Kevin Rowntree, Artistic Director of Myriad Productions, is a theatre practitioner with over 15 years of professional experience in performance and directing. Kevin is theatrical combat choreographer and a qualified stage combat instructor for the British Academy of Dramatic Combat (BADC), providing tuition in all weapon systems leading to the range of BADC qualifications which are required for professional work.

Myriad Productions staged the world premiere of Red Oleander at Camden People’s Theatre in Summer 2006.  the venue provides a unique space for the production and presentation of innovative contemporary theatre and live art by both emerging and established artists.   CPT encourages the development of exciting, challenging arts and entertainment experiences created by a diverse range of artists that reflects the rich multi-cultural character of London.

Kevin was a member of the Trestle International Workshop Residency in Autumn 2006. This International Workshop Residency provided a rare opportunity to gain specific skills in Kalaripayattu (Kalari), a dance-like martial art from Kerala, South India, which is currently relatively unknown in the UK.  The performance potential of this movement form was explored, working with Indian artists from Bangalore, alongside UK artists, experimenting with character, storytelling and rhythm.  The Residency will support a collaborative process, with artists from both countries sharing perspectives and establishing a common ground for creative questioning and endeavour leading to future creative collaborations.

Both the Nehru Centre and the Tagore Centre have been very helpful in supporting the work of Myriad Productions.  The Tagore Centre in particular has been valuable in supporting Myriads international work.

Kismat Radio has helped to promote Myriad Productions.  In particular, Sandy Khanna, presenter and producer of the Lifestyle show has been a great supporter of our work.

Dr William Radice is a renowned scholar and translator of Tagore’s work and Dr Ketaki Kushari Dyson is an established Bengali playwright and translator of Tagore’s work.  Both have provided invaluable advice in the preparation of Red Oleander.

These are the principal organisations involved in the forthcoming project at the National Theatre Festival of India in Kolkata this winter.