The tales of Warrington people affected by the Great War are soon to be shared through a unique, theatrical experience.
As part of Warrington’s programme of events to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War, a special, live performance will take place at theold Market Place, Golden Square, on Saturday November 3.
Created by award-winning theatre company, Not Too Tame, and made possible thanks to funding from Heritage Lottery Fund, the performance will see local volunteers – many of whom have never acted before – joining professional actors.
The volunteers – aged from 18 to 70 – came forward following a search from Not Too Tame for local people, to take part in the production. They come from all walks of life, from joiners to IT professionals.
Together, they will tell the stories of World War I, through performance and poetry. The event will be underscored by live music from Dean Fairhurst, lead singer of celebrated local band Sly Digs, who will perform a mixture of original music and covers.
Jimmy Fairhurst, Director at Not Too Tame, said: “We’re really excited to be joining the World War I commemorations with this special performance. It has been fantastic to bring professional actors together with amateurs – most of whom have not done this type of thing before.
“The volunteers have shown fantastic commitment, coming to three-hour rehearsals, twice a week, to help us create something special. We have a wide range of people – one who has just turned 18, and others in their 30’s and 40’s, right up to people in their 60’s. They have knitted together incredibly well, and are already like a family.
“We have worked with Warrington Museum to uncover a wealth of local war stories, as well as capturing the family stories of our volunteers, and we are looking forward to bringing these stories to life for the people of Warrington. Our aim is to create a modern, beautiful, lyrical experience which makes the past relevant.”
Cllr Dan Price (pictured) Warrington Borough Council’s lead member for culture and partnerships, added: “This unique performance will be one of the highlights of our World War I commemorations, giving town centre visitors the opportunity to get a fascinating insight into life in war-time Warrington.
“Old Market Place will be alive with music and performance, and I would urge everyone to come along and experience it for themselves. It truly is a community cultural event, and I’m delighted local people have had the opportunity to get involved and help shape and portray the stories that will be told.”
Not Too Tame’s World War I performances take place at 12.30pm and 2pm at Old Market Square on Saturday November 3. The performances are free to watch, and will showcase the theatre company’s immersive, ‘gig theatre’ style, using the whole space of the busy shopping area.
