[K]irkby Stephen will experience a live spectacle this July, presented by Kirkby Stephen Community Arts and created and performed by young people from the community.
Pupils from Kirkby Stephen Grammar School, Appleby Grammar School and several local primary schools will work with nationally-renowned theatre company Tangled Feet to create a bespoke theatrical performance. Pupils will be invited to work across all aspects of the production; Acting, music, design, backstage, scriptwriting, media, marketing and catering. The Westmorland Family, who own and run Tebay Services and Rheged, will provide support with catering and Theatre by the Lake, Keswick will volunteer their backstage and administrative expertise.
The rehearsal process will take place at Kirkby Stephen Grammar School from 6 to 12 July, with all students invited to participate. Performances will be on 13 & 14 July, with tickets available to the public at a later date.
Gary Hartley, Head Teacher at Kirkby Stephen Grammar School said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the students of the school to work alongside a renowned professional theatre company and learn from the experience. I am very optimistic that they will have great fun working on the project. It is also a rare opportunity for the community of Kirkby Stephen.”
Kate Lynch, Chair of Kirkby Stephen Community Arts said: “Since we began in September 2016 we have been looking for a theatre project to run with and for young people. Inspired by the successes of Bloody Bones and the recent production of Bugsy Malone at KSGS, we are thrilled that we can make this happen thanks to the generosity of our funders, the enthusiasm of Kirkby Stephen Grammar School and the talents of our partners, Tangled Feet, Theatre by the Lake and The Westmorland Family.”
KSCA are grateful for funding from The Frieda Scott Charitable Trust, The John Strutt Foundation, Westmorland Arts Trust and The Westmorland Family Cumbria Community Foundation Fund.