Two York theatre companies have teamed up with local libraries to make the magic of theatre accessible to young people this Christmas.
A new partnership has been created between Next Door But One, Story Craft Theatre and Explore York Libraries and Archives – with the aim of bringing high quality, inclusive and relevant theatre to young people and families on their doorsteps.
Both theatre companies will be taking their KS1 and KS2 performances into schools all across York (including Clifton, Westfield, Tang Hall, Dringhouses and the city centre), and then providing low-cost public performances in the neighbouring Explore centres of York Explore, Clifton Explore and Tang Hall Explore.
Next Door But One will be presenting When Robins Appear, which follows two friends who are whisked away by a magical Robin to discover the real magic of Christmas. Story Craft Theatre presents The Enormous Christmas Pudding, which celebrates the values of friendship and creativity, reminding us of the joy and possibility that comes when communities come together.
CEO and artistic director of Next Door But One, Matt Harper-Hardcastle, said, “The winter season can be a tricky, overwhelming and expensive time, which often creates excessive pressure on families.
“We believe that all young people should be able to experience theatre and create unforgettable memories with their peers, that’s why we are so excited to be bringing these productions into so many schools and right into the heart of people’s communities through the Explore centres.”
Janet-Emily Cosgriff and Cassie Vallance, directors of Story Craft Theatre, added, “We are delighted to spread a little seasonal magic, reaching audiences who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the wonder of live theatre.”
Both performances are an enchanting blend of captivating design, puppetry, music and integrated access such as Makaton, BSL, and pre and post-performance resources.
Lyndsay Glover, Explore’s service developer for Children, Young People & Schools, said, “Explore are committed to providing enriching, engaging experiences that are open to all. This is especially important in December, a time that can highlight financial inequalities.
“Libraries are right at the heart of our communities, reaching people on their doorstep, and by partnering with brilliant cultural organisations like Next Door But One and Story Craft Theatre, we’re able to bring high-quality, low-cost family performances directly to local people.”
The Enormous Christmas Pudding will launch with a performance at York Explore on Monday 1 December, before touring to local schools, and When Robins Appear will tour schools then have 11am, 2pm and 5.30pm public performances at York Explore, Tang Hall Explore and Clifton Explore between 13-21 December.
For all information, including venues, dates and how to book, visit the Next Door But One website.
