Benjamin Anderson

Ben is a PhD student and theatremaker at the University of Cambridge. His research is a Collaborative Doctoral Partnership with the National Trust, focussing on Ormesby Hall in Middlesbrough. His thesis examines the left-wing theatrical activities connected to the property across the first half of the twentieth century, mostly through Ruth Pennyman. In addition to the theatre and performance practices of the period, his research interests include the role of the country house and the networks (local, national, and international) to which their owners were connected at this time. The aim is to explore the people, the ideas, and the influences that both inspired and created the events, that will allow an exploration of how and why these coalesced around Ormesby Hall. The archives at the property have never been fully explored, so his work is supporting the development of a deeper understanding of the materials in addition to the recovery of forgotten narratives.

He completed his undergraduate degree in Art History and English at the University of St Andrews, and his master’s degree in Theatre and Performance Studies at King’s College London. In between, he’s been a professional theatre director and stage manager: working around the UK.