workshops and magazine fusing facilities in East Lancashire, continuing to produce inventive and highly inspiring work, often through mutually beneficial creative partnerships.

Walk the Plank has enjoyed a steadily flourishing history and one which has seen the company grow into a major UK cultural resource, specialising in the most innovative and spectacular visual art, outdoor theatre and pyrotechnic events.