Banbury’s Cherwell Theatre Company announces return of annual ‘Play in a Week’ and 'Play in a Day' drama workshops

Artistic Director, Tristan Jackson-Pate said: “This is another exciting opportunity for Oxfordshire’s young theatre-makers aged 7-11 to work with industry professionals.

“In 2020, for obvious reasons, we created an online interactive murder mystery with young people over a week in August, but we're so thrilled to provide face to face workshops at Banbury College for key stage one and two once more this summer.”

Participants aged 7-12 years will present ‘Fantastic Mr Fox’ by Roald Dahl, in collaboration with professional theatre facilitators and technicians. This well-loved story follows the brilliantly cunning Mr Fox as he and his family strive to outwit the infamous farmers Bogis, Bunce and Bean.

Simon Castle and Michael Deacon will direct this summer workshop.

Mr Deacon said: “We can't wait to work together on this brilliant show. We're very excited to explore Roald Dahl's characters with 7-11 year olds and have them take a strong role in developing their own take on the story, reflecting the strengths and ideas of the group."

The drama workshop will run from Monday to Friday August 2-6 from 10am to 3.30pm each day at Banbury College, with a performance for family and friends at 2.30pm on the final day.

On Tuesday July 27 ages 5-8 are welcome to join Mr Castle from 11am to 3pm at Banbury College to explore fairy tales through drama in our 'Play in a Day' project 'Once Upon a Time...'

Mr Jackson-Pate added: “Due to the generous support from Boutell Bequest, places are £50.00 for the week for ages 7-11 and just £5 for the Play in a Day workshop.

"CTC always strive to make our work as inclusive and accessible as possible, so bursary places are also available to anyone who need them, please do ask us!”

In the coming weeks, Banbury schools and community centres will receive free drama workshops with a number of bursary places available to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, who wish to take part in the summer projects.

If you are interested in taking part or finding out more then please email [email protected] or visit the company’s website at www.cherwelltheatrecompany.co.uk