Almut Ellinghaus started Washboard Theatre Productions as a homebase for all the creative processes she is working on, devoted to theatre for children of any age. And her latest child becomes a grownup: Briar Rose now speaks two languages and moves in a tour-set. And another show is coming: 'Mrs. Hilda's Duvet' will open in July 2004. The parents will be invited in September to 'I woke up one morning'.
   Coming from a background of modern dance and music, Almut studied puppetry at the 'Academy for Performing Arts' in Stuttgart, Germany, and joined Felix Mirbt's Contemporary Mask Theatre Company in 1989 as performer and mask builder and later on production manager.

   Participating in many productions and shows like 'Histoire du Soldat' and 'L’Enfance du Christ', and collaborating on 'Shorelines' and 'Le Chauffe-O', she developed her own creative work.

   She since has directed theatreshows like Gissa Israels' 'Girl !' for the Montreal Fringe Festival and two short operas: Rudolf Komorous' 'Lady Blanca Rosa' and Peter Hatch's 'Ask Alice' for Kore Ensemble Montreal.

   She currently collaborates on projects with composer Michael Oesterle and with the 'Quatuor Bozzini' of Montreal.
   Almut also offers workshops in creating masks and creating performances in a collaborative process with all participants.

   The Washboard Homebase in Sutton, Qc offers ideal conditions for a variety of activities: a big studio equipped with all kinds of materials and tools, space for rehearsals, to take a break at the large dining table, to have a picnic in the garden (every gardening is welcome!) - or jump into the lake !