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Live theatre returns to York Theatre Royal this August

York Theatre Royal has announced Pop-up on the Patio, a festival of live
outdoor performances on the theatre’s patio stage, featuring performers from
across Yorkshire.

The festival will take place over three consecutive weekends in August,
beginning on Friday 14 August and ending on Saturday 29 August. The full lineup includes a wide range of art forms; dance theatre, improvised comedy,
magic, storytelling, theatre, puppetry, poetry and music.

Thom Freeth, York Theatre Royal’s Producer, said: “We’re so excited to have
been able to bring live theatre back to our city this summer. Our building may
still be closed, but we didn’t want that to stand in the way of entertaining the
people of York during this difficult time. Pop-up on the Patio also gives us the
opportunity to showcase the work of brilliant locally-based performers, many
of whom are part of our freelance family, who have been disproportionally
effected by this pandemic.”

The theatre’s patio area has been reconfigured to allow for a socially-distanced
audience and stage, with extra safety measures in place to ensure that
audiences and staff are safe. The outside performance space has been
designed by Yorkshire-based theatre designer, Hannah Sibai.

At 7pm on Friday 14 August, York Dance Space will curate an evening of
contemporary dance theatre with Dance // Shorts, a compilation of solos and
duets from young dance artists from across Yorkshire and the Humber.
Performances include solo work from Alethia Antonia (Russel Maliphant, James
Wilton Dance Company), Coalesce Dance Theatre, Daisy Howell (Brink Dance
Company), Namiuki Dance and a selection of ‘Doorstep Dances’ from Hull
based artists Tamar and Jo including contemporary, Northern Soul, jazz dance
and physical theatre styles.

At 11am on Saturday 15, 22 and 29 August, Mud Pie Arts presents their Silly
Summer Stories, interactive storytelling for ages 4 to 11.

At 1pm on Saturday 15 and 22 August, Story Craft Theatre presents Crafty
Tales, an hour of storytelling designed around a picture book for ages 2 to 6.

York-based writer and director Paul Birch presents a bite-sized improvisation
show at 4pm on Saturday 15 August. Fool(ish) is an hour of spontaneous
comedy where the audience provide the suggestions and the actors ‘make
stuff happen’.

On Friday 21 August, The Flanagan Collective and Gobbledigook
Theatre present Orpheus and Eurydice, their award-winning modern retellings
of two ancient myths.

On Saturday 22 August, Freddie Does Puppets presents Fred’s Microbrewery,
the world’s first Puppet-in-a-Pub theatrical experience. A modern Punch and
Judy story with “Fred”, and his “Sharon”; two very grumpy Yorkshire puppets
cum-pub-landlord-and-landlady of Fred’s Microbrewery. For 15+ years
(contains strong language and adult themes).

Cosmic Collective return to York Theatre Royal on Friday 28 August at 4pm
with Heaven’s Gate, imagining the final hour of four members of the real life
UFO-theistic group. For 14+ years (contains strong language and adult
themes).

Slam-winning York-grown punk poet Henry Raby revives his Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2019 one-man show to the patio stage at 6.30pm on Friday 28 August. In Apps & Austerity, Henry defines the last decade through sharp performance poetry.

York’s slam poetry group, Say Owt, present a showcase of work at 8pm on
Saturday 29 August. The group were Highly Commended for Best Performance
at the York Culture Awards and have performed at the Great Yorkshire Fringe,
the ArtsBarge, the Edinburgh Fringe and the Ilkley Literature Festival.

On Saturday 29 August at 1pm, just Josh presents his Ultimate Family Show,
with magic, juggling and balloon art to entertain everyone aged 4 to 104 years.

The festival ends with singer/songwriter Jess Gardham. Hailing from York,
multi award winning Jess will present own brand of pop/soul/acoustic.

Tickets for all performances can be purchased through the York Theatre Royal
website: https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

A limited range of soft and alcoholic drinks will be offered, alongside ice
creams and chocolate.

ST HELENS THEATRE ROYAL TO CHANGE CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME

TITLE DUE TO PANDEMIC BUT A SHOW WILL GO ON!

PRODUCERS REGAL ENTERTAINMENTS HAVE CHANGED CINDERELLA TO BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

WITH FULL SOCIAL DISTANCING RULES IN PLACE

Regal Entertainments announced today that their 2020 Christmas Pantomime at St Helens Theatre Royal has been changed, but a show will go ahead.

The curtain was due to go up on Cinderella at St Helens Theatre Royal from Sat 5 Dec ’20 – Sun 3 Jan ’21 and had previously announced Linda Robson in the lead role.  However due to the government restrictions now enforced on theatres, it makes the current title not financially viable to continue with, Cinderella is one of the biggest productions in pantomime and carries many additional costs.

Pantomime producers, Regal Entertainments say they have worked tirelessly to look at alternative options for the festive season and they want to ensure that they can continue to provide top entertainment to its community and regular attenders this Christmas. They will now produce Beauty And The Beast, with all the high production values and comedy that audiences have come to enjoy, tickets will go on sale soon. 

The new show will be fully adhering to social distancing measures, in order to keep the audience, staff, and the cast safe. They will make all the necessary changes in order to ensure they comply to the government guidance at the time, full details will be announced when the show goes on sale, changes will include reduced capacity auditorium, temperature checks, wearing of face masks, deep cleaning and pre-order drinks and confectionary, to ensure the venue is Covid safe.

Chantelle Nolan, Theatre Manager at St Helens Theatre Royal said: “This has been a very difficult decision to make, but we have to be guided by the government’s rules at this time and we can’t take the financial risk if we have to wait until November for a decision on whether we move away from socially distant shows, so changes have had to be made. We have now come up with an alternative Christmas show for St Helens, which will have all the high production values the customers have become used to, Beauty And The Beast has always been a firm St Helens favourite and we will ensure it’s a fantastic, fully enjoyable, and a safe festive experience that the whole family can enjoy.

“I would also like to personally take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their continued support and loyalty through these very difficult times.”

Ticket holders for Cinderella are being asked to assist the venue by being patient while changes are being made and they will be contacted first, and directly, as quickly as possible by the box office. The venue will be working throughout August to ensure all patrons that have pre-booked, are rescheduled/re-seated before the show goes on general sale. We will do everything we can to provide you with as close to the original booking as possible.

For more information, please visit: www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com

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Hackney Empire, Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Theatre Royal Stratford East jointly announce the postponement of 2020 Pantos

Today four of the biggest pantomimes in London announce their postponement to 2021. Hackney Empire, Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Theatre Royal Stratford East will not be producing their annual pantos this year due to the continued uncertainty of government guidelines for restarting public performances.

All four theatres have a long tradition of producing high quality and community driven Pantos, last year their four pantos were enjoyed by over 145,000 people, including over 40,500 schoolchildren, many of whom would have been experiencing theatre for the first time. Each Panto is created uniquely for the theatre and its community working with some of the UK’s most talented artists and providing opportunities for new talent to make their professional debuts. These four Pantos typically employ over 285 freelance artists, including writers, directors, designers, actors, technicians, stage management and many more, demonstrating the financial impact Panto has not only for a theatre, but across the theatre industry. The production process for such a large-scale show as Panto would have begun at the start of August. Without an announced date from the Government on when theatre performances can resume without social distancing, making doing a Panto economically viable, these theatres have now had to take the hard decision to postpone to 2021.

Yamin Choudury, Artistic Director and Jo Hemmant, Executive Director, Hackney Empire said: “Firstly we want to thank everybody for their passionate and tireless support, particularly over the last five months, the donations and messages of love and encouragement we have received have given us the strength we need to keep pushing forward in increasingly punishing circumstances. It makes decisions like today’s even more difficult. Everyone involved in bringing our world-famous pantomime to Hackney is devastated, but we know that we have to make any decision necessary, however unimaginable a few months ago, to ensure that Hackney Empire can remain this incredible and singular sanctuary of creativity and togetherness for another 120 years and more.

Pantomimes are long and expensive to plan and produce, monopolising the minds, efforts and generosity of hundreds of people in the process. Writers, directors, composers and performers, designers, builders, technicians and stage managers, box office and front of house staff who greet you every single night for over 60 performances, the list goes on and despite potential government funding for some – to be confirmed at a later date – the numbers just don’t add up while uncertainty remains on reopening timing and restrictions.  We need to stay strong until we can welcome audiences back when it is safe to do so. This doesn’t mean that nothing will be happening at Hackney Empire over the holidays. We are working on a festive programme (stay tuned…) for our audience to enjoy this December. It will be on a smaller scale to our usual offering, but it will be just as magical; maybe fewer custard pies, but even more fairy dust!”

Rachel O’Riordan, Artistic Director and Sian Alexander, Executive Director, Lyric Hammersmith Theatre said: “We are desperately sad to be postponing the Lyric’s 2020 Panto Aladdin to 2021. It was a very hard decision but one we had to make to ensure the future of our theatre and manage the unprecedented levels of risk during this difficult and uncertain time. We have a long history of Panto at the Lyric; our first was in 1897. It is a magical time of year for our theatre, the artists we work with and our community – we love seeing many generations of families coming together to experience the joy of Panto. Economically Panto is massively important to the theatre industry, it is also for many their first experience of live theatre and for others the first opportunity to work professionally. We are incredibly proud of the talent that has come through our Panto Ensemble, which provides a pathway into our industry for many young people who go on to have incredible careers in theatre. We are committed to Panto being back in its rightful place on our stage in the heart of Hammersmith and delighting our audiences in 2021.”

Douglas Rintoul, Artistic Director and Mathew Russell, Executive Director, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch said: “Whilst we’re excited that audiences will still get to see our latest pantomime Aladdin in 2021, fingers tightly crossed, we’re incredibly sad that this is the first time since 1953 that Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch won’t be producing a pantomime. It’s the highlight of everyone’s year – for audiences of all ages and the team at the Theatre too – celebrating togetherness through a riot of silliness and spectacle. The experience is so important for huge numbers – for children enjoying the magic of their first theatre visit, those who go to the theatre once a year and our most loyal followers, who’ve been enjoying Hornchurch pantos for a long time. The impact on the charity’s finances will be pretty dreadful too, and we’ll be seeking and needing lots of extra support to get us through the rest of 2020 without it. In the meantime, we’re hopeful that they’ll be a different and smaller but still very special alternative festive offering, which bookers can read more about on our website.”

Nadia Fall, Artistic Director and Eleanor Lang, Executive Director, Theatre Royal Stratford East said: “Panto has been part of the Stratford East Christmas since 1884 and so it’s with a heavy heart that we have to postpone Red Riding Hood. So many people tell us that the Stratford East panto is the first thing they saw as a child, and so many families come every year as their Christmas tradition, and each year over 11,000 school children come to our panto too. It’s also our biggest show; employing a wide range of freelancers, who may now have no work over the Christmas period. Panto means so much to our audiences, the artists and freelancers that put it together and to us as a building. Despite the disappointment for this year, we are determined that we will have a brilliant panto in the making by Carl Miller and Robert Hyman next year and we can’t wait to share Red Riding Hood with our audiences in 2021.”

The customers for each Panto will be contacted by the theatre they have booked with moving their booking to the equivalent performance in 2021. The theatres thank their customers for their continued patience and support through this process.

PRIME PANTOMIMES ANNOUNCE 2020 PANTOMIME SEASON POSTPONED UNTIL 2021

Selladoor’s subsidiary company Prime Pantomimes announces today that following the recent government announcement that it will not be possible to clarify guidelines for indoor performances until November, they will be postponing their 2020 pantomime season until 2021.  Pantomimes include Aladdin at New Theatre Peterborough, Cinderella at Queen’s Theatre Barnstaple and Snow White at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre.

David Hutchinson CEO of Selladoor worldwide says “It is with huge disappointment that we have made the difficult decision to postpone our pantomime season for 2020 due to the ongoing COVID-19 Crisis.   At this time, without guidance on when theatres will be able to fully reopen – we can’t further risk the business. Instead we are focusing on reimagining our business plan and strategising for the future in order for us to weather the next stage of this crisis.  We are exploring options for bridging this period with imaginative programming and engagement work to ensure we maintain the crucial connection between our audiences and artists with our café open and an outdoor festival planned for the Landmark in Ilfracombe and cinema screenings at the New Theatre in Peterborough along with localised fundraising campaigns. The stark reality is that as our pantos fall victim to Covid – the business moves into a critical stage, as we focus on business continuity and survival”

Selladoor has confirmed that following a consultancy period 91 full time and casual members of staff will be leaving the business in August.

David continues ”The loss of our loyal staff members is devastating. We have been doing all we can to protect and retain all of our employees but the extended period of closure and a lack of any income has put us in an impossible position where we simply cannot afford to sustain our staffing levels. This news will come as a further blow to the many freelancers and creative practitioners that are involved in bringing our pantos to life each year, and for that I feel terrible. After a horrendous year for freelancers, we are actively thinking of how we build our world class freelance talent into our bridging programme as our theatre remain closed – as it’s vital we all survive this period together. The postponement of pantomime means that now, more than ever, we need you to continue to support the arts and your local venues”    

Stuart Shanks – Head of Venues for Selladoor says “The support we have had from our local communities throughout this crisis has been amazing and we hope you can continue this support into next year. All tickets for this year’s pantomime season are transferrable to 2021 and we would ask you to consider this option to help enable us to come back bigger and stronger.”

Pantomime at Hull New Theatre

Due to the ongoing situation regarding Covid-19 and uncertainty of when theatres will be permitted to re-open at full capacity, Qdos Pantomimes and Hull Culture and Leisure have made the difficult decision to postpone this year’s pantomime that was due to open on 12th December 2020 at Hull New Theatre.

‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ will instead be performed from Saturday 11th December 2021 – Sunday 2nd January 2022. All existing bookings remaining valid and tickets will automatically transfer into the equivalent date, time and original seat selection. Customers are advised to contact [email protected] to discuss options if this is not suitable.

A spokesperson for Hull New Theatre said “Whilst it is extremely disappointing that it will not be possible to stage our spectacular pantomime this year, we are pleased that we have been able to ensure that this much loved tradition will come alive again at Hull New Theatre in 2021. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all customers for their ongoing support during this time and we look forward to welcoming you back soon”

Tickets for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 2021/22 are on sale now from £16.50 – £30 at www.hulltheatres.co.uk.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL – A GHOST STORY

RESCHEDULED TO 2021

Due to ongoing government guidelines restricting the reopening of theatres at full capacity, producer Eleanor Lloyd and Nottingham Playhouse have today announced that A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story a brand-new adaptation by Mark Gatiss, directed by Adam Penford has been postponed until 2021.

Performances will now take place at Nottingham Playhouse from 29 October to 13 November 2021 and at the Alexandra Palace Theatre from 26 November 2021 to 9 January 2022.

Originally scheduled to open in Autumn 2020, A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story will see Mark Gatiss (Sherlock, Dracula, The League of Gentlemen, Doctor Who) lead an ensemble cast, in his own retelling of Dickens’ classic winter ghost story, filled with Dickensian, spine-tingling special effects.

Adam Penford says: 

“The audience response to this new ghostly retelling of A Christmas Carol has been overwhelming and it’s with a heavy heart that we’re postponing the production. The adaptation that Mark has delivered during lockdown exceeded our already high expectations – it makes you see the well-known tale through fresh eyes – and I was so excited by all the design and production ideas we were working on. I can’t wait to bring the new show to Nottingham and the atmospheric Alexandra Palace Theatre in 2021.”

Current bookings for performances at Alexandra Palace will be rescheduled into the equivalent dates, and the same seats, for the 2021 run. Customers will be able to use their current tickets for performances next year. Alexandra Palace Box Office will be in touch with ticketholders in the coming weeks.

For further information, or to buy tickets for the 2021 season, please visit:
https://christmascarolonstage.co.uk

Customers who have booked tickets for the production at Nottingham Playhouse do not need to do anything; the box office team will contact them directly. As a registered charity, there will also be an option for customers to donate the value of their tickets to Nottingham Playhouse which will help the theatre to continue its work in the community and work towards reopening.  Donations to the theatre during this difficult time may also be made through their Curtain Up Appeal – nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk/support/curtain-up-appeal/

The latest news regarding Nottingham Playhouse and its reaction to Covid-19 can be found at: nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk/. 

‘IN THE WINGS’ RETURNS FOR A SECOND SERIES

WEST END STARS and GRADUATES shine a light on SIX NEW MUSICALS postponed by COVID-19.

Original Theatre comeback event returns – now to the WEST END!

LIVE PERFORMANCES WITH A LIVE BAND!

Following its huge success in June and July, IN THE WINGS is set to return later this summer for 6 glorious weeks of free-to-view episodes.  The episode dates will follow later this month.

IN THE WINGS is a series of human-interest interviews and live entertainment hosted in a London theatre with composers, writers and creatives of shows that are postponed due to COVID-19. In the first step towards theatres’ return those composers and writers are given a platform on which to showcase their work. 

Over 40K viewers watched Series One on YouTube which lit the way for the FIRST LIVE PERFORMANCES with a LIVE BAND in a theatre since Covid-19 darkened our doors.

Series 2 will also be recorded live, this time in a West End theatre. As well as a live band, each episode will feature performances from a stellar line-up of WEST END STARS, a host of 2020 MUSICAL THEATRE GRADUATES and interviews with creatives from 6 brilliantly written new British musicals all of which are postponed due to the Covid pandemic.  

The programme line-up features: Millennials (Elliot Clay); Plan Bea (by Suzy Davies, Verity Quade, Jessie Reeves, Rosie McElroy, and Deborah Gersohn); The Rise (by Graham Lappin); Terror at the Sweet Shop (by Gavin Brock and Nichola Rivers); The Wicker Husband (by Darren Clark and Rhys Jennings), and You and I (by Cordelia O’Driscoll and Tom Williams).

Filmed in strict accordance with social distancing guidelines.

Cast and air dates to be announced later this month.

WHERE CAN I SEE IT?

The scheduled dates will be released later this month.  

Viewers will be able to watch for free on: http://www.Youtube.com/InTheWingsLive

Cast news, programme details and scheduling information will appear on social media in the next few weeks.  

Follow us on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InTheWingsLive/

Twitter: @InTheWingsLive

Instagram: inthewingslive

SERIES 2 – FEATURED PRODUCTIONS

MILLENNIALS by Elliot Clay

‘Millennials’ is about extraordinarily ordinary people – the one walking down the street, the one staring into a  mirror and the one with a secret. This powerful and uplifting collection of songs amplifies the lives, the losses and the frustrations of young people in the modern world.  With music and lyrics by Elliot Clay, ‘Millennials’ runs the gamut of modern pop music and sends musical theatre hurtling through the 21st century.

THE WICKER HUSBAND – by Darren Clark and Rhys Jennings
‘The Wicker Husband’ is a musical adaptation of a story by Ursula Wills-Jones. The “Ugly Girl” has resigned herself to a life alone without friends or a partner until the strange Old Basket Maker creates a wonderful husband for her.  What ensues is a haunting, witty and beautiful tale of hope, cruelty and vengeance. Told through folk-inspired song and storytelling, at its heart the show explores the question: What is true ugliness?  The show uses life and larger than life size puppetry, music inspired by the folk traditions of England and Ireland and traditional storytelling to tell its tale.

PLAN BEA – by Suzy Davies, Verity Quade, Jessie Reeves, Rosie McElroy, and Deborah Gersohn

‘Plan Bea’ is a show for anyone who understands that life doesn’t always go to plan.

Set in Stratford-upon-Avon and in the shadow of the Bard, the story transitions between the present day and the 90s.  Obsessive planner Beatrice is 39 and had enough of this life. She’s ready to end it all, but Bea would not rest in peace if she left any mess behind. She determines to clear up every element of her existence; in doing so, she embarks upon an unexpected journey of self-discovery and liberation.

Bea starts saying and doing all the things she never dared to. She faces the ghosts of the past, the hang-ups that have held her back and she puts her mistakes right.  And she remembers her passions and friendships. With nothing to lose, life never looked so good.

Will Bea still go through with her plan? Filled with humour and heart, ‘Plan Bea’ is ultimately about hope and how even in our darkest days we can find new ways forward and fresh dreams….and that perhaps Plan B was always meant to be.

THE RISE – By Graham Lappin
Set in Lancashire in 1894, this simple and heartfelt story about family, progress and the vital importance of passing on tradition charts one very significant day in the lives of the Roach family from Milbourne Hill.  Baker Alfred and his two daughters Violet and Winifred lead us through the highs, lows, dreams and disappointments of working-class life.

The rise of their daily bread, of the Tower at Blackpool and of the power of industry in the North West creates an atmospheric backdrop to unexpected events which threaten the Roach’s very livelihoods.

TERROR AT THE SWEET SHOP – By Gavin Brock and Nichola Rivers
Schoolchildren Oscar, Reese, Ishy and Emma investigate the mysterious disappearance of their beloved sweetshop owner Mr McNulty after he is replaced by the diabolical, child-hating Miss Primrose. With the help of a talking cat, a foul-smelling stink bomb and the world’s most explosive curry, the children vow to eviscerate the witch and save their local village from the most dangerous power the world has ever known.

Shortlisted as a finalist for the Stiles and Drewe Mentorship Award 2018, ‘Terror at the Sweetshop’ is a funny and fast-paced family musical comedy featuring an upbeat tuneful score inspired by gospel, soul and rock and roll.

YOU AND I – By Cordelia O’Driscoll and Tom Williams
What do you do when the world’s first super intelligent robot turns up at your door asking about the origins of the universe, karaoke and the meaning of porn? Fran is about to find out.

‘You and I’ follows the story of this aspiring musician as she learns to conquer fear, cope with loss and find her voice, all through her new friendship with a robot named Robert. With a highly original soulful folk score, this touching new musical comedy explores what it really means to be human.

THE PRODUCTION TEAM:

JUSTIN WILLIAMS – CO-PRODUCER AND DESIGNER

Justin Williams is a graduate of Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.  He has been nominated for seven Off-West End Awards for Best Set Designer, was a shortlisted finalist for Best Set Designer in the OFFIES 2020 and has trained with Punchdrunk at Fallow Cross. Credits include: Who Cares (Waterloo Vaults); Ben Hur (Barn Theatre); Soho Cinders (Charing Cross Theatre); Whistle Down the Wind (The Union Theatre); Brooklyn the Musical (UK and European Première, Greenwich Theatre); Seussical – The Musical (Southwark Playhouse); Section 2 (Bunker Theatre); The Giant Killers (UK Tour), and Fiver The Musical (Southwark Playhouse).

HENRY BRENNAN – CO-PRODUCER AND MUSICAL DIRECTOR 

Henry Brennan has been nominated twice for the Off-West End Award for Best Musical Direction for Brass and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes at the Union Theatre. He was also nominated for a BroadwayWorld UK Award for Best Musical Direction for Brass. Other credits include: Crazy Coqs Presents (Brasserie Zédel); Maggie May (Finborough Theatre); Rapunzel(Immersion Theatre UK Tour); I Do! I Do! (Upstairs At The Gatehouse), and Hello Again (The Union Theatre).

BEN JACOBS – LIGHTING DESIGNER

Ben Jacobs is an Offie-winning Lighting Designer. Ben trained in Lighting Design at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and is a member of the Association of Lighting Designers. Recent credits include: Seussical and Bring it On!(Southwark Playhouse); Le Morte d’Arthur (The Scoop); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Wilton’s Music Hall); Eve and Dracula (Jack Studio); Free Fall (Pleasance London). 

Associate Lighting experience: Les Misérables (UK Tour and International); Anna (National Theatre Studio); Project O (Southbank Centre); Crave (Prague Quadrennial), Miss Sarah (ZOO Venues, Edinburgh); Legally Blonde (Watford Palace). 

CORBYN ASBURY – MARKETING AND DIGITAL STRATEGY CONSULTANT

Corbyn Asbury, has over half a decade of experience in the Music and Entertainment industry, working with some of the biggest brands and artists globally, including Sam Smith, Lewis Capaldi, Mabel and more. From innovative fan events to international marketing campaigns, Corbyn is well-versed in driving audiences to entertainment content.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

YouTube: http://www.Youtube.com/InTheWingsLive
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InTheWingsLive/

Twitter: @InTheWingsLive

Instagram: inthewingslive

CAST DETAILS AND PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE TO FOLLOW

PRODUCERS KATY LIPSON AND MATHILDE MOULIN COLLABORATE WITH FRENCH THEATREMAKERS MUSIDRAMA TO PRESENT UK PREMIERE OF C-o-n-t-a-c-t, A SOCIALLY DISTANCED OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE FEATURING LIVE PERFORMANCE AND 3D SOUND DESIGN IN PUBLIC SPACES ACROSS LONDON

Tickets go on sale today for the UK premiere of C-o-n-t-a-c-t, an immersive outdoor experience with a 3D sound design which audiences will listen to on their own headphones. Tickets can be purchased via TodayTix or the C-o-n-t-a-c-t website from 9am today.

Opening on Monday 31st August, audiences of no more than 15 per show will purchase their tickets online and will then receive a link to download the app which will provide the exact location. The first three London locations confirmed so far are Tower Bridge, Greenwich and Clapham Common. Further locations will be announced in due course.

The show will run for 50 minutes without an interval and audiences will download the audio from the app which is a completely new piece of technology which synchronizes the spectators and actors, allowing the show to play with theatrical concepts and a new form of dramaturgy.

Premiering in France over the summer in a world where social distancing became the ‘new normal’, this timely story of a moving and unexpected encounter explores the themes of mental health and anxiety through the eyes of Sarah as she is approached by someone she believes to be a stranger. She discovers that he can hear her thoughts but how? Who is this man? Dive into her mind in this unique sensory and immersive new show and experience theatre like never before.

Katy Lipson said: “As soon as I discovered C-o-n-t-a-c-t I was immediately drawn into the creativity and themes of the piece and recognised how relevant the material was and how it was created specifically around the times we are currently living. As a producer, I remain committed to creating opportunities not only for audiences but for the immense talent pool we have in the UK who are currently without many opportunities to perform. I hope the city of London embraces the experience as much as the Parisian audiences.”

Co-writers of the piece, Samuel Sené and Gabrielle Jourdain said: “We were driven by the need to reconnect with our profession and with the audience. We wanted to offer an artistic encounter even in the current health context, therefore we have imagined this tailored theatrical experience. To be able to share this feeling again, the one we only feel with live performance. To reunite with Theatre.”

Mathilde Moulin said: “We are extremely happy to bring C-o-n-t-a-c-t to London, after its very successful debut in Paris! This socially distanced theatrical experience mixes live performance and new technology to create a brand-new form of theatre, specifically adapted to the period of time we are in.  The show is relatable to anyone who has experienced social distancing over several weeks or months, but not only. The audience dives into the characters thoughts. They find themselves immersed in someone else’s mind and follow their journey to finding inner peace. We cannot wait for the British audience to come experience it!”

To ensure audience safety, audiences will be asked to purchase paperless tickets online and bring their own headphones to wear throughout the performance. The number of audience members is limited to 15 per performance to ensure social distancing can be respected between the cast and audience. Audiences are asked to respect all public health guidelines and wear masks at all times.

Theatre Producer Portal launches as a hub for
Producers, Writers and Investors to connect

Creating a network for likeminded theatre makers, the Theatre Producer Portal (TPP) is an exciting new online resource to encourage growth within the arts industry and enhance careers. Connecting producers, writers, and investors at all stages of their development, the platform aims to break down industry barriers and establish a space for creativity to manifest. Previously launched in 2014, the newly revamped site is under the leadership of Jamie Chapman Dixon and John-Webb Carter of Carter Dixon Productions, who are also currently Co-Producing the recently released concert series, Tonight at the London Coliseum, starring a string of West End stars

Bringing together a host of experienced industry practitioners, members have access to a pool of knowledge, to help unlock their further creative potential. Alongside exclusive networking events, the portal will provide access to upcoming investment and job opportunities, skill sharing, mentorships from leading experts, and live Q&As with high profile individuals, both in the UK and American markets. The first Q&A will take place on Thursday 20th August, featuring the theatrical content creating team at Broadway & Beyond Theatricals (Madagascar The Musical; Little Miss Sunshine The Musical)

Furthering the community and industry togetherness, 10% of all membership fees will be put towards a TPP Grant, established to help productions that might be falling short on investments. With insufficient funding crippling the ability for new writing to be seen, the portal’s Grant hopes to enable more opportunity in the industry, as well as guiding people towards other available grants and bursaries that can help writers and producers be seen

The platform is striving to champion diversity in the arts and the need for further representation of marginalised stories from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, as well as LGBTQ+ communities. They have partnered with empowering companies including Burn Bright, Papatango, New UK MT and Beam, to bring the latest and best new work from across the UK to their members for consideration

Members of TPP will also reap the benefits of additional partnerships, from gaining access to some of the best private clubs in London, including The Curtain Club, to the Pleasance Theatre Trust, offering a series on how to take a show to the Edinburgh Fringe, and Industry Minds providing mental health support for any concerns during these tough times

Jamie Chapman Dixon comments, I am over the moon to be able to finally launch the new evolved Theatre Producer Portal. John-Webb and I have been working tirelessly over the past two years to bring a resource that will benefit producers, writers, and investors of all levels. Our industry is such an amazing and resilient force of nature that is full of individuals who are wanting each other to succeed. The hardest parts about any production is raising the money and how to get in touch with the people who can open doors for you, the portal is here to change
that and the aim is to make these aspects the easiest part of the process

Individuals or companies who are solely interested in investment opportunities can also sign up for free but will only gain access to the investment portion of the website

SLEEPING BEAUTY, THE KING’S PANTO RESCHEDULED UNTIL 2021

It is with great sadness and a huge feeling of disappointment that Capital Theatres today announces that this year’s King’s panto, Sleeping Beauty has been rescheduled until November 2021.

In line with the King’s panto producer, Qdos Entertainment’s announcement on Monday 3 August, the uncertainty around ongoing restrictions and maintaining social distancing means that it is not possible for us to open on 28 November 2020 as planned. All customers who have purchased or reserved tickets will have them automatically transferred to 2021. Capital Theatre’s box office will be in touch with those customers over the coming weeks.

Sleeping Beauty was to have opened at the King’s Theatre Edinburgh on Saturday 28 November 2020 and run until Sunday 17 January 2021.

Starring Allan Stewart, Andy Gray, Grant Stott and Jordan Young, the spellbinding fairytale was last performed as the King’s pantomime title in 1993 and has only been performed three times in its 114-year history. Sleeping Beauty will now run from the 27 November 2021 until Sunday 16 January 2022 and become the last pantomime to be staged at the King’s before the theatre undertakes its major refurbishment in the summer of 2022.

As Scotland’s biggest and best-selling panto, with over 90,000 theatregoers attending the King’s pantomime each festive season, the show represents nearly 30% of Capital Theatres’ annual income and the postponement will result in the massive loss of £2.3m at the worst possible time for the theatres.

Fiona Gibson, Chief Executive of Capital Theatres said: “The impact of the global pandemic has been devastating on all theatres, and it has become a reality that to keep everyone safe and the organisation secure, mounting a full-scale production without social distancing in the current cycle would be challenging.

“There are only 3 occasions in its 114 year history that a King’s panto has not taken place, the last time being 1968 ….so 2020 will be another landmark moment for all the wrong reasons!  We know this will be as much of a blow to you, our fantastic and loyal audiences, as it is to both the cast who love bringing you such joy every year, and to our tremendous staff who love making it happen. For so many it is the cornerstone of their festive celebrations.

“I still remember to this day, at the age of eight, my parents taking my brother and I through to Edinburgh to visit relatives and as a festive treat we all went to the King’s to see Mother Goose, with Stanley Baxter at the helm – we were mesmerised, and that was the start of my long love affair with the theatre.

“Capital Theatres is Scotland’s largest theatre charity and the impact of this decision is devastating. The panto alone brings in nearly 30% of our income each year. Since we closed our doors on the 16 March we have had no source of trading income, have refunded millions of pounds in tickets and cancelled, rescheduled or postponed scores of performances.  Without doubt the loss of the Kings Pantomime is our biggest blow to date.” 

Michael Harrison, Managing Director of Qdos Entertainment said: “I was studying in Edinburgh when I saw the first ever pantomime Qdos produced at the King’s Theatre. I think I saw it four times because I just loved the genre and I knew that Allan was someone very special. As one of the longest running pantomimes in the country, and certainly one of the most popular it is incredibly difficult to step away from it this year and resign ourselves to a year without that wonderful atmosphere and love between the audience and performers on stage – that is pretty unique”

Everyone’s favourite panto dame Allan Stewart added: “I can’t imagine a Christmas without a Kings Panto. But in the words of the Terminator …. ‘We’ll be back’”

Andy Gray said: “Very sad that we won’t be trying to wake Sleeping Beauty this year…. but it’s been a strange year 2020 for us all hasn’t it? I tell you this … We look forward to seeing you all in 2021! Stay safe…. and wash your hands!”

Edinburgh’s very own panto baddie Grant Stott added: “Just like everyone who loves our annual Panto at The Kings Theatre Edinburgh, I am absolutely gutted at the prospect of no show this year – it will be my first Xmas away from the Kings since 1999.  However, even baddies can be optimistic and I am already looking forward to staging Sleeping Beauty in 2021 – which, in the circumstances, now promises to be one of the most special Pantos ever staged at The Kings!”

Jordan Young said: “I’m incredibly disappointed that Sleeping Beauty won’t be at the Kings this Christmas. The most important thing is safety for everyone, staff and audience alike. Last year was my first year in the Kings Panto and I loved every single second. I can’t wait to be back on that stage next year with the team and deliver the show that everyone will be wanting and deserve.”

Capital Theatres continues to be hugely grateful to all those people who have been able to take gift vouchers or donate their tickets as opposed to refunds which helps to protect your theatres for the future.

Fiona Gibson added: “We truly believe that Capital Theatres can be a key part of the solution for Edinburgh getting back on its feet. Only by continuing to thrive can we help sustain the vitality of the arts, the cultural ecology, the economy and the wellbeing of the community in our wonderful city and surrounding areas.”

If you feel you can help further, please consider making a donation via the website at capitaltheatres.com.  Shows at all Capital Theatres venues are currently programmed into 2021 and 2022 and tickets are available to buy online.