THE dale’s youth theatre group has launched a new project which aims to give those involved an insight into how a piece of theatre is devised and performed.
Called The Wearing of Water, residents of all ages are being invited to take part in a series of workshops based at The Hub, Barnard Castle, culminating with the performance of a new show.
The project has been devised by the Turrets Youth Theatre group and is being led by four stage professionals – Jack Burton, Ed Cole, Lizzie Klotz and Turrets leader Rupert Philbrick.
Mr Philbrick said: “The workshops will include creative writing, music, dance and visual art – as well as opportunities to walk, talk and share thoughts and ideas about the weather and the world around us.”
The idea developed from Mr Philbrick’s MRes Art research project at Northumbria University in 2016-17, which used a range of art forms look at what “home” meant to residents.
The project is being funded by arts support group Northern Heartlands and County Durham Community Foundation.
Mr Philbrick said The Wearing of Water calls into question the things people treasure most about where they live such as the history, heritage and personal memories that create their idea of Teesdale.
“In the context of the growing impact of climate change on the world around us, now more than ever is a moment to reflect on what we want to preserve for the future.
“With archaeological digs uncovering a 10,000 year-plus history of life in the dale, if we project that far into the future, what will be the markers and memories of our existence that will be uncovered?”
“These are the questions that act as the catalyst to the creative process of The Wearing of Water.”
The project takes place across three workshop weekends, the first of which is on Saturday January 25, and Sunday, January 26.
During the three weekends, participants will work with the professionals to develop an hour long performance, to be showcased on Sunday, March 1, at The Hub.
Each workshop day runs from 10am to 4pm, and as part of the £10 ticket price, participants will be provided with refreshments and lunch from the recently re-branded Kitchen by the Lake.
Places on the workshop and tickets for the end production can only be booked via The Witham Box Office on 01833 631107. No prior experience is necessary and anyone interested can book onto one, some or all of the workshops.
Contact Rupert by email at theturretsofficial@gmail.com or 07926 076187 to find out more information and how to book your place, or contact The Witham Box Office directly.
