READING will host one of the first-returned live theatres this month.
The town's South Street Arts Centre has announced the exciting return of live performances.
As part of its award-winning ‘theatre in unusual spaces’, two innovative Arts Council funded shows have been created in collaboration with resident artists in an attempt to address the strange times we all find ourselves in – whilst we’re still experiencing them.
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Uniquely performed at Palmer Park Stadium and Velodrome in Reading – it will be staged entirely outdoors, with the support of the mental health sports charity, Sport in Mind.
‘On Track’ explores the effects of Covid-19 on mental health and shows how a simple bicycle can be a vehicle to freedom once again.
As everyone begins to emerge from a long period of enforced isolation, ‘Behind Closed Doors’ is a chance to reflect on what it is to be alone, whether by choice or necessity.
From a Hillwalking father to the plague village priest, the show leads you through a fascinating anthology of isolation tales, shedding light and empathy on our personal and shared histories of being alone.
Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading Council's lead councillor for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, said: "I am so excited by the much-anticipated return of live theatre to Reading.
"Reading is a buzzing centre for cutting edge culture and I’m not surprised we are one of the first to bring back live theatre – and what an offer!
"These shows explore topics so deeply relevant to our current circumstances as we all grapple with life during a pandemic – but are also timeless interrogations of the human condition – storytelling at its absolute best.
"I'm particularly looking forward to the performance of ‘On Track’ outside at Palmer Park Stadium and Velodrome – with its focus around the themes of women in cycling, isolation and exercise as a vehicle to mental wellbeing and recovery.
"Both new shows will be staged with Covid safety measures built into the experience, with each show limited to 20 people, to ensure the safety of everyone attending.
"With South Street unable to present shows as normal until next year, these shows represent an exciting and innovative way to re-engage with our audiences.
"I hope these shows will herald the gradual return of much, much more.
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"Whilst we continue to hold safety at the forefront of all our plans, this shows how much can be achieved with innovations and creativity in the face of adversity!
"Don't forget to also check out our amazing Reading Culture Live website for your virtual culture fix."
Tickets are selling fast for both shows, with some already sold out - reflecting the strong demand for the local return of live theatre.
The shows will also be available virtually in November on Reading Culture Live, thanks to funding from Reading UK www.readingculturelive.co.uk.
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