Huddersfield theatre producer launches bid to take on CragRats brand

Jun 22 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A BID to keep the CragRats name alive in Holmfirth has been launched by a Huddersfield-based theatre producer.

The theatre and training company went into administration earlier this month following serious cash flow problems.

More than 70 jobs appear to have been lost and it is thought the company owes hundreds of thousands in total to employees, clients, contractors and creditors.

But the CragRats name and parts of its theatrical business could yet be saved after a Huddersfield-based theatre producer put his name in the hat to purchase the brand name and logo.

Stephen Hughes, whose CV includes acting and managing in London’s West End and promoting the recent Channel 4 show Bring Back Number One Hits From The 80s’ with Justin Lee Collins, said he wanted to use the CragRats name to form a small-scale community theatre company.

Mr Hughes, 33, who is currently based at Armitage Bridge while he works for the Northern Ballet Theatre in Leeds, said: “Being a local person it’s of huge interest to me.

“I would be looking to give something back to the community by way of re-branding the existing company’s objectives, with support from former staff and the local community.

“I will aim to produce work both locally and nationally, benefiting local schools and business.