As All Blood Runs Red arrives at The Key Theatre for two nights only, on 25th & 26th February, this powerful, one-man show is set to be one of the most compelling theatre experiences of the season. Created by acclaimed theatre company imitating the dog, this production brings the astonishing true story of Eugene Bullard to the stage in a way that is as visually innovative as it is emotionally profound.
Here are five reasons why you won’t want to miss it:
1. A Story You Need to Hear
Some stories demand to be told—and Eugene Bullard’s life is one of them.
Born in segregated Georgia, Bullard fled the racism of early 20th-century America and carved out a life that seems almost too extraordinary to be real. His journey, told through the modern-day lens of a young actor, reveals how telling one true story can help bring other hidden truths to light.
2. The 20th Century Through Bullard’s Eyes
Bullard’s life wasn’t just remarkable—it was woven into the very fabric of 20th-century history.
- Runaway child, fleeing the racial violence of the American South
- Circus entertainer, travelling across Europe
- Boxer, fighting for survival
- One of the first Black fighter pilots in World War One, breaking barriers in aviation history
- Jazz drummer and nightclub owner, rubbing shoulders with icons like Louis Armstrong and Josephine Baker
- Spy during World War Two, gathering intelligence against the Nazis
- Civil rights activist, standing up for justice
- Lift operator at Rockefeller Center, his achievements largely unrecognised at the end of his life
His story is a rarely told but vital chapter in history, offering a fresh perspective on some of the most pivotal moments of the last century.
3. A Dynamic, Powerhouse Performance
At the heart of this production is an extraordinary solo performance from Morgan Bailey, who co-created the show.
Bailey takes on the role of both Bullard and a version of himself, navigating the deeply personal and political truths that Bullard’s story reveals. His performance is intense, moving, and utterly transformative, making this a must-see for fans of powerful, character-driven theatre.
4. A Fusion of Live Performance and Digital Projection
As with all imitating the dog productions, All Blood Runs Red pushes the boundaries of theatrical storytelling.
Stunning video projections and layered graphics form an immersive backdrop that seamlessly blends Bullard’s world with the present. This multi-dimensional approach enhances the storytelling, transporting audiences through time while reflecting on how history continues to shape today’s world.
5. An Original Score Inspired by Bullard’s Jazz & Blues Legacy
A play about Eugene Bullard wouldn’t be complete without music—and All Blood Runs Red features a soulful, original score composed by James Hamilton and Apphia Campbell.
Drawing inspiration from Bullard’s deep connections to the jazz and blues world, the music envelops the audience, bringing the era to life and underscoring the emotion of the performance.
More Than Just a Play—A Conversation That Needs to Be Had
Co-creator and performer Morgan Bailey describes the deeply personal and transformative nature of this show:
“If this play can inspire someone to challenge the doubt in themselves, challenge these ideas of self that are debilitating, whether you cast them on others or you cast them on yourself, I don’t mind my personal experiences, my vulnerabilities, being on display for that conversation to take place. That’s my job. I’m a storyteller. It’s just that this story is quite close to home.”
Don’t Miss All Blood Runs Red at The Key Theatre
This unmissable production is a visually stunning, emotionally powerful, and historically important piece of theatre that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.
Performance Dates:
📅 Tuesday 25th & Wednesday 26th February 2025
📍 The Key Theatre, Peterborough
Book Your Tickets Now:
Visit The event page or call the box office on 01733 852992.
Be part of this remarkable theatrical event—a story of defiance, resilience, and the power of remembering those history tried to forget.